2003 BMW X5 radiator cracked during driving and water spilled. Car was idling and smoky smell and oil press, stop engine problems. Had 2 children in the car while driving and seems like connection/hose problems which do not allow the engine to work properly. Do not feel safe driving the car, won't hold the coolant water in. A car this expensive should not be so defective.

- Glendale, CA, USA

The drain valve in 2003 BMW X5 disintegrates due to manufacturing defect, it is inherently defective and is a source of leaks and if not replaced would case the radiator to drain out, causing overheating and ruining the engine. This problem has been noted on BMW owner websites. www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php"T=154553 www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php"T=287894.

- Lafayette, LA, USA

On 01/15/2009, the extremely chilly day, my wife drove the X5 on route 2 East bound around exit 58 in arlington, MA, the exhaust system suddenly emitted heavy white smoke, but the oil warning light did not turned on at all. My wife pulled over the car and turned off the engine immediately. 15 minutes later, she found the engine was disabled when she tried to restart it. After the car was towed to BMW service center, I was informed the car needs the following replacements 'crank case vent valve 'valve cover gaskets and spark plugs 'transfer case the total cost is $1360+$3125= $4485.

- Burlington, MA, USA