🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

X5

Model Variant:

xDrive35i

Year:

2011

Chassis Code:

E70

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (E70)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Mid-size SUV (SAV - Sports Activity Vehicle by BMW terminology)

Target Audience:

Affluent families and individuals seeking a blend of luxury, performance, utility, and advanced technology.

Key Competitors:

Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz M-Class (ML-Class), Lexus RX, Porsche Cayenne, Volvo XC90.

Drivetrain:

Standard xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

Engine Type:

Turbocharged inline-six cylinder gasoline engine.

Interior Appointments:

Premium materials, advanced infotainment (iDrive), and sophisticated comfort features.

Driving Dynamics:

Sporty handling characteristics and responsive performance expected from BMW.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive owner's manual information for the 2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i.

Specific Sections Listed:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 300-500 pages (typical for this model year and complexity, exact count not provided).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine operation, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, starting and charging systems (battery, alternator).

Drivetrain Systems:

xDrive all-wheel-drive system operation, transmission (automatic).

Chassis Systems:

Braking system, steering system, suspension system basics.

Body And Comfort Systems:

Lighting controls, climate control system (HVAC), locks and security (keyless entry, alarm), power windows, mirrors, seating adjustments, panoramic sunroof (if equipped).

Electrical And Infotainment:

Instrument cluster indicators and warnings, entertainment system operation (radio, CD/DVD, auxiliary input), iDrive system overview, basic connectivity features.

Safety And Restraint Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt operation and adjustment, child seat LATCH system installation, dynamic stability control (DSC), anti-lock braking system (ABS) basics.

Driving Operations:

Starting the engine, driving the vehicle, parking, using cruise control, parking brake operation.

Maintenance Tasks:

Checking and topping up engine oil, checking tire pressure, checking windshield washer fluid, basic exterior cleaning.

Emergency Procedures:

Jump-starting the vehicle, changing a flat tire (if equipped with spare), using warning triangle, reporting safety defects.

Information Retrieval:

Understanding dashboard warning lights and messages, accessing vehicle information through iDrive.

Depth Of Coverage:

Designed for the vehicle owner, covering operation, basic maintenance checks, and understanding vehicle features and warnings. Does not typically include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic fault codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Readability Software:

Requires PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader).

Device Compatibility:

Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones).

Print Quality:

Digital format derived from factory original, quality dependent on PDF rendering. Typically high quality with clear text and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N55B30

Engine Configuration:

3.0L Inline 6-cylinder Twin-Scroll Turbocharged

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (High-Precision Injection)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-04 approved)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity).

Spark Plugs:

BMW Longlife Spark Plugs (e.g., NGK SILZKR7C11S or equivalent)

Air Filter Part Number:

Typically BMW Part No. 13717548051 or equivalent.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission

Transmission Manufacturer:

ZF Friedrichshafen AG

Transmission Features:

Adaptive shift control, manual shifting mode (Steptronic), sport mode.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF LT-8 (ZF Lifeguard 8) or equivalent specified by BMW.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.1 inches (4855 mm)

Width:

76.3 inches (1938 mm)

Height:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Wheelbase:

114.7 inches (2913 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

25.0 cubic feet (708 liters)

Cargo Volume With 2Nd Row Folded:

75.2 cubic feet (2130 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4773 lbs (2165 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

6459 lbs (2930 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6000 lbs (2722 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely 4 or 5 stars (NHTSA ratings can vary slightly by year and specific test configurations; consult official NHTSA data for precise ratings).

IIHS Rating:

Likely a Top Safety Pick designation (IIHS ratings may vary).

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.

Driver Assistance Options:

Optional features might include Active Cruise Control, Head-Up Display, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection.

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags for front and rear occupants).

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Primary System:

BMW iDrive System (likely CCC or CIC professional navigation system).

Display Type:

Central LCD display, often 8.8 inches (professional navigation).

Audio Sources:

AM/FM Radio, CD/DVD Player, Auxiliary Audio Input (AUX), USB Input (with appropriate adapter), Satellite Radio (SiriusXM).

Standard Features:

Cruise control, rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).

Optional Features 2011:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Head-Up Display (HUD), rearview camera, side-view cameras, automatic high beams.

Bluetooth Integration:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Integration:

USB/audio interface for iPod and other music players.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality, monitored by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Consult manual for exact CBS triggers.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-40,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Annually or every 15,000-20,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles for the N55 engine, but consult manual or service advisor.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent).

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water/washer fluid mixture (BMW recommends specific washer fluids).

Common Wear Items:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, PCV valve issues (often integrated with valve cover), coolant expansion tank leaks, water pump failure (electric water pumps can be costly).

Turbocharger Related:

While the N55 is generally robust, turbocharger issues, wastegate actuator problems, or intercooler hose leaks can occur with high mileage or improper maintenance.

Electronics And Sensors:

Various sensors (e.g., oxygen sensors, MAF sensors), ignition coils, and the battery management system can sometimes present issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering.

First Generation E53:

The X5 was introduced in 1999 as BMW's first SUV (SAV), blending SUV practicality with BMW's signature driving dynamics.

Second Generation E70:

The E70 generation, launched in 2006, brought a significant redesign, incorporating more advanced technology, improved luxury, and increased size, with the 2011 model being part of this generation's facelift/update.

Production Location:

Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (for global markets).

Model Year Updates:

The 2011 model year represented an update for the E70 generation, often including revised powertrains and features. The xDrive35i variant replaced the previous 3.0si model, featuring the new N55 engine.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Awards Context:

While specific awards for the 2011 model year are numerous and often segment-specific (e.g., 'Best Luxury SUV'), BMW X5 models frequently appear on 'best of' lists for their class.

Safety Awards:

Often awarded 'Top Safety Pick' designations by the IIHS and high overall ratings by NHTSA.

Performance Awards:

Praised for its driving dynamics and powerful engine options, often noted in automotive reviews for blending SUV utility with sports sedan handling.

Consumer Satisfaction Bias:

BMW vehicles generally receive strong marks for owner satisfaction, particularly regarding performance and luxury features, though maintenance costs can be a factor.