2012 BMW X3

2 recalls, 67 complaints - 532 TSBs

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Defect Description

BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2013 BMW X3 xDrive28i, X3 xDrive35i, and M6 Convertible vehicles and 2013 M6 Coupe vehicles. The affected vehicles have a driver's frontal air bag inflator that may have been improperly welded.

Consequence

In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator housing could separate from the base plate and result in metal striking the vehicle occupants, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's front air bag module, free of charge. The recall began October 6, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

6,785 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC

CHILD SEAT:LATCH STRAP

Defect Description

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... Read more

Consequence

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.

188,668 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC

Complaint Statistics

67 total complaints 7 crashes 1 fires 1 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
AIR BAGS	10
ENGINE	8
STEERING	7
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	6
POWER TRAIN	5
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	5
SERVICE BRAKES	4
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION	4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	3
SEATS	3

Incident date: Dec 9, 2025

Fue remolcado barrías veces , no arrancaba , se apagaba totalmente , multiples reparaciones , recall sin resolver , pérdida de uso y de confianza

Incident date: Dec 1, 2021

Seems struts, shocks, cadallytic converter are bad

Incident date: May 1, 2024

Unknown

Incident date: May 1, 2024

Driving on Highway at approximately 65 Miles Per Hour using the Adaptive Cruise Control. Car in front of us took a right hand exit. My 2021 Honda Accord activated the Braking System and applied the brakes, so I stepped on the accelerator thinking it would override the braking system. It had no effe... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2024

Incident date: Jan 9, 2021

The contact owns a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. The contact stated that there was water leaking from all four grab handles above the front and rear driver's and passenger's side seats. Upon inspection, the contact noticed water stains around the sunroof and headliner. The vehicle was not diagnosed or ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 27, 2023

This vehicle is programmed to shut off, if the driver leaves the vehicle with the key fob, after 15 minutes. This is very dangerous. I left my pet in the car, in the Florida sun, with the air conditioner running, while I stepped into a store briefly. When I got back to the car, I was surprised to... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2022

The Kia lacks engine immobilizers. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard states that vehicles must be equipped with a starting system that prevents the activation of the engine and either steering, forward mobility, or both, whenever a car's key is removed. The purpose of the law is to decrea... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2022

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 equipped with Continental Tires, Tire Line: Sport Contact, Tire Size: 255/40/ZR21, DOT Number: AFHDD76M. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at approximately 30 MPH and at low speeds on wet pavement, the vehicle started to shake, and... Read more

Incident date: Jun 6, 2022

The contact owns a 2012 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking and hesitating during acceleration. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V176000... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2018

I am reporting a common issue I’ve seen a lot of BMWs have with the seat occupancy sensor. I just wanted to report this to see if it could be a potential recall, since it is a safety concern.

Incident date: Mar 1, 2021

OC3 mat in passenger seat malfunctions and disables passenger-side airbag. BMW is aware of this problem with OC3 sensors affecting different models. See, e.g., https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RCRIT-17V428-3205.pdf pertaining to various E Series vehicles that have the same part. BMWNA clai... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2021

Incident date: Feb 4, 2019

As I drive and stop, my brakes stick, when I try to accelerate it struggles to go. On the highway it began slowing me down. I was scared it was going to get me rear ended because my brake lights do not come on when this happens. I brought it to my garage and they diagnosed it to be the DSC pump. The... Read more

Incident date: Dec 18, 2020

MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY, AND THE POWER STEERING FAILED CAUSING A LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. LUCKILY SHE WAS NOT INJURED AND THE VEHICLE DRIFTED TO THE RIGHT HAND LANE AND OFF ONTO THE SHOULDER. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT HOME, THE ELECTRONIC STEERING UNIT LATER RESET ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 BMW X3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG AND CHASSIS WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED ABOUT AN AIR BAG REPLACEMENT AND WAS PROVIDED A PRINT OUT OF RECALLS. THE LOCAL DEALER... Read more

Incident date: Aug 18, 2020

ENGINE FAILURE AT 70155 MILES. CONNECTING ROD BEARING IS SPUN.

