22 Common Problems Of A BMW X3 (All Generations)

What kind of problems does a BMW X3 usually have? In this post, we’ve outlined the most important things you should watch out for when you’re in the market for an X3. However, let’s first start with a quick answer.

Common problems for all generations of the BMW X3 are a loss of braking power because of a damaged vacuum pump as well as a sunroof that’s stuck or which has clogged drains causing water to enter the cabin. Furthermore, oil leaks have been a significant problem for the second and first-generation, and an overheating PCV valve heater caused some 2007 – 2011 X3s to go up in flames.

In the article below, we’ll discuss every problem in detail which will help explain why the typical BMW X3 doesn’t make it past 200,000 miles. We’ll do so for all generations of the X3 in great detail.

This means that, no matter what model year you’re looking at, you should know what problems you can expect, what causes them, and how they should be fixed.

Third-Generation BMW X3 (2017 – Present)

The third generation of the BMW X3 certainly isn’t without its flaws. This is not necessarily because of the number of complaints this car has received. Most model years of this generation end up with around 20 – 50 complaints which is reasonable for a luxury vehicle. However, we would advise you to stay away from the 2019 model year (55 complaints, 9 recalls) and the 2020 model year (22 complaints, 12 recalls) because the build-quality overall seems to be questionable.

1. Loss Of Braking Power

In mid-2018 BMW recalled 2018-2019 BMW X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i and X3 M40i under recall number 18V453000. Owners of these vehicles could experience reduced braking power because of insufficient coating on the rear brake calipers. The solution was to bleed these rear brake calipers, which did solve the issue.

Another recall was issued for the 2020 model of the X3 M40i (recall number 21V598000). BMW described this problem as follows:

Approximately 14,006 vehicles have been manufactured with engine management software that, under certain engine start conditions, could damage the oil/vacuum pump which supplies vacuum for brake assistance.

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This problem was activated in certain circumstances. The first circumstance would be pressing the engine start/stop button twice rapidly or depressing the brake pedal very briefly while pressing the start/stop button. This would immediately result in a loss of braking assist.

Interestingly, the full brake assist would still be available for two or three uses, or around six partial brake applications. After this, brake assist would be lost. However, mechanical braking would still be available at all times.

It turned out this condition was caused by faulty engine management software, which was updated in the affected vehicles free of charge.

2. No Backup Camera

Losing image on the backup camera is a common problem for the third generation of the BMW X3. In total, BMW has issued two recalls for this problem.

The first recall, issued under number 19V684000, involved 2018-2020 X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, and X3 M. The problem in this specific case was that the display settings of the backup camera could be adjusted in such a way that the rearview image would be lost. This setting would then be remembered by the system, resulting in losing the backup image when needed the next time.

In 2021 BMW issued another recall for the backup camera. This was done under recall number 21V096000 and involved 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3M. BMW described the problem as follows:

In November 2020, BMW was informed by the supplier that the rearview camera image may not display as intended due to the possibility of a bug within the rearview camera software.

The supplier indicated that the image could be either displayed out-of-sequence (for a multi-displayed image), a portion of the image could be slightly obscured, or the display screen may not illuminate. These conditions could occur when the vehicle is shifted Reverse gear.

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The solution involved updating the backup camera software, which was done free of charge.

3. Hybrid Battery Problems

At the end of 2020, BMW recalled the 2020 – 2021 model years of the xDrive30e (the hybrid version of the X3) because of potential short-circuiting of the hybrid battery cells (20V490000). This was caused by debris that may have entered the battery cells during the production process.

The recall initially involved only 713 vehicles but was extended a few months later (20V601000) and included 4,509 vehicles at that point.

The solution to this problem was to inspect the battery modules and, if debris was found, replace them as well.

4. Sunroof Doesn’t Function

First, there’s the problem of the sunroof getting stuck. Typically, this happens when the sunroof is in the tilt position. Furthermore, it could be the sunroof, or the sunroof’s shade is stuck. As it turns out, this is mainly a software issue. Resetting the sunroof has been an often mentioned solution and is done as follows:

..To do a full reset you push up the sunroof button and keep it held down for several minutes. The sunroof will cycle, fully closing then fully opening the sunroof. When it stops it has fully reset.

