2024 BMW X3

Routine

Owners filed 42 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 3 times.

Not among the BMW X3 years to avoid. Which BMW X3 years to avoid →

Most common 2024 BMW X3 problems

12 of the 42 complaints (29%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System11
000
Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking · backup camera4
000
Unknown or Other3
000
Power Train · transmission3
100
Latches/Locks/Linkages · door locks and latches3
000
Engine3
000
Structure › Body · body and frame2
000
Steering2
100
Service Brakes · brakes2
100
Visibility › Windshield1
000

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Steering › Linkages › Knuckle › Spindle › Arm26V524000
Filed Aug 12, 202613 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC

Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024-2026 X3 sDrive30i, X3 30 xDrive, and X3 M50 xDrive vehicles. The steering spindle may have been incorrectly attached to the steering column.

Risk. An incorrectly attached steering spindle can lead to a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect the steering connection and replace hardware or replace the spindle and column, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 8, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 2, 2026.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Lock25V106000
Filed Feb 20, 202540,736 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC

Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2022-2024 X3 sDrive30i and X3 xDrive30i vehicles. The second-row seat side door locking modules may not function properly and allow the doors to be unlocked with a single motion. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."

Risk. Doors that can be inadvertently unlocked and unlatched may open unexpectedly, increasing the risk of injury to rear seat occupants.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the second-row seat side door locking modules, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed on April 21, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 800-525-7417.

Steering23V770000
Filed Nov 16, 2023201 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC

Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024 2 Series Coupe (230i), 330i, X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i vehicles. The steering gear may not have been tightened properly, which can allow it to loosen.

Risk. A loose steering gear can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 11, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 9, 2026VA

There is a fire risk and an associated recall 26V438 for my BMW X3. I took it in for repair on 8/31/2026. They did not have the part to fix the recall. Due to the fire risk, I need them to remedy this ASAP. They continue to say I have to wait for the part availability.

Engine
Filed Oct 7, 2026MA

My vehicle is part of recall # 26V438 (starter motor issue.) My concern is that the delay in resolving this is causing me to take the precaution of NOT parking my vehicle in my (attached) garage due to potential for fire. The concern here is that as we move into the colder months here in the northeast, a far-too-common problem people have is rodents (mice, squirrels, chipmunks) crawling up into the engine area and making nests - and sometimes doing severe damage to wires - in cars not parked in garages. I have the ability to park in a garage, but am disinclined to do so due to a potential fire being caused by the unaddressed starter motor issue. BMW has known about the starter motor for months, but seemingly there is still no remedy available. I am requesting that this be expedited. Thank you.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 5, 2026NY

The vehicle is under an open fire‑risk recall involving the starter system. The manufacturer has not provided a remedy. The dealership confirmed that parts for the few vehicles BMW claims are repairable are backordered until 2027. This means there is effectively no fix available. The vehicle is equipped with Remote Start, which activates the starter while the vehicle is unattended. This increases the risk described in the recall and makes the manufacturer’s only interim instruction (“park outside”) even more difficult to follow in winter conditions or in areas with theft/vandalism concerns. The manufacturer responded to an inquiry but did not provide a remedy, timeline, or meaningful interim safety guidance. The response did not acknowledge the hazard of a potential electrical fire in a garage with a gas line. The dealership confirmed customer frustration and stated that no remedy is realistically available. No fire, crash, or injury has occurred, but the unresolved fire risk and lack of remedy present an ongoing safety concern.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 2, 2026TX

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V438000 (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.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Sep 20, 2026CA

I was driving through a green light through an intersection and a car on the opposite side of me had a yield green which they were suppose to wait for me to go and then continue with their left turn, but instead the driver decide to just go and our vehicles collided. The other car, which was a toyota corolla, had damage to their passenger side in which the front bumper looks like it got detached but the airbags were deployed. On my BMW, my entire grill, structural bumper beam, front crumple zone, radiator, driver side beam and bumper were all pretty much destroyed. My hood is dented inward and the insurance company has filed it a total loss. However, due to the extensive damage on my front, it is questionable on why my airbags didn't pop out, at least even on my driver side. I had my seatbelt on at impact but the breaks were slammed when I saw that the other driver had just continued driving. Therefore, at the point of collision, we're not sure if this was a manufacturing problem with BMW with this car. It heavily comprises the safety and integrity of the car, since if it was a even more serious accident and the airbags remained to not pop out, fatalities could've been involved. I did have to go to urgent care and then the hospital the next day because I got pretty bad whiplash.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 14, 2026AZ

