Bmw X3 problems
The BMW X3 is an SUV manufactured by BMW since 2003, based on the BMW 5 Series platform. Now in its third generation, BMW markets the car as a Sports Activity Vehicle, the company's proprietary descriptor for its X-line luxury vehicles.
The first-generation X3 was designed by BMW in conjunction with Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria—who also manufactured all X3s under contract to BMW. BMW manufactured the second-generation X3 at their Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, United States. Starting with the third generation, BMW South Africa's Rosslyn plant began production of the X3, alongside the Spartanburg plant, after the facility underwent a major upgrade to prepare for the X3 production, replacing the long-running 3 Series production in the plant. About 76,000 units will be manufactured there annually.
The car was the first mid-size, premium SUV on the market. In 2008, BMW started competing with the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class (renamed GLC-Class since 2016), and numerous other SUVs in this segment. The X3 is smaller than the X5 and X6, and bigger than the X1 and the X2.
An all-electric variant is sold as the BMW iX3.
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Bmw X3 model years
Common Bmw X3 problems
The BMW X3, a luxury compact crossover SUV, has been praised for its design, performance, and technology. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by BMW X3 owners, based on the provided search results:
- Electrical Problems: The BMW X3 is equipped with many advanced electronics, which can sometimes lead to issues with sensors, power windows, or the iDrive infotainment system. These problems can result in warning lights on the dashboard, malfunctions, or inconvenience for the driver. Regular maintenance and software updates are essential for addressing electrical problems. If issues persist, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic with expertise in BMW electronics for a thorough diagnosis and repair.
- Oil Leaks: Oil leaks are a common problem in BMW X3s, often attributed to gasket failures or problems with the oil pan. These leaks should be addressed promptly, as neglecting them can lead to engine damage and costly repairs. Repairs may involve gasket replacements or oil pan repairs, which should be performed by a qualified technician.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission problems, such as rough shifting, slipping gears, or failure to engage properly, can occur in BMW X3s. Regular transmission maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial for preventing these issues. If problems persist, early diagnosis and repair are essential to maintain the transmission's integrity.
- Suspension Components: The sporty handling of the BMW X3 can strain suspension components, leading to issues with shock absorbers, control arms, or sway bar links. Regular inspections and replacement of worn parts can maintain ride quality and safety.
- Cooling System Problems: Overheating can be a concern in the BMW X3, often due to failures in the cooling system. Regular maintenance and addressing leaks are crucial for avoiding engine overheating and potential damage.
- Brake Issues: Due to its spirited driving nature, brake wear is a common problem for the X3. Timely replacement of brake pads and rotors is essential for safety, ensuring optimal braking performance.
- Engine Problems: While BMW engines are generally reliable, some X3s may encounter issues such as misfires, oil consumption, or problems with the timing chain guides. These issues can lead to engine failure or inability to start.
- Steering System Problems: Some drivers have reported problems with the steering system on their BMW X3, whereby steering has become increasingly heavy. This problem is often linked to a malfunctioning power steering system but could also be caused by low tire pressure.
- Automatic Gearbox Issues: Drivers have reported an issue with the automatic gearbox on their BMW X3, where it selects the wrong gear for them. This issue is reportedly caused by an electrical fault and requires a thorough diagnosis by a trained mechanic.
- Rear Spoiler: The rear spoiler fitted to some cars made between 14 July 2017 and 22 February 2018 could fall off, causing additional wind noise when it starts to come loose.
- Restricted Fuel Supply: A problem in the fuel tank of examples made from 16 August 2016 and 21 January 2018 could lead to restrictions in the fuel supply and cause the engine to stall.
- Isofix Restraints: The rear Isofix restraints on cars constructed between 1 August 2010 and 15 April 2016 could work loose over time.
- Front Passenger Airbag: A small number of X3s built before 2013 could have a problem with the front passenger airbag not deploying correctly in a collision.
- Power Steering Failure: An electrical issue with the power steering system could cause it to fail on X3s built between 19 September 2011 and 8 December 2015.