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For many people, doing a reset like this solved the problem instantly. Whether or not it occurs again is unknown. However, getting the sunroof stuck didn’t seem to be a daily problem for the drivers that had it. Therefore, performing a reset every so often seems a reasonable solution.

5. Detaching Rear Spoiler

2018 model years of the xDrive30i and M40i were recalled at the beginning of 2018 because of a rear spoiler that wasn’t correctly attached to the car’s frame (18V154000). The solution to this problem was simply attaching the bolts properly to the frame, which the BMW dealers did.

6. Non-Illumination Of The Dashboard Panel

Another issue involved the non-illumination of the dashboard panel. In these cases, the dashboard would go blank immediately after starting up. In total, BMW recalled around 3,000 vehicles under recall number 17V719000. Luckily, an update to the instrument cluster software was all that was needed to fix this problem.

7. Breaking Of Certain Parts

Almost 400 models of the 2020 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, and X3 M40i were recalled (19V678000) in the same year because of a front axle swivel bearing that wasn’t properly heat treated during production. Because of this, they were prone to breaking unexpectedly, which could result in severe damage to the car and risk of injury to the passenger. The solution involved replacing the affected swivel bearings.

Another recall was issued for the steering gear tie rods in 2020 X3M (20V355000). In certain driving conditions, such as high temperatures and rough road surfaces, a steering gear tie rod may become damaged, possibly resulting in a fractured tie rod. Inspecting and replacing these tie rods was a suitable solution.

Second-Generation BMW X3 (2010 – 2017)

Unlike the third generation of the BMW X3, the second generation did have some significant problems worth noting. What’s problematic with this generation is that many issues are related to the timing chain, EGR-cooler, certain parts of the engine, or loss of braking power. All of these problems are costly, making this generation of the X3 quite troublesome if you end up with a problematic model.

1. Timing And Oil Pan Drive Chain Failure

The N20 (Turbo 4-Cylinder) engine used in BMW X3 is prone to problems with the timing and oil pump drive chains. Although to eliminate this problem, BMW redesigned the timing chain guide in 2015 and later models. But in early BMW X3 models from 2012 to 2015, the failure with timing and oil pump drive chain is common.

The issue with the timing chain usually occurs after an average mileage of 80,000 miles. To detect this problem, look for any of these symptoms described by BMW in their service bulletin: a whining noise from the lower engine area near the engine oil pump that increases in frequency when the engine RPM increases.

The cause of this problem was excessive wear on the engine oil pump chain drive sprockets because of a design flaw. The solution BMW provided in their warranty extension (which increased the warranty of these parts to 7 years or 70,000 miles) was to replace the engine oil pump drive chain module, timing chain, timing chain tensioner, slide rail, tensioning rail, and guide rail.

However, this warranty extension wasn’t enough for many owners. Some of them had already paid up to $900 in repairs to replace the timing chain and oil pump drive chain, and these owners didn’t receive compensation for this. Therefore, a class-action lawsuit was started and won. The settlement involved reimbursement for past repairs as well as potential future ones.

2. Problems With Sunroof

2010 – 2017 models of the BMW X3 are infamous for their sunroof problems. Frequently reported issues with the sunroof include a jammed sunroof and a leaking sunroof. Luckily, fixes for both these problems have been found, and they’re mentioned below.

Sunroof Stuck

This involves the same problem and solution as described in the third generation of the X3 (discussed earlier in this article).

Sunroof Leaks

Although this problem of the leaking sunroof is quite common in older generations of the BMW X3, typically before 2010, earlier versions of the second generation occasionally have sunroof drainage problems.

Suppose you suspect any water leaks inside your car during a car wash or while it rains. Then chances are you have a leaking sunroof. To accurately identify the leaking spots, you should close all the windows and sunroof while someone pours water on the roof of your BMW X3.

To fix the leaking sunroof. Firstly, you should check and clean the drainage channels coming from the roof for any obstacles. Blocked drainage channels are a very common culprit for this problem in the BMW X3. In the video below, an owner of a 2012 X3 explains how he got rid of the problem.

If cleaning the drainage channel does not help, the next thing would be to replace the sunroof seals, which can develop cracks over time, causing water to leak inside. Replacing the sunroof seals can cost anywhere around $400-$600 in the United States.   

