BMW X3 is the hit among premium crossovers. It combines practicality, prestige, and outstanding driving qualities with convenient body size and affordable price. Technicians from the Indy Auto Man Indianapolis BMW dealer center offers an overview of the second-generation crossover in the F25 body, produced from 2010 to 2017, revealing design features and typical malfunctions.
BMW X3 design features and engine lineup
The mid-size BMW X3 of the second generation went on sale in 2010. Its platform was also used on BMW models of the younger series, while many elements received modifications. The car retained a steel body but became noticeably more spacious with the increased wheelbase. The second-generation X3 is almost equal to the first-generation BMW X5.
The front suspension is MacPherson struts. However, instead of an L-shaped lever, the X3 has a pair of rods, each with its separate ball joint.
The lineup in the USA included:
- xDrive28i. The entry-level model with an I-6 engine, producing 240 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque.
- xDrive35i. This trim can boast a twin-turbo inline-six engine producing 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.
- xDrive30i. This modification has a 3.0-liter inline six with 260 hp. It came with a six-speed manual transmission, but it was not in demand in the USA, as a six-speed automatic with Steptronic manual shift mode was available at no extra cost.
The restyled X3 appeared in 2014. The crossover was refreshed thanks to new headlights, a radiator grille, bumpers, and side mirrors. The interior also received minor updates.
BMW X3 body and interior
The X3 is made of high-quality galvanized metal. Plastic overlays cover potentially problematic areas. The hood, rear doors, and roof edge most often require repainting due to chips.
The condition of the bottom and hidden cavities usually does not cause concern: the X3 has good quality anti-corrosion. And everything is covered with aerodynamic screens and mudguards. However, this does not cancel out a thorough inspection upon purchase.
There are no typical problems with the X3 body equipment. The degree of optics and windshield wear mainly depends on the driving style. Among possible issues is a leak in the upper brake light. Because of this, water can get into the trunk and inside the door.
The X3’s interior is well assembled. There are many trim options, but they all have decent wear resistance. With good care, the first signs of wear on the leather and controls appear only closer to 120,000 miles.
Some owners complain about the door tightness violation. This threatens moisture to get inside and damage the electrics. In general, the X3’s electrics create few problems. System restart solves most of them.
Transmission
If you don’t buy the rare but reliable manual transmission, the 8-speed automatic ZF 8HP has no alternatives. There are few complaints about this gearbox, despite the abundance of aluminum parts, short-lived bushings, and seals. It also requires strictly scheduled oil changes. With careful operation, you can count on a resource of about 180,000 miles.
Typical problems of the all-wheel drive xDrive transmissions are rapid wear of the splines of the front cardan and a transfer case that is weak to heavy loads. It is recommended to change the oil here at least every 35,000 miles.
Chassis
The second-generation X3 has a strong suspension. You can find a crossover with a mileage of 90,000 miles, which has retained most of the original chassis parts. In the front suspension, the stabilizer struts, silent blocks of the rear arms, and strut support most often require replacement. The most vulnerable element of the rear suspension is the “floating” silent blocks of the transverse arms, which do not withstand impacts and driving on bad roads. Quite often there are knocks on the steering rack. On average, they should be expected closer to a mileage of 90,000.
Summing up
- The second generation X3 can be scolded mainly for small things. It has a strong body, a well-assembled interior with trouble-free electrics, a durable suspension, and a successful automatic transmission. Among the engines, there are powerful options.
- It is best to choose a more recent restyled crossover, many of them can be compared side by side at IAM car lot, Indianapolis.
- The price of a restyled second-generation BMW X3 can vary from $4,549 to $18,998 depending on its condition, mileage, and options.
