2013 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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Common 2013 Bmw X3 problems
The BMW X3 2013 has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine, steering system, automatic gearbox, and braking system.
One of the most serious issues is related to the timing chain guides in the engine. When these guides break, they can cause the engine to fail or be unable to start. The average quote for a timing chain repair on the BMW X3 is £1,407.84.
Another issue reported by owners is related to the steering system. Some drivers have reported that the steering has become increasingly heavy, which is often linked to a malfunctioning power steering system. This problem can be caused by low tyre pressure or a malfunctioning power steering system. The average quote for a power steering repair on the BMW X3 is £63.30.
The automatic gearbox on the BMW X3 has also been reported to have issues. Some drivers have reported that the automatic gearbox selects the wrong gear for them, which is reportedly caused by an electrical fault. The only sure way to diagnose this problem is to take the car to a trained mechanic who can diagnose the fault for you. Depending on the cause of the problem, you may require the automatic gearbox to be reconfigured, or you may need an automatic gearbox repair. The average quote for an automatic gearbox repair on the BMW X3 is £225.75.
Finally, there have been reports of faults with the braking system on the BMW X3. Drivers have reported issues with a loss of power when applying the brakes, which is likely caused by a leak in the brake lines. When this happens, the brake fluid will begin to drain out until there is no longer enough left to transfer the pressure from your pedal to your tyres. The average quote for a brake fluid change on the BMW X3 is £60.72.
In terms of reliability, the BMW X3 scores generally quite highly amongst the competition. However, there have been reports of electrical system and engine component issues, as well as faults with the infotainment system, battery failures, and fuel system problems affecting both petrol and diesel variants.
What is the common problem with 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.
What are the problems with a 2013 BMW X3?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Engine Minor. Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks. ...
- Engine Major. ...
- Body Hardware. ...
- Engine Electrical. ...
- Exhaust. ...
- Engine Cooling. ...
- In-car Electronics. ...
- Steering And Suspension.
How good is the 2013 BMW X3?
Regardless of engine, the 2013 BMW X3 handles with the adeptness you expect from this German brand. The chassis feels light and the speed-sensitive steering gives the X3 a nimble quality that makes you really feel reasonably connected to the car.
How many miles will a 2013 BMW X3 last?
Your X3, however, comes with sensors and uses algorithms to give you a better idea of when it's time to stop by for service. As long as you're properly taking care of your X3, it's typical to be able to hit 150,000 or 200,000 miles on the odometer in a BMW.
What is the common problem with 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.
How good is the 2013 BMW X3?
Regardless of engine, the 2013 BMW X3 handles with the adeptness you expect from this German brand. The chassis feels light and the speed-sensitive steering gives the X3 a nimble quality that makes you really feel reasonably connected to the car.
How many miles will a 2013 BMW X3 last?
Your X3, however, comes with sensors and uses algorithms to give you a better idea of when it's time to stop by for service. As long as you're properly taking care of your X3, it's typical to be able to hit 150,000 or 200,000 miles on the odometer in a BMW.
Is there a recall on 2013 BMW X3?
(BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2013 BMW X3 xDrive28i, X3 xDrive35i, and M6 Convertible vehicles and 2013 M6 Coupe vehicles. The affected vehicles have a driver's frontal air bag inflator that may have been improperly welded. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
2013 Bmw X3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Bmw X3.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2013 Bmw X3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2013 Bmw X3.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.
- Remedy: The driver's front air bag will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2013 BMW X3 xDrive28i, X3 xDrive35i, and M6 Convertible vehicles and 2013 M6 Coupe vehicles. The affected vehicles have a driver's frontal air bag inflator that may have been improperly welded.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator housing could separate from the base plate and result in metal striking the vehicle occupants, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's front air bag module, free of charge. The recall began October 6, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: CHILD SEAT:LATCH STRAP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011-2017, X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i and X3 xDrive35i, vehicles manufactured July 2, 2010 to April 14, 2016, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014 to March 31, 2016, and 2015-2017 x4 xDrive28i, X4 xDrive35i and X4 xDriveM40i vehicles manufactured March3, 2014 to April 15, 2016. The affected vehicles have lower anchor bars for securing child restraint seats that may become damaged when using the European-ISOFIX-type, rigid-style connector, child restraint system.