3. Coolant Leaks Into The EGR Cooler

Problems with EGR Cooler are not very common in the BMW X3. However, the BWM line has had a recall for the 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV. Common symptoms of a malfunctioning EGR cooler include:

• ‘Powertrain Malfunction’ error
• Smoke from under the hood
• Sudden power loss
• The engine has a rough idle

BMW did issue a recall for the above-mentioned diesel model years at the end of 2021. As it turns out, the EGR in the affected models leaked internally, causing coolant to mix with the diesel soot in the EGR. This resulted in smoldering parts and melting of the intake manifold.

Dealers inspected the EGR cooler and the intake manifold and replaced both when defects were found.

4. Loose Camshaft Housing Bolts

2010 – 2012 model years of the X3 xDrive 28i and X3 xDrive 35i, as well as the 2010 X3 xDrive 30i, were recalled in 2014 under recall number 14V176000. The situation was described as follows by BMW in their documentation sent to the NHTSA:

The VANOS adjustment units may develop an internal oil leakage that will no longer allow the VANOS to adjust quickly enough. Due to this leakage, the vehicle’s engine emergency mode and engine malfunction are permanently active.

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This leak was caused by the VANOS assembly’s gear bolts, which would loosen and/or break over time. Dealers were ordered to replace all bolts on units that did not experience any problems.

If the gear bolts were found to be loose or broken, the entire VANOS assembly system had to be replaced. Furthermore, if the bolts were broken, the missing pieces had to be found and removed to protect the system from this debris.

5. Loss Of Braking Power

2013-2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i were recalled at the end of 2014 because of a sudden loss of braking power. These specific models had a problem with the lubrication of the brake vacuum pump. Insufficient lubrication of this part led to the failure of the vacuum pump.

This would result in loss of braking assistance, making braking difficult or impossible. Recalled models had the brake vacuum pump replaced free of charger.

6. High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure

This recall was specific to the 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d. In these vehicles, the high-pressure fuel pump was at risk of failing. A failing fuel pump always results in difficulty starting the engine, engine stalling, or complete and sudden power loss. In these models, BMW described the problem as follows:

Over time, and due to factors such as fuel quality, a reduction in pump lubrication could occur, which
may lead to an increased wear of pump components. This could result in an increasing deposit of metallic shavings within the pump housing and a corresponding deviation in the measured fuel rail pressure.

If this continued, a warning lamp would be illuminated in the instrument cluster along with a reduction in pump performance.

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You can see an example of what this looks like when attempting to start up here:

7. Oil Leakage Problem 

Leaking of elemental fluids like engine oil affects the optimal functioning of various components, including the engine. Over time, this problem can also lead to severe issues concerning the engine in your BMW X3.

Oil leak problems are pretty common in the 2010 to 2017 models of the BMW X3. Usually, this problem occurs after approximately 60,000 miles. The X3 isn’t the only premium vehicle to suffer from oil leaks and we’ve seen this problem in Mercedes BlueTEC and the Lexus ES350.

To identify the oil leakage problem in your BMW X3, look for the following symptoms –

Burning Oil Smell

Usually, oil produces an industrial smell that’s very different from most other vehicle fluids, including fuel. If you smell oil in or around your BMW X3, your car likely needs attention regarding this problem.

Overheating

Engine oils serve the purpose of keeping the engine of your BMW X3 cool by reducing the friction between the moving parts. When there is not enough oil, it can cause the engine to overheat. So if the engine in your BMW X3 2010-2017 model gets overheated frequently, then chances are you have an oil leakage problem.  

Smoke Under The Hood

Aside from smell and overheating, the smoke under the hood is also a good sign of oil leakage. Smoke can result when the leaking oil comes into contact with the hot engine parts. 

Illuminated Indicator Light

If your indicator light illuminates, then your BMW X3 needs an oil leak repair. This usually occurs when the oil pressure or level is low. Also, apart from relying on the indicator light, if you find the engine oil level to be significantly low, this can be due to a leak. To give you an idea, the engine oil in your BMW X3 usually lasts for about 15,000 or so miles.

Traces Of Oil Under Your Vehicle

If you notice any trace of oil underneath your BMW X3, then there is a likelihood you have an oil leakage problem. In worst cases, rather than traces, there can be a pool of oil under your car.

Popping Noise

You might have an oil leakage issue if you hear a popping or sizzling sound from the engine compartment. When the oil leaks and drops onto the hot engine components, it usually makes a popping or sizzling noise, accompanied by smoke.