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V438000 (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.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 31, 2026GA

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V438000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was not 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 and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Power Train
Filed Aug 7, 2026NY

I was pulling out of a parking spot and my X3 completely stalled and lost power. I got infomation on my screen to take my car to my dealer as soon as possible. I was able to start and drive it home. The following week I took it to the dealer for the problem. My local BMW dealer has had my X3 since July 27th over 2 weeks. They said they waiting for a code or fix for what happened. I don’t know if it’s a power train or engine problem. My X3 only has 21,000 miles on it. My concern is this problem could have happened on highway and I could have had a different outcome.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 14, 2026NC

Since purchasing my vehicle, I have experienced numerous ongoing issues that BMW has failed to address. The problems include: A squealing and beeping noise coming from the engine. The headlights turning on by themselves. Interior lights turning on without warning. The vehicle shaking while driving. The check engine light repeatedly coming on. A recent gasoline smell that required me to take the vehicle to the shop due to safety concerns. The roof making a popping noise when driving over uneven driveways or surfaces. I have documented many of these issues with multiple videos. Despite providing evidence and repeatedly reporting these problems, BMW has ignored my concerns and has not adequately resolved the defects.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 10, 2026VA

I was driving on the interstate at about 65-70 MPH when the sunroof exploded without apparent cause. This caused glass to be scattered throughout the vehicle and given the sudden event, sound and disruption to driving I would say that this is a safety issue. The same day this happened I dropped the car off at the dealer for repair estimate and coincidentally there was another BMW, a new X7, that just had the same thing happen without cause. This makes me think that there is a manufacturing defect.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jun 4, 202617,903 milesLA

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH, attempting to park the vehicle in the park the vehicle, while depressing the brake pedal the vehicle unintendedly accelerated independently causing the vehicle to drove over the curb and the contact mention due to the impact the rear passenger tire was damaged and before the brake pedal she could hear the vehicle began to decelerate independently and while depressing the brake pedal with her left foot . No warnings light illuminated A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where they inspected the vehicle, and they informed the consumer there was no failure. The contact mention that this failure had occurred on two different occasions. The manufacturer was notified of the failure offered no assistance and denied helping the consumer. The approximate failure mileage was 17,903.

Power TrainCrash
Filed May 26, 2026FL

I started to pull forward from a pharmacy drive-through at an intended low speed (approximately10/15 mph) for a right turn onto a driveway. The car was on auto-hold and in drive gear. When I turned right, the vehicle went into a full throttle acceleration and continued until impact. Brakes were totally ineffective. A TWO-LINE BRIGHT YELLOW MESSAGE FLASHED IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL, "TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTION". There was no automatic braking or forward collision function. I made a hard left turn in about 40 feet to avoid a shopping center parking lot. The vehicle continued until colliding with a concrete filled bollard and an automotive electric charging station. The vehicle charging at this station was also struck. My vehicle fell back, landing on its right side. The driver's airbag and both side curtains deployed. I was left suspended in the seat belt until the Fire Department, Emergency Services and the Highway Patrol arrived. A Jaws of Life was used to open the sunroof and extract me. I was transported by ambulance to an emergency treatment center. I was examined there and imaging done. I sustained a ruptured tendon in the middle right finger (permanent damage) and sagittal band ruptures in two fingers on that hand. There were numerous scrapes and bruises on the left thigh, both forearms and hands as well as minor cuts on my forehead. Also, post -accident, I experienced neck pain and overall soreness for several days due to whiplash. The Event Data Recorder was unattainable a

Insert, Padding1 injured
Filed May 4, 2026CA

[XXX] old infant's face was cut and bleeding from the Chicco Fit360 ClearTex Rotating Car Seat's safety straps with included pads INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Visibility › Windshield
Filed Apr 1, 202645,000 milesNV

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the windshield unexpectedly cracked on several occasions without impact. The contact stated that the crack originated at the top of the windshield and extended approximately six inches toward the driver’s side. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not inspected. The dealer ordered replacement windshields several times. The contact stated that after the windshield was replaced, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 45,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 16, 2026MD

