BMW X5 M E70
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
560–575 PS
4.4L V8 Biturbo Benzin
First M SUV — 555 hp in 2.3 tonnes
Fun to Drive!408 PS
4.4L V8 Biturbo Benzin
7 weaknesses
Stay Away!Generations
Engine Overview
The BMW X5 M E70 is available with one engine variant at 197 hp.
The BMW 4.4L V8 Biturbo (Benziner, 555 PS) has the S63B44 (4.4L V8 Biturbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Air Suspension Fails from 80,000 km Air suspension compressor and air springs fail frequently from 80,000 km. Average lifespan of air springs is 100,000–120,000 km. Aftermarket springs (Arnott/Continental) cost around €115 each — BMW pricing is significantly higher. Symptoms: Car sinks after parking (especially rear), levelling warning light, uneven ride height from 100,000 km | Medium | |
| Air Suspension Compressor and Bellows — Chronic Failure From around 150,000 km the rear air springs become porous; the compressor runs continuously and overheats. Both sides should be replaced simultaneously as the second bellows typically follows shortly after. Symptoms: Car sinks when parked, compressor starts frequently after unlocking, levelling warning message from 150,000 km | High | |
| Adaptive Drive Dampers Failed Electronically controlled Adaptive Drive dampers fail from 120,000 km; replacement is only possible with BMW parts and costs around €800 per damper. Standard suspension is far more trouble-free. Symptoms: Harsher, uncontrolled body movements, 'Adaptive Drive' warning message, car reverts to standard damping from 130,000 km | High | |
| Axle Suspension Wear Due to High Weight The high vehicle weight of the X5 M places disproportionate stress on axle suspension components. TÜV regularly flags suspension components. Springs and dampers deteriorate early. Symptoms: Banging from the suspension, car pulls under braking, uneven tyre wear from 80,000 km | High | |
| Air Suspension Compressor and Bellows Failed The optional air suspension on the E70 frequently fails from 80,000 km. Air springs and compressor wear disproportionately on the heavy X5 M. Symptoms: Car sags to one side, warning in instrument cluster, compressor runs continuously from 100,000 km | High |
Top Reported Issues
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
Nissan Navara D40-FL
Großer SUV (2010–2015)
Nissan Pathfinder R51-FL
Großer SUV (2010–2014)
Porsche Cayenne 92A
Großer SUV (2010–2017)
VW Touareg II
Großer SUV (2010–2018)
VW Amarok I
Großer SUV (2010–2020)
Toyota Land Cruiser J150
Großer SUV (2009–2025)
Known Problems and Issues
A total of 64 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW X5 M E70 (2009–2013) — 50 engine-related and 14 vehicle-related. 3 problem engines: M57TUD30 (3.0L Diesel Biturbo), N62B48 (4.8L V8), N63B44 (4.4L V8 Biturbo). Typical issues affect Suspension, Body, Electronics, Gearbox.
X5 M (S63B44, 2009–2013) — Be Careful: Connecting rod bearing wear, Recall: oil pump drive shaft, Turbo coolant lines brittle. Power: 555 PS.
What to watch out for with the BMW X5 M? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the BMW X5 M E70 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used BMW X5 M E70? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which BMW X5 M E70 engine is the most fun? +
Is the BMW X5 M E70 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the BMW X5 M E70? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee