The Worst BMW X5 Model Year and What to Buy Instead
The BMW X5 is a popular luxury SUV for a few reasons. It delivers impressive performance, has a sporty look, and isn’t the most expensive BMW. However, like most vehicles, the BMW X5 has some model years that are not the best. For the X5, the 2013 model is largely considered the worst. While there are worse options among luxury SUVs, people would be better off choosing something else.
What’s wring with the 2013 BMW X5
Regarding used BMW X5 models, the 2013 isn’t up to par with the rest of the lineup. The main issues with the 2013 BMW involve the fuel system. There have been reports of the fuel pump failing and starting to break apart. The fuel pump breaking apart, of course, leaves particles in the fuel system, which causes other issues.
There are also reports of owners having to replace the fuel injection system. The fuel injection issues came after the car begins to stall on a regular basis, as well as experiencing sudden loss of power. Unfortunately, this used BMW X5 also has issues with oil leaks. Some people also report that the BMW SUV uses more oil than what should be standard.
In addition to the issues with the fuel system, the 2013 X5 also experiences issues with the transmission. The most-reported problem is with bearing knocks. The car is also known for driveshaft failure, which the automaker issued a recall for.
What it gets right
The BMW X5 2013 comes with a couple of engine options. The most popular setup is a 3.0-liter inline six with a maximum output of 300 horsepower. According to Edmunds, it’s all-wheel drive and uses an eight-speed shiftable automatic transmission. The most powerful version uses a 4.4-liter V8 and has a horsepower increase of 100.
Regarding speed, the 2013 X5 accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour between 6.4 and 9.3 seconds. The 2023 X5 has pretty good speed and power, but it’s not enough to make up for its problems. For the sake of comparison, the latest model does the feat in 5.4 to 7.5 seconds.
2016 BMW X5 is a great used model
People looking for a great used BMW X5 should consider the 2016 model. It has a reliability score of four out of five, meaning you can count on it to last. In addition, the 2016 BMW X5 excels in handling and has more top-notch features than the 2013 model. It offers the same level of performance as its older and more problematic sibling.
There’s much interest in used BMW X5 models. However, the 2013 X5 is not crafted as well as the SUV’s best years. Fortunately, the 2016 X5 is a solid alternative. It’s practically the same car, but much improved where it counts.