The entry-level diesel in the third-generation X5, pairing a 2.0L four-cylinder turbodiesel with the proven ZF 8HP automatic and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Early cars (2013-2014) use the N47 engine with its rear-mounted timing chain, while 2015-2018 models received the improved B47 with a front-mounted chain. Less common than the xDrive30d in Europe but adequate for relaxed motorway cruising and suburban family use.· more· less
B47 engine is simpler than inline-6Lower purchase price than 30d/40d
EGR cooler fire risk (recall)N47 timing chain risk on 2013-2014 cars
Buy if: You want a large luxury SUV at a lower price point and can find a 2015+ model with the B47 engine and verified recall completion.
Avoid if: You do mostly short urban trips, cannot verify EGR recall status, or are looking at a 2013-2014 car without confirmed timing chain health.
EGR cooler can leak coolant internally, creating flammable deposits in the intake manifold · more· less
BMW issued multiple recall campaigns affecting both the N47 and B47 diesel engines in the F15 X5. The EGR cooler can develop internal cracks, allowing coolant to mix with diesel soot at high temperatures. This creates flammable deposits that can melt the plastic intake manifold and, in rare cases, cause a fire. BMW has replaced the EGR cooler free of charge under recall, but earlier replacement parts were also defective, leading to an updated recall in 2021 with parts from a new supplier. If the recall has been completed with the latest part, the risk is significantly reduced. If not yet done, contact BMW immediately. If the car is outside the recall scope, independent replacement costs approximately 1,500-2,500 euros including labor.
N47 timing chain stretch (2013-2014 cars only)
up to €4,5002 of 8
Rear-mounted timing chain stretches and can skip or snap, causing catastrophic engine damage · more· less
This applies only to 2013-2014 xDrive25d models with the N47 engine. The timing chain is mounted at the rear of the engine, requiring gearbox removal for replacement. The chain tensioner weakens and the chain stretches, producing a distinctive rattle on cold start. If the chain jumps a tooth, pistons contact valves and the engine is destroyed. BMW technicians have reported replacing the N47 timing chain at very high rates compared to the B47 successor. On the N47, this issue commonly manifests between 60,000 and 120,000 km. Replacement at an independent specialist costs 2,000-3,000 euros; at a BMW dealer, 3,500-4,500 euros. The 2015+ B47 engine relocated the chain to the front and uses improved materials, making this issue far less common.
Transfer case actuator and clutch pack wear
up to €3,0003 of 8
Internal actuator gear wears out, causing shuddering during low-speed turns and parking · more· less
The F15 X5 xDrive uses an electronically controlled transfer case that distributes torque between front and rear axles. The internal actuator motor contains a small plastic gear that can wear over time, and the clutch pack degrades, particularly if tires are mismatched or the transfer case fluid has not been changed. Symptoms include shuddering or binding during low-speed turns (especially noticeable in parking), drivetrain warning messages, and clicking noises from underneath. An actuator gear replacement costs 600-1,200 euros at a specialist. If the internal clutch pack is damaged, a full rebuild or replacement runs 2,000-3,000 euros. Preventive transfer case fluid changes every 60,000 km and always running matched tires help significantly.
Blocked CCV valve raises crankcase pressure, pushing oil past turbo seals and starving the turbo of lubrication · more· less
The valve cover breather on the B47 engine can become blocked with carbon and oil sludge, particularly on cars driven predominantly on short trips. When the crankcase ventilation system becomes restricted, elevated crankcase pressure forces oil past the turbo seals, leading to blue smoke from the exhaust and eventually turbo bearing failure. Replacing the CCV valve itself costs 300-500 euros at an independent shop. If the turbo has already been damaged, a replacement turbocharger fitted costs 1,500-3,000 euros depending on whether an OEM or aftermarket unit is used. Regular oil changes using BMW Longlife-04 specification oil and periodic CCV inspection help prevent this failure cascade.
DPF clogging from short-trip driving
up to €2,5005 of 8
Diesel particulate filter blocks if regeneration cycles are not completed through regular highway driving · more· less
The DPF requires sustained driving at highway speeds for active regeneration. Cars used predominantly for short urban trips accumulate soot faster than it can be burned off. If the thermostat is faulty and coolant temperatures stay low, regeneration is further impeded. A forced regeneration at a specialist costs 200-400 euros if the filter is not severely blocked. Professional cleaning costs 400-800 euros. If the DPF is beyond recovery, OEM replacement costs 1,800-2,500 euros including labor. Regular motorway driving of at least 30 minutes once or twice a week prevents this issue almost entirely.
Rear air suspension spring or compressor failure
up to €2,5006 of 8
Air springs develop leaks and compressor wears out on cars equipped with optional rear air suspension · more· less
Not all F15 X5 models have rear air suspension; it is an option. If equipped, the rubber air springs can develop cracks and leak after 7-10 years, causing the rear to sag overnight. The compressor then works harder to compensate and eventually fails. A single aftermarket air spring costs 150-300 euros; OEM springs are 500-800 euros each. The compressor costs 500-900 euros fitted. If both springs and the compressor need replacement, total cost at an independent shop runs 1,200-2,000 euros, or up to 2,500 euros at BMW. Some owners convert to conventional coil springs for approximately 600-800 euros to permanently eliminate the issue.