- EGR Cooler: There have been three recalls for leaking EGR coolers, which apply to various models built between 5 August 2010 and 24 October 2017.
To ensure the longevity and reliability of a BMW X3, it is essential to adhere to routine maintenance schedules, address any issues promptly, and consult professional mechanics with expertise in BMW electronics and mechanics when necessary.
What are problems with the BMW X3?
Q: What are common problems across BMW X3 models? A: Common issues include broken timing chain guides, sunroof leaks, rattles, oil leaks, overheating engines due to coolant system problems, faulty window regulators, steering problems, problematic EGR systems in diesel engines, and more.
Are BMW X3s reliable?
BMW X3 Reliability Rating Breakdown. The BMW X3 Reliability Rating is 2.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 10th out of 11 for luxury compact SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $1,034 which means it has poor ownership costs.
What is the weakness of the BMW X3?
Some common problems with the BMW X3 include:
- Steering problems.
- Gearbox problems.
- Engine problems.
- Brake problems.
Are BMW X3 expensive to maintain?
What Is the Estimated Average Cost to Repair an X3? Per Your Mechanic, the estimated average cost to repair a BMW X3 is $318, which includes the average cost for maintenance. Maintenance and repair costs range from $80 to $4473, with oil changes being the most common service you'll likely pay for on your vehicle.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw X3 years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw X3 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw X3 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw X3 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw X3 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw X3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw X3 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seats problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw X3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by X3 model years
A total of 84 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by X3 model years
There were a total of 113 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by X3 model years
There were a total of 121 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1798 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw X3 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw X3 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw X3 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5UXTR9C56KL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Headlights cycle on and off. Does this frequently. Checked on BMW site Bimmerpost and other people have had the same problem. Google 2019 BMW x3 headlights tuning off and on after shut down.
Bmw X3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5UXWZ7C56G0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not unavailable.
Bmw X3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5UXWX9C50G0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X3 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5UXTR9C59JL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X3 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5UX53DP03N9
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X3 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 5UX53DP06R9
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Whenever the vehicle is driven, despite the temperature, the panoramic moon roof cracks and creaks and sounds like it is going to break. The dealer said numerous people have also complained about this happening and BMW will NOT do anything about it. This is my 3rd X3 of this body style and my other two did not have this issue because BMW didn't "cheapen" out on the window sealant and materials of the lining and mounts in the sunroof until the LCI redesign or 2023. I am afraid that one of these days it will crack and break downward, causing a major safety hazard while driving and I want BMW to fix and/or remedy the problem(s) ASAP.
Bmw X3 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5UXTS1C08L9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The accident happened at Noon on [XXX] at the Amazon Fresh/Post office parking lot’s far right exit lane facing [XXX] The address is [XXX] . We were leaving the parking lot and I stopped at the exit lane with 2 cars in front of us. After the first car exited, the second car, a black Ford Explorer, moved forward. I released the brake slightly but my foot was still on the brake pedal. At this moment, my car suddenly accelerated and quickly approached the Explorer. I immediately pressed the brake pedal hard but was unable to stop my car and hit the back of the Explorer. The Explorer was forced out in front of the stop sign but the driver was able to turn right to park at the roadside. With my foot still firmly on the brake pedal, my car kept on accelerating into [XXX] , crossing 5 lanes of traffic until we hit the roadside curb of westbound [XXX] . The car then swerved left and hit a roadside tree, turning sideways into [XXX] middle turn lane. During this entire time, I did not press the accelerator and the car was violently shaking and jerking right and left. As the car slowed down, I was able to steer the car to the right eastbound lane of [XXX] , next to the parking lot near Bank of America’s ATM sign. After I got out of the car, I noticed the front and right sides of the body and tires were damaged including crushing, dents, and significant scratching. The problem I believe is as follows: 1.Sudden Unintended Acceleration and Control Circuit Malfunction. 2.Airbags did not deploy even though we hit a car, curb and tree. 3.Onboard Data Recorder should have the information needed. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Bmw X3 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5UX53DP0XN9
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The front passenger seats warmer is not working. In spite of multiple attempts to get it fixed from BMW of Denver Downtown has not fixed the issue. This can have serious impact during winter weather
Bmw X3 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5UXTR7C52KL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (STRUCTURE) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Bmw X3 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: WBX47DP09NN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BMW has a safety recall on my vehicle for over two months now with no fix available. I am in the process of moving to Japan and need to sell the vehicle. BMW is prohibiting a lease transfer or sale until the vehicle is fixed, but they cannot fix it. Meanwhile I lost a potential buyer and BMW wants to charge me an early lease termination fee of over $6000 but they will not fix the vehicle and they will not allow me to sell or complete a lease transfer. BMW should accept this vehicle back without charging me extra money for a lease termination fee on a defective vehicle.
