BMW X5 – history – characteristics – video review

General characteristics of the BMW X5 E53

The cars were increased in width and height. Although it retained the features of the previous generation, the main thing that was done was a look into the future. Drivers' opinions agree that cars don't care what roads they drive on. Thanks to their high ground clearance, they are not afraid of off-road conditions. Regular drives for all wheels make the car easier to drive.

Already, when this model was being developed, this enterprise had already merged with a well-known concern. Therefore, they found a place for common features and design methods in building a new crossover, similar to cars of other brands.

Some systems bear the mark of competitors, but the same cannot be said for the electronics and engine. It's all original. At first they were inclined to develop sports cars, and later they introduced elements for an SUV.

South Carolina, the state where all modifications are produced. Manufacturers own all the assets to sell BMW X5 E53 cars to Europeans and Americans. They began selling cars in the USA in 1999. In 2000, deliveries to Europe began. Analogues appeared and they decided to modify these cars a little.

The update affected:

• rear and front lights;
• radiator grilles;
• hoods;
• engines.

2006 was the last year for the development of these machines. The conveyor received a new task to assemble a new generation, the same generation. Already in 2006-2007, car owners began to receive new cars.

BMW E70

In 2006, production of the second generation X5 began at the Spartanburg plant.

With a comfortable and luxurious ambience, even more advanced technology and the innovative Sports Activity Vehicle suspension from BMW, the X5 once again sets new standards for BMW X Series models. In addition, the 2nd generation X5 was the brand's first model that could be equipped with up to seven seats.

Second generation BMW X5 in E70 body

BMW E70 – 2nd generation X5

2nd generation BMW X5 in the E70 body

6- and 8-cylinder petrol engines as well as economical 6-cylinder diesel power units in combination with BMW EfficientDynamics technology bring together more quality, lower fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions in the “second” X5.

In 2007, the BMW X5 received the “Autonis” design award presented by the automobile publication “Auto Motor und Sport”, and in 2008 the SUV won the “Best Cars” poll among readers from the same publication “AMuS”.

In 2007 and 2008, the car received the “Pick Top Safety” award from the American Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for its crash test performance.

In February 2010, BMW introduced the updated X5 crossover. Externally, the restyled model received a new front and rear bumper, exhaust pipe, front optics, adaptive brake lights, a “runflat safety tires” system and a tire defect indicator.

BMW X5 E70 LCI – updates after facelift

Restyled model BMW X5 E70

BMW E70 X5 after update

All new X5 models feature the EfficientDynamics package and a number of engine updates to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions.

Another important feature of the updated X5 is that all models have been equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic as a standard feature, instead of a 6-speed automatic.

The BMW X5 E70 LCI was available with such systems as a Head-up Information Display, Adaptive Cornering Headlights, High-Beam Assistant, Park Distance Control with a rear view camera with surround view, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, and so on. the same warning systems Lane Departure Warning and Speed ​​limit Info.

Test drive BMW E70 from “Big Test Drive”

Technical characteristics and engines of the BMW E70

BMW X5 E53 engines

Perhaps the most stable cars in this regard are the BMW X5 E53 3.0 i, with 231 horses, six-cylinder types. Only age can affect these engines.

And then wear is noticed:

• turbines;
• glow plugs or collectors.

Intake manifolds must be cleaned regularly.

Petrol 8-cylinder options are comfortable and status-bearing.

Important! And here’s the trick: car thieves won’t be able to drain gasoline from the tanks onto the engines. They just won't understand how to do it.

But the engines suffer from overheating.

And based on this, problems may arise:

• coking wheels;
• wear of valve seals;
• destruction of coatings on cylinders;
• failure of ignition coils;
• wear of gaskets with injectors.

Automatic transmissions also cause trouble for drivers. This applies to the American transmission.

With 8-cylinder engines, the transmission overheats, and in subsequent generations, it becomes unreliable. But speeds and savings remain stable. But the Germans abandoned mechanical differential devices. They like all-wheel drive cars, where the drives are connected via clutches. But such transitions affected the couplings. And now fractional clamping systems often bother car owners.

Important! You can fill BMW X5 E53 engines with your own oil. Official ones are impractical, expensive and require a long time to replace.

6-cylinder in-line petrol engines accelerate the car in 6.8 s/100 km. And the standard 4.4 BMW X5 E53 4.8 is allows the car to accelerate in 6.1 - 7 s/100 km/h (before restyling in 7.5 s).

Technical characteristics of the BMW X5 E53

Engines and modifications

At the launch of the first X5, there were only two petrol engine options available, the 3.0-litre M54B30 6-cylinder for the 3.0i (the most popular version) and the 4.4-litre M62B44TU V-8 for the 4.4i.

Until the beginning of 2002, the engine range was supplemented with two new models - a 3.0-liter M57D30 turbocharged diesel engine with 184 hp. for 3.0d and a more powerful V-shaped 8-cylinder petrol engine M62B46 with a volume of 4.6 liters for 4.6is.

