Overall rating (best variant)
Safety ratings
2021 BMW X3 SUV AWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
2021 BMW X3 SUV RWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
Crash test videos & photos
No public crash-test footage is available for this vehicle.
Recalls (11)
⚠ Park outside — urgent recall
NHTSA has flagged a recall on this vehicle as severe (fire risk — park away from structures). Contact a dealer immediately; recall repairs are free.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAYCampaign 25V636000 · 23/09/2025Park outside
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 BMW 330i, 2019-2022 BMW Z4, 2020-2022 BMW 530i, X3, X4, Toyota Supra, 2021-2022 BMW 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 BMW 230i vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
Risk: A short circuit in the starter relay may increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 6, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov November 14, 2025.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERACampaign 20V598000 · 30/09/2020
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X3 sDrive 30i, X3 xDrive 30i, X3M 40i, X3 xDrive 30e, X4 xDrive 30i, X4M 40i, 530i, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 550e, 550e xDrive, and 550e iPerformance vehicles. A small portion of the rearview image may be slightly obscured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, program the rearview camera with updated software. The recall began November 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERYCampaign 20V601000 · 30/09/2020
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 530e iPerformance and X3 xDrive30e and MINI Cooper Countryman All4 SE, 2020 BMW i8, and 2021 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le xDrive and X5 xDrive45e vehicles. Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production.
Risk: The debris could result in a short-circuit, increasing the risk of fire or injury.
Fix: BMW will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery module free of charge. The remedy is currently being developed. Until the remedy is completed, drivers are instructed to not charge their vehicles. Drivers are instructed to not drive in manual mode, sport mode, and to not use the shift paddles. Owners were notified of the safety risk October 23, 2020. The recall began November 24, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLYCampaign 26V056000 · 30/01/2026
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Toyota Supra, 2022-2023 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2024 5 Series (xDrive), 2021-2022 Z4, 2022-2024 4 Series (Gran Coupe), 2021-2024 4 Series (Convertible and xDrive Convertible), 2021-2023 4 Series (Coupe), 2021-2024 3 Series, 2021-2023 X4, 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
Risk: Fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 21, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 24, 2026.
- SEATSCampaign 23V211000 · 29/03/2023
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, 2020-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, 2021 X3 xDrive30e, X4 xDrive30i, and X4M vehicles. The seat frame may not have been welded properly to the seat rails.
Risk: An improperly welded seat frame may not properly restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the seat frame and back rest, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLYCampaign 21V199000 · 24/03/2021
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, and X4, and 2021 X4 xDrive30i vehicles. The inlet check valve weld may fail, allowing the filling pipe to separate from the fuel tank.
Risk: Fuel may leak through the failed weld, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin May 17, 2021. Owners were also contacted by telephone. To date, all repairs have been done. No further owner notification letters will be sent. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERACampaign 21V096000 · 19/02/2021
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the missing or reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERYCampaign 20V490000 · 18/08/2020
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 330e and X5 xDrive45e, 2020-2021 X3 xDrive30e, and 2020 MINI Countryman SE ALL4 vehicles. Loose welding beads may form a conductive path between the hybrid battery cells which could lead to a short-circuit.
Risk: A short-circuited hybrid battery may increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery modules, free of charge. BMW issued owners an interim notification on October 16, 2020. Although potentially affected BMW owners received interim owner notification letters, all potentially affected BMW owner vehicles have been remedied; therefore, BMW Final owner notification letters will not be necessary. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- STRUCTURECampaign 24V534000 · 17/07/2024
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.
Fix: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- STRUCTURECampaign 24V764000 · 15/10/2024
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.
Fix: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously remedied for this issue under recall number 24V-534 and will need to have the new repair completed.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLYCampaign 26V438000 · 08/07/2026
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Supra, 2022-2025 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2023 5 Series, 2022-2026 Z4, 2023-2024 4 Series Gran Coupe, 4 Series Convertible, 4 Series Coupe, 3 Series, 2021-2025 X4, and 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
Risk: Fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on August 28, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning August 28, 2026. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall 26V056.
Owner complaints
Most-reported areas
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM30
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER23
- ENGINE22
- STRUCTURE11
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL8
- SERVICE BRAKES6
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING5
- POWER TRAIN5
Read individual complaints (50 most recent)
These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.