To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting this supplemental update to formally document continued delay and lack of action by BMW following notification of serious vehicle safety concerns involving risk to minor passengers. BMW was notified in writing of multiple safety-related incidents involving system reliability and unauthorized access behavior. These concerns escalated to an incident occurring while the vehicle was in motion, presenting immediate risk to occupants, including two minor children. Despite acknowledgment of these concerns, BMW has: Failed to open a repair order to document the safety defects; Conditioned inspection on continued operation of a vehicle reported as unsafe; Failed to provide a timely, safe alternative path for inspection (e.g., coordinated tow and uninterrupted transportation); Gone silent for extended periods after acknowledgment of safety risk. I have expressly stated that the vehicle is unsafe to operate and that continued delay creates ongoing risk. I have also stated my willingness to cooperate fully with inspection and documentation provided that such cooperation does not require placing occupants at risk. This supplemental notice is submitted to preserve the record that continued inaction following acknowledgment of a safety concern may constitute failure to mitigate known risk. All communications, incidents, and delays are being documented. I respectfully request that this update be added to the record and considered as part of any safety

Electrical System
Filed Jan 7, 2026MD

This submission is a supplemental update to my existing NHTSA complaint regarding my BMW X3. On [XXX], at approximately [XXX], while the vehicle was traveling approximately 40 MPH with the doors locked, the rear passenger door opened while the vehicle was in motion. A [XXX] child was secured in a rear car seat at the time. A [XXX] child witnessed the event while I was dropping him off at school. No audible or visual warning alerts activated before or during the incident. This event follows prior electronic access and system reliability concerns reported in November and December 2025, including operation without key presence and unauthorized access behavior. I believe these events may be related and indicative of a broader electronic or body control system failure. Due to the seriousness of this incident involving minor occupants, I no longer consider the vehicle safe to operate. The vehicle is pending inspection and has not been driven further. I am submitting this update to document a potential child-safety defect and to ensure this information is considered as part of NHTSA’s review. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System
Filed Dec 29, 2025MD

I am submitting a supplemental update to my existing safety complaint regarding my BMW vehicle. On December 29, 2025, additional safety-related malfunctions occurred while the vehicle was parked and without the key present. A vehicle window rolled down autonomously, and the heating system temporarily stopped functioning during winter conditions. These failures follow an earlier incident on November 15, 2025, in which the vehicle continued operating without the key present and without any audible or visual warning, while two minor children were occupants. The involvement of multiple electronic systems—including key detection, window controls, and HVAC—suggests a potential electronic network or CAN-bus-related defect. These conditions present risks related to vehicle security, environmental exposure, and passenger safety. The vehicle is currently unsafe for transport of minors and unreliable for use during winter conditions. I am submitting this update so NHTSA’s records reflect continued post-notice safety malfunctions.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 11, 2025MD

Supplemental Update – Manufacturer Response to Safety Complaint (BMW) I am submitting this supplemental update in connection with my existing NHTSA safety complaint regarding my BMW vehicle. Following my report that the vehicle continued operating without the key present while transporting minor children, BMW of North America acknowledged the concern and indicated it was under review. However, BMW has now stated that it is closing my case file without: • Conducting any inspection; • Issuing written findings; • Providing a safety explanation or analysis; or • Confirming whether the reported behavior is a defect, system failure, or normal operation. BMW has conditioned further assistance on dealership inspection while simultaneously closing the manufacturer-level case, creating a gap in accountability and preventing meaningful review of the safety issue at the corporate level. I am not refusing inspection and remain willing to present the vehicle. My concern is that BMW’s attempt to close the case prior to evaluation undermines safety reporting and limits transparency regarding potential risks to drivers and passengers. Please add this update to my complaint record for consideration in any review or investigation.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Dec 10, 2025IL

