2017 BMW X3

The 2017 BMW X3 is a popular compact luxury SUV, known for its sporty handling, comfortable ride, and upscale interior. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (240 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), while an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 (300 hp, 300 lb-ft of torque) is available. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the X3’s driving dynamics and premium feel, but some common complaints include electrical glitches, certain engine issues, and the cost of maintenance.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (N20/B48)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often stemming from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket(s). Thorough cleaning of affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the water pump, expansion tank, or radiator hoses. Symptoms include low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component (water pump, expansion tank, hose, etc.). Inspect the entire cooling system for any other potential issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the component and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55)

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil filter housing gasket can leak, causing oil to drip onto the engine and potentially other components. Symptoms include visible oil leaks near the oil filter housing, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil filter housing gasket. Cleaning affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids can fail, leading to rough idling, poor performance, and error codes.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP45Z/GA8HP50Z)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough shifting, hesitation between gears, or clunking noises during gear changes. This can be due to worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the issue persists, the valve body may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid/filter) - $2000+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic sleeve, which seals the electrical connector to the transmission, can leak, causing transmission malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve and refilling the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a faulty module or an accessory that is not turning off properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the cause of the battery drain using a multimeter and diagnostic tools. Disconnecting aftermarket accessories to see if they are the cause. Repairing or replacing the faulty module or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, freezing, or slow response times. Software updates may resolve some of these issues.
  • Solution: Performing a software update. Resetting the iDrive system. Replacing the iDrive control module if the problem persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1000+ (control module)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can sometimes become stuck, noisy, or leak. This can be due to debris clogging the tracks or a faulty motor.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks. Replacing the sunroof motor or other damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW X3 has a number of potential issues. The engine can experience oil and coolant leaks, and the transmission can have issues with rough shifting. Some electrical issues such as battery drain and iDrive malfunctions can also appear. Interior issues with the sunroof can also arise. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others can be costly. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for more significant issues.