Incident date: Mar 4, 2020

SITUATION WHEN STARTING A COLD ENGINE, A 'PLUME OF BLUE SMOKE' CAN BE SEEN EMITTING FROM THE EXHAUST TAILPIPE FOR APPROXIMATELY 10-20 SECONDS. THERE IS NO ENGINE MALFUNCTION LIGHT ILLUMINATED (NO' TURBOCHARGER BOOST FAULTS ARE STORED) AND NO DRIVABILITY ISSUES ARE DETECTED. CAUSE WHEN THE VEHI... Read more

Incident date: Jun 10, 2020

RESTRAINT SYSTEM INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION. GETTING MALFUNCTION NOTIFICATION AFTER VEHICLE START MOVING AND SOMETIMES WHEN IT'S STATIONARY. SOME TIME MESSAGE ON DISPLAY SAYS 'PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM' AND SOMETIMES ADDITIONALLY TO PASSENGER, 'DRIVER RESTRAINT SYSTEM' COMES UP. WHEN CHECK WITH DEA... Read more

Incident date: May 17, 2020

MY FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG SEAT OCCUPANCY SENSOR MAT WILL INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION. AT TIMES, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG WILL TURN OFF, EVEN WITH A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, DURING AND ACCIDENT, WITH DEACTIVATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG THERE IS INCREASED THE RISK OF INJU... Read more

Incident date: May 17, 2020

Incident date: Dec 25, 2017

2012 X3 F25 ENGINE - VEHICLE RUNS OUT OF FUEL WHEN GAS GAUGE IS BETWEEN 1/2 AND 3/4. FURTHER INVESTIGATION SHOWS OBC TEST OF LEFT TANK SENSOR WITH A STATIC READING @97 OHMS AND 42.2 L OF FUEL (AKA "TANK = FULL") WHEN IN FACT THE LEFT SIDE TANK IS COMPLETELY VOID OF FUEL. THIS SITUATION IS UNSAFE... Read more

Incident date: Dec 4, 2019

DECEMBER 4TH AT APPROXIMATELY 6:45 AM, TEMP IN THE 30'S, CLEAR DAY. I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING AT 65-70 MPH, NO CARS IN FRONT OF ME OR BEHIND AND I HEAR A LOUD EXPLOSION SOUNDING LIKE A GUNSHOT. I DO NOT SEE ANY DEBRIS IN THE ROAD. I DID NOT PASS UNDER ANY BRIDGES. I EXIT HIGHWAY AS... Read more

Incident date: Aug 9, 2019

THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY LOSES POWER AND STOPS.THE ENGINE DOES NOT STOP. THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT MY VIN NUMBER WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VARIABLE CAMSHAFT TIMING ADJUSTMENT LOOSEN AND THE BOLTS MAY BREAK. THE DEALER LISTED 5 THINGS THAT NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED AT A COST OF $4000. ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2019

I AM RECEIVING A "PASSENGER RESTRAINT MALFUNCTION" WARNING. THIS MEANS THAT IF I HAVE ANY PASSENGERS IN MY CAR AND AN ACCIDENT OCCUR THE AIR BAG WILL NOT DEPLOY ON THAT SIDE. THIS IS A VERY UNSAFE SITUATION THAT SHOULD BE COVERED BY BMW 10 YEAR WARRANTY.

Incident date: Apr 1, 2019

Incident date: Dec 1, 2016

PASSENGER SEAT OCCUPANCY SENSOR MAT IS DEFECTIVE. CAR CANNOT PROPERLY TELL IF THE SEAT IS OCCUPIED. UNKNOWN IF AIRBAGS WOULD PROPERLY DEPLOY IN A CRASH. SENSOR IS INTERMITTENT AND DEPLOYS WHILE DRIVING OR STATIONARY, MOST TYPICALLY WHEN NO-ONE IN PASSENGER SEAT.

Incident date: Dec 1, 2016

Incident date: Mar 2, 2018

PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION MESSAGE DUE TO BAD SEAT PAD SENSOR WHICH TURNED OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG INCASE OF AN ACCIDENT.

Incident date: Mar 2, 2018

PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION MESSAGE DUE TO BAD SEAT PAD SENSOR WHICH TURNED OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG INCASE OF AN ACCIDENT.

Incident date: Mar 2, 2018

PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION MESSAGE DUE TO BAD SEAT PAD SENSOR WHICH TURNED OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG INCASE OF AN ACCIDENT.

Incident date: Mar 2, 2018

PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION MESSAGE DUE TO BAD SEAT PAD SENSOR WHICH TURNED OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG INCASE OF AN ACCIDENT.

Incident date: Jul 4, 2018

STEERING IS STICKY AND DIFFICULT TO CONTROL WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT ON THE HIGHWAY IN WARMER WEATHER.