Bmw X3 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 5UXTY5C02M9
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: This complaint is not due/regarding an accident. It is a complaint about the response time to remedy a recall which has been months long now. In July 2024, BMW recalled 291,112 X3 models from 2018 to 2023 due to a risk of the interior cargo rail detaching in a crash. The attachment bolts for the rail could become damaged, increasing the risk of injury to passengers. What is taking so long to get this fixed? Seems the remedy is to simply replace bolts. I am unable to use this car while it has a safety recall outstanding. Please expedite this fix, it has been several months and in the meantime this car sits being unproductive.
Bmw X3 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 5UXWX9C34H0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X3 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 5UXTR7C56KL
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Safety recall involving rear cargo rails hasn’t been rectified for 3 months now.
Bmw X3 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 5UXTY5C07M9
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw X3 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WBX57DP02PN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: As I was driving today in the freeway my sunroof exploded. As far as I can tell, It was not caused by rocks or other cars, it just exploded putting my wife and I in a dangerous situation having to park on the side of the freeway. We first thought someone shot at us. We stopped the car and it took us a minute to feel safe to go out, trembling, to check car for gun fire. We looked the entire body while the freeway was full, even for a Sunday, and discovered nothing wrong. As we entered the car and closed our door, we heard the noise of shared glass, so we both left the car again to reinspect it putting our lives in danger as other drivers were passing by. We re-enter the car again and the same thing happened, left the car again to inspect the tires at this time, each time exposing our lives to the freeway traffic. Upon entering the car for the third time, heard freeway noise and thought window was probably opened. It was then that we realized our sunroof was probably broken, upon checking, we were shocked when saw hundreds of pieces of glass on top of our car. It was then that we realized we would have to clean the top of our car with the wind blowing glass everywhere, risking an eye injury, and we were worried another car would be hit with the glass or even worse than that, it would be someone riding a motorcycle which is common on Sunday afternoons and get blind from glass flying from our car to their face. So we spent a while cleaning most of the glass to be able to drive off the freeway, again exposing our lives. During our cleaning of the glass, we put it inside of our car on the floor by the back seats so we would not leave that on the freeway exposing other people to get hurt. During this cleaning time, my wife cut her hand with glass that entered her skin. Not understanding why the accident happened, I’ve decided to research online, only to find that BMW’s x3 having problems with sunroof exploding since 2018, but no recalls! Very upsetting! My car is 2023.
Latest 5 recalls Bmw X3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 106 recalls for different components of the Bmw X3.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw X3 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2022 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3 M vehicles. The attachment for the rear cargo rail may become damaged in a rear crash and result in the cargo rail detaching.
- Consequence: Interior rear cargo rail detachment during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously remedied for this issue under recall number 24V-534 and will need to have the new repair completed.
- Model: Bmw X3 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2022 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3 M vehicles. The attachment for the rear cargo rail may become damaged in a rear crash and result in the cargo rail detaching.
- Consequence: Interior rear cargo rail detachment during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously remedied for this issue under recall number 24V-534 and will need to have the new repair completed.
- Model: Bmw X3 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2022 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3 M vehicles. The attachment for the rear cargo rail may become damaged in a rear crash and result in the cargo rail detaching.
