40 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 10,000–20,000 miles.
Most common 2016 BMW X3 problems
27 of the 82 complaints (33%) are about the engine.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine
16
0
1
0
Engine
10
1
0
0
Service Brakes · brakes
8
4
0
0
Unknown or Other
7
0
0
0
Electrical System
7
0
1
0
Power Train · transmission
6
0
0
0
Fuel System, Diesel · fuel system
6
0
0
0
Seat Belts
4
0
0
2
Air Bags · airbags
4
2
0
0
Wheels
2
0
0
0
5 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Electrical System › Wiring › Connectors/Plugs/Receptacles24V608000
Filed Aug 13, 2024720,796 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC
Defect. BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
Risk. An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Filed Nov 19, 202150,404 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC
Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon, 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV, and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV diesel vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. The EGR cooler may leak internally, causing coolant to mix with diesel engine soot, which could result in smoldering particles and a melting intake manifold.
Risk. A melting intake manifold increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy. Dealers will replace the EGR cooler and inspect the intake manifold, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755. Vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall. An interim owner notification letter was mailed on January 18, 2022. The remedy is expected to be available in June 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 6, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Filed Jul 29, 202111,216 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC
Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, X5 xDrive35d, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, and 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may fail.
Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 14, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Gas Recirculation Valve (egr Valve)18V755000
Filed Oct 25, 201844,368 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC
Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 BMW 328d and 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon and 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d and 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. If the EGR cooler leaks internally, the coolant can mix with diesel engine soot. The high EGR temperatures may result in these particles possibly smoldering and melting the intake manifold.
Risk. The melting intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the EGR cooler as necessary. If a leak has already occurred, the engine intake manifold will also be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began May 13, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Filed May 23, 2016188,668 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC
Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011-2017, X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i and X3 xDrive35i, vehicles manufactured July 2, 2010 to April 14, 2016, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014 to March 31, 2016, and 2015-2017 x4 xDrive28i, X4 xDrive35i and X4 xDriveM40i vehicles manufactured March3, 2014 to April 15, 2016. The affected vehicles have lower anchor bars for securing child restraint seats that may become damaged when using the European-ISOFIX-type, rigid-style connector, child restraint system.
Risk. Damaged lower anchor bars may increase the child's risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will weld a reinforcing bracket to the lower anchor bars and the vehicle body, free of charge. The recall began on July 13, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Jul 17, 2026NJ
While driving on a two-lane 40 MPH road in the left lane the vehicle suddenly lost power, stopped in traffic, and displayed a transmission warning message. Multiple warning lights were "on" and the car would not restart. Additionally, the vehicle would not come out of "Park." Occupants needed to await police who stopped traffic in order for occupants to be able to exit the vehicle safely. The vehicle was towed to BMW of Atlantic City located at [XXX]. Technician found ground missing at EGS, inspected ground strap on transmission and found it severely corroded. Technician replaced ground strap and vehicle was repaired. Was advised by dealer service department that when this situation occurs, the only way to get the transmission into neutral in an emergency is to disconnect the transmission linkage under the vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel System, Diesel
Filed Jul 1, 202698,773 milesCA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle stalled with the drive train warning light illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the high-pressure and the pressure-regulating valves needed to be replaced. The high-pressure fuel pump was replaced three times. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V586000 (FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 98,773.
Engine
Filed Mar 5, 2026CA
Key Details of BMW EGR Recall: • Affected Models: Primarily 2013-2018 BMW 328d/xDrive, 535d/xDrive, 740Ld, X3 xDrive28d, and X5 XDrive35d. • The Problem: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler may leak coolant internally, which can mix with soot to form flammable deposits, potentially leading to a Fire I was driving and my car started to smoke out of engine compartment I pulled over and waited called my husband and drove it back home. Took it to a shop and they are saying it’s my erg leaking internally and need it replaced along with the intake manifold. I looked up recalls and only the diesel one is on recall for the exact same issue,
Steering
Filed Feb 4, 202670,000 milesGA
The contact owns a 2016 BMX X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The RPM was elevated; however, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with Electronic Power Steering Control Unit failure. The contact was informed that the Electronic Power Steering Control Unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to tow the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the failure was confirmed as an Electronic Power Steering Control Unit failure. The contact referenced an unknown recall with a similar description; however, the VIN was not under recall. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Dec 2, 2025MO
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). The vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair; however, the dealer refused to perform the recall repair and stated that since the vehicle was manufactured in Canada, the recall repair could not be performed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Power Train
Filed Nov 18, 2025CO
The low-pressure fuel temperature/pressure sensor failed internally, causing diesel fuel to intrude via capillary action into the engine wiring harness and ultimately contaminate the Digital Diesel Electronics (DDE) control unit (ECU). The failed components (sensor, harness, DDE) are available for inspection upon request at BMW of Loveland, CO. My safety was put at risk in two primary ways: Engine Stalling Risk: The DDE is the engine control unit. As the fuel contaminated the electrical connections, the engine's reliability was compromised, creating a significant risk of sudden engine stalling while driving in traffic or at high speeds. Fire Hazard: The intrusion of diesel fuel—a combustible fluid—directly into the electrical wiring harness and the DDE created a clear fire hazard. Fuel near active electrical components poses a serious safety risk. Inaccurate Temperature Readings: The EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) sensor received incorrect readings due to the DDE/wiring issue, leading to potential engine damage due to excessively high exhaust temperatures. The problem has been confirmed by BMW of Loveland. The Service Director and their technical team identified the root cause in less than one day and confirmed it requires the replacement of the sensor, harness, and DDE. This was also validated by an internal BMW technical support case (TSARA). Gebhardt BMW failed to diagnose the issue correctly over three prior attempts starting in June 2023 through Aug 2025. Prior symptoms a
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed Oct 27, 2025220,000 milesRI
The contact owned a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated that while parking in the garage, the warning message "engine overheated" had displayed, but the temperature gauge displayed a normal temperature reading. The contact noticed smoke coming from under the hood before entering the home, along with a strange sound. Moments later, the contact returned to the garage and discovered flames coming from under the front end of the vehicle. The contact quickly drove the vehicle out of the garage onto the driveway. The vehicle became engulfed in flames, and the fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames. During the fire, the vehicle was destroyed, and the driveway and parts of the lawn were damaged. No injuries were reported. A fire and police reporter was taken to the scene. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet contacted. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000(ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). The failure mileage was 220,000.
Engine
Filed Aug 23, 2025WA
BMW has not been able to offer a repair for the engine coolant pump recall issued in August 2024. I wanted to register a formal complaint because I would like to get this repaired and off my vehicle record. I have not experienced any problem with the recalled part yet.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 13, 2025VA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 28, 2025KY
The complete A/C unit has completely gone out and I am just now getting notice after almost a year of a coolant pump recall that could potentially create a fire hazard. I am told that to date a remedy has still not been available.
Engine
Filed Jul 22, 2025SC
The manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall remedy. NHTSA: #24V-608, Recall: #24V-608:474 Engine Coolant Pump
Power Train
Filed Jul 16, 2025CA
* in 2018, the car started automatically going into Park when the engine is running but at a stop (e.g. Stop light). This created a safety issue because the gear had to be reengaged into Drive * It was repaired under warranty by BMW * It started reoccuring this year. We have stopped driving it because it creates a safety issue * BMW has refused to fix this (though it was previously addressed under warranty). In addition, they have said it may cost thousands or 10's of thousands of dollars to fix because they do not know the problem (could be camshaft sensor or mechatronics or something else). * The problem has been confirmed by BMW * We cannot risk the car not being in gear and getting rear-ended because it takes a while to move it back to drive. * No warnings or any mesages * We have already spent money at the dealer replacing unnecessary parts because they thought it would fix the problem (e.g. batteries) * The car is available for inspection on request
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 14, 2025NJ
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 16, 2025WA
The electric water pump, has shorted internally , even with the vehicle off , this caused the battery to run down.