Incident date: Mar 12, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 BMW X3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BOLT HOUSING FOR THE CAM SHAFT DETACHED AND NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED.... Read more

Incident date: Mar 12, 2018

Incident date: Feb 8, 2018

I WAS HAVE ISSUES WITH THE VEHICLE HESITATING AND JERKING, AND GENERALLY NOT OPERATING AS EXPECTED. I TOOK IT IN TO BE CHECKED AS I WAS CONCERNED FOR OPERATING IT SAFELY. THE DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT IT REQUIRES A SOFTWARE PATCH, AS THEIR IS A CODE ERROR, BUT THEY WILL ONLY FIX IT IF I PAY FOR THE... Read more

Incident date: Feb 8, 2018

Incident date: May 1, 2017

JUST CAME ACROSS THIS ARTICLE! I THINK I KNOW WHY THEY R BURSTING INTO FLAMES! I DRIVE A BMW 2012 X3. SEVERAL MONTHS AGO I WAS PREPARING TO LEAVE FOR WORK & MY CAR WAS PARKED IN MY GARAGE. I OPENED THE PASSENGER DOOR TO PUT MY PURSE & LUNCH TOTE ON SEAT & THERE WAS WHITE SMOKE SWIRLING FROM MY... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2017

Incident date: Nov 9, 2017

TAKATA RECALL: I RECENTLY BOUGHT MY USED CAR FROM A NISSAN DEALERSHIP. WITHIN THE FIRST MONTH OF OPERATION, I NOTICED THAT A "PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION" WOULD APPEAR IN THE CENTER CONSOLE. IT HAS NOT GONE AWAY SINCE THEN. IT WILL ONLY DISPLAY THIS MESSAGE IN THE BEGINNING WHEN I TURN ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 9, 2017

Incident date: Nov 8, 2017

SPONTANEOUS ENGINE FIRE WHILE PARKED ON A CITY STREET. COOLANT PUMP REPLACED THE MORNING OF NOV 8TH 2017. ONE HOUR AFTER PICKING UP THE VEHICLE FROM THE DEALER AND A FEW SHORT TRIPS, VEHICLE WAS PARKED, SHUT OFF AND LOCKED. IT DROVE NORMALLY AND THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS. 15-20 MIN LATER ENGINE ... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Feb 15, 2017

ENGINE FAILURE AT 55K MILES WHEN THE CAR WAS LESS THAN YEARS OLD.

Incident date: Apr 1, 2017

WHEN STARTING THE CAR, THE BRAKE PEDAL DOES NOT DEPRESS A SHORT DISTANCE BEFORE RESISTANCE AS IT DID PREVIOUSLY. NOW, I HAVE TO PUSH VERY HARD TO GET IT TO DEPRESS ANY DISTANCE SO THAT I CAN START THE CAR. THIS USUALLY DOES NOT OCCUR WHEN THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IS BELOW 50 DEGREES OR THE CAR HAS ... Read more

Showing 50 of 67 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2012 BMW X3

532 manufacturer communications from 253 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	83
350000 EQUIPMENT	61
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	49
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL	23
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	22
353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)	21
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	21
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	19

160000 STRUCTURE

While driving the vehicle on normal roads at10mph and above, a "cracking" sound from the top of the B-pillar(s) is heard.

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on ho

220000 SEATS

A noise can be heard from underneath the seat while the seat is being moved either forwards or backwards. This can occur to the driver??A?A?s and/or the passenger??A?A?s front seat.

160000 STRUCTURE

This situation can result in two customer complaints: 1. Wind noise 2. Excess water entry

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

This situation can result in two customer complaints: 1. Wind noise 2. Excess water entry

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

After programming the head unit (HU-H2), activating the FSC (German word Freischaltcode) Enabling Codes repeatedly fails.

350000 EQUIPMENT

The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via the Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an I

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Fuel Injectors to 10 years/120,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date.

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

According to the customer, the airbag warning light was on, but it may not be illuminated when the vehicle arrives in the workshop. 1. ACSM fault code "930A60 - Seat occupancy detection, front passenger; malfunction" is stored. The fault ma

270000 LANE DEPARTURE

220100 SEATS:BARRIERS

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

140000 AIR BAGS

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

The front sunroof glass seal has shrunk, creating a gap which can cause wind noise or excess water entry.

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Component-Specific Limited Warranty Extension. For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Radiator Grille Upper and Lower Active Air Flaps to: 15 years/150,000 miles as

160000 STRUCTURE

350000 EQUIPMENT

Component-Specific Limited Warranty Extension. For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Leak Diagnosis Module with hose assembly (NVLD, shown) to: 15 years/150,000 mil

020000 SUSPENSION

BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop (effective March 28, 2022) on certain Model Year 2022 BMW vehicles that were produced between March 1, 2022 and March 8, 2022 because the torsion struts may not have been installed at the plant. Do not de

021400 SUSPENSION:FRONT:MACPHERSON STRUT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose the SIM card must perform an IMS re

