The BMW X3 is a small five-seater SUV that has a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder twin-turbo. The BMW X3 is a newer model that has only been around since 2004 but has gained popularity quickly.
If you are looking to learn about how long the BMW X3 will last, this article will explain that in detail and include tips for you to help increase its longevity.
How Long Do BMW X3 Last?
BMW X3s are expected to last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. A normal driver who averages 15,000 miles a year can expect this car to last between 10 and 13 years. Although these vehicles can last longer than 200,000 miles, they usually become too costly to maintain for most people’s tolerance.
How Long Will A Used BMW X3 Last?
The length of time a used X3 will last depends on many factors. Let’s look at some of the factors to consider when buying a used X3 to determine how long it will last:
- Miles at the time of purchase – A used X3 with higher miles will have less the useful lifespan left.
- How much you drive annually – The more miles you plan to put on the car, the less years you will get out of the car long term.
- Maintenance by the previous owner/s – Cars that are well maintained generally have longer lifespans than cars that weren’t well maintained. Make sure to get the service records from the previous owners before making a purchasing decision.
- Your maintenance of the car – You have to keep up the maintenance for the car to reach its full useful life.
- Damage from accidents – A certain level of damage from an accident can impact how long the car will last. Make sure to have the X3 examined for damage before purchase and check the CarFax for any reported accidents.
- The primary area where the car is driven – Certain areas can decrease the useful life of a vehicle. Congested areas, like cities, with stop and go traffic, as well as certain extreme climates can also affect how many years your car will last.
What Is Considered A High Mileage X3?
A BMW X3 with 100,000 miles or more is considered high mileage. Many owners report driving this vehicle for over 200,000 miles, however, vehicles with mileage over 100,000 are known to have most problems and higher maintenance costs.
Is The BMW X3 Reliable?
The X3 is rated as average for their reliability by most sources, but BMWs aren’t generally known for long-term reliability. These SUVs are more reliable in their earlier years with less mileage and become less reliable as they age and get higher in miles.
Also, because the cost of repairs grows with age, these cars can also become less reliable because of deferred or neglected maintenance.
Most Reliable BMW X3 Years
Here are some of the most reliable years of the BMW X3:
The most reliable model years of the BMW X3 are between 2006 – 2011, 2017, 2018, and 2020 and newer.
The period of production between 2012- 2014 are not the most reliable model years to purchase, with 2013 being the worst year to purchase overall.
Is The BMW X3 Expensive To Maintain?
Yes, BMW X3s are expensive to maintain. Their luxury brand status and German manufacturing contribute to their higher maintenance costs. These cars get more costly to maintain the older they get.
Common Problems That Can Affect The X3’s Lifespan
We have noted below some common issues with X3s that can impact the car’s longevity. Some of these issues are minor whereas other can become catastrophic if they persist or aren’t addressed for a long period of time.
- Timing chain failure
- Valve cover gasket leaks
- Oil filter housing gasket leaks
- Oil pan gasket leaks
- Expansion tank leaks
- Water pump leaks & failure
- Oil leaks from the engine
- Coolant leaks which can cause overheating
- Transmission failure
- Vanos solenoid failure
- Sunroof leaks
- Sunroof rattle
- Window leaks
- Window rattle
How Often Has The BMW X3 Been Recalled?
Here is a list of the number of recalls for the BMW X3 for its most recent 10 years of production.
| Model Year | Number of Recalls |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 11 |
| 2019 | 7 |
| 2018 | 8 |
| 2017 | 3 |
| 2016 | 2 |
| 2015 | 4 |
| 2014 | 3 |
| 2013 | 5 |
| 2012 | 3 |
| 2011 | 5 |
Tips To Extend The Life Of Your BMW X3
Often, it is possible to extend the life of cars by taking a certain level of care for them. Here are some tips:
- Get the vehicle services at the recommended intervals and change the oil regularly
- Get issues addressed immediately
- Don’t excessively drive the vehicle far in excess of 15,000 miles a year
- Keep the vehicle clean
- Store the vehicle in a garage if possible
- Use UV protectant to keep the interior from getting dry and cracking
- Drive safely to avoid accidents
Conclusion
BMWs don’t have a reputation for being the most reliable vehicles on the market, but the BMW X3 have become a popular small SUV during its short history. BMW X3’s are expected to last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles, but a lot of owners have cars that exceed this. Keeping this vehicle well maintