2018 BMW X3 Complaints

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING — Filed 08/30/2026

I am reporting a serious safety-related failure involving my 2018 BMW X3. While I was driving on Highway [XXX] in [XXX] on XXX, the vehicle suddenly lost electrical power and became disabled while I was traveling in active highway traffic. The instrument cluster went completely black and the vehicle would not restart. Because the vehicle became disabled unexpectedly while I was on the freeway, I was placed in an extremely dangerous situation with a significant risk of being struck by other vehicles traveling at highway speed. The vehicle also could not properly operate the hazard warning lights after the failure, which significantly increased the danger to me and other motorists because a disabled vehicle on a busy freeway could not adequately warn approaching traffic. Law enforcement responded to the incident and attempted to jump-start the vehicle, but the vehicle still would not start. The vehicle was subsequently taken to a repair facility. The battery was replaced, after which the vehicle was able to start and operate again. I am concerned that a failure of the vehicle's electrical power/battery/charging system can cause a sudden loss of propulsion and electrical functions while the vehicle is being driven at highway speed. This creates a serious safety hazard and could result in a high-speed collision, serious injury, or death. I am requesting that NHTSA review this incident as a potential safety defect and determine whether similar incidents have been reported involving 2018 BMW X3 vehicles or related electrical, battery, charging-system, or power-loss failures. This was not simply an inconvenience or a normal maintenance issue. The failure occurred while the vehicle was being driven on a highway and created an immediate and substantial risk of a collision and serious injury. I can provide repair records, towing records, photographs, vehicle information, and other documentation related to the incident if requested. Thanks, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

STRUCTURE — Filed 08/16/2026

A rock hit the front of the moonroof glass and a minutes later the moonroof tempered glass exploded while driving.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 09/08/2026

My car suddenly lost all power when at a red light in a turn lane on an active roadway. Fortunately, it was daytime because I could not turn on hazards or lights. I couldn't open the trunk and more importantly I couldn't shift into neutral because of the power failure. A tow truck was sent but he didn't have rollers and couldn't jump start the car, so a second tow was called. We ended up there with the car in the road blocking traffic for 3 hours. If it was night, someone could have hit my car. The car was towed to BMW and diagnosed with a faulty alternator, internal failure of the main battery and failure of the second battery. The technician said the battery failures were due to the alternator. I just had the car in for maintenance (at BMW) 3 weeks prior and no indicator lights ever came on. There are clear safety issues being stuck on an active roadway with no hazard lights for 3 hours because the car couldn't be shifted out of neutral to move to safety or for routine tow. The police came to try to help me and to stay with the car because it was a highway danger, but no police report was filed.

ENGINE — Filed 01/31/2026

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.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE — Filed 08/01/2023

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.

ENGINE — Filed 02/21/2026

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.

ENGINE — Filed 01/01/2026

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.

ENGINE — Filed 01/06/2026

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.

ENGINE — Filed 02/03/2026

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.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING — Filed 12/31/2025

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.

AIR BAGS — Filed 12/23/2025

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.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE — Filed 01/03/2023

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.

LANE DEPARTURE — Filed 10/09/2025

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.

ENGINE — Filed 10/15/2025

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.

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE — Filed 05/01/2025

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)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING — Filed 10/01/2021

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.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING — Filed 09/04/2025

Drivers left front daytime running lights failed after <4 years from warranty replacement. 3rd set of lights in under 7 years on this vehicle.

ENGINE — Filed 09/04/2025

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.

ENGINE — Filed 07/18/2025

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.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 11/27/2024

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.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 01/15/2021

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.

STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 12/22/2019

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.

STEERING — Filed 07/28/2018

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.

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 12/24/2018

TRAVELING EAST BOUND THROUGH AN ALLEY IN ORDER TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN ONTO A SOUTH-NORTH RUNNING CITY STREET. BRAKE WAS FIRST APPLIED APPROXIMATELY TWO-CAR LENGTH (DISTANCE WISE) BEFORE THE INTERSECTION. I NOTICED THE VEHICLE WAS ACTING FUNNY: INSTEAD OF SLOWLY COMING TO A STOP, IT PICKED UP SPEED. I FELT AS IF SOMETHING WAS DISENGAGED AND THE CAR WAS FLYING OFF WITHOUT GRAVITY. I HIT THE BRAKE AGAIN AS THE CAR WAS DASHING INTO THE INTERSECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS AGAIN ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN, COMPLETELY OUT OF CONTROL. AT THAT MOMENT A TRASH TRUCK WAS TRAVELING SOUTH BOUND. BOTH THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER IN THE TRASH TRUCK WERE LOOKING AT ME IN DISBELIEF (THAT MY VEHICLE WAS DASHING OUT INTO THE MAIN ROAD). WE WERE EYEBALLED AT EACH OTHER, APPROXIMATELY AT AN 45 DEGREE ANGLE, FOR SEVERAL SECONDS, BEFORE THE TWO CARS WERE COLLIDED. THE OUTCOME COULD HAVE BEEN FETAL IF THE TIME AND ANGLES OF THE COLLISION WERE OFF BY A SPLIT OF SECOND. MY VEHICLE WAS TOTALED THOUGH.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 02/03/2018

THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING AND WHEN I TRIED TO STOP BECAUSE THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME STOPPED. MY CAR HAD A BRAKE FAILURE AND CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. ABS AND/OR THE COLLUSION DETERRENT SYSTEM ENGAGED TO AVOID THIS ACCIDENT.