2018 BMW X5 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2018 BMW X5 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 BMW X5 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 BMW X5 engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a stalling engine in a 2018 BMW X5?

When faced with a stalling engine in your 2018 BMW X5, the first step is to utilize a diagnostic scanner to check for any error codes stored in the vehicle's computer system. This initial assessment can reveal critical information about potential issues. Next, inspect the fuel system, focusing on the fuel pump, filter, and injectors to ensure they are delivering the necessary fuel to the engine. Following this, examine the ignition system components, including spark plugs and ignition coils, to confirm they are functioning correctly and providing adequate spark. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any obstructions or leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture, which is vital for engine performance. It’s also important to check the battery and charging system, as a weak battery or faulty alternator can contribute to stalling. Lastly, inspect for any vacuum leaks in the lines and hoses, as these can significantly affect engine operation. By systematically following these diagnostic steps, you can effectively identify and address the underlying causes of engine stalling in your BMW X5.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2018 BMW X5?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 2018 BMW X5, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at fault. A failing fuel pump is often a primary suspect, as it may not supply enough fuel to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, issues within the ignition system, such as worn spark plugs or malfunctioning ignition coils, can disrupt the combustion process and cause the engine to stall unexpectedly. Another critical component to check is the mass airflow sensor; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it can throw off the air-fuel mixture, resulting in performance issues. The throttle position sensor also plays a vital role in engine management, and any faults here can lead to erratic idling and stalling. Lastly, don't overlook the possibility of vacuum leaks, which can significantly impact engine performance and contribute to stalling. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and address the root causes of engine stalling in their BMW X5.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2018 BMW X5?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2018 BMW X5 is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. An unexpected stall can lead to a sudden loss of power, making it difficult to control the vehicle, which can result in dangerous situations on the road. Moreover, neglecting this issue can lead to more severe damage to the engine and other critical components, ultimately resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt attention. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize diagnosing and resolving engine stalling problems as soon as they arise, ensuring not only the safety of the driver and passengers but also the longevity and reliability of the vehicle. Taking swift action can prevent further complications and provide peace of mind while driving.

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