2007 BMW X3

The 2007 BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV that offers a blend of sporty handling and practicality. Engine options for this model year include a 2.5L inline-6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L inline-6 engine generating 260 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the X3’s nimble handling and upscale interior. Common complaints often revolve around reliability issues and the cost of maintenance.

Engine

2.5L Inline-6 (N52B25)

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Inline-6 (N52B30)

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing, often dripping onto the belts and causing a burning smell or belt damage.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (GM 6L45)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift. This is due to worn valves or solenoids in the valve body.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps, and vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings or the entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when accelerating or decelerating, and a general looseness in the rear end.
  • Solution: Replace the rear subframe bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Transfer Case Actuator Gear Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: 4x4 warning light on the dashboard, inability to engage or disengage four-wheel drive, grinding noises from under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the transfer case actuator gear. Aftermarket metal gears are often preferred for durability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly or not at all, unusual noises when operating the window.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Tail Light Bulb Failure/Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear tail light bulbs frequently burning out, corrosion on the bulb sockets and electrical connectors.
  • Solution: Replace bulbs and clean or replace corroded sockets and connectors. Applying dielectric grease can help prevent future corrosion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks, replace the sunroof motor, or repair/replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 BMW X3, while praised for its handling and interior, can suffer from several reliability issues. The most common problems involve oil leaks from the engine, particularly the valve cover and oil filter housing gaskets. Suspension components, especially the front control arm bushings and rear subframe bushings, are also prone to wear. Electrical issues, such as transfer case actuator gear failure and power window regulator problems, can also occur. Interior components, like the sunroof, are also prone to failure. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for simple fixes to over a thousand dollars for more complex issues like transmission valve body replacement or extensive suspension work. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering a 2007 BMW X3.