- 12/30/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Upon starting the vehicle, the electronic dashboard comes on, declares “Reduced Driver Assistance” then about 15 seconds later, the entire dashboard goes dark and won’t come back on until the car has been shut down for several minutes. This sequence of events happens 95% of the time that I start the car. Upon restart, the dashboard will stay on about 40% of the time, the other 60% it shuts off again. While I can still see my speed in the heads up display, I have no idea how much gas I have, I can’t get any information from the dahsboard and I can’t use the cruise control. I’ve read about other owners of the 2021 BMW X3 M40i having this same issue however the dealership seems to have no idea and wants me to spend $1,000 in diagnostics to see if they can find the problem….then I would have to pay to have it fixed as well. This seems like a pretty big safety issue.
- 12/30/2024· WHEELS
Vehicle is not alerting driver that flat tire has occurred. Especially problematic as vehicle has run flats. Pressure sensors are working correctly, and accurately reporting PSI and temperature. Software automatically "resets" tire pressure based off of tire size and set speed, this is not something that a user can control. In other words, I can't "reset" the sensors when the tire has 10 PSI, so that it will think that that is normal. Asked if others have seen similar issues in a forum: [XXX] Right away someone else has had newer car to dealer multiple times with the same issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 12/20/2025· STRUCTURE
The sunroof glass spontaneously shattered while the vehicle was in motion. There were no weather events, debris, or damage to the sunroof prior to the incident. The panoramic moonroof behind the sunroof remained intact.
- 12/17/2023· VISIBILITY/WIPER
Driving at highway speeds, the front sun roof exploded into the vehicle. 2nd time this has happened. Previous time was 03/2022.
- 12/17/2020· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
BRIGHTNESS ADJUSTMENT FOR CONTROL DISPLAY SCREEN (BACKUP CAMERA, NAVIGATION,MESSAGES ETC) HAS BEEN ELIMINATED FROM MENU. DRIVER HAS NO WAY TO ADJUST DAYTIME BRIGHTNESS ANYMORE. BMW REPLACED IT WITH A INTERIOR BRIGHTNESS SENSOR IN THE UPPER LEFT CORNER OF THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ABOVE THE GAS GAUGE. THE DANGER INCURS BECAUSE THE SCREEN KEEPS CHANGING BRIGHTNESS IN THE DAYTIME BASED UPON LIGHT ENTERING THE AUTO AND HITTING THE LIGHT SENSOR. THIS HAPPENS COMING OUT OF A GARAGE, TREE LINED STREET, CLOUDY DAY ETC. THE DANGER IS THAT YOU CANNOT OBSERVE THINGS CLEARLY USING THE BACK-UP CAMERA, AND USING NAVIGATION DURING THE DAYTIME YOU CANNOT MAKE OUT DIRECTIONS, ROADS, HIGHWAYS ETC BECAUSE THE SCREEN TURNS A DULL WHITE OR ALMOST GRAY AT TIMES. THIS FORCES YOU TO STAR AT THE SCREEN OR GET CLOSER OR ASK YOUR PASSENGER TO READ THE SCREEN. THE BRIGHT WHITE LETTERS AND NUMBERS GOES DULL AND UNREADABLE. DEALERS AND SERVICE MANAGERS HAVE ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE BUT NO SOLUTION. FORUMS IN EUROPE ALSO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS PROBLEM THAT BMW IS AWARE OF WITH NO INTENT ON CORRECTING. IT WAS ALSO A PROBLEM ON MY 2019 BMW 530 BUT I HAD THE CAR CODED TO PUT THE DAYTIME ADJUSTMENT BACK ON THE MENU FOR DRIVER ADJUSTMENT. COMPLAINTS ON THE INTERNET ALSO FOR 2020 BMW X5 AND NO ONE HAS A RESOLUTION. I GLUED A SMALL LED TO MY DASH THAT WILL FOOL THE SENSOR AND BRIGHTEN MY SCREEN BUT IT IS NOT PRACTICAL TO LEAVE THIS LIGHT ON AT ALL TIMES. BMW NORTH AMERICA ACKNOWLEDGES MY ISSUE ALSO WITH NO SOLUTION. DEALERS HAVE VERIFIED THIS WITH OTHER NEW CARS ON THEIR LOTS BUT ALSO WITH NO SOLUTION. SOMETIMES THEY BLAME TINT TO APPEASE YOU BUT NONE OF MY CARS OR OWNER COMPLAINTS HAD ANY TINT ON THEIR WINDOWS OR POLARIZED GLASSES.
