What Problems Do BMW X3 Have? (Answered!)

We all dread the inevitable day when the car breaks down and we have to take it to the shop, but it’s going to happen sooner or later. Even a luxury vehicle like the BMW X3 experience breakdowns and malfunction from time to time. However, vehicles like the X3 are more prone to certain problems than others.

The BMW X3 suffers from problems such as electrical malfunctions, inaccurate gauges, engine oil leaks, headlights, issues with the exhaust, and a few other similar things. The list seems long but in reality, quite a few of these things can be fixed easily with a quick visit to the auto repair shop.

That sounds like a lot of issues, but as mentioned, these problems are primarily easy fixes. Below you will find some info on the issues prominent in BMW X3s as well as the solutions to the problems. We will also discuss some maintenance tips to help keep your X3 in pristine condition.

BMW X3: The Problems and Solutions

The BMW X3 has quite a few issues, but what car doesn’t? Most of these are small issues that aren’t difficult to resolve. Some problems can even be resolved on your own. Unfortunately, a few will probably still require a professional diagnosis. Here are some issues you ought to be on the lookout for before purchasing a BMW X3.

Engine oil leakage is one issue that has been reported often. This is usually a result of gasket valve covers that have grown old and worn out under the excessive pressure produced by the BMW’s powerful engine. After so much use, the gaskets and valve covers become brittle and crack.

This, thankfully, is a fairly easy fix. You will have to purchase the part from the store (usually for $20-$40) and replace it. If you can do this on your own, it will hardly cost you a thing. If you aren’t a confident DIY’er, you’ll have to take it to a shop. That could potentially cost you $400 or more.

Electrical problems have also been fairly prominent in X3s as well. Apple CarPlay tends to be a problem in BMWs. Many consumers have complained that when their system updates, they are no longer able to use it. If your Apple CarPlay has started acting up, it might mean your electrical system needs a reboot.

There have also been reported issues with the gauges according to Consumer Reports. One consumer reported their speedometer and tachometer going completely haywire after a few uses. It took quite a bit of time to replace. This, too, is indicative of some issue with your cables or wiring.

There have been reported issues with other parts of the X3s technology too. These include the keyless entry, the smart start, the headlights, the tire pressure monitor, and a few other things.

If you have started to notice any of these problems, take your BMW X3 to the shop for wiring repairs. You can dive in by yourself if you’d like, but this can be a pretty messy thing to try to fix, it’s best to leave the wiring to the professionals.

Important Maintenance Practices

Now that you know the type of problems that you need to look for, you might be all set. However, it’s also helpful to learn how you can take even better care of your car. The inevitable breakdown or electrical system on the fritz is bound to happen sooner or later, but there are a couple of things you can do to avoid those problems as much as possible. Here are some tips.

First, you should make an effort to keep your car clean. This might sound irrelevant, but it would surprise you how helpful it is to keep your car clean. If a car goes too long without being washed, there’s a greater chance that all that gunk and grime will work its way into the inner workings and mechanisms of the vehicle.

Run your X3 through the car wash every three or four weeks, if possible. You could also just give it a quick hose-down and scrub every once in awhile. You might also consider keeping the interior clean too.

The problems you experience might not stem directly from a messy car, but it can’t hurt to be careful and vigilant. That being said, if your car is full of dust or grime, it could get sucked into the air system, leading to mechanical problems.

You should also be careful about getting your car serviced and maintained professionally on a good schedule. This is quite possibly one of the most important things you could do for an X3 since many of the issues pertain to the electrical components, which are difficult for home repair. Getting it serviced as often as needed will keep your X3 in great shape.

Car Edge has a chart that recommends different procedures at different points of mileage if you are unsure what and when exactly to get your car looked at. It is recommended that after 15,000 or so miles you get both the air filter and oil filter changed. This should be done every 15,000 miles following as well. You can learn more about that schedule if you go here.

Get your car’s fluids checked and changed as often as needed. If you let your BMW X3 get too low on oil, it could destroy the engine. You should get an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (or every three months). Engine oil begins to clump up and gather debris over time.

If the oil is left unchanged for too long, it could damage the engine. You should also double-check the power steering fluid, coolant, and all others. It will keep your X3 running smoothly and properly.

You should also be careful to get your tires rotated often. This is especially important if you travel long distances frequently. Tire rotations should generally occur every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or so. Rotating the tires will prevent excessive wear and tear which could lead to a tire blow out. Frequently rotating the tires will also produce a smoother ride.