- Consequence: Interior rear cargo rail detachment during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously remedied for this issue under recall number 24V-534 and will need to have the new repair completed.
- Model: Bmw X3 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2022 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3 M vehicles. The attachment for the rear cargo rail may become damaged in a rear crash and result in the cargo rail detaching.
- Consequence: Interior rear cargo rail detachment during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously remedied for this issue under recall number 24V-534 and will need to have the new repair completed.
- Model: Bmw X3 2018
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2022 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3 M vehicles. The attachment for the rear cargo rail may become damaged in a rear crash and result in the cargo rail detaching.
- Consequence: Interior rear cargo rail detachment during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously remedied for this issue under recall number 24V-534 and will need to have the new repair completed.
Latest negative Bmw X3 car reviews
Latest positive Bmw X3 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2019
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that you were looking for a more comfortable and spacious vehicle for your daily commute to work. After owning a 2015 328XI for a few years, you definitely needed a car that wouldn't give you back pain due to uncomfortable seats and that had more space for your family. When you drove a loaner X3 while your car was being serviced, you realized that the X3 was the perfect car for you. You decided to lease it this time so you can return it if it doesn't meet your expectations, but you're really confident that you'll end up keeping it after the lease is over. It's an outstanding, reliable, and comfortable vehicle that I strongly recommend. By the way, don't forget to add the drive assistance package. Let me know if you have any questions!
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Vehicle year: 2008
My girlfriend bought this car in 2012 with 38k miles. Currently, in 2019, it has 126k miles and we've been through a lot together. There are some good and bad things to tell you about, but overall we've had better luck than many others from the reviews. At around 45k miles, we had to machine the rotors and put ceramic pads, and currently, they still have about 60% left. We got it with Pirelli Nero tires that lasted until 105k miles, and now we have Pirelli Scorpion Verdes. Both sets of tires are amazing on the road and in the rain, but not so great in mud/snow. We did have a metal bracket break connecting the hose from the radiator to the motor at 65k miles, but we were able to fix it. At 80k miles, we had to replace the crankshaft sensor, and at 90k miles, both front struts. At 95k miles, we replaced the coil packs and spark plugs, and at 120k miles, we had to replace the starter. We also had to replace two keys at $200 a pop. The battery costs $180 and lasts 4 years at a time, so we recommend getting the full-size battery because buying the smaller one with the correct amperage doesn't cut it. At 50k miles, three beautiful lights popped up on the dash for the transfer case motor, which costs too much to fix and doesn't affect the drive whatsoever. We never fixed it and never will. Surprisingly, we've put this truck through a lot, and it still runs great. I can't sell it because of the transfer case motor, and nobody wants to commit to those dash lights. I've been through a lot with this truck since we started dating, and it's held up really well. The interior is well-built and doesn't rattle, and it's still quiet like when we bought it, excluding the cup holders. Those are not great and broke easily. My daughter is 4, and she does what every kid does to every car, and it still holds up. I'm honestly surprised it's lasted this long and will probably keep it until it blows up. I've been looking at an 08 X5 as a second car since this car has been so reliable, which trips me out since many others had a completely opposite experience.This car does have a sport suspension and steering so don’t expect it to float. It grips and holds onto the road well but personally, I prefer a car that glides over everything. I suggest buying one with a single owner who has taken care of it, so you know you didn’t get a lemon.
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Vehicle year: 2012
I really like this little SUV a lot! It doesn't feel like one, if you know what I mean. The X3 drives like a sports car with exceptional handling and acceleration. The turbo engine and 8-speed transmission are a great marriage, delivering seemingly limitless power. Yet, the ride is smooth and composed, making it very relaxing when you want it to be and a canyon carver when you're in the mood. The navigation screen is a wide screen set up allowing for maps to be displayed beside radio stations/songs/artwork if you like it that way. The standard stereo system sounds very good as well. And the best part? Seven months and no problems!
