Originally Posted by Weasel

The oil level sensor is a relatively common problem at higher mileages on most BMW engines/models.

All you need to do is simply change the oil level sensor, which is only 3 10mm nuts and one plug. Easy to do with your next oil change. (oil has to be drained to change it, on bottom of oil pan) And no computer clearing or anything is needed after replacement, just plug and play.

I think you may need to remove the metal plate under the engine on the X5 to get access to it, but that isn't that big a deal.