Complaints peak with the 2007 (258 of 2,271). Tap any bar or generation.
What X3 owners report across recent generations
Owner summary2018–2024 (3rd generation, G01)
The 2019 draws the most complaints. NHTSA owners of the 2019 most often describe coolant leaks and overheating, some ending in engine damage, along with sunroofs that leak or shatter. An r/BmwTech thread gathers owners with the same coolant problems on a 2018 X3. CarComplaints has few reports and lists sudden acceleration, a failed A/C and a leaking sunroof for 2019, and a navigation screen that blacks out and a check engine light for 2020. Recalls cover rear brake calipers on 2018–2019 models, passenger seat sensors on 2018–2019 models and cargo rail mounts on 2018–2023 models. [1] [2] [3] [4]
2011–2017 (2nd generation, F25)
The 2013 draws the most complaints, and more than a third of NHTSA owners of that year describe timing chain failures, often with drivetrain and low oil pressure warnings followed by a stalled or ruined engine. Owners of the 2011 more often report sudden loss of power steering assist. CarComplaints lists a broken timing chain guide, engine failure and a drivetrain light for 2013, engine stalls and noise with low oil pressure for 2014, and brake problems and an exploding sunroof for 2016. Recalls cover the electric coolant pump on 2013–2017 xDrive28i models, which may short and start a fire, and driver air bags on some 2012–2013 models. [5] [6] [7] [8] [9]
Owner summary updated September 25, 2026.