- Consequence: Damaged lower anchor bars may increase the child's risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will weld a reinforcing bracket to the lower anchor bars and the vehicle body, free of charge. The recall began on July 13, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 BMW 328i xDrive Sports Wagon, 2012-2014 BMW 320i Sedan, 328i Sedan, 320i xDrive Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 2012-2013 BMW 528i Sedan, 528i xDrive Sedan, 2013-2014 BMW X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2013-2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2012-2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i Roadster, and 2014 BMW 428i Coupe, and 428i xDrive Coupe. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13V-454.
- Consequence: A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will install a locking ring in the camshaft to retain the camshaft seal disk in the proper location, free of charge. The recall began on December 2, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 X3 xDrive 28i/35i vehicles manufactured February 11, 2013, through February 27, 2013. Due to a production process error, the tear seam on the instrument panel was not manufactured correctly.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, the air bag could improperly deploy, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the air bag's protection and increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger. In addition, parts or fragments from the air bag system could strike and injure the front passenger or other vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: BMW has notified owners and dealers will replace the instrument panel, free of charge. The recall began on December 11, 2013. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 320i, 328i, 320i xDrive, and 328i xDrive sedans; model year 2014 328i xDrive Sports Wagons; model year 2012-2013 528i and 528i xDrive sedans, model year 2013-2014 X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i vehicles and model year 2012-2014 Z4 sDrive28i roadsters. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail.
- Consequence: A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will modify the vehicles to prevent insufficient vacuum pump lubrication, free of charge. The safety recall began on January 31, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].
Negative 2013 Bmw X3 car reviews
Positive 2013 Bmw X3 car reviews
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I have owned four successive 5 series wagons and have been extremely satisfied with their performance. When it came time to consider my next vehicle, I was disappointed to learn that BMW does not offer the wagon model in the United States. However, after careful consideration, I decided to purchase the X3. This vehicle has exceeded my expectations in every way. The interior is more luxurious than the X1 and even surpasses the current 3 series. The engine and transmission are incredibly responsive and agile, making for a thrilling driving experience. Despite its SUV classification, the X3 handles exceptionally well and is much lighter and faster than my previous 5 wagon. The tech package is also very impressive and the gas mileage is excellent for its size.
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Congratulations on your new car! It's great to hear that you're enjoying the road feel, handling, steering, and general sportiness/fun of your 2013 BMW X3 28i. The 28i 4 cylinder turbo sounds like it's surprisingly powerful and capable. The interior and all the tech gadgets (sat nav, bluetooth, large computer screen, whole music library on hard disk, etc etc) sound amazing. It's great to hear that the car has upscale appointments and nice touches throughout. It seems like the BMW X3 28i is the perfect combination of an SUV and a sport sedan. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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This SUV is superb! The acceleration and handling are great. I've driven about 6000 miles in 4 months and I love every mile. We get 26+ miles per tank, every tank. On pure highway driving, we get 29 miles per tank. This car is comfortable, reliable, economical, fast, and very useful in everyday life. It's also VERY easy to get in and out of. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the cargo area is great with easy access. There's also good hidden storage. I love this
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I'm so glad to hear that you love your X3! It sounds like you did your research and found that the X3 was the perfect fit for you. The back seat being roomy enough for your teenage son is definitely a plus, and the quietness of the ride sounds like a great feature. It's wonderful that you were able to treat yourself to such a great birthday gift!
