Learn the top 5 problems with the 3rd gen BMW X3. While there’s nothing particularly wrong with the 2017 to present BMW X3, problems with the valve gasket, blower motor, and more are known to occur. Find out their common symptoms and fixes in this article and video.
Top 5 Most Common Problems with the 3rd Gen 2017 to Present BMW X3
1. Faulty Valve Cover
Symptoms of a Bad Valve Cover
- Oil leaks
- Damaged valve cover
Causes of Problems with the Valve Cover on the 2017 to Present BMW X3
The 3rd gen BMW X3‘s valve cover is made of plastic and can warp and brittle over time. A damaged valve cover can cause oil leaks.
How to Fix a Faulty Valve Cover
Replacing the valve cover and the gasket instead of only the gasket will likely to fix this problem.
2. Bad Ignition Coils
Symptoms of Bad Ignition Coils
- Check engine light flashing
- Check engine light for a misfire code
- Rough running engine
Causes of Faulty Ignition Coils
Ignition coils are expected to wear out after usage, and these are known to fail on the BMW X3.
How to Fix Bad Ignition Coils
Steps to replace the ignition coil include disconnecting the wiring harness, removing the bolt, and taking the coil out. When replacing the ignition coils, we recommend replacing the spark plugs at the same time.
3. Bad Blower Motor
Symptoms of a Bad Blower Motor
- No heat or AC when turned on
- Loud noise from the dash with the fan settings on
How to Fix a Faulty Blower Motor
The blower motor is behind the glove box and can be replaced by novice DIYers. You’ll need to remove the glove box, disconnect the wiring harness, remove the screws, and pull the blower motor down and out. Then reverse these steps to reinstall.
4. Transmission Oil Pan Leaks
Symptoms of Transmission Oil Pan Leaks
- Leaking transmission fluid
Causes of Transmission Oil Pan Leaks
The plastic transmission oil pan can crack or warp over time and leak transmission fluid. You may notice fluid leaking onto the shield before it’s apparent there’s a leak.
How to Fix Problems with the Transmission Oil Pan on the 3rd Gen BMW X3
The transmission oil pan and gasket will need to be replaced to fix this problem.
5. Water Pump Failure
Symptoms of a Bad Water Pump
- Coolant leaking onto the ground
- Overheating engine
Causes of a Bad Water Pump
The water pump is located at the front of the engine. This generation of X3s has a mechanical water pump instead of electric, and it’s driven by the serpentine belt. The pump can fail and cause engine overheating or coolant to leak.
How to Fix a Faulty Water Pump
Replacing the water pump will fix this problem.
3rd Generation BMW X3 Model Years
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