Fuel System, Diesel
Filed Apr 14, 202555,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving approximately 75 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly decelerated and failed to properly accelerate. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V586000 (FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 55,000.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Mar 28, 2025CO
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 28, 2025NJ
A long overdue recall without remedy
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Mar 4, 2025WI
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 27, 2025FL
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 26, 2025NC
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jan 2, 2025CA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Air Bags
Filed Dec 29, 2024MA
The passenger restraint system malfunction error came out several times since last month.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 26, 2024CA
BMW has failed to issue a remedy for the COOLANT PUMP that may lead to fires, if not replaced. For months now, I have called several BMW dealerships and they do not have an idea of when BMW would issue a remedy. BMW needs a push from the NHTSA to address this recall instead of looking to the other side because the car's date is 2016. If they cannot fix that hazard, then they must replace vehicles.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Dec 5, 2024100,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the steering wheel became difficult to turn to the left or the right. In addition, the contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle loss automotive power on several occasions. The vehicle was towed to the local Midas where the battery was replaced; however, the failure occasionally reoccurred. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Dec 5, 2024NC
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke coming from under the hood. In addition, the contact noticed a burning odor. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The dealer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that parts for the repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Nov 20, 2024PA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Power Train
Filed Nov 20, 2024NC
I have reached out to the manufacturer for a solution and they said to wait till there is a remedy. I’m scared to drive this car for fear that something could happen to me or my family.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Oct 30, 2024VA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Oct 28, 202499,000 milesVA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed a burning odor inside the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was informed that parts to repair the vehicle was not available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, however, was unable to confirm when parts would become available. The failure mileage was 99,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Oct 23, 2024FL
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not unavailable.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Oct 23, 2024PA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Seat Belts
Filed Sep 12, 2024107,000 milesNY
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated that there was a message that the passenger’s side restraint had malfunctioned. The dealer had been contacted to schedule an appointment; however, the vehicle had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 107,000.
Engine
Filed Sep 10, 2024FL
I got an engine light and found a recall for BMW's online so I made the service call. Once there at Fields Winter Park, I was asked to sign a service agreement where i would pay $219.95 for the diagnostic if the issue didn't fall into a recall. Well, I saw the recall in my computer, in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, for a coolant thermostast, and also one for the engine Coolant Pump, so I knew it should be covered, so I signed. Later they said that the issue was the thermostat, and that since they couldn't find a recall on the BMW USA website, I would be responsible for payment. I did bring my laptop and phone and showed them both recalls. They say they do not go by any other website than theirs, which conveniently does not reflect any recall on my vehicle. When I said that I was looking at the information in an official website, they said said that technically, I set the appointment because of an engine light, not a recall. I politely mentioned that technicalities on this case come down to wording from a consumer that trusts the dealership of a brand but should not be used against such consumer in any tricky and deceiving way. I called for an engine light and saw two recalls for BMW of my year. On official sites. I was overwhelmed while talking to both a service manager and the general manager, in the presence of also the service representative. They said to me that the engine light would NOT be triggered by a coolant pump issue (which is not true). And
Service Brakes
Filed May 18, 2024CA
We have had several occurrences of the following issue during the last several months. When slowing the vehicle down at a traffic light/stop with the goal of bringing the vehicle to a complete halt, as the vehicle decelerates to almost a stop with the foot firmly on the brake pedal, there have been several instances where the engine suddenly revs up and the vehicle lunges forward instead of stopping. It is an intermittent issue which is very hard to predict. It has occurred on flat roads, or going downhill, a couple of times with the air conditioner on. It's a split second lunge needing one to apply brakes even harder. Since at other times, this doesn't happen it's very concerning since we're questioning the reliability of the vehicle. It's a matter of chance that this may cause rearending the vehicle ahead. Thankfully, that hasn't happened but have come within a hair of happening.
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Other Fuel Types › Turbo/Supercharger › Hoses/Plumbing
Filed Sep 5, 202370,000 milesFL
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated while cold starting the vehicle, there was significant amounts of white and blueish smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that oil was leaking onto the turbocharger, and that the turbo charger oil supply lines needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 3, 2023WA
The liftgate opened while the car was being driven down the road.