I am reporting a serious safety issue involving my 2024 BMW X3 purchased from Countryside Mitsubishi in Countryside, Illinois, on November 7, 2025. Within hours of purchase, I discovered multiple defects that were not disclosed before the sale. The most concerning issue involves the windshield wiper system and forward sensor components, which began to malfunction immediately. The vehicle’s onboard system initially flagged a windshield sensor fault. I later discovered that the original BMW windshield had been replaced with a non-OEM part, which BMW confirmed voided the vehicle's factory warranty and disabled key safety features dependent on OEM calibration. I was never informed of the windshield replacement at time of sale. When I raised concerns with the dealership, they admitted to using a sensor “workaround” instead of a proper replacement, which BMW later explained is not compliant with their specifications and leaves the vehicle’s advanced safety systems—such as forward collision alerts—compromised. The dealership falsely stated the repair was done by BMW-certified technicians, which was later denied by the repair staff. This defect creates a major visibility and safety hazard. I experienced intermittent wiper failure during poor weather, and the washer fluid system also failed to operate reliably. Despite repeated contacts, the dealership refused to install an OEM windshield or resolve the defect through an authorized BMW service provider. BMW has confirmed that their sa

Electrical System
Filed Nov 27, 2025MD

I am reporting a safety defect involving a 2024 BMW X3 xDrive30i. The vehicle continued operating for several miles with no key inside the vehicle, and at no point did the car display a “Key Not Detected” warning, icon, or audible alert. Two minors were present during this incident. This indicates a failure of the key-recognition system, immobilizer logic, and associated warning functions. BMW’s safety system should detect the absence of the key and immediately warn the driver. Failure to issue a warning presents a significant safety hazard, as the driver may unknowingly operate the vehicle without the ability to restart, secure the car, or be alerted to a loss of security control. BMW Roadside Assistance documented the incident. BMW North America has not provided a case number, safety review, or written plan for addressing the defect despite multiple requests. This lack of response is concerning for a safety-critical malfunction. I am requesting NHTSA’s review of this defect and BMW’s handling of the matter.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 26, 2025CA

I own a 2024 BMW X3 that has developed a recurring and unpredictable safety issue with the tailgate. Without any input from me — and without pressing the key fob, tailgate button, or any switch — the rear tailgate will open on its own. This has occurred multiple times while the vehicle was parked, locked, and unattended, and it has also happened shortly after driving and parking. I brought the vehicle to an authorized BMW dealership for diagnosis under warranty. The dealership inspected the vehicle but was unable to identify the cause and returned the vehicle without repairing the problem. Despite my request for further escalation (such as opening a technical case with BMW’s engineering team), the issue remains unresolved. This defect poses a significant safety risk. An uncommanded tailgate opening could result in the vehicle’s contents falling out, create a road hazard, or lead to injury to people nearby. It also increases the risk of theft or water intrusion into the cargo area. The problem is intermittent and unpredictable, but it continues to happen. I am submitting this report because the issue remains unresolved by the manufacturer and could endanger both occupants and the public.

Power Train
Filed Sep 26, 2025NY

*Rear differential bolt and bushing failure two times in less than twelve months. Rear drive making loud banging noises. Vehicle not able to drive. Vehicle rear drive failed as vehicle was in motion. *If I was traveling at high rate of speed, this could have cause the vehicle to lose control. *Problem was reported to dealer and fixed the first time. The second time the dealer refused to fix the problem. *Vehicle was inspected by dealer and I was blamed for the bolt and bushing failure, with no proof of any fault or abusive driving. *No warning lamps or messages were alerted to warn of any danger or damage to vehicle. *First Incident was January 14th, 2025. Second incident was August 28th, 2025.

SteeringCrash
Filed Aug 5, 2025FL

Driving on the highway, unexpectedly i was not able to turn anymore. On the road was something I wanted to not hit, but steering did not work as usual. The car was forced to the left into the wall and the only thing i was able to do was using the breaks steady and slowly. Steering in the other direction did not work and in the end i hit the divider wall on the left shoulder

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 16, 2025KS

We have had 3 windshields crack in exactly the same spot with little or no signs of impact. The first incident we heard something impact the windshield and within 1/2 hour a crack developed at the top of the windshield and spread straight down to the base. The second no impact was heard but the crack showed the same pattern as the first. The third time there was a slight impact sound, the crack began showing 5 days later. These are all OEM windshields, the dealer says there have been no other reports like this.