350000 EQUIPMENT

140000 AIR BAGS

A check control message for the restraint system appears. In the instrument cluster, the red air bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes is stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, d

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column. Note: Opening, closing and starting via the BMW Digital Key or the Digi

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

061700 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:CRANK/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR

Component specific limited warranty extension. For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Sensor(s) to: 10 years/120,000 miles as determined by the ve

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called N

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

346000 COMMUNICATION:MANUFACTURER TELEMATICS

The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting February 2022. The decision to phase out 3G network technology wa

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

TELEMATICS UNIT RETROFIT TO 4G CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY: The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting February 2022

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

TELEMATICS UNIT DEACTIVATION DUE TO 3G CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY DISCONTINUATION: The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provide

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT: N54/N54T/N55 ELECTRIC ENGINE COOLANT PUMP . With the court's FINAL approval, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has entered a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Oliver, et al v.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

NAVIGATION SYSTEM - REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROADMAP DATA: Do not replace parts and do not program the vehicle. Roads can change by up to 15% every year. To ensure the best navigation experience, we do everything in our power to creat

350000 EQUIPMENT

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED: The customer's vehicle does not start due to a totally discharged battery.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED: The customer's vehicle does not start due to a totally discharged battery.

200000 WHEELS

TICKING NOISE WHILE CORNERING WITHOUT THE BRAKES APPLIED: Ticking noise coming from front wheel while cornering without brakes applied, noticeable at low speeds. The vehicle must be moving.

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

TICKING NOISE WHILE CORNERING WITHOUT THE BRAKES APPLIED: Ticking noise coming from front wheel while cornering without brakes applied, noticeable at low speeds. The vehicle must be moving.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED: The customer's vehicle does not start due to a totally discharged battery.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

CONNECTEDDRIVE/BMW ASSIST SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS INFORMATION: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 7) replaces SI B84 02 14 dated May 2019. ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist features are partially or completely inoperative. This Service Informatio

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

AUTOMATED ACTIVATION OF NAVIGATION SYSTEM DURING PDI/QC1: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 2) replaces SI B65 22 14 dated October 2015. The INITIAL NAV enabling code no longer needs to be pre-ordered through the Parts department!

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAYS VARIOUS CHECK CONTROL MESSAGES INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAYS VARIOUS CHECK CONTROL MESSAGES: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 7) replaces SI B61 21 15 dated October 2018. The instrument cluster displ

140000 AIR BAGS

TAILGATE UNINTENTIONALLY OPENS: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 4) replaces SI B51 30 16 dated March 2018. Trunk/tailgate may open when vehicle is locked Trunk/tailgate may open while the vehicle is in motion usually after stopp

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

TICKING NOISE WHILE CORNERING WITHOUT THE BRAKES APPLIED: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 3) replaces SI B34 05 17 dated September 2017. Ticking noise coming from front wheel while cornering without brakes applied noticeable at

100000 POWER TRAIN

200000 WHEELS

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

050000 PARKING BRAKE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Fault Code 1D2008 Stored in DME: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 5) replaces SI B12 33 14 dated February 2016. The Service Engine Soon light is on. There may also be a complaint of low heat output with lower outside temperatures

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

SERVICE ACTION: OPTIMIZING THE WATER DRAIN. The water drain in the engine compartment's passenger side cowl near the firewall may be inadequate during exceptionally high water volumes. Water can accumulate and not drain out quickly enough.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

020000 SUSPENSION

Front Suspension Ride Height Has Dropped: The front suspension ride height has dropped on one or both sides due to overload. This is caused by driving over obstacles (e.g. potholes) or an impact severe enough for the front spring strut damp

160000 STRUCTURE

RATTLE/POPPING FROM TAILGATE AREA: There are two related but separate complaints (only one may be present at a time) during driving especially on uneven surfaces. Clicking noises or squeaking noises from the area of the tailgate. Or a poppi

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

RATTLE NOISE FROM SUNROOF AREA: There is a rattle noise present from the area of the sunroof most commonly when driving over rough road surfaces.

350000 EQUIPMENT

RATTLE NOISE FROM SUNROOF AREA: There is a rattle noise present from the area of the sunroof most commonly when driving over rough road surfaces.

350000 EQUIPMENT

SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS FOR CONNECTEDDRIVE. Security patches for non-safety critical vulnerabilities in BMW head units Entry Nav Entry Media NBT and NBT EVO.

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

Service Action: CIC - Install Navigation Road Map Database 2013. Before delivering affected vehicles to the customer, the Car Information Computer (CIC) road map database 2013 must be installed onto the CIC internal Hard Disc Drive (HDD).