Fixing the oil leakage problem is crucial since it dramatically impacts the proper working of your BMW X3 and its vital components, including the engine.

Common areas to look for the engine oil leaks are –

• Oil filter housing
• Valve cover gasket
• Oil pan gasket
• Timing cover gasket
• Rear crankshaft seal
• Front crankshaft seal

Oil leakage in the BMW X3 2010 – 2017 is primarily due to the damage caused to any of these seals or valves.

Suppose the 2010 – 2017 model of your BMW X3 has clocked over 60,000 miles. Then checking these areas for oil leaks is imperative. However, the most common oil leak causes are the valve cover gasket and the oil pan gasket.

In some cases, along with leakage, sludge can be found inside the oil and the oil cap, with oil appearing half tar. This indicates a problem with the valve cover gasket.

A damaged valve cover gasket can lead to oil leakage; hence, replacing it becomes necessary to stop the leakage. Replacing the lousy oil cover gasket with a new one in the United States can cost around $500, including an additional labor cost of approximately $75-$100.

On the other hand, if there is a problem with the oil pan gasket causing the oil to leak. Then replacing it is the only solution, and it can be a bit laborious since it requires removing the front suspension. Therefore, it would be wise to take your BMW X3 to the service station to fix this issue.

Furthermore, if none of these components are at fault, checking the oil filter housing and the timing cover gasket is crucial as any of these components can also be the culprit causing the oil leakage problem.

8. Issue With Power steering

BMW X3, manufactured between 19 September 2011 and 8 December 2015, tends to have an electrical problem with the power steering system. If this occurs, the steering will get heavier than usual, indicating an electrical problem with the power steering system.

In worst cases, the control module in the electric power steering unit might be at fault, resulting in a loss of power steering assistance which can be fatal. To fix this fault, replacing the power steering system with a new one is the only solution.

9. Rattling or Metal Clicking Noise From Engine

Another problem that can occur occasionally is the rattling noise from the engine of your BMW X3. Though this problem usually comes in the first generation of BMW X3 (manufactured before 2010). But sometimes, it can arise in 2010 – 2017 models, especially if the car has high mileage.

Detecting this problem is relatively easy as it causes a rattling or metal clicking noise from the engine, which is audible enough when the car is cruising or idling. Moreover, vibrations from the engine bay can sometimes be felt either when the engine starts or when the vehicle idles.

When detected, this problem needs to be resolved to avoid any serious damage to the engine. Some of the common reasons for this problem can be –

Overheating

An overheated engine in the BMW X3 can create a rattling or clicking noise. Different factors like – low oil pressure, low oil level, or cooling problems can cause the engine to overheat, thus producing noise or vibrations in worst cases. 

The rattling noise from the engine is an early sign indicating oil or cooling-related problems. If ignored, this can lead to crankshaft seizing completely, which can be expensive to repair.

Connecting Rod

Connecting rod is the metal arm that connects the crankshaft to the piston head in the BMW X3’s engine. When there is an excess clearance between the connecting rod and the crankshaft, it can cause the engine to produce rattling noise.

This problem is also caused by low oil levels or low oil pressure – resulting in improper lubrication of the crankshaft. In some cases, when the oil level is severely low, grit or grime can build up in the oil, increasing the chances of wear and tear in the engine.

All in all, to avoid/fix the rattling or clicking sound from the engine. It is imperative to regularly monitor your car for low oil levels or low oil pressure. Furthermore, regular maintenance of the vehicle and changing the oil after every 16,000 miles should help avoid this problem.

In case you are encountering low levels of engine oil very frequently, then chances are you might be having an oil leakage problem, which is common in BMW X3 2010 – 2017 models. The oil leakage problem is discussed above.  

First-Generation BMW X3 (2004 – 2010)

The first generation, just like the second generation, was problematic and had severe problems. To be fair, recalls were issued for most of them, which means most of them should be solved by now. However, PVC valve heater problems (which caused some cars to go up in flames), engine problems (such as high oil consumption and oil leaks) as well as electrical problems did cause quite a few headaches for owners.

1. PCV Valve Heater Malfunctions

BMW issued three recalls (2017, 2019, and 2022) for brand-wide problems with the PCV valve heaters. In the case of the X3, we’re talking about the 2007 – 2011 model years of the X3 3.0si and X3 xDrive30i, which were recalled under number 17V683000.