- 12/16/2020· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
MY CAR'S SPEEDOMETER ONLY DISPLAYS SPEED IN 10 MILES INCREMENTS, WHICH MAKES IT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO KNOW EXACT CURRENT SPEED OF THE CAR. FOR EXAMPLE WHEN SPEED IS BETWEEN 50 AND 60 I CAN ONLY GUESS WHAT MY ACTUAL SPEED IS, 52 OR 58. BMW FOR SOME STRANGE REASON SELLS AN OPTIONAL PACKAGE WHICH ENABLES ACCURATE DIGITAL SPEEDOMETER, AND I THINK ACCURATE SPEEDOMETER MUST BE STANDARD. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE.
- 12/12/2025· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The headlights will turn on and off irregularly without any drastic changes in outside lighting conditions while set in the Auto setting. No controls will be touched and the lights will turn on and off completely by themselves. It appears something is wrong with the lights switch assembly, as if something is shorting / wire is pinched. Other owners online forums have experienced similar issues as well. Can become a serious problem if it occurs while driving, especially in dark conditions.
- 12/12/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. There was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the engine. After several minutes, the vehicle was able to be started. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and an unknown message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with starter failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V636000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000.
- 12/09/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While stopped in traffic the automatic start-stop system engaged. When traffic began moving again the vehicle failed to restart and automatically shifted to park. I was unable to shift into neutral to move off of the road. The "Engine cannot be started" control message appeared. After several attempts to manual start the vehicle it started.
- 12/09/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V534000 (STRUCTURE) and 25V636000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were 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.
- 12/08/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V636000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted several times. The contact was concerned that the vehicle could catch on fire at any time. 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 the recall repair was not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- 12/05/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
The malfunction involves the collision warning system and sudden braking functionality. The dealership inspection identified a problem with the KAFAS (camera) unit, specifically its housing being deformed from heat, which affected the functionality of the collision sensor and caused the system to malfunction intermittently. The component is still installed in the vehicle and available for inspection if required. The system triggered sudden braking without an actual threat, creating a serious risk of being rear-ended by vehicles behind me. This issue has occurred twice in the last month, with no warning or actual collision risk present. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the problem was confirmed by the dealership. Their inspection found that the KAFAS camera housing is deformed due to heat exposure, causing malfunction warnings and erroneous braking behavior. They stated this is not a covered warranty issue. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The dealership performed an inspection and provided an inspection report, but no other entities (e.g., manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives) have inspected the component or vehicle. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes, the malfunction indicator light for the collision sensor appeared intermittently. The dealership’s report attributes this to the deformation of the KAFAS camera housing due to heat exposure.
- 12/02/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact leased a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V601000 (Electrical System) however, the dealer informed the contact that the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- 12/01/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V636000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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.
- 11/20/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sirrus XM Advertising pops up in the middle of the speedometer and stays there. Blocks vision of speedometer. Big Blue square comes on at night distracting driver. Several internet posts and complaints advise that it comes on blocking the rear camera vision. Contacted Sirrus they say they cant do anything about it, it is built into the car. Contacted BMW and their "Genius" squad they don't know how to get rid of it. I see postings of other car brands having the same complaint. Consumers don't spend $70.000.00 for a vehicle to be solicited for a service that they don't want. Besides the safety factor. This is an invasion of privacy and none requested solicitation. Please look into this.