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Check Edmunds and do a search about the model and recalls. Before I bought my car, I checked for any valuable information on Edmunds. The car is good, and I highly recommend it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2013 Bmw X3 problems:
2013 X3 Engine Problems Advice - XBimmers | BMW X3 Forum
Jul 23, 2021 ... After several conversations with a few mechanics, the theory is that it is the turbocharger and to fix it, a replacement of $3K to $4K is needed ...
2013 BMW X3 engine issues? : r/BMW
Aug 31, 2021 ... The valvetronic actuator will start making noise, like a screechy sound, and the movement causes excess wear on the eccentric shaft. I think ...
2013 BMW X3 XDRIVE28I - Purchase or run away? - XBimmers ...
The 2013 gave us no problems, and no warranty issues, but it only had 42,000 miles when traded. At 80,000 miles, you are looking at brakes (if not already ...
2013 BMW X3 Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Engine Minor · Engine Major · Body Hardware · Engine Electrical · Exhaust · Engine Cooling · In-car Electronics · Steering And ...
2013 BMW X3 with high miles a concern? - XBimmers | BMW X3 ...
Nov 15, 2016 ... You should research timing chain issues with the N20 engine in the X3 28i. If the timing chain guides fail during operation you may be looking ...
Other years of Bmw X3
Are you having problems with your 2013 Bmw X3?
Owen Mertz 2025-09-10
I noticed that I receive more warning messages on my car's dashboard than the number of text messages I get on my cellphone. Although I purchased it as a CPO with 17k miles and it currently has 58k miles after 3 years of owning it, I have had to take it to the dealership at least once every month for some electronic component or sensor failure. Fortunately, all those issues were covered under warranty. However, my extended warranty expires in a month and I am worried about how much I would end up paying afterwards. I understand that the parts can be expensive, but I am curious as to why they are not more reliable. On the other hand, my Toyota, which is my second car, has about 100k miles and other than regular oil changes, I have not spent a penny on any other maintenance or repair. Unfortunately, I have received a 'Transmission malfunction' message many times and no gear would be engaged. The dealer says it's a software problem and they have even completely reset the software on the car, but the same problem has occurred multiple times. I invested in this car hoping to use it for at least until it reaches 200k miles, but whether or not that will be possible is a million dollar question.
Hoyt Runte 2025-08-29
Hello! We've been experiencing some 'Drive Train Malfunction' warnings with our car and unfortunately, the dealership hasn't been able to fix it yet. We've already spent $6000 on repairs for other features that caused the same warning. Recently, they wrote on the repair receipt that they were '100% Certain' that everything was fixed, but we only drove five miles before the same warning came on again. Now, they're saying it might be the turbo charger and timing belt. We're hoping to find a solution soon. Thank you!
Barry Bauch 2025-08-26
If you're thinking about purchasing a BMW, it may be helpful to do some research on the N20 and N26 engines between 2011 and 2015. There have been some issues with the timing chain that have caused problems for some drivers. BMW has extended the warranty to 7 years / 70,000 miles, and while some drivers have had to pay for a new engine, BMW has also replaced faulty engines for free in some cases. It's important to keep in mind that regular maintenance, such as frequent oil changes, can help prevent engine issues. If you're interested in learning more, you can search for information on
Howard Abbott 2025-08-25
I purchased a used BMW X3 from a dealer and unfortunately experienced some issues with the check engine light and transmission message on the second day of driving. As someone who has driven Toyotas and Nissans for over 200K miles without major problems, I was disappointed to encounter these issues with a luxury car manufacturer at such low mileage. However, I am confident that the issue will be resolved and I look forward to enjoying my BMW X3 on the road.
Unique Bode 2025-08-13
A local certified mechanic inspected the car after it stalled in the grocery store parking lot. When I took it in the following week, he informed me that the engine was on its way to seizing. He advised me to get out of the car as soon as possible. The engine problems began around 85k miles, and in retrospect, it seems like I was one of the lucky ones to even make it that far. The maintenance and issues are just too expensive and annoying, especially considering I was sold this car and told about its German engineering and high quality. This experience has left me beyond disappointed and turned me away from the luxury car industry.