Electrical System
Filed May 28, 2025UT

The digital instrument cluster that displays the speedometer and other information will occasionally not illuminate when the car is started leaving the driver unable to know how fast they are going. This is so dangerous. This has happened to me at least 4 times in the past 6 months

Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator PedalCrash1 injured
Filed May 9, 202517,000 milesNC

The contact owned a 2024 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 35 MPH and turning right, the vehicle unintentionally continued accelerating and veering to the right. The contact stated that she had depressed the brake pedal, but the brakes did not respond. The contact stated that the vehicle jumped the curb, the contact was not able to steer the vehicle back onto the roadway because the steering wheel was seized. The contact stated that the vehicle hit a traffic sign and side-swiped a street light pole. The contact stated that the vehicle then crashed into a parked vehicle head-on and stopped. The contact stated that the air bags had not deployed during the front-end collision. The contact stated that the police and emergency services had arrived. The contact was transported to a hospital, and the police issued a report. The contact stated that she had bruises on her chest, ribs, both arms, and wrists. The contact also had a whiplash injury to her neck. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot, and a total loss was declared. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 17,000.

Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Apr 30, 2025AZ

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V106000 (LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES); 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.

Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Apr 25, 202518,114 milesGA

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V106000 (LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES); 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 stated that the rear driver’s and rear passenger’s side doors would open with one action instead of two. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 18,114. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Engine
Filed Apr 11, 2025CO

I was entering 4-lane highway from a side street. While accelerating, the engine suddenly stopped. The dashboard went black, except for a red outline of the car. In the second or two that I was looking for a place to get off the highway, the car restarted, and all indicators returned to normal on the dash. I completed my errands without incident. Since the original incident on Monday, [XXX], I have driven the car on several short errands without incident. I believe this incident may be related to your recall 25V-202. Thank you [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed Feb 28, 2025CA

Before I heard about the recall, about 1 week prior while we were on the highway my son was as in his car seat and we were about few mile to our destination his door unlocked and opened. We had to pull over to close it and was very alarmed.

Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Feb 28, 202510,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X3. The contact stated that while making a left turn at 20 MPH, a warning chime sounded followed by an alert on the instrument panel which indicated that the rear passenger’s side door had opened with a child strapped in a car seat by the door. The contact immediately pulled over and closed the door. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V106000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages); which the contact linked to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the recall and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

Service BrakesCrash
Filed Jan 27, 2025IA

As I was pulling into a parking stall at work, I pressed on the brake and the vehicle did not stop. It went up over the sidewalk which is stepped up from the parking lot 4-6". i continued to press the break in as far as I could and the vehicle continued to travel at least 20 and stopped when it hit the building. The vehicle is equipped with the automatic emergency breaking and collision warning in which neither worked. The brick on the building was only scrapped. However, there are windows right at the brick line at the location that my car stopped. The car did not go through the window or the building. If it would have, it could have injured those inside. I was pressing on the breaks so hard that I have an injury to my toe. I have not seen a doctor yet, but it's possible that I broke it as I was pressing that hard. The vehicle has not been inspected by the insurance company, manufacturer, or dealership yet. I called the dealership and asked that it be inspected and a diagnostic run immediately. The dealership said they cannot get me in for a week. My vehicle is equipped with a Event Data Recorder.

Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking
Filed Nov 23, 2024NC

Rear cross traffic alert safety feature does not work as advertised and is poorly implemented on my 2024 BMW X3. It sometimes will give a visual or visual & audio indication but this is a very rare occurrence and is dangerous. By the time an alert is generated an accident will have occurred. It does not detect pedestrians walking behind the vehicle. It cannot be relied on and it's as if the vehicle does not have this common safety feature. My dealer was sympathetic but stated this is normal operation for this vehicle and other BMWs as well.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 22, 2024NJ

My vehicle doesn't warn me about rear cross-traffic or it stops for emergency. I paid for this option. Delaer checked the system and reassured me that everything is working. I have to backup to a busy street a few times a day and this system is not protecting me and I am afraid that I will get into a crash. I had several close calls and I am afraid of a crash with this system.

Electrical System › Adas › Blindspot › Sensors
Filed Nov 14, 2024FL

See attached document for complaint.

Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking
Filed Oct 29, 2024FL

PROBLEM: I recently had incidents when the RAB (rear automatic brake) on the 2024 BMW X-3 vehicle DID NOT WORK on multiple. The vehicle never stopped as I backed out of my parking space and almost hit a pedestrian while simply rolling in reverse. Afterwards my husband, who had a similar incident with his BMW 540i, tested the RAB by perpendicularly slowly walking behind the car. He had to run out of the way when the vehicle was continuing to move when approximately 12” from me. I tested both vehicles, 540i & X-3, with the same results. As a further test I placed a plastic figure that’s ordinarily used a warning to drivers of children playing in the area. Results while slowly backing was that the vehicle hit (bumped) the little green “man”. He previously did the same tests on 2024 540i, VIN [XXX] , with the exact same results. BMW of Wesley Chapel had no solution. We spoke with managers Doonan and Hernandez. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 20, 2024ID

Whenever the vehicle is driven, despite the temperature, the panoramic moon roof cracks and creaks and sounds like it is going to break. The dealer said numerous people have also complained about this happening and BMW will NOT do anything about it. This is my 3rd X3 of this body style and my other two did not have this issue because BMW didn't "cheapen" out on the window sealant and materials of the lining and mounts in the sunroof until the LCI redesign or 2023. I am afraid that one of these days it will crack and break downward, causing a major safety hazard while driving and I want BMW to fix and/or remedy the problem(s) ASAP.

Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking
Filed Aug 10, 2024TX

After verifying that the vehicle is equipped with front amd rear cross traffic audio and visual alert features, I brought the car to the dealer because it was not showing any cross traffic alerts. They could not find any issues with the sensors, not could they explain why it was not working after checking that all of the configuration settings are correct. Only very close proximity detection of objects works, which confirms that the sensors do indeed function (e.g., coming close to a building or a person). The BMW user manual and video overview for this X3 vehicle confirm how it should work, but it does not function at all. You can see the cross-traffic functional overview in the BMW mobile application. This important safety feature does not work as represented by BMW, not can the certified dealer correct the problem.

Suspension
Filed Jul 5, 2024AZ

I traded a 2021 X3 Sdrive on a 2024 X3 Sdrive. I immediately noticed a steering wheel vibration/buzz feeling at 1100-1200 rpm. Long story short, apparently BMW has removed the top dampers on the front struts on the 2024 model. They, BMW NA, say they aren't needed and that the vehicle "meets US specs". The vibration is almost like the lane departure vibration you get.

Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking
Filed May 20, 2024IL

There are no audible alerts and insufficient visual alerts to indicate when cross traffic is approaching from the rear left or rear right of the vehicle while backing up. The functionality only works when there is a blind spot to the immediate right or left of the vehicle. This is inconsistent with the industry standard. The current vehicle is a 2024 BMW X3 model year. However, in comparison to three other vehicles we operate which are all 2016 model years and poses this technology, it makes driving the 2024 BMW X3 a concern. We have reported this to our dealer, who has indicated the vehicle is operating as designed. This is contradictory to the lead technician at our dealership, who maintained that there should be a clear audible alert to accompany the minimal visual alert on the screen.

Structure › Body
Filed May 15, 2024CA

I was driving on an interstate in Utah near Park City in a rented car (BMW X3) and the sunroof exploded suddenly and without warning. It created an extremely loud boom that reverberated. My passenger and I didn't know what happened and it was scary and caused panic. We pulled over and discovered what had happened. It was one of the most frightening situations I've ever experienced.

Steering
Filed Aug 30, 2023FL

Steering safety defect description. When holding steering wheel straight vehicle wanders in different directions not initiated by driver. Also when avoiding road hazards electronic steering is delayed between input and reaction. Bmw safety defect steering issue has been experienced by many customers. Many customers have documented complaints requesting Bmw, fix safety defects with steering. Safety defect makes drivers have to overcorrect steering to avoid potential accidents. Vehicle drives in a manner that is more susceptible to an accident.

All 42 complaints, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202622200Routine
202538910Routine
2024 — this page42300Routine
202317400Routine
202286740Routine
20211131020Routine
20201101660Do not drive
20191711020Routine
2018761120Routine
201792620Routine
201682530Routine
2015105770Routine
201486610Routine
20132267100Above average
201242210Routine
2011113430Routine
201032420Routine
200919330Routine
200866340Routine
200798390Routine
20061432160Routine
20051032180Routine
20041381130Routine

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Reading this record

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 12, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.