Owners have filed 103 complaints
about the 2018 BMW X3 with NHTSA between 2018 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 12 of 23 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 42
Against the median year of the BMW X3. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 55
10.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
60% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
37.1%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1331.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
819.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
24.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
819.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
37.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
24.8%
150,000+ miles
37.1%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 2018peak 8Aug 2026
Recalls on the 2018 BMW X3
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
24V764000
STRUCTURE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2022 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3 M vehicles. The attachment for the rear cargo rail may become damaged in a rear crash and result in the cargo rail detaching.
Risk: Interior rear cargo rail detachment during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
24V534000
STRUCTURE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2023 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3 M vehicles. The attachment for the interior cargo rail may become damaged in a rear crash and result in the cargo rail detaching.
Risk: Interior cargo rail detachment during a rear crash can increase the risk of injury.
21V521000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2019 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i and 2019 X4 xDrive30i, and X4 M40i vehicles. The front passenger seat occupant classification system may have been improperly assembled, which could result in the misclassification of the seat as unoccupied, and deactivate the front air bag.
Risk: A deactivated front air bag will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
20V152000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 X4 xDrive30i and X4 M40i, and 2018-2020 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X3M vehicles. The instrument panel casing may not have been tightened properly to the passenger air bag.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, the air bag could damage the instrument panel and cause small pieces of the panel to strike the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury.
19V684000
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Risk: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
19V563000
SEATS
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2019 X3 sDrive30i, xDrive30i and M40i and 2019 X4 xDrive30i and M40i vehicles. The front seatback frames may have been improperly welded, allowing the seatback to unexpectedly fold forward or rearward.
Risk: In the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury if the seatback folds forward or rearward.
18V453000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2019 BMW X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i and certain 2019 X4 xDrive30i and X4 M40i vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have an insufficient coating, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
Risk: A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
18V431000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i and X3 M40i vehicles. The rear turn signals on the outboard side panel will illuminate red, while the inboard turn signals simultaneously illuminate amber. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: Turn signals that flash multiple colors may confuse other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2024609557 units in Canada
Structure
Issue: On certain vehicles, the recall repairs completed by a BMW dealer during recall 51 84 24RC (Transport Canada recall no. 2024-410) may not be effective. As a result, a second repair is required. On certain vehicles, the cargo area tie down rails could detach in a rear crash. Safety Risk: A cargo rail that detaches in a crash could create a risk of injury to rear passengers. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the fasteners that secure the cargo rails to the body.
Recall 2024544587,250 units in Canada
Label
Issue: On certain vehicles, the tire and loading information label does not list that there is no spare tire in both official languages. The label reads as "NONE" when it should read as "NONE / AUCUN". Canadian regulations require the information to be listed on the label in both English and French. Safety Risk: This error does not affect vehicle safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. The company has corrected the tire and loading information label for all new vehicles.
Recall 202441013,830 units in Canada
Structure
Issue: On certain vehicles, the cargo area tie down rails could detach in a rear crash. Safety Risk: A cargo rail that detaches in a crash could create a risk of injury to rear passengers. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the fasteners that secure the cargo rails to the body.
Recall 202141914 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, the seat trim may not be properly attached to the front passenger seat. Over time, this could cause the occupant classification system (OCS) not to work properly. If this happens, the airbag system can turn off the passenger-front airbag even when an adult is sitting in the seat. Safety Risk: In a crash where an airbag is required, an airbag that does not inflate could increase the risk of injury for an adult passenger. Corrective Action: BMW will notify owners by mail and instruct you to make an appointment with a dealer to replace the front passenger seat cushion (including the occupant classification system).
Recall 201948014,323 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles, the rearview camera does not return to the default settings when it turns on. This could make the rearview image difficult to see if a driver had previously adjusted the camera display brightness at or near the lowest setting, and contrast at or near the highest setting. Canadian regulations require that the rearview display returns to the default view each time the camera is turned on. Safety Risk: Reduced rear visibility could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to update the software for the rearview camera. Drivers are recommended not to adjust the display brightness at or near the lowest setting, and contrast at or near the highest setting, until this recall is completed.