The role of the PCV valve is to regulate the intake of gases. If the valve malfunctions (or, in the case of BMW, short-circuits), the flow of gases can’t be adequately regulated. This results in the build-up of sludge in the engine, which contaminates the oil in your BMW and causes the following symptoms:

• Black smoke coming from the engine
• Oil leaks
• High fuel consumption
• The car is misfiring or idling

These problems were caused because the electrical contacts of the blow-by-heater are coated with plastic material. Irregularities in the manufacturing process could allow moisture to occur near the blow-by-heater and lead to a short circuit. The solution to this problem involved replacing the blow-by-heater, which was done free of charge.

2. Oil Leakage Problem 

Leaking elemental fluids like engine oil affects the optimal functioning of various components, including the engine. Over time, this problem can also lead to severe issues concerning the engine in your BMW X3. Oil leak problems are common in the 2004 – 2006 models of the BMW X3. Usually, this problem occurs after approximately 60,000 miles. In this case, the most common oil leak cause is the valve cover gasket.

I had a mechanic look at it and was told that the leak was caused by a freezing oil seperator. Since the oil seperator was designed incorrectly, it stops wworking by the frozen condensate in cold climate. Also, it causes high pressure in the crankcase and consequently it creates an oil leak through the valve cover gasket.

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Replacing the oil separator will cost approximately $300 – $400, including labor. Furthermore, replacing the oil cover gasket with a new one in the United States can cost around $500, including an additional labor cost of approximately $75-$100.

3. N46 Engine Problems

One of the most popular engines in the BMW X3 2004-2010 models is a 2.0-liter diesel (N46). Unfortunately, this engine can be troublesome at times. The problems include:

Engine Mount Bolt Failure

Most common in the 2007 BMW X3. The engine mount bolts can fail, resulting in a failed engine, broken water pump, and other damages. Though this problem rarely occurs, it can be expensive to fix, considering the high labor cost involved. One owner described his problems as follows:

After hearing a very loud bang. I noticed a very bad vibration during normal operation of the vehicle. Today I was able to find the problem. The 4 bolts that hold the motor mount bracket to the engine block were sheared off.

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BMW never truly provided a solution to this (not a service bulletin, not a recall), so owners were left paying for expenses out of pocket. Given that this was a major problem with the engine that could do significant damage, repairs often cost $1,000 – $3,000 which is especially frustrating when you consider the average cost of these vehicles across the globe.

High Oil Consumption

Owners of X3s with the N46 engine complained about high oil consumption paired with puffs of blue, white, or greyish smoke. As it turns out, this was caused by a clearance problem between the valve and valve guide in the cylinder head. As a result, the valve stem seals would wear prematurely, resulting in high oil consumption. Replacing the seals was the only solution.

Also read: The Types Of Gas A BMW X3 Uses (Explained)

4. Recurring Electrical Problems

One of the main problems with the first generation of the X3 was its widespread electrical problems. According to the complaints registered on the website of the NHTSA, this was mainly a problem for the 2006 – 2008 model years.

Symptoms of this involved the dashboard going completely blank, the car losing all its power, the car not unlocking or locking, the tailgate opening by itself, and the driver seat heater becoming so hot that drivers were burnt out of their seats.

BMW never issued an issue or a recall for this problem. Furthermore, the second generation (typically designed completely differently) came out shortly after, meaning that BMW never addressed the problem correctly.

However, the fuse panel is a specific area to look for this problem. The fuse panel in the BMW X3 2004-2010 model can be found either behind the glovebox or in the engine compartment. Check the fuses to ensure none of them is damaged or has blown.

If you find any blown or damaged fuse, then get it replaced. A faulty battery or alternator could also be the root cause of the problem. However, given the widespread problems, the solution probably wasn’t that simple.

5. VVT (or VANOS) System Problems

The problem with the VVT can occur in almost all the BMW X3s from 2003 to 2010. To detect the issue with VVT, check the engine light for the codes DTC 2A99 and DTC 2A82.

Usually, the solenoid valve for the intake and exhaust is the culprit for this problem. If the oil is not changed often or is dirty, it can clog up the valves affecting the proper functioning of the variable valve timing. Moreover, a low oil level can also cause this problem and both issues can cause a wide range of other problems.