The engine of the diesel version 3.0d was technically revised and, already as the M57D30TU, received second-generation common rail direct injection, which was one of the factors for increasing power by 34 hp.

In October 2003, as part of the rebuild, the 8-cylinder N62B44 with Valvetronic was installed in the 4.4i instead of the M62B44.

In April 2004, the most exclusive top version was introduced - 4.8is with the N62B48 engine.

* — with sports package;

Transmission

For the BMW X5 E53 model range, 5- and 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions were offered.

The manual transmission is fully synchronized with all forward gears. In a 6-speed transmission, 5th gear is direct, 6th gear is overdrive. Torque is transmitted to the front and rear axles through a transfer case.

As a drive, automatic 5-speed transmissions include a torque converter with a lock-up clutch and a planetary gearbox. 6-speed automatic transmission options have 6 forward gears and one reverse gear.

Dimensions

Production of the E53 ended in September 2006. Subsequently, the history of the X5 family was continued by the BMW X5 E70 crossover.

Interior features

For car owners of this generation of cars, they provide leather interiors. But in order for them to shine with cleanliness, they must be constantly cleaned so that the space has an unchanged beautiful appearance, almost 20 years.

Drivers of such older models do not seek official service. They consider this venture futile and long-term.

The instruments in the BMW X5 E53 are multifunctional and well located. The salons are quiet.

The machines are built in such a way that it is impossible to increase their resources. Cars may experience problems with the ride control controls. Due to their lack of stability, cars can stall while driving. Soviet motorists remember the 90s, when driving and driving salons were criminalized, and what sometimes happened to the performance of cars.

Now these cars are chosen by those who want to change the previous generation in order to feel a better and more comfortable car. These drivers don’t look after it very well and therefore sell it quickly.

Even in these cars, the “Achilles heel” is considered to be simple locks that can be quickly opened by intruders.

Electronic equipment

In this matter, the BMW X5 E53 shows its strength. They are leaders even in the modern market. Because there is clear thoughtfulness and precision here. Cars are stuffed with many complex components that load the systems and networks of on-board computers.

The only thing that can interfere with long-term performance is corrosion. It penetrates into all hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. Then drivers have to look for the location of the ECU.

Not all versions of the car are equipped with the BMW X5 E53 Hamann.

In the BMW X5 E53, the full effect of the rear lighting boards is observed on:

• electric dampers;
• mirror drives;
• fan motors.

Also, control of audio systems, heated seats, navigation, parking sensors, pressure is completely assigned to:

• number lights;
• opening buttons for 5 doors;
• rear-floor blocks.

There are times when panoramic sunroofs jam. There is an error in sensor operation.

Important! These are the only problems, but they are common.

Characteristics of BMW X5 E53

SUV cars BMW X5 E53 4.8 were produced from 2004 to 2006. They have five doors and five seats. Longitudinal engines V8М62В44, 8-cylinder, with 4 valves each, with 4.8 liters, 390 horses and 490 Nm, are located in front. They have an injection power system and six-band automatic transmissions.

Full-time all-wheel drive is not a hindrance for drivers. They still feel the operation of the entire car. Maximum speed is 250 km/h, with acceleration of 6.1 sec/100 km.

1. Fuel consumption has the following indicators:
2. City - 18.7 l.
3. The route is 10.5.
4. Mixed cycles - 13.5.

They use 98 gasoline. Luggage compartments 465 liters, when folding the gallery - 1550 liters.

Car fuel tanks with 93 l.

Options

• Length - 4 m 667 cm.
• Width - 1 m 872 cm.
• Height - 1 m 707 cm.
• The wheel base is 2 m 82 cm.
• Ground clearance - 18 cm.
• Curb weight - 2200 kg.
• Full weight - 2700 kg.

How much oil to fill in the BMW X5 E53 engine

First generation E53, 1999-2006

The first BMW crossover borrowed permanent all-wheel drive from Land Rover, a feature of which was the ability to transmit up to 60% of the torque to the rear wheels. In addition, air suspension was offered for the most expensive versions of the X5.

Also read: Motor oil for Nissan Juke engine

Basic versions of the E53 were offered with gasoline and diesel sixes, and the “charged” version received an 8-cylinder unit with 4.4 liters (286 hp). In 2002, production began of a small-scale version of the X5 4.6is with a forced V8 producing 347 hp. With. The engines were coupled with manual or automatic transmission. In 2003, restyling took place. After the update, the crossover received a new V8 4.8 with a power of 360 hp. With. Also available for the first time is its own xDrive transmission. The total production volume of E53 until 2006 exceeded 617 thousand cars.

