How many engine complaints does NHTSA have for the 2013 BMW X5?

NHTSA lists 57 engine complaints for the 2013 X5, which is 35% of the 162 total complaints filed for that model year.

Is there an engine recall for the 2013 BMW X5?

Yes. Recall 18V336000 covers 2009-2013 X5 xDrive 35d diesel models for an idler pulley bolt that can loosen over time and break.

At what mileage do engine problems typically appear on the 2013 X5?

The median mileage at failure for engine complaints on the 2013 X5 is 56,000 miles.

Did the engine problems cause any fires or injuries?

NHTSA data for the 2013 X5 engine complaints shows 3 fires and 5 injuries reported, with 0 crashes.

How does the 2013 X5's engine complaint rate compare to other years?

The 2013 X5 had 57 engine complaints (35% share), lower than 2011's 130 complaints (45% share) but higher than 2017's 17 complaints (23% share).

2013 BMW X5 Engine Problems

NHTSA lists 57 engine complaints for the 2013 BMW X5, making up 35% of all complaints for the year, with a median failure mileage of 56,000 miles. There is a related recall (18V336000) for the diesel idler pulley bolt, and owners also reported engine fires and overheating/water pump failures.

Engine complaints: 57; 35% of 162
Crashes reported: 0
Fires reported: 3
Injuries reported: 5
Median mileage: 56,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Owners report engine fires starting after the vehicle was parked and turned off, sometimes hours later, with smoke or flame coming from under the hood near the turbo and catalytic converter area.
Several complaints describe sudden engine stalling while driving at highway speed, with the vehicle unable to restart until towed.
Multiple owners report an overheating warning followed by the coolant or water pump running continuously or failing, sometimes causing the engine to shut down or limit power at highway speed.
One owner described a persistent clicking noise from the engine that dealers could not diagnose or reproduce.
A separate report describes acceleration delay tied to a transmission lag rather than the engine itself.

When 2013 BMW X5 engine complaints were filed

First complaint Nov 16, 2012, latest Sep 19, 2026.

57 complaints filed with NHTSA from Nov 2012 to Sep 2026; peak Feb 2019 (3).

Engine recalls for the 2013 BMW X5

NHTSA 18V336000May 23, 2018Engine33,214 vehicles
Engine and engine cooling:engine
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2013 X5 xDrive 35d diesel vehicles. The engine idler pulley bolt may loosen over time and break.
Risk: If the 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 the idler pulley bolt with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Engine complaints by X5 model year

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

201061 (43%)
2011130 (45%)
2012111 (38%)
201357 (35%)
201425 (26%)
201551 (34%)
201623 (31%)
201717 (23%)
201821 (29%)
201966 (35%)
202049 (44%)
202133 (31%)
202220 (29%)
20235 (16%)
202418 (12%)
20258 (13%)

Frequently asked questions

How many engine complaints does NHTSA have for the 2013 BMW X5?: NHTSA lists 57 engine complaints for the 2013 X5, which is 35% of the 162 total complaints filed for that model year.
Is there an engine recall for the 2013 BMW X5?: Yes. Recall 18V336000 covers 2009-2013 X5 xDrive 35d diesel models for an idler pulley bolt that can loosen over time and break.
At what mileage do engine problems typically appear on the 2013 X5?: The median mileage at failure for engine complaints on the 2013 X5 is 56,000 miles.
Did the engine problems cause any fires or injuries?: NHTSA data for the 2013 X5 engine complaints shows 3 fires and 5 injuries reported, with 0 crashes.
How does the 2013 X5's engine complaint rate compare to other years?: The 2013 X5 had 57 engine complaints (35% share), lower than 2011's 130 complaints (45% share) but higher than 2017's 17 complaints (23% share).