Engine
Filed Aug 2, 2023MA
Driving on highway when car would not accelerate. No power. N for neutral on dashboard and transmission malfunction. No other warning or warning lights came on dashboard. Temp was in middle not elevated. Coasted to breakdown lane. No power, unable to start. Towed to BMW dealership that we go to. Told it was a catastrophic engine failure. Video from dealership, has mechanic showing metal pieces in oil filter. As of this date, car has been at dealershipabout 10 days without findings. *Car was at dealership two days prior for oil change. Unsure if dealer did something or this is a problem with this series. Australia had recall for engine failures in this model. Just letting NHTSA know.
Engine
Filed May 18, 2023117,000 milesCO
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil pressure and drive train warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the timing chain guide failed which and caused a catastrophic engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 110317 (Engine Timing Chain and Oil Pump Drive Chain). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
Fuel System, Diesel
Filed Feb 7, 2023NY
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V907000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Electrical System
Filed Nov 2, 2022NY
When coming to a stop, my trunk continues to open and will not close unless you turn the car off and get out and close it. I tried to replace the battery in my key fob, but it will not work. The trunk button when you hold it down, says “remote battery, change battery.”. The rear hatch continues to open every time you stop your car unless you hold the trunk button down. This is extremely unsafe having things, people, or items in your car or trunk because it opens while operating your car.
Fuel System, Diesel
Filed Oct 3, 202266,869 milesNC
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V907000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the "Drive Train Malfunction" message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler needed to be replaced but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The failure recurred with an abnormal fuel odor detected while the vehicle was parked inside the garage. Additionally, fuel was leaking from underneath the vehicle and the check engine warning light illuminated while driving. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was determined that there was a pinhole in the fuel hose and the fuel hose was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 66,869. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Power Train
Filed Aug 17, 2022FL
This vehicle shuts down the engine when stopped at a stop sign or light. The engine resumes when you press on the brake or gas peddle. But sometimes, the engine will turn back on for no apparent reason. That is not an issue of concern. BUT, sometimes, when the engine turns on automatically, it will drop the transmission into PARK. So when you attempt to apply gas, the car will not move forward as it is not in gear. This is intermittent. My German Auto repair shop has observed the issue and spoken with many other shops who have reported the same issue with the X3. BMW does not have a solution to the problem. The driver never knows if the car will move forward after a traffic stop, as it is not obvious that the transmission has dropped into park until you attempt to move forward. Instead of using this engine turn-off feature of the vehicle, they suggest turning it off to avoid the problem. That is a gas-saving feature of the car.
FirerelatedFire
Filed Aug 15, 202288,500 milesNH
The contact owned a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V907000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the dealer had previously performed an engine inspection and pressure test for the coolant system due to coolant loss with the low coolant warning light illuminated. The contact had added a quart of coolant. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with a loss of power warning message displayed. The contact's wife was able to pull over on the shoulder of the roadway and noticed there was smoke coming from underneath the hood before it caught fire. The contact's wife was able to safely exit the vehicle. The fire department arrived on the scene and was able to extinguish the fire. Police and fire department reports were filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and then to the contact's residence. The dealer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The vehicle was not yet deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that an inspector would perform an inspection to determine the cause of the fire. The failure mileage was approximately 88,500. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Fuel System, Diesel
Filed Aug 1, 2022GA
2016 BMW X3, CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO DEFECTIVE DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER. THE CONSUMER STATED THE EXHAUST GAS ISSUE HAD NO REMEDY. THE VEHICLE ALSO HAD A LEAKING VALVE COVER AND DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIRS AND HAVE THE VEHICLE BOUGHT BACK FROM THE DEALER.
