2016 Bmw X5 Safety Report
2016 BMW X5: Strong Crash Ratings Offset by Multiple Fire-Risk Recalls and Engine/Fuel System Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Bmw X5
Reliability Score
The 2016 Bmw X5 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Bmw X5
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Bmw X5:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine/Cooling System Electrical Short Recall 24V-608 addresses an electrical short in the cooling system's electric water pump, increasing fire risk. Several complaints mention issues related to this recall, including consequential damage to the high-voltage battery system. |
High | Occasional | N/A (recall related) miles |
| Diesel Fuel System Fire Risk (Intake Manifold) Recalls 18V-755 and 21V-586 concern melting intake manifolds in diesel models, posing a fire risk. Complaints indicate some owners experienced symptoms consistent with a failing EGR cooler despite the recall. |
High | Occasional | N/A (recall related) miles |
| Diesel Fuel Pump Failure Recall 21V-586 addresses high-pressure fuel pump failure in diesel models, leading to engine stalls and increased crash risk. Some complaints report repeated fuel pump failures even after recall repairs. |
High | Occasional | N/A (recall related) miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment/Malfunction At least one complaint details airbags failing to deploy in a collision, and others mention 'Driver restraint malfunction' warnings. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Hybrid System/Battery Malfunctions Complaints for the X5 xDrive40e mention issues with the hybrid propulsion and charging system, including the high-voltage battery management system, leading to inability to charge or 'Powertrain Malfunction' warnings. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Unexpected Shift To Neutral (X5 Xdrive40e) Recall 16V-071 for the X5 xDrive40e addresses a software issue that could cause the vehicle to unexpectedly shift to neutral, increasing crash risk. |
High | Rare | N/A (recall related) miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Bmw X5:
The largest category of complaints, indicating various unspecified issues.
Complaints include airbag non-deployment in a crash and 'Driver restraint malfunction' warnings.
Reports of crankshaft sensor issues, drivetrain malfunctions, and general engine warning lights.
Related to the electric water pump recall (24V-608) and associated electrical issues, including parts unavailability for recall repairs.
General drivetrain and engine power loss issues, sometimes linked to hybrid system malfunctions.
Includes issues like sunroof drain faults leading to water intrusion and damage to electrical systems.
General fuel system issues, including those related to hybrid propulsion.
Specific to diesel models, often related to the EGR cooler and fuel pump recalls.
Various electrical malfunctions, sometimes consequential to other component failures like water pumps.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Bmw X5
Is the 2016 BMW X5 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 BMW X5 received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has been subject to 5 recalls, some addressing serious fire risks and engine stall issues, and has 67 consumer complaints, indicating potential reliability concerns with specific components like the engine, fuel system, and airbags.
What are common problems with the 2016 BMW X5?
The most reported issues for the 2016 BMW X5 include 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' complaints (11), followed by 'AIR BAGS' (4), 'ENGINE' (4), and combined 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (4) and 'POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE' (4). Specific problems highlighted in recalls and complaints involve electrical shorts in the cooling system, melting diesel intake manifolds, high-pressure fuel pump failures, and airbag malfunctions.
Are there any fire risks with the 2016 BMW X5?
Yes, there are documented fire risks. Two recalls (24V-608 and 18V-755/21V-586) specifically address fire hazards due to an electrical short in the cooling system's water pump and melting intake manifolds in diesel models. While only 0 fires are reported in consumer complaints, the recalls indicate a significant potential for fire.
How does the 2016 BMW X5 perform in crash tests?
The 2016 BMW X5 performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side crash tests, and 4 stars for the rollover resistance test, indicating strong occupant protection in collisions.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 BMW X5?
When considering a used 2016 BMW X5, ensure all 5 open recalls have been addressed, particularly those related to fire risks (cooling system, diesel fuel system) and engine stalls. Pay close attention to the engine, fuel system, and electrical components, and inquire about any history of 'drivetrain malfunction' warnings or hybrid system issues if considering the xDrive40e model.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 BMW X5 boasts excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should prioritize verifying all 5 recalls have been completed and be aware of recurring engine, fuel system, and electrical complaints that could impact long-term reliability.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Bmw X5
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Bmw X5. The data includes 67 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Bmw X5 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.