Recall 20193731 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Issue: On one vehicle, the front passenger seatback frame may not have been properly welded. This could cause the seatback to fail if it is loaded heavily (like in a crash). Safety Risk: A seatback that fails in a crash could create an increased risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify the owner by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to replace the front passenger seat structure.
Recall 2018366779 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, a problem with the rear brake system may cause gas bubbles to form in the brake fluid. This could cause a soft brake pedal feel and a reduction in brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will bleed the rear brakes.
Recall 20183402 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Certain vehicles may not comply with the requirements of Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CVMSS) 108 - Lighting System and Retroreflective Devices. The rear turn signal lamps on the tailgate of the vehicle may flash in amber, while the outboard rear turn signal lamps flash red, which is contrary to the requirements of the standard. This could result in following road users being confused by the turn signal lamps simultaneously flashing red and amber, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect the rear turn signal lamps and replace them if necessary.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Boston, MAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving car on clear roadway and received a warning to go to service. I smelled burning and saw smoke coming from front hood. Got onto shoulder, got out of car and flames started - falling to ground first and then entire engine was consumed.
NHTSA complaint #11628538 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Gresham, ORFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
January 15, 2021 our BMW burned to the ground. I had just picked it up after an oil change at the dealership. Only the second oil change and the SUV had less than 17,000 miles. My safety was certainly at risk as I was stopped at a red light when the engine started smoking. I exited the car, but within 1-2 minutes the car was engulfed in flames. Several pieces flew off the SUV was tires popped or other components exploded. People in the area were near the SUV when pieces flew off the car. I am sure by now the car has been destroyed. Until I saw a recent BMW car fire recall and read the documents I did not know I had the ability to file a claim. We submitted an insurance claim and they investigated and the dealer investigated. The dealer was found to not be at fault. To my knowledge the insurance investigator and the dealer (BMW of Portland) inspected the car. Warning lights appeared on the dash one traffic light, about one mile prior to the vehicle dying at the light where it caught fire. The warning lights came at the same time the vehicle died. I was able to start it again and then it died a the next light and started smoking. Also important is that I just saw the recent BMW fire potential recall that does not include the X3 in the 2018 model year, but does include the 2017 model year. NHTSA recall # 24V-608. We were paid a significantly diminished value for the vehicle based on depreciation, which meant we were out $10-$12,000 on a vehicle we had planned to keep for a very long time.
NHTSA complaint #11610210 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 62,500 milesSanta Monica, CACrash
STEERING
I WAS PARKING WHEN I TOTALLY LOST CONTROL OF MY CAR. I COULD NOT STEER IT AND I COULD NOT BREAK. I WENT LEFT WHILE I WAS ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE BUT I HAD NO BRAKES. I ATTEMPTED TO GO STRAIGHT AND HIT ONE PARKED CAR. THEN I WENT RIGHT AND DAMAGED ANOTHER CAR THEN THE CAR HIT A 3 CAR. THEN THE CAR STOPPED. I RECEIVE A BMW ASSIST MESSAGE REGARDING HAVING AN ACCIDENT THEN THE SCREEN WENT DEAD. I WAS PARKING MY CAR. FEW WEEKS BEFORE I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE: CHASSIS STABILIZATION PROBLEMS. YOU CAN CONTINUE DRIVING BUT TAKE YOUR CAR TO THE DEALER ( SOMETHING LIKE THAT). I STOPPED THE CAR AND THE MESSAGE WENT AWAY. NEVER CAME BACK. SO I WAS PLANNING TO TALK ABOUT IT TO THE DEALER WHEN GOING FOR THE NEXT APPOINTMENT. I WAS PARKING IN A PLACE I KNOW VERY WELL, HISPITAL PARKING.
