Compare BMW X5 exhaust fitting quotes from specialist garages

Looming hundreds of feet up in Munich's skyline is BMW's headquarters, a vast and impressive building designed to look like four engine cylinders - the configuration that drove much of the brand's early success.

BMW has come a long way since 1927, when it produced its first car, the Dixi, shortly to be renamed the BMW 3/15. In 2022, it was awarded 'Best Manufacturer' at the AutoCar Britain's Best Car Awards, and the same year, it triumphed at the WhatCar? Awards, winning more accolades than any other brand. The M5 special edition, celebrating 20 years of BMW motorsport, is one of the rarest M automobiles in the world.

See how BMW's maintenance prices compare to Audi and Mercedes in this guide.

The exhaust system is essential in guiding fumes away from the engine and passengers. It consists of a manifold, flex pipe, catalytic converter and an oxygen or lambda sensor. Unsurprisingly, the biggest problem with car exhausts is that they sometimes develop a leak.

Common warning signs your car's exhaust needs repairing or replacing include: popping sounds, leaking water, rust, unusual smoke, and sounding louder than usual. Anything out of the ordinary may signal a problem, and an exhaust specialist will be able to tell you exactly how to fix it.

It's important to take your car to an exhaust centre as soon as you notice the first signs of trouble; occasionally, exhaust leaks can be dangerous.

Depending on the extent of the leak, a mechanic may be able to carry out an exhaust repair by welding the affected area. If this isn't possible, you'll have to arrange an exhaust replacement.