To fix the problems with the VVT, check the valves by swapping the intake with the exhaust valve and then see if the code appears again. If yes, this indicates the solenoid valve needs replacement, not the cams or actuators.

A new solenoid valve for the BMW X3 can cost around $300 – $400, with an additional labor cost of about $150 – $200 in the United States.

6. Numerous Recalls For Safety Features

Besides all the earlier mentioned problems, the first generation of the X3 also had its safety malfunctions. These were centered around the car’s airbags or the front passenger seat detection mat.

Airbags

First, the airbags. BMW issued a total of two recalls for these parts. The first recall (16V071000) related to the 2007 – 2010 model years of the xDrive30i. The inflators of the driver’s frontal airbag could rupture in the event of a crash, sending metal fragments into the cabin.

The second recall (20V017000) involved the same part in the 2007 – 2010 model years because, as it turned out, the parts used to replace the rupturing inflators were also faulty. These inflators contained phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN), which would degrade over time due to fluctuations in temperature. Therefore, they could inflate unexpectedly.

Front Passenger Detection Mat

BMW also had to issue two recalls for the front passenger detection mat. The first recall (08V384000) was issued in 2008. The problem was that the front passenger detection mat, located in the seats, would develop cracks over time in the 2004 – 2006 model years. This would disable the frontal airbags and illuminate the airbag light.

The second recall (17V605000) for this part was issued in 2017 and involved 2006-2010 BMW X3 2.5i and X3 3.0i, and X3 xDrive30i vehicles. This recall was an extension of the first recall, given that it involved the same problem, just on a broader selection of vehicles.

7. Power Steering Fluid Leaking

If you hear a screeching noise while turning your car or spot the power steering fluid on the floor, then chances are you have a power steering leak.

Moreover, increased difficulty in turning the steering wheel accompanied by a squeaking sound indicates you leak the power steering hoses. If this is the case with your BMW X3, replacing the steering hoses is the only solution to eliminate more serious repairs.

Monitor the reservoir for deficient fluid levels to check if the fluid is leaking from the fluid reservoir. Additionally, check the filter situated at the bottom of the reservoir for any blockage that may cause the restricted fluid flow to the power steering fluid pump. Overall, a problem with the reservoir would require replacement costing around $250-$400 in the United States.

8. Deteriorated Coolant Reservoir

The coolant reservoir is a crucial component of the cooling system in the BMW X3. Over a period of time, the plastic coolant reservoir used in the BMW X3 2003-2010 models can develop cracks causing coolant to leak.

Leaked coolant near the driver side, constantly low coolant level, and engine overheating are good indications of a bad coolant reservoir.

If you suspect any problem with the coolant reservoir, you should check the reservoir for any damages causing leaks.

Replacing the damaged coolant reservoir is the only solution to this problem. Replacement of the coolant reservoir for your BMW X3 can cost you around $250-$280 in the US.

9. Bad Thermostat

The thermostat in the 2003 and 2004 models of the BMW X3 is located in the front of the vehicle, near the top. While in the 2005-2010 models, the thermostat can be found near the electronic water pump in the front bottom of the car. 

The lousy thermostat in the BMW X3 can cause two different problems, depending on whether it’s stuck closed or stuck open.

A thermostat that is stuck closed can cause the problem of engine overheating. In comparison, a stuck open thermostat restricts the engine from reaching the optimal operating temperature. 

In either case, replacing the thermostat is the only solution, costing around $500, including labor costs in the United States.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, while the BMW X3 offers impressive performance and luxury across all its generations, it’s not without its share of issues. Common problems include oil leaks, timing chain failures, sunroof malfunctions, power steering fluid leaks, EGR-cooler defects, and a range of engine problems.

As with any BMW, the key to longevity and reliability is regular, preventive maintenance and prompt attention to any issues. Understanding these potential problems can help owners and prospective buyers make informed decisions and maintain the vehicle in peak condition.

And despite the issues, the X3 is still one of our favorite BMWs to own, right up there with the 3 series in many ways. It’s also important to remember that the appeal of owning a BMW comes with a commitment to upkeep. Nonetheless, many BMW X3 owners enjoy a trouble-free experience, demonstrating that these problems, while noteworthy, aren’t universal across all units of this model.