NHTSA complaint #11290747 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 62,500 milesSanta Monica, CACrash
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I WAS PARKING WHEN I TOTALLY LOST CONTROL OF MY CAR. I COULD NOT STEER IT AND I COULD NOT BREAK. I WENT LEFT WHILE I WAS ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE BUT I HAD NO BRAKES. I ATTEMPTED TO GO STRAIGHT AND HIT ONE PARKED CAR. THEN I WENT RIGHT AND DAMAGED ANOTHER CAR THEN THE CAR HIT A 3 CAR. THEN THE CAR STOPPED. I RECEIVE A BMW ASSIST MESSAGE REGARDING HAVING AN ACCIDENT THEN THE SCREEN WENT DEAD. I WAS PARKING MY CAR. FEW WEEKS BEFORE I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE: CHASSIS STABILIZATION PROBLEMS. YOU CAN CONTINUE DRIVING BUT TAKE YOUR CAR TO THE DEALER ( SOMETHING LIKE THAT). I STOPPED THE CAR AND THE MESSAGE WENT AWAY. NEVER CAME BACK. SO I WAS PLANNING TO TALK ABOUT IT TO THE DEALER WHEN GOING FOR THE NEXT APPOINTMENT. I WAS PARKING IN A PLACE I KNOW VERY WELL, HISPITAL PARKING.
NHTSA complaint #11290747 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 62,500 milesSanta Monica, CACrash
SERVICE BRAKES
I WAS PARKING WHEN I TOTALLY LOST CONTROL OF MY CAR. I COULD NOT STEER IT AND I COULD NOT BREAK. I WENT LEFT WHILE I WAS ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE BUT I HAD NO BRAKES. I ATTEMPTED TO GO STRAIGHT AND HIT ONE PARKED CAR. THEN I WENT RIGHT AND DAMAGED ANOTHER CAR THEN THE CAR HIT A 3 CAR. THEN THE CAR STOPPED. I RECEIVE A BMW ASSIST MESSAGE REGARDING HAVING AN ACCIDENT THEN THE SCREEN WENT DEAD. I WAS PARKING MY CAR. FEW WEEKS BEFORE I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE: CHASSIS STABILIZATION PROBLEMS. YOU CAN CONTINUE DRIVING BUT TAKE YOUR CAR TO THE DEALER ( SOMETHING LIKE THAT). I STOPPED THE CAR AND THE MESSAGE WENT AWAY. NEVER CAME BACK. SO I WAS PLANNING TO TALK ABOUT IT TO THE DEALER WHEN GOING FOR THE NEXT APPOINTMENT. I WAS PARKING IN A PLACE I KNOW VERY WELL, HISPITAL PARKING.
NHTSA complaint #11290747 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 3,200 milesFremont, CACrash
STEERING
BMW 2018 X3 STEERING WHEEL ***WENT OUT OF CONTROL*** FOR UNKNOWN REASON AND TOOK OVER MY DRIVING ON HWY 84 WHEN I WAS GOING ABOUT 62 MILES, IT GEARED TO LEFT ON ITS OWN. THE CAR EVENTUALLY HIT CENTER DIVIDER DURING THE COURSE OF TRYING TO AVOID OTHERWISE POSSIBLY SEVERE COLLISION. X3 ENTIRE LEFT SIDE DAMAGED, CALLED 911, CAR TOWED. CONTACTED BMW NA AND LOCAL DEALER IN FREMONT CALIFORNIA, CAR TESTED, REPORTED BACK WITH NO PROBLEM. BMW OFFERED NO EXPLANATION OF WHY IT HAPPENED. NOR DID ANY REMEDY OFFERED FOR CAR DAMAGE, ESTIMATED REPAIR COST OF $13000, ASIDE FROM STRESS CAUSED AFTER SUCH A TRAUMATIZING INCIDENT. THE BLACK BOX WHICH SUPPOSED TO RECORD CAR ACTUAL STATUS, BMW REPLIED FOUND NO ERROR CODE. I BELIEVE THERE WERE MANUFACTURE DEFECTS BECAUSE THE X3 WENT THRU ONE RECALL AND THEN TRUNK POP OPENED ON ITS OWN, SENT IN AGAIN FOR SERVICE TO REPAIR. SOON AFTER, THE STEERING WHEEL WENT OUT OF CONTROL. IT'S SUCH AN OBVIOUS SAFETY ISSUE THAT PEOPLE MIGHT LOSE LIFES ON IT. IT'S BEEN OVER 9 MONTHS AND TILL NOW, WE STILL DON'T KNOW HOW IT HAPPENED AND WHAT'D TRIGGER IT TO LOSE CONTROL IN THE FUTURE. IT'S DIFFICULT FOR AN INDIVIDUAL TO OBTAIN JUSTICE FROM SUCH A BIG CORPORATION. GRATEFUL THAT I'M ALIVE AND HAVE A CHANCE TO FILE THIS COMPLAINT SO THIS INCIDENT HAS A CHANCE TO BE NOTICED OR BE FURTHER INVESTIGATED.
