BMW X3 Problems And Weak Points - Buyer's Guide

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

The second generation of the BMW X3 (F25) was produced from 2010 to 2017 and is positioned in BMW's lineup between the X1 and X5. It received a facelift in June 2014. The successor is the G01, with the predecessor being the E83.

BMW X3 Gasoline Engine Issues

The gasoline engine range of the F25 includes the four-cylinder xdrive20i (184 hp), as well as the six-cylinder xDrive28i (258 hp, 245 hp) and xDrive35i (306 hp).

BMW X3 Petrol Engines

A common issue affecting every BMW engine is the oil change intervals defined by the manufacturer. For the BMW X3 F25, a Longlife oil change interval of 18,641 miles (30,000 km) or every two years was specified and is the main cause of most engine-related problems. Depending on one's driving profile, an oil change should be carried out every 6,214 to 9,321 miles (10,000-15,000 km).

Weaknesses in the R4

In the sDrive20i, xDrive20i, and xDrive28i (from March 2012), the N20 engine is used, which has seen numerous cases of elongated timing chains. This can prematurely lengthen and cause severe engine damage.

Although the issue is not as critical as with previous engines, it is particularly fueled by late or missing oil changes and very frequent short trips. Furthermore, the oil pump of the N20 often suffers from a defect.

Weaknesses in the R6

In the xDrive28i, the relatively problem-free N52 was used until March 2012. The xDrive35i had the N55 engine, which suffers from high oil loss. In addition, there are occasional issues with the electric water pump.

Diesel Engine Problems

Furthermore, two four-cylinder (sDrive18d, xDrive20d) and two six-cylinder diesel engines (xDrive30d, xDrive35d) were offered.

BMW X3 Diesel Engines

The base diesel sDrive18d and xDrive20d until April 2014 were equipped with N47 series engines, known for massive issues with the timing chain. The successor B47 is much more reliable but was recalled for a defect in the EGR valve, which could cause a fire.

The inline-six N57 in the F25 has relatively few weaknesses but has still been noticed for some cases of worn connecting rod and main bearings. Additionally, there was a recall for the N57 (see below). Generally, the engine performs well and remains loyal for a long time with a suitable driving profile and regular service.

Regardless of the engine type, typical diesel weaknesses should be particularly noted at high mileage, including:

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
• Dual-mass flywheel (DMF)
• Turbocharger
• EGR valve
• Injectors
• Issues with the xDrive All-Wheel Drive

For models with xDrive all-wheel drive, it is also important to ensure that the transfer case functions properly. The transfer case's function is to distribute the torque generated by the engine and translated by the vehicle transmission to the two driven axles.

The longevity of the transfer case is influenced by various factors. Mixed tires, due to differences in rolling circumference, are particularly conducive to wear, but different tire pressures and tread depths also affect wear. To avoid expensive damage, the oil in the transfer case should also be changed regularly.

Outlook on the Automatic Transmission

The eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission from ZF is known for its high level of reliability without compromising driving comfort. Expensive transmission damage, which can occur at high mileages, can be avoided through regular transmission flushes.

The Longlife oil filled by BMW from the factory promises that it does not need to be changed, but this statement is mainly aimed at new car customers who dispose of their vehicle after a foreseeable time (e.g., leasing) and thus never have to think about a transmission oil change.

Other Weaknesses

In rare cases, BMW's Active Steering (Electronic Power Steering, EPS) can cause problems or even fail. The most obvious symptoms are difficult steering and a significantly misaligned steering wheel position, sometimes even up to 90 degrees. Furthermore, the panoramic roof is prone to leaks, which can lead to water ingress.

TÜV & ADAC

According to the TÜV report, suspension springs and shock absorbers are often criticized, and the steering system tends to weaken with age. Another dark chapter is the lighting, and unfortunately, oil loss is also an issue with the F25.

In the ADAC breakdown statistics, the SUV performs exemplarily. The turbocharger was identified as a breakdown focus.

If you're nevertheless out of luck and your BMW X3's turbo fails, you can find a replacement here.

Recalls

The BMW X3 F25 was recalled several times. The following are all the recall actions that affect a large number of vehicles.

• The VANOS camshaft adjustment could potentially break. Affected are X3 models with six-cylinder gasoline engines up to the production month of November 2011.
• In X3 models produced up to and including 2016, the ISOFIX child seat mounting brackets could potentially break. This poses an increased risk of injury in an accident.
• In F25 models produced between June 2012 and August 2013, a lack of lubrication in the vacuum pump led to the failure of the brake booster. A defect usually announces itself through a stiff brake pedal. As part of the recall action, the camshaft, responsible for the poor lubrication of the vacuum pump, will be checked.
• According to the KBA, a fault in the gas generator of the driver's airbag can lead to uncontrolled deployment and the release of metal fragments that can injure occupants. Affected are the model years 2012 to 2015.
• In four-cylinder diesel models up to March 2017 and six-cylinder diesel models up to January 2017, there is a risk of fire due to problems with the EGR module.

Tip: Recall actions can be detailed at the KBA or ADAC. The vehicle identification number (VIN) can be used to determine whether the model in question is affected by recalls and which actions have already been carried out.

What BMW X3 To Choose? Buyer's Guide

Our Tip: Six-Cylinder with Automatic

On the used car market, diesel models are by far the most common. Nevertheless, the purchase of a gasoline engine should be considered, especially if one's driving profile involves low annual mileage and a lot of city driving. Although fuel consumption increases significantly with a gasoline engine, this also eliminates costly repairs of the diesel particulate filter. Prices start at around $7,750 in common used car exchanges.

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

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