- 11/15/2021· STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact stated that the tailgate would fall on the contact without warning upon use. On one occasion, the tailgate had fallen on her left arm and the contact had to wrestle her arm out of the vehicle as the tailgate sensor failed to recognize her arm. Once her arm was released, the tailgate locked her purse inside the vehicle. The contact did not suffer any injuries. The contact called the dealer and arrangements were made to drop her off at home and to take her back to the vehicle once a spare key was made. The contact also stated that the car alarm would independently activate without warning while being driven and while stationary. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
- 11/14/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
During rain this evening, water intruded from sunroof area. Learned this is extremely common problem alleged to be due to shrinking sunroof seals. This dripping water can potentially cause loss of control of the vehicle due to falling water intrusion causing foot controls to become wet. In addition, electrical malfunctions may occur possibly causing fire or other problems. I am also including a stranger’s video of his car at BMW dealer with tech explaining this is a very common problem, obtained from Facebook.
- 11/14/2024· STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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.
- 11/12/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
The functioning of this feature has never worked. We have had a number of near misses in parking lots when exiting a parking space.
- 11/09/2023· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Driving on a highway with occasional traffic lights, my 2021 X3 Plugin hybrid's sunroof's from glass cracked with a loud bang. I had it closed and the sun shade part also was closed. The loud bank also felt like an impact on my head and I felt in a bit of a shock like the time I was hit from behind with a shock and having to think. I first though it was a tire and slowed down to safely exit into a business parking lot to asses the situation. After checking the tires I noticed something on the roof. The glass was cracked and deformed in an upward direction. It was still pushing upward and a 4-6 inch section fell off and onto the top of the sun shade part. In safety, the loud shock caused a brief distraction on a highway going at least 50 MPH. Also if the sun shade was open some of the glass could have fallen on me. I searched online and found previous complaints about 'exploding sunroofs': https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2018/bmw-exploding-sunroof-lawsuit.shtml. I did not see anything coming toward the car or notice other cars possibly slowing down or getting hit by something that would have hit my sunroof and bounced around in the traffic. I mobile detailer helped clean up the glass so I can drive on and able to take it to the dealer.
- 11/07/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Unknown . The safety recall is extremely dangerous and I drive my child around. This is unacceptable and very unavoidable by providing a remedy or give me a new car. This is not my fault and my life and my family’s lives are in danger.
- 11/07/2024· STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure); 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 dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer had referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- 11/07/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My complaint is that the safety recall was issued nearly 3 months ago on a 2021 model, and no remedy has been provided for it. This is an unsafe situation and are wondering when they will provide a remedy?
- 11/06/2024· STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (STRUCTURE); 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- 11/04/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
One cell in the Hybrid Battery failed causing the car to go into safety mode. Battery assistance to the engine stopped and gas engine was the only source of power. Was told the car could be a fire hazard in this condition and required repairing the hybrid system.
- 11/03/2025· FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact stated that upon refueling the vehicle and attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start on several occasions. The contact stated that the vehicle was able to restart after several attempts. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, where DTC: P0172 and P0446 were retrieved. The contact related the failure to BMW TSB Number: SIB 01 02 24. An independent mechanic advised the contact to only fill the fuel tank to half full. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
- 11/01/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
In June 2023, I purchased a vehicle from Enterprise Car Sales. Around June 2024, I reached out to them with concerns about the vehicle. They recommended I contact either the insurance or warranty company, but neither could address my issue. I then took the vehicle to the dealership, and they agreed to inspect it. They confirmed that the windshield and rear window molding trim were aftermarket parts, which were causing streaks on the window and obstructing the driver’s view. Additionally, the brakes and tires had been replaced with non-recommended parts, though I was willing to cover the cost of replacing these two items out of pocket.
- 10/31/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My sunroof exploded while driving on the interstate. There was a very loud boom almost like a gunshot. All of the glass came crashing down into the cabin. This was an extremely dangerous situation as I was traveling on the interstate. There was no warning, no rocks or any other object hit the glass to initiate this occurrence. The vehicle will be inspected by the bmw dealer 11/1/21 and my insurance company is in the process of reviewing photos of the damage.
- 10/27/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
PARKING DISTANCE CONTROL IS FAULTY AND SOMETIMES LOCKS UP THE BRAKES IN A JARRING MANNER WHEN BACKING UP EVEN WHEN THERE IS NOTHING BEHIND THE CAR, CLOSE TO THE CAR OR IN THE ADJACENT PARKING SPACES. BMW EVEN SAYS TO TURN OFF PDC WHEN USING PARKING ASSISTANT PLUS. MANUAL SAYS CAR CAN STILL HIT CURB USING PDC. 3 TIMES ALREADY
- 10/18/2023· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving approximately 3 MPH, and slowing to park the vehicle, the vehicle independently accelerated. The contact stated the brake pedal was depressed. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 28,307.
