BMW X5 Jerking and Power Loss: What's the Real Fix?

Hey there! I had a very similar issue with my 2016 BMW X3 xDrive28i last month. The symptoms match exactly what you're describing, jerky acceleration and noticeable power loss. Turned out the problem was caused by a third-party tuning chip that the previous owner had installed. These aftermarket modifications can mess with the engine management system. The diagnostic showed multiple misfires and incorrect fuel mixture readings. Had to get the engine control unit reset to factory settings and remove the tuning chip completely. The mechanic also had to clean the fuel injectors and replace two ignition coils that got damaged from the improper tuning. It was quite a serious job that took two full days at the shop. The car runs perfectly now, smooth acceleration and proper power delivery like it should. Would strongly suggest getting it checked by a certified BMW specialist who can properly diagnose if there's any tuning-related damage to your engine components. Just make sure whoever works on it knows how to handle these tuning-related issues, as not all mechanics are familiar with reversing aftermarket modifications.

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's really helpful since the symptoms do sound exactly like what I'm dealing with. Will definitely get it checked for any aftermarket mods, though I'm the first owner so hopefully that's not the issue. Just wondering, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? And has everything been running smoothly since, or have you noticed any other issues popping up? My X5's been great until now, so I'm hoping to get it back to its normal self without breaking the bank.

Hey again! Great to give you an update, I got the car sorted and it's running like a dream now! After taking it to the mechanic last week, they found exactly what I suspected, it was indeed that aftermarket tuning chip causing all the drama. The total bill came to 180 € for removing the chip and getting everything back to factory settings. Pretty reasonable considering all the hassle it was causing! Since the fix, I haven't had a single problem, no more jerking, power's back to normal, and that pesky fault code is gone for good. Been driving it daily for about two weeks now and honestly, it feels like a different car. Smooth as silk and responsive just like a BMW should be. Really glad I got it sorted before it could cause any serious damage to the engine. Just an extra tip, if you do find out there's been any chip tuning done on yours, don't wait around to get it fixed. These unofficial mods can really mess things up if left unchecked. Definitely worth getting a proper diagnostic done by someone who knows their stuff about BMWs.

Thanks so much for that detailed feedback! I actually just got back from the mechanic today, and wanted to share my experience since you were so helpful. Turns out my situation was different from yours, it was actually a failing fuel pump causing all the trouble. The mechanic showed me how it wasn't maintaining proper pressure, which explained the jerking and power loss. Cost me about 450 for parts and labor, but honestly, it was worth every penny. They had it done in a day, and the difference is like night and day. The car's running perfectly now, no more jerking, full power back, and that error code is history. Really happy I didn't wait any longer to get it checked out. Found a really great mechanic too, super transparent about everything they did and even showed me the old pump to explain what went wrong. After that awful experience with my last mechanic, it's such a relief to find someone trustworthy who knows what they're doing with BMWs. Sometimes bad experiences lead us to better options!