Table 1 shows three common suspension related problems of the 2003 BMW X5.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Strut Failure problems | |
| Rear Suspension problems | |
| Suspension problems |
No event necessary leading up to failure air strut failed which causes a significant steering and handling problem because the computer thinks the car is in a possible roll, and begins to compensate by automatically braking. I have replaced three air struts - all in the front over the past two years. The cost is approximately $2,000 per. The air strut option was not on very many BMW X5 autos - but they are a serious problem when they fail. The dealer replace the first one - and would not let me drive the vehicle because it could be "dangerous".
Premature wear of rear tires: the factory set angle of camber leads to severe cupping of the rear tires on a 2003 BMW X5 4. 4 after 30000 miles, cord is showing on the inside of the tire. (bridgestone turanza er30(tz) 285-45r19 107v). Dealer said this is normal wear. In addition, the dealer said the vehicle is setup with high negative camber because it is meant to be driven at 100 mph. The rest of the tread is normal, the vehicle has been driven conservatively, and the tire pressure is checked often. Repair includes replacing the rear tires and a 4 wheel alignment. ($800).
As I was driving my BMW X5 I stopped at a red light and once the light turned green I begin to press the accelerator to move it didn't move and it made a loud rowing noise. U was then stuck in the middle of the hwy with moving traffic. I took it to the mechanic shop and they said it was the transfer case. He then said he see alot of them like that being worked on because of this problem.