- 10/09/2022· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On 10/7/22 my wife started her 2021 BMW X3 and the instrument panel did not appear. She drove the vehicle to the local BMW dealership. After being told that the reported problem had not been previously reported by any other X3 owner, the dealer tested the vehicle. A scan returned a fault code, B7F8F9 HU-H. A software reset was performed and a test plan was conducted. Test plan directed technician to program vehicle due to unfavorable software. Vehicle was programmed to the latest integration level. Vehicle was test driven to confirm the repair.
- 10/08/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This complaint is not due/regarding an accident. It is a complaint about the response time to remedy a recall which has been months long now. In July 2024, BMW recalled 291,112 X3 models from 2018 to 2023 due to a risk of the interior cargo rail detaching in a crash. The attachment bolts for the rail could become damaged, increasing the risk of injury to passengers. What is taking so long to get this fixed? Seems the remedy is to simply replace bolts. I am unable to use this car while it has a safety recall outstanding. Please expedite this fix, it has been several months and in the meantime this car sits being unproductive.
- 10/07/2024· STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure); 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 had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- 10/04/2021· EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
On many cars including mine, and a family members 2021 8 series, BMW uses a light sensor on the instrument cluster to set the daytime dimming of the digital cluster and backup cameras. However, Florida-legal window tint confuses the system, and causes the screens to dim in a way that cannot be overridden or adjusted. There is a setting for screen brightness, however it is only active for night. This has caused difficulties reading the instrument display repeatedly. This is includes: collision warnings, back up camera, vehicle speed, and safety warnings. Here is a video showing the effect on someone else's car. Mine is worse, and driver said that that is gets worse depending on circumstances. https://streamable.com/n4tjp4
- 09/28/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
The high voltage battery recall has been open for 1 year, which any reasonable person would agree is far in excess of a reasonable amount of time as the issue is one that could lead to a fire / death.
- 09/27/2023· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sun roof glass shattered while driving
- 09/18/2024· SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle has consistently presented with a loud screeching noise from the brakes. When emergency braking needed, there are incidents of a slipping feel to the brakes where they do not seem as through they are applying properly. The slipping feel and noise of the brakes increases during wet/snowy weather. The noise is not a safety concern as much as the slipping feel of the brakes is significantly concerning. When emergency braking is applied, any slipping is putting my safety and the safety of passengers in my vehicle/surrounding vehicles is at high risk. Multiple service appointments surrounding this persistent problem have resulted in dismissive responses from BMW. The service center has inspected the brakes, acknowledged the loud consistent screeching noise, but BMW states the brakes are normal and the noise is expected because they are "sport brakes". BMW now recommends replacing rotors but insists it is only due to the "noise complaint". The vehicle is only serviced at a BMW dealer/service center and has been inspected by BMW. There are no warning lamps or messages related to the problem. The problem was existing when I first purchased the vehicle in 2022, was acknowledged by BMW, and has been persistently reported at every service appointment as not subsiding and in fact increasing in volume. I believe there is a manufacturing problem with the BMW x3 SAV model that impacts the braking system (brake pads and rotors), causing slipping when emergency braking is engaged and causing excessive noise from front and rear brakes.
- 09/18/2024· STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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.
- 09/03/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2021 BMW X3- RECALL 24V534---INTERIOR REAR CARGO RAILS--We have contacted BMW dealer several times and no remedy as of (9.3.24) The cargo rails and the vehicle body could separate from the vehicle body. The bolts are what need to be changed out and the dealer says they have no REMEDY. We want to make sure that we are safe. Please HELP! Thank you for your attention to this very time sensitive issue.
- 08/30/2023· STEERING
Both front end tie-rods had to be replaced at 28000 miles. They were making a loud popping noise when steering the vehicle on uneven pavement. The bushings on the tie-rods were worn out and could have failed at any time, resulting in a complete loss of steering control. The vehicle has not been in any accidents or received any damage to wheels and/or tires from hitting any curbs or potholes. In my opinion, this is a dangerous condition which warrants additional investigation. The repair / replacement was performed at the auto dealership where the vehicle was purchased new in April 2021.