NHTSA complaint #11202592 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Little Ferry, NJ
ENGINE
There were several radiatior hose leaks that happened in the winter due to the outdated plastic housing and lines that seized and cracked with colder temperatures. It has become extremely common historically and not considered affordable part or labor to replace.
NHTSA complaint #11756942 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Miami Shores, FL
STRUCTURE:BODY
The sunroof drains of the vehicle become easily clogged. When this happens, water drains into the battery compartment and interior of the vehicle. Although BMW is aware of this, and the attendant danger of having water pooling in the battery compartment, they have not addressed the issue. There are no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the problem.
NHTSA complaint #11731138 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Miami Shores, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The sunroof drains of the vehicle become easily clogged. When this happens, water drains into the battery compartment and interior of the vehicle. Although BMW is aware of this, and the attendant danger of having water pooling in the battery compartment, they have not addressed the issue. There are no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the problem.
NHTSA complaint #11731138 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Crawfordsville, IN
ENGINE
While driving on the interstate lost coolant through the oil cooler housing. I had to quickly get to the shoulder of the road having to cross several lanes of traffic. The car had to be towed. I had it towed to the dealership where I purchased it as I paid for an extended warranty. Warranty company denied the claim. Through research I am finding this is an issue with BMWs as they part is plastic and does not stand up well with the temperature changes it is subjected to. This needs to be a recall. The car is still in the shop, 45 days later. Approximate cost to repair $2,840.00 plus tax.
NHTSA complaint #11730148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Poway, CA
ENGINE
Oil pump failure due to plastic brittle materials failing prematurely. It is a common problem that is well documented across the owners that have this vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11721022 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Anchorage, AK
ENGINE
BMW installed a part that is failing quite a number of vehicles including this vehicle. The oil filter housing was not properly constructed at the factory. Fails.
NHTSA complaint #11721034 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Havertown, PA
ENGINE
Vehicle lost coolant and warned me to pull over because of the engine overheating. Later was diagnosed with a leaking oil filter housing. Simply too early for such a component to fail. Left my wife stranded miles away from home in the snow.
NHTSA complaint #11717167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Chester, OH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
This problem has occurred to me now twice. Both occurrences were on very cold days where the temperature was below 20 degrees F. The car starts promptly and runs, but the entire dashboard electronic instrument cluster is non-functioning and dark . In this condition, you cannot tell your speed, engine rpm, fuel level, engine temperature, or any mileage numbers. The turn signals also do not work. The headlights and the iDrive screen and the climate control were all lit properly and functioned. I did not think to check the brake or tailights, unfortunately. Multiple restarts of the car had no effect, and so I drove home without the dash functions. After the car sat overnight in my garage (which is somewhat warmer) the dash lights returned to their proper function.
NHTSA complaint #11708423 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Chester, OH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This problem has occurred to me now twice. Both occurrences were on very cold days where the temperature was below 20 degrees F. The car starts promptly and runs, but the entire dashboard electronic instrument cluster is non-functioning and dark . In this condition, you cannot tell your speed, engine rpm, fuel level, engine temperature, or any mileage numbers. The turn signals also do not work. The headlights and the iDrive screen and the climate control were all lit properly and functioned. I did not think to check the brake or tailights, unfortunately. Multiple restarts of the car had no effect, and so I drove home without the dash functions. After the car sat overnight in my garage (which is somewhat warmer) the dash lights returned to their proper function.