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Vehicle year: 2011
I was looking for something different in my next car after driving BMW's for over 15 years, mostly 3 series and M's. During a test drive of the new X3 35i, I fell in love with it. Although I wanted to buy it right then and there, the dealership was unable to sell it to me, so I continued my search. Luckily, I found one at another dealership. While it only had one option I really wanted (HiFi Stereo), I soon realized I could live without it. This is my first SUV (SAV), and I'm really enjoying it. Although it's not as agile as a 335i, it's pretty close, especially with the adjustable chassis and throttle settings. I'm getting an impressive 26.6mpg average, which is just as good as my last 335i. It's comfortable, quiet, and fun! I highly recommend getting one!
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Vehicle year: 2005
I've had this x3 for 4 months and it's been great! Compared to our 2003 325Cic, the x3 handles and moves even better. The stability and handling are amazing, not to mention the impressive braking capabilities. The 5-speed auto tranny is just right and shifts smoothly. The sport program feels eager to go, downshifting and holding gears in the right moments and situations. The tiptronic manual program is great when you want to really drive. Although I would rather have a 6-speed manual, the automatic is still good. Cornering is just like a 3-series. The aggressive look is perfect and really embodies BMW's style.
Are you having problems with your Bmw X3?
Hector Gorczany 2025-09-27
Vehicle year: 2020
I have been leasing this car for about 15 months now. Unfortunately, the car has broken down twice unexpectedly while moving in traffic. It was quite traumatic, but thankfully the car was towed and the issues were resolved. Additionally, the car has had a few minor issues such as a lack of responsiveness from a dead stop and some clunky tech. However, these issues are manageable and do not detract from the overall driving experience. I have also noticed that the car's outside sensors can get frozen over in winter weather, but this is a common issue with many cars. BMW has been helpful in addressing these concerns and providing solutions. Overall, I am satisfied with my leasing experience and would recommend BMW to others.
Jasen Sauer 2025-09-27
Vehicle year: 2010
I've been a BMW owner for the past 10 years and I absolutely love the way they handle. Luckily, my 2008 X3 is a lease. At 5K, there was a chronic, very loud engine tapping that began (similar to the vehicle in the movie 'Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang.'). I had it serviced at least 6 times. By 21K, the tapping reduced to a soft finger strumming, it still taps, but I deal with it. The engine strains on small and big hills and sometimes fails to shift. Unfortunately, the car has locked me inside on multiple occasions. However, I was able to drive to the dealer, called them on my cell, had them force the window down and climbed out. The interior handles, cup holders, arm rests, etc. have peeled and have been replaced once.
Casimer Nicolas 2025-09-24
Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! I've been a BMW X3 owner for 5 years now and I must say, I'm a bit disappointed with the engineering. I've had to do quite a few repairs, including a recent one for the starter and ipbs switch which cost me $1100.
Howell Schamberger 2025-09-23
Vehicle year: 2020
It's not a 3 series, it's a truck. Compared to my 2017 330 wagon, it's hard to make a comparison. The throttle response is seriously uneven and there is epic turbo lag. However, it's a very pleasant place for me to sit and reminisce. I had a horrific experience at McKenna South Bay BMW, which anyone should avoid. I suspect a good part of my dislike for the car has to do with the buying experience, but this will likely be my last BMW. The electronics of my last two BMWs were perfect, but this one is far from it. The parking sensors and Automatic Emergency Braking go nuts; the former is downright dangerous as it slams on the brakes for invisible cars.
Darrel Lesch 2025-09-21
Vehicle year: 2009
I've been a BMW owner for the past 10 years and I absolutely love the way they handle. Luckily, my 2008 X3 is a lease. At 5K, there was a chronic, very loud engine tapping that began (similar to the vehicle in the movie 'Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang.'). I had it serviced at least 6 times. By 21K, the tapping reduced to a soft finger strumming, it still taps, but I deal with it. The engine strains on small and big hills and sometimes fails to shift. Unfortunately, the car has locked me inside on multiple occasions. However, I was able to drive to the dealer, called them on my cell, had them force the window down and climbed out. The interior handles, cup holders, arm rests, etc. have been peeling and have been replaced once.