🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

X5

Year:

2011

Trim Level:

xDrive35i Sport Activity

Chassis Code:

E70

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (E70 Facelift)

Vin Engine Code:

N55B30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Luxury SUV / SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle)

Brand Philosophy:

BMW's emphasis on performance, luxury, and advanced technology within the SUV segment.

Key Competitors:

Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W164), Porsche Cayenne, Land Rover LR4, Lexus RX.

Drivetrain:

Standard xDrive all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and handling.

Engine:

Powerful and efficient turbocharged inline-six engine.

Sport Activity Designation:

BMW's term for their SUVs, highlighting a blend of SUV utility with sporty driving dynamics.

Premium Interior:

High-quality materials, ergonomic design, and advanced features characteristic of the BMW brand.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity Vehicle

Secondary Coverage:

All factory-installed features, systems, and controls specific to the xDrive35i model.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 400-600 pages (typical for BMW owner's manuals of this era)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, lubrication, ignition system.

Drivetrain:

xDrive all-wheel drive system, transfer case operation, differential lubrication.

Chassis:

Suspension operation, steering system, braking system (including ABS, DSC), wheel and tire information.

Electrical:

Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster indicators, power windows/locks, exterior mirrors, wiper system, horn.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control operation, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, air filtration.

Infotainment Comfort:

iDrive infotainment system (if equipped), audio system operation, navigation (if equipped), Bluetooth connectivity, power seats, memory functions.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system, seatbelt operation and adjustment, child seat installation (LATCH/ISOFIX), active safety features (e.g., ABS, DSC, DTC).

Security:

Remote key fob operation, central locking system, alarm system, immobilizer.

Operation:

Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, using cruise control, operating parking brake.

Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning procedures, understanding dashboard warning lights.

Troubleshooting:

Guidance on common dashboard warning messages and their implications, basic troubleshooting steps for minor issues.

Specifications:

Refill capacities for all fluids, lubricant specifications, recommended tire pressures and sizes, approved fuel types.

Depth:

Comprehensive owner-level information for daily operation, maintenance checks, and understanding vehicle features. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, enabling quick access to specific information.

Compatibility:

Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (PCs, Macs, tablets, smartphones) via readers like Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Quality:

Digital replica of factory print quality, including diagrams and illustrations.

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Twin-Scroll Turbocharged with Valvetronic and Double VANOS

Engine Code:

N55B30

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

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:

BMW Longlife-01 or BMW Longlife-01 FE (refer to manual for specific viscosity grades like 0W-30 or 5W-30)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)

Air Filter Part Numbers:

Typically 13717556961 (Primary) or similar for the N55 engine.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48, ethylene glycol-based)

Battery Type:

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery, typically Group 49 (H8/H9).

Battery Part Number:

e.g., 61217639838 or similar AGM replacement.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

8-speed Automatic Steptronic (ZF 8HP45)

Type:

N/A for 2011 xDrive35i model (8-speed auto was standard).

Operation:

Smooth shifts, adaptive programming, Steptronic manual mode, sport mode.

Fluid Specification:

ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8 (or equivalent ATF meeting ZF TE-ML 11 or TE-ML 4D specifications).

Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0-7.5 liters for a fluid change and torque converter refill (may vary).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.1 inches (4854 mm)

Width:

76.3 inches (1938 mm)

Height:

69.5 inches (1765 mm)

Wheelbase:

114.7 inches (2913 mm)

Front Track:

63.4 inches (1610 mm)

Rear Track:

64.3 inches (1633 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.0 inches (203 mm)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 25.0 cubic feet (708 liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 75.2 cubic feet (2130 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4700-4850 lbs (2130-2200 kg), depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 6400 lbs (2900 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) with optional towing package.

Tongue Weight Max:

500 lbs (227 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely 4 out of 5 stars (typical for this model year and segment, check specific NHTSA data if available).

IIHS Rating:

Likely Good in relevant crash tests (e.g., front, side, rear, roof strength), but specific 2011 ratings should be verified with IIHS.

Traction Control:

Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including ABS, CBC (Cornering Brake Control), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution).

Braking:

Vented front and rear disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist.

Driver Assistance:

Hill Descent Control (HDC), Park Distance Control (PDC) (front and rear, optional), rearview camera (optional).

Airbags:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtains).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with automatic tensioners and force limiters at all seating positions.

Child Restraints:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, ISOFIX internationally.

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

iDrive System (CCC or CIC depending on exact build date and options)

Features:

Navigation system (optional), radio (AM/FM, Satellite), CD/DVD player, USB/Auxiliary input, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling.

Display:

Central color display screen integrated into the dashboard.

Adaptive Headlights:

Xenon headlights with adaptive function (swivel with steering input) were often standard or optional.

Parking Aids:

Park Distance Control (PDC) with visual and audible warnings, rearview camera (optional).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control functionality.

Bluetooth:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, often with phone book integration.

Usb Interface:

USB/Auxiliary input for media playback and device charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, whichever comes first. Refer to iDrive or manual for exact CBS interval.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS or drivability issues.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Recommended annually or every 15,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended around 60,000 miles for the N55 engine.

Transmission Fluid Service:

BMW historically considered sealed for life, but specialist recommendations often suggest fluid and filter change around 60,000-100,000 miles for longevity of the ZF 8HP transmission.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 9.5-10.5 liters (total system capacity).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) approved by BMW.

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent approved hydraulic fluid.

Engine:

Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gasket, turbocharger wastegate rattle (common on early N55), PCV valve issues. Fuel pump and injector issues can occur.

Cooling System:

Water pump failure (electric water pumps used in this era), thermostat issues, coolant leaks from hoses and expansion tank.

Electrical:

Water damage to electronics in the trunk or under seats (common E70 issue due to poor sealing), alternator issues, battery registration problems after replacement.

Suspension:

Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links. Air suspension components (if equipped) can leak or fail.

Transmission:

While the ZF 8HP is robust, occasional mechatronic sleeve leaks or valve body issues can occur at higher mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused vehicles with emphasis on performance ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

First Generation:

E53 (1999-2006)

Second Generation Launch:

E70 introduced for the 2007 model year.

Facelift Year:

The 2011 model year represents a significant facelift for the E70, introducing updated styling, new engines (like the N55 in the 35i), and updated technology.

Manufacturing Location:

Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (primary plant for X models)

Production Years E70:

2007-2013

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Auto Media Awards:

While specific awards for the 2011 X5 xDrive35i might vary, the E70 generation generally received positive reviews for its driving dynamics, interior quality, and versatility within the luxury SUV segment.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for the 2011 X5 would reflect predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. It's advisable to check historical CR data for specific insights.

Emissions:

Meets all applicable U.S. Federal and California emissions standards for its model year.