NHTSA complaint #11708423 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Olmsted Falls, OH
AIR BAGS
The Front Passenger Seat Occupancy Sensor Mat (CIS) in my 2018 BMW X3 failed at 56,000 miles. This failure is confirmed by the specific BMW fault code 930A1C (Seat Occupancy Detector Malfunction) stored in the Advanced Crash Safety Module (ACSM). The component is currently installed in the vehicle and available for inspection. This defect poses a severe safety risk: the system fails to consistently detect a seated front passenger. As a result, the passenger airbag may be disabled and fail to deploy in a collision, significantly increasing the risk of injury or death. The dashboard displays a "Passenger Restraint System" malfunction warning, accompanied by an airbag light and chime. The issue is intermittent and load-dependent. It triggers specifically when an adult passenger occupies the seat for extended periods (e.g., highway driving), indicating a physical fatigue failure of the sensor mat grid under compression. I diagnosed the fault using BMW factory-level diagnostics. However, both the local BMW dealership and BMW North America have refused to cover the diagnosis or repair under the existing warranty extension (SIB 72 01 25) for this exact component, stating my specific VIN is excluded despite the vehicle exhibiting the known safety defect.
NHTSA complaint #11706711 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sterling Heights, MI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Part number 17127799184 keeps melting. Over the years I have had multiple components under the hood to melt. I’ve replaced hydraulic lines, coolant reservoirs you name it. Most recently part number 17127799184 keeps melting. I’ve replaced this part three times. My car is currently at Bloomfield hill bmw of Michigan. They did a diagnostic but it states they cannot definitively tell me what’s causing the issue. They advise I start with replacing the heating module but cannot guarantee it will resolve the issue. They stated my car is producing no symptoms. I contacted the corporate office with hopes they would assist with a good will service request. However it appears not only do they not stand behind their products but apparently bmw’s are only meant to last 4-5 years. When questioned if it’s normal for components to continuously melt under the hood he agreed it is not. However refused to offer an equitable solution considering the issues I’ve had over the years and their mechanics currently not being able to state 100 percent what’s wrong with the automobile. When I told him my mother drove a Volvo for 20 years are you saying in 7 years parts on a car should melt? He didn’t offer a response wished me a happy holiday and concluded the call.
NHTSA complaint #11706065 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sterling Heights, MI
ENGINE
Part number 17127799184 keeps melting. Over the years I have had multiple components under the hood to melt. I’ve replaced hydraulic lines, coolant reservoirs you name it. Most recently part number 17127799184 keeps melting. I’ve replaced this part three times. My car is currently at Bloomfield hill bmw of Michigan. They did a diagnostic but it states they cannot definitively tell me what’s causing the issue. They advise I start with replacing the heating module but cannot guarantee it will resolve the issue. They stated my car is producing no symptoms. I contacted the corporate office with hopes they would assist with a good will service request. However it appears not only do they not stand behind their products but apparently bmw’s are only meant to last 4-5 years. When questioned if it’s normal for components to continuously melt under the hood he agreed it is not. However refused to offer an equitable solution considering the issues I’ve had over the years and their mechanics currently not being able to state 100 percent what’s wrong with the automobile. When I told him my mother drove a Volvo for 20 years are you saying in 7 years parts on a car should melt? He didn’t offer a response wished me a happy holiday and concluded the call.
NHTSA complaint #11706065 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 71,000 milesShelton, CT
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
The contact owns a 2018 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving over 45 MPH, the Lane Departure and Blind Spot features deactivated unintendedly. The message that the system was deactivated was displayed. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.
NHTSA complaint #11696601 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 71,000 milesShelton, CT
LANE DEPARTURE
The contact owns a 2018 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving over 45 MPH, the Lane Departure and Blind Spot features deactivated unintendedly. The message that the system was deactivated was displayed. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.
NHTSA complaint #11696601 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Virginia Beach, VA
ENGINE
A BMW dealership has indicated that the motor mounts on my vehicle need to be replaced. My vehicle has under 29,000 miles, and these parts are designed to last for 60,000 to 100,000 miles. A premature collapse of the motor mounts indicates a manufacturing defect, material weakness or installation error from the factory. I understand that this defect is common for 2018-2020 X3 models. The vehicle did not display any symptoms of this defect and no indicators were displayed on the on-screen monitor.