Fuel System, Diesel
Filed Apr 28, 2022CA
The contact owns a 2016 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V907000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 20, 2022CT
In early August 2021, the fuel pump on our BMW X3 failed in the middle of an intersection and the car stopped completely. No way to move to one side until a flatbed wrecker came. Fuel pumps will fail after 100,000 miles and we above that figure, Which is why it was surprising then to have the same problem four months later when we had multiple error codes come up on the same car. At least this time I could pull over to the side off the road. The problem was a failing fuel pump. When a pump fails the car stops. If we had been on a highway we would have been rear ended and potentially killed. I shared my concern with a contact at BMW Corporate who only noted that the repair was under extended warranty. One BMW service rep I spoke to said that fuel pump failures are a known issue and yet in my experience there still seems to be a major problem with the part.
Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 6, 2022UT
The incident that happened to us was the shattered front panel sunroof while driving in a cold temperature on the highway. We don't believe this was caused by a rock because it should have cracked the whole panel but instead, it shattered.
Electrical System
Filed May 5, 202181,448 milesCT
IT HAD BEEN RAINING IN MY AREA THE WEEK OF 4/16/2021. ON THE EVENING OF 4/16/2021 MY REAR HATCH CONTROL AND REAR HATCH ALARM STARTED MALFUNCTIONING. I DISCOVERED WATER HAD GOTTEN INTO THE ELECTRICAL COMPARTMENT IN THE REAR HATCH. I BROUGHT MY SUV TO THE SHOP/DEALER FOR REPAIR AND WAS TOLD THE SUNROOF FRAME WAS CRACKED ALLOWING WATER PENETRATION FROM THE HEADLINER TO THE REAR HATCH CAUSING THE HATCH CONTROL UNIT TO MALFUNCTION. MY VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT AND I HAVE NEVER STORED OR TRANSPORTED ANYTHING ON MY ROOF. THE REPAIR SHOP/DEALER WAS UNABLE TO OFFER A REASON FOR WHAT COULD HAVE CAUSED THE SUNROOF FRAME TO CRACK. THE ONLY EXPLANATION THAT MAKES SENSE IS THAT THE SUNROOF WAS EITHER INSTALLED IMPROPERLY BY THE MANUFACTURER OR THE SUNROOF FRAME IS DEFECTIVE. IT WAS $4,298.08 TO REPAIR THE SUNROOF AND CONTROL UNIT. THIS IS MOST CONCERNING AS MY SUV IS LESS THAN 5 YEARS OLD, ONLY HAS 81,448 MILES AND THERE IS NO RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE FOR THE SUNROOF.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 13, 202144,367 milesAZ
I DROVE MY 2016 BMW X3 FOR ABOUT 30 MILES ON THE HIGHWAY. I EXITED THE HIGHWAY AND CAME TO A STOP AT A LIGHT. MY REAR HATCH OPENED WHILE AT THE LIGHT AND MY VEHICLE WAS IN DRIVE. I HAD TWO DOGS IN THE REAR AREA THAT NEARLY JUMPED OUT. WE DID DETERMINED THAT A KEY FOB IN A POCKET PROBABLY WAS PRESSED. WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN DRIVE AND THE DOORS ARE LOCKED THERE IS NO REASON A REAR HATCH SHOULD BE ABLE TO OPEN. I WAS ABLE TO REENACT THIS EXACT SAME SITUATION WITH THE VEHICLE IN DRIVE, AND THE DOORS LOCKED BY PUSHING THE HATCH BUTTON. ITDOES ALLOW THE REAR HATCH TO FULLY OPEN EVEN WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN DRIVE.
Service Brakes
Filed Mar 15, 202180,000 milesCA
MY EMERGENCY BRAKE KEEPS MALFUNCTIONING, I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO USE THEM FOR ABOUT 3 MONTHS NOW. ALSO STARTING AROUND 2/20/21 WHEN IM AT A RED LIGHT FOR MORE THAN A MINUTE AND THE LIGHT TURNS GREEN, MY TRANSMISSION GETS STUCK AND THE CAR WONT GO, A WARNING SIGN COMES ON. THEN I HAVE TO RE PUT IT IN DRIVE AND CAN GO.
Complaints 1-50 of 82, newest first, reproduced as filed.
No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Aug 13, 2024. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.