072100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

N20 Engine: Ticking Noise from High-pressure Fuel Pump. The customer complains of a high-frequency ticking noise from the engine compartment. The noise can be heard inside and outside the vehicle. Mechanical vibrations inside the high-press

354000 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

"Service Action: Programming Update for Condition Based Service (CBS) Data. Due to a software error, the remaining distance to a brake service may be incorrectly displayed in the instrument cluster and/or control display. When the calculate

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

N55 Engine: Various Faults Stored in DME Related to VANOS and Camshaft Position. A rattling noise can be heard from the engine compartment; the engine has a loss of power; and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. One or more of the

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

N52T / N55 with 8HP45: Delay in Engine Response. A customer may complain of a delay in engine response after decelerating at low road speeds and then reaccelerating. This can occur when the transmission remains in a high gear due to a delay

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

DIAGNOSTIC HINT: CATALYTIC CONVERTER INSPECTION AFTER LOSS OF CRANKSHAFT SIGNAL. In certain situations when the crankshaft position signal is lost while driving the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and an engine malfunction check control me

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

N55 ENGINE: FC 28A0 OR 101F01 THROTTLE VALVE OPENING ANGLE. The engine malfunction warning is illuminated and one of the following fault codes are stored in the DME shortly after programming the vehicle or with a customer complaint.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

ENGINE VIBRATIONS OR NOISE This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B11 01 19 dated February 2019.

061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS

ENGINE VIBRATIONS OR NOISE This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B11 01 19 dated February 2019.

350000 EQUIPMENT

TELEMATICS CONTROL UNIT ACTIVATION VIA DCSNET FOR BMW ASSIST.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

INFORMATION New information provided by this revision is preceded by this symbol. This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B84 02 14 dated September 2018.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Service Information March 2018 Drivers Assistance Remote Control Systems B66 23 17 Technical Service This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B66 23 17 dated February 2018 CONTACTLESS TAILGATE (SMART OPENER) IS TOO SENSITIVE.

162500 STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B61 04 19 dated March 2019.

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B61 04 19 dated March 2019.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B61 04 19 dated March 2019.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B61 04 19 dated March 2019.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B61 04 19 dated March 2019.

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

THE VEHICLE DOES NOT START BATTERY TOTALLY DISCHARGED. The customer's vehicle does not start due to a totally discharged battery.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BLACK SPOT IN THE CENTRAL INFORMATION. This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B62 11 18 dated January 2019. Whats New: a?? Warranty section - Programming information added. A small black spot remains on the Central Information Displa

220000 SEATS

FRONT PASSENGER SEAT SPORADIC MOVEMENT. Occasional stopping of seat adjustability movement in the driver and front passenger seats when occupied.

160000 STRUCTURE

RATTLE NOISE FROM LOWER A-PILLAR. A rattle noise is present from the lower area of the A-Pillar. Due to a manufacturing error, the bolt securing the front door brake/stop to the A-Pillar may have loosened over time.

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

SUNROOF REPAIR KIT COMPONENTS. Based on feedback from technicians, it can be difficult to identify the individual components included with sunroof repair kits. In some cases complete sunroofs are replaced, when a sunroof repair kit could ha

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

RAIN/LIGHT SENSOR (RLS): OIL LEAKAGE FROM GEL PAD. ??Oil leaking from the Rain/Light Sensor (RLS). Note: This oil serves as a separation medium between the RLS mounting gel pad and the windscreen. The oil ensures damage free disassembly in

350000 EQUIPMENT

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BMW X3 - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the BMW X3 across all model years (2004, 2026).

124 Total Recalls

2,766 Total Complaints

0 Investigations

152 Reported Crashes

130 Reported Fires

1 Reported Deaths

BMW X3 - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	1	24	View
2025	8	66	View
2024	2	47	View
2023	4	12	View
2022	7	103	View
2021	10	140	View
2020	16	136	View
2019	10	227	View
2018	11	102	View
2017	6	138	View
2016	5	117	View
2015	7	158	View
2014	6	127	View
2013	7	346	View
2012 (current)	2	67
2011	4	163	View
2010	4	41	View
2009	3	23	View
2008	3	93	View
2007	3	132	View
2006	2	178	View
2005	2	144	View
2004	1	182	View

Other BMW Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
X5	223	4,349	View
330I	122	1,050	View
X6	110	293	View
328I	108	3,743	View
M3	95	550	View
325I	83	1,809	View
Z4	83	1,439	View
5 SERIES	78	557	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2012 BMW X3

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

Technical Service Bulletins, 2012 BMW X3

Most Affected Components

BMW X3 - All Years Overview

BMW X3 - Year by Year

Other BMW Models