Electric water pump and thermostat failure
up to €1,1007 of 8
Electric water pump fails without warning, risking rapid overheating and secondary engine damage · more· less
The F15 X5 uses an electronically controlled water pump that can fail suddenly. When it stops working, the engine overheats quickly, potentially causing head gasket or cylinder head damage if not stopped immediately. The pump typically lasts 80,000-120,000 km. The thermostat is electronically controlled and often fails around the same time. Replacing both together is recommended. Parts cost approximately 250-400 euros, with total cost of 500-700 euros at an independent shop or 800-1,100 euros at a BMW dealer. A faulty thermostat that keeps the engine too cool also prevents DPF regeneration, causing a cascade of secondary issues.
Sunroof drain clogging and water ingress
up to €1,5008 of 8
Sunroof drain tubes clog with debris, causing water to leak into the headliner and footwell electronics · more· less
The F15 X5 panoramic sunroof has four drain tubes that route water from the sunroof channel down through the A and C pillars to exit near the wheel arches. These tubes clog with leaves, dirt, and pollen, causing water to overflow into the headliner and footwells during heavy rain. If caught early, clearing the drains with compressed air costs 100-200 euros at a shop. However, if water has damaged electronics (footwell modules, amplifiers), repair costs can reach 800-1,500 euros. Regular cleaning of the sunroof channel and periodic drain flushing every 1-2 years prevents this issue.
Simpler engine than the 30d, but platform complexity remains
The B47 four-cylinder diesel (2015-2018) is simpler and generally more reliable than the N57 inline-six in the xDrive30d, with a front-mounted timing chain and fewer oil leak points. However, the F15 platform itself brings its own challenges: the xDrive transfer case, optional air suspension, sunroof drains, and the EGR cooler recall all require attention regardless of engine choice. For 2013-2014 cars with the N47 engine, the rear-mounted timing chain is a serious concern and should be thoroughly inspected before purchase. Cars with complete specialist service history, regular motorway use, and confirmed EGR recall completion are the best candidates.
Service history
Complete BMW dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil change intervals: every 15,000 km or annually is ideal for the B47. Extended intervals accelerate CCV and turbo wear.
Cold start
Start the engine completely cold. Listen for timing chain rattle in the first 10-30 seconds, especially critical on 2013-2014 N47 models. Brief rattle that fades is a warning sign.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including motorway speeds. Check for drivetrain shudder during low-speed turns, blue exhaust smoke, and warning lights.
Tire condition
All four tires must be the same brand, size, and similar tread depth. Mismatched tires accelerate transfer case wear.
Specific for this vehicle
Verify EGR cooler recall completion
Check with BMW using the VIN whether all EGR cooler recall work has been completed with the latest updated part (2021 campaign with new supplier). This is the single most critical pre-purchase check.
Confirm which engine is fitted (N47 vs B47)
2013-2014 models have the N47 with rear-mounted timing chain. 2015-2018 models have the improved B47. The engine code is on the sticker inside the engine bay. The B47 is strongly preferred.
Test transfer case during low-speed turns
Drive slowly in a tight circle in both directions. Any shuddering, binding, or clicking indicates transfer case clutch pack or actuator wear.
+ 5 more checksShow less
Check for blue exhaust smoke
Rev the engine from idle under load and check the exhaust. Blue smoke suggests CCV blockage pushing oil past turbo seals. This leads to expensive turbo replacement.
Check rear suspension level (if air-equipped)
Park on level ground and check whether the car sits evenly. If the rear sits lower than the front, the air springs may be leaking. Leave parked for 20 minutes and re-check.
DPF soot loading check with diagnostic tool
Use a BMW-specific diagnostic tool (ISTA or BimmerLink) to check DPF soot loading and regeneration history. High soot loading indicates insufficient highway driving.
Check coolant level and condition
Low coolant without visible external leaks can indicate an EGR cooler internal leak. Brown or milky coolant suggests contamination.
Inspect sunroof drains and headliner
Check the headliner around the panoramic sunroof for water stains. Lift carpets in front and rear footwells and feel for moisture. Water damage indicates clogged drains.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
EGR cooler internal leak and fire risk (B47 and N47 diesel models, multiple campaigns: 2018 and 2021)Critical - verify completed
Electronic power steering (EPS) control unit (March 2014 - June 2016 production)Verify completed
Takata airbag inflator (2013-2017 models, verify individually with VIN)Verify with VIN
Contact BMW with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The EGR cooler recall is particularly critical: BMW issued an initial recall in 2018 but the replacement parts also proved defective, leading to an updated recall in 2021 with parts from a new supplier. Verify that the latest EGR cooler has been fitted, not just that a recall was performed. The EPS control unit recall affects cars produced March 2014 to June 2016 and involves a fire risk even when parked.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on all F15 models
Rust perforation warranty (12 years)May still apply on 2014-2018 models
Extended warranty optionsBMW Guarantee or third-party available
All F15 X5 models are outside their original 2-year factory warranty. BMW offered a 2+1 year warranty from November 2016 on new cars, so late 2016-2018 models may have had 3 years originally. The 12-year rust perforation warranty may still be active on newer examples. Third-party warranties are available but typically exclude pre-existing conditions.
Sources: Research draws on model-specific owner forums and owner communities, recall information from official authorities, German automotive press, and multiple workshop cost references cross-checked against each other.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.