Gasoline engines 1999-2006

• 3.0 (M54B30), oil volume - 6.5 liters, tolerance and viscosity: API-SH, SJ; SAE 5W-40, 0W-40, 0W-30, 10W-40, 10W-30
• 4.0 (N62 V8), oil volume - 8 liters, tolerance and viscosity: API-SH, SJ; SAE 5W-40, 0W-40, 0W-30, 10W-40, 10W-30
• 4.4 (N62B44), oil volume - 8 liters, tolerance and viscosity: API-SH, SJ; SAE 5W-40, 0W-40, 0W-30, 10W-40, 10W-30
• 4.8 (N62B48), oil volume - 8 liters, tolerance and viscosity: API-SH, SJ; SAE 5W-40, 0W-40, 0W-30, 10W-40, 10W-30

Options

Reviews from motorists about the first trim levels are normal.

But in the first machines, useful functionality was appreciated for its presence:

1. Electric drives for mirrors and seats.
2. Variety of heating options.
3. High-quality CD sound receivers.
4. Good climates - controls.
5. Xenon headlights.

The cars do not have:

• screens;
• navigation chips;
• panoramic sunroofs;
• air suspension.

But you can do without this. Many people wonder about cleaning crankcase ventilation. This can be done easily with the appropriate tools.

Exterior

Cars are located and sold in the SUV sectors. They are well designed. You can feel the combination of dynamic qualities, control and image of the concern in the car. In our latitudes, these cars are considered iconic. Because they are still in leadership positions. The main advantage of cars is their longevity, which is why they are chosen.

The bodies are also durable with high quality paint and protection. In general, these cars are not afraid of rust. Corrosion can get under seals, in contact areas near bumpers and on the front of hoods.

Cars often suffer from chips on the roads. Sometimes in cold weather, due to strong tension, oil is squeezed out. Also, the external sides of the car may suffer from the silumin plates on which the internal door handles are attached. Then the handles cannot return to their original position. The wiper arms are rusting. These are troubles, but they are easily eliminated. But there are practically no complex flaws in cars.

Paint and varnish coatings

The paint evokes positive emotions among the owners. Although years have already passed, there is high-quality protection against rust, with a high level. Therefore, the bodies are almost perfect. This is the strongest feature that sets these cars apart from others.

Bumper

Bumpers with aggressive shapes. With large air intakes that cool working fluids to the maximum, effectively cooling working fluids, which gives ideal performance to vehicles. Cars were built for off-road use. But nevertheless, the Germans managed to achieve space so that the radiators fit into the car on the front overhangs.

Restyling and pre-restyling of the BMW X5 E53, what are the differences?

Pre-restyling all-wheel drive cars had differential structures, then they became xDrive. This is the superiority of cars, because you can drive on different roads, even with regular tires.

The suspensions have a short travel, so if there are weak points, you can lose the lower parts of the bumpers on the roads. The thresholds may become jammed and the couplings may overheat. Aluminum levers, if they are actively used, they will quickly bend. Cars can stall when cold and stall when starting off.

Passenger cars are seen in the chassis of cars of this generation. If the road is stable without any special turns or problems, then the operation of the machines is normal.

It is easy to drive a passenger-type chassis on a good track or road, but there are problems with the chassis when you drive off-road. In urban conditions, it will work flawlessly.

After restyling events, the BMW X5 E53 became even more urban. These cars are tuned for driving on good roads. Any engine version will not be able to cope with severe conditions.

What oil to use for the BMW X5 E53 engine

Original

At the time of the start of production of the BMW X5 E53 SUV, the branded BMW LongLife 98 motor oil was relevant. In 2001, it was replaced by LongLife 01, which today is relevant for gasoline engines in Russian operating conditions. Diesel engines should be filled with more modern LongLife 04 oil.

As for oil fluidity, this parameter is determined by the SAE indicator. For example, SAE 20W-40 or 25W-50 are suitable for hot temperature conditions, while 0W-30, 0W-40 or 5W-30 is recommended for the winter season. If the car is driven all year round, then you can opt for all-season oil SAE 10W-30, 10W-40 or 5W-40.

Also read: Engine oil for the Lifan X50 engine

Unoriginal

When choosing a non-original engine oil for a BMW X5 E53 SUV, you should give preference to proven brands such as Mannol, Shell, Valvoline, Castrol, Mobil, Liqui Moly, Motul, etc. In addition, before purchasing, you need to make sure that the API approval you are selecting is compatible depending on the vehicle model year and engine type. For example, for a gasoline X5 E53 1999. All-season semi-synthetics with parameters SAE 10W-30 and API-SH are recommended, and for later models (2006), API-SJ semi-synthetics are suitable. For diesel engines - API-CF and API-CH-4, respectively. Below are the best analogue engine oils for the BMW X5 E53.

According to approval LL-01 for gasoline engines:

• Motul 8100 X-Cess 5W-40 art 104256; 102784
• Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 art 55004754; 55004755
• Mobil Super 3000 X1 5W-40 art 152666; 152567
• Liqui Moly Leichtlauf HT 5W-40 art 8029; 8028