NHTSA complaint #11693868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Palm Beach, FL
POWER TRAIN
Vehicle: 2018 BMW X3 VIN: [XXX] My 2018 BMW X3 has had continuous oil and coolant leaks for several years. Major parts have already been replaced including the turbocharger, oil cooler, water pump, turbo lines, radiator hose, thermostat, and valve cover gaskets. The dealer recently confirmed my crankshaft seals are leaking. These issues are consistent with a defective Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, which causes excess crankcase pressure and oil leaks. BMW issued an Extended Limited Warranty for PCV/valve cover defects on other models but said my VIN isn’t included—even though I’m experiencing the same failure pattern. This creates potential fire and safety hazards from oil leaking onto hot engine components, as well as the risk of sudden engine failure and environmental hazards from oil dripping onto roads. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether 2018 BMW X3 vehicles should be included in BMW’s PCV/valve cover recall or extended warranty coverage. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11692532 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Palm Beach, FL
ENGINE
Vehicle: 2018 BMW X3 VIN: [XXX] My 2018 BMW X3 has had continuous oil and coolant leaks for several years. Major parts have already been replaced including the turbocharger, oil cooler, water pump, turbo lines, radiator hose, thermostat, and valve cover gaskets. The dealer recently confirmed my crankshaft seals are leaking. These issues are consistent with a defective Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, which causes excess crankcase pressure and oil leaks. BMW issued an Extended Limited Warranty for PCV/valve cover defects on other models but said my VIN isn’t included—even though I’m experiencing the same failure pattern. This creates potential fire and safety hazards from oil leaking onto hot engine components, as well as the risk of sudden engine failure and environmental hazards from oil dripping onto roads. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether 2018 BMW X3 vehicles should be included in BMW’s PCV/valve cover recall or extended warranty coverage. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11692532 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Apex, NC
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Front headlights were replaced under warranty after daytime running lights both stopped working in Oct. 2021. Similar problem now on 9/4/25 approximately 4 years later, and BMW is leaving me to foot the bill on a barely 7 year old vehicle, forcing me to have 3 sets of lights on a car that is 7 years old.
NHTSA complaint #11686663 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Apex, NC
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Drivers left front daytime running lights failed after <4 years from warranty replacement. 3rd set of lights in under 7 years on this vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11686664 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Apex, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Front headlights were replaced under warranty after daytime running lights both stopped working in Oct. 2021. Similar problem now on 9/4/25 approximately 4 years later, and BMW is leaving me to foot the bill on a barely 7 year old vehicle, forcing me to have 3 sets of lights on a car that is 7 years old.
NHTSA complaint #11686663 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Apex, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Drivers left front daytime running lights failed after <4 years from warranty replacement. 3rd set of lights in under 7 years on this vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11686664 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Apex, NC
ENGINE
Coolant leak. Oil filter housing coolant leak. Water pump leak. Coolant leaked while driving, and vehicle was not driveable after arriving at the dealership when all the coolant purged out of the vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11686666 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Danville, CA
ENGINE
Light indicator showed low coolant levels. Car was leaking coolant slowly. Filled up coolant but levels continued to go down. Brought to mechanic and they had to remove oil filter housing to replace failing gasket. Car is about 113K miles.
NHTSA complaint #11680111 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Austin, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Around April 2025, While driving at highway speeds for approximately 1hour with cruise control engaged, vehicle suddenly began to decelerate as if I had taken my foot off the throttle. Pressing the throttle had no effect on engine RPM or vehicle speed as the vehicle continued to decelerate. Tapping the brakes then pressing the throttle had no effect as vehicle continued to decelerate. I was able to negotiate across lanes of highway traffic at low speed to reach shoulder with no throttle control. After coming to a stop on the highway shoulder, pressing the throttle failed to rev the engine or move the vehicle forward in drive. After placing transmission in reverse, the vehicle did back up normally allowing me to put the car in a safer position on the shoulder. After turning off the ignition and restarting, the vehicle operated normally. I was able to complete my trip without incident. I did not engage the cruise control. A few days later, I took the vehicle to an BMW dealer service center but no error codes or malfunctions were identified. A second incident similar to the first occurred in August 2025. Again, I was able to reach the shoulder without serious incident. After turning off the ignition and restarting, the vehicle operated normally. I was able to complete my trip. I did not engage the cruise control.
NHTSA complaint #11680007 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Springfield, VA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
headlights flash due to possible faulty switch. very bad safely problem that affects other cars
NHTSA complaint #11677099 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.