How many steering complaints does the 2011 BMW X5 have?

NHTSA lists 18 steering complaints for the 2011 BMW X5, which is about 6% of the 287 total complaints filed for that model year.

Is there a steering-related recall for the 2011 BMW X5?

Yes. Recall 12V550000 covers 2009-2012 X5 xDrive 35d diesel models where the engine belt idler pulley bolt could loosen and break, which owners linked to sudden power steering loss.

At what mileage do steering problems typically show up on the 2011 X5?

The median mileage at failure for steering complaints on the 2011 X5 is 63,000 miles.

Did the steering issues cause any crashes or injuries?

NHTSA data shows 1 crash and 1 injury associated with steering complaints on the 2011 BMW X5.

2011 BMW X5 Steering Problems

NHTSA lists 18 steering complaints for the 2011 BMW X5, about 6% of its 287 total complaints that year. Median mileage at failure was 63,000 miles, with one crash and one injury reported. A related recall (12V550000) covers a separate idler pulley bolt issue tied to power steering loss.

Steering complaints: 18; 6% of 287
Crashes reported: 1
Fires reported: 0
Injuries reported: 1
Median mileage: 63,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical steering symptoms owners report

Owners report the steering wheel suddenly becoming difficult to turn at highway speeds, often paired with power steering loss.
Several complaints describe the steering wheel locking up or requiring heavy force to turn right after the engine stalled or shut off.
Some owners link the steering difficulty to the idler pulley bolt failing, causing a loud noise under the hood before power steering cut out.
A drive shaft losing a bolt or breaking was reported, causing vibration, clanking, and loss of vehicle control.
Steering problems sometimes appeared alongside warning lights for the engine, battery, or ABS system, with dashboard messages telling the driver to stop.

When 2011 BMW X5 steering complaints were filed

First complaint Jul 10, 2013, latest Nov 17, 2023.

18 complaints filed with NHTSA from Jul 2013 to Nov 2023; peak Sep 2022 (2).

Steering recalls for the 2011 BMW X5

NHTSA 12V550000Nov 27, 2012Steering29,800 vehicles
Steering:hydraulic power assist system
BMW is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 X5 xDrive 35d SAV diesel vehicles manufactured September 1, 2008, through November 15, 2012. The engine belt idler pulley bolt could loosen and break over time.
Risk: If the engine belt idler pulley bolt breaks, the vehicle may unexpectedly lose power-assisted steering, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace and tighten the idler pulley bolt. The recall began on January 15, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].

Steering complaints by X5 model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

201011 (8%)
201118 (6%)
201223 (8%)
20132 (1%)
20141 (1%)
20157 (5%)
20163 (4%)
20173 (4%)
20182 (3%)
201918 (10%)
20203 (3%)
20213 (3%)
20225 (7%)
20231 (3%)
20243 (2%)
20253 (5%)

Frequently asked questions

How many steering complaints does the 2011 BMW X5 have?: NHTSA lists 18 steering complaints for the 2011 BMW X5, which is about 6% of the 287 total complaints filed for that model year.
Is there a steering-related recall for the 2011 BMW X5?: Yes. Recall 12V550000 covers 2009-2012 X5 xDrive 35d diesel models where the engine belt idler pulley bolt could loosen and break, which owners linked to sudden power steering loss.
At what mileage do steering problems typically show up on the 2011 X5?: The median mileage at failure for steering complaints on the 2011 X5 is 63,000 miles.
Did the steering issues cause any crashes or injuries?: NHTSA data shows 1 crash and 1 injury associated with steering complaints on the 2011 BMW X5.