- 08/23/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am attempting to file a complain due to the manufacture of my car, not addressing the recall. The recall was initiated on July 17, 2024, and it has now been more than 30 Days. I use my car and also had it on a rental platform to help me with my monthly payments. Now it has been removed from the platform due to it being unsafe to drive on the road and it is also unsafe for me to drive it on the road. I am hoping that through this complaint I can get a resolution.
- 08/21/2024· STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V534000 (Structure); 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.
- 08/13/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X3. The contact stated that while reversing, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had decelerated and was jerking abnormally. There was an abnormal flickering sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who retrieved codes related to computer failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
- 08/11/2023· SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
I was driving down the street from my home and I slowed down turned right and my car was out of control I steered to the curb. I got out and saw that the tire had blown-up and a large piece of the tire which was cut in half was on the ground. I couldn’t drive the car I called a tow truck driver who was there within 30 min he towed my car to BMW. It hasn’t been fully inspected I am waiting for USAA to inspect with Spectrum collision. Several people from the collision company have said it may be a tire failure.
- 07/29/2021· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The car has part analogue part digital display, the MPH is displayed only via the analogue dial in 10 MPH increments. It's difficult to maintain speeds at 25 / 35 /45 /65 mph. The functionality exists to enable the digital speedometer but BMW refuses to code it on. Rather the company directs you to after market coders to enable the functionality. Alternatively you needed to opt to the $1000 optional fully digital display but this was not made clear at the sales process. BMW has a solution for the 2019 / 2020 X3 under SIB 62 07 19 but refuses to acknowledge this at service centers.
- 07/28/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The windshield on my BMW X3 has cracked 3 times and required replacement each time, in the past 3 years. I have owned it 4-1/2 years and driven it less than 35,000 miles. I have only had 3 other cracked windshields in the 58 years I have been driving so I am suspicious about the quality of the BMW glass.
- 07/26/2023· POWER TRAIN
Severe clunk while in reverse probably coming from rear differential
- 07/22/2026· FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am writing to report a known safety-related defect on my 2021 BMW X3, VIN [XXX]. 1 The vehicle was diagnosed at BMW of Manhasset, an authorized BMW dealer, with a coolant leak originating from the heat management module and oil filter housing. This is not ordinary wear and tear. BMW's own service bulletin SIB 11 10 25 identifies this failure mode as a known issue affecting B46/B48/B58-equipped vehicles, which includes my X3. 3 4 5 The same defect is also the subject of an active U.S. class action, XXX. v. BMW of North America, LLC (D.N.J.), covering the same engine families. This defect presents a genuine safety risk, not merely a cost issue. The oil filter housing's internal wall structures, which separate the oil and coolant passages, are prone to failing or warping, and the gaskets sealing those passages are prone to premature failure. When this occurs, coolant can leak into the oil sump or drain externally, which can cause sudden engine overheating and/or engine failure, sometimes within minutes of the leak developing. If oil escapes and contacts the hot exhaust, it can also create a fire risk. A vehicle experiencing this failure is not safe to continue driving, and the risk of sudden, catastrophic engine damage or fire warrants a recall rather than leaving affected owners to discover and pay for this known defect on their own. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 07/11/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
I was at a stop light and when the light changed I stepped on the gas. The car suddenly turned completely off. I had no steering, no braking no ability to turn the hazard lights on. I was in the middle of the street with traffic behind me and my child was in the back seat with me. The car completely died. There were no warning signs at all Cars started to go around me and I exited the car with my child to avoid getting hit because I could not put my hazard lights. I called my husband and after about 10 minutes I could see the headlights were on. My husband gave me his care and he took my car home but he said the car was acting weird and kept shutting off while on the way back home. then it shut off completely again in our driveway and we cannot close the doors. We are waiting for BMW to pick up the car tomorrow.
- 07/10/2026· ENGINE
There is an open safety recall for the engine starter on this vehicle. I contacted the local BMW dealer on 7/10/26 to have the recall fixed they advised me that they cannot address the recall because BMW North America has not sent the parts out for them to do so. I would like this on record in case there is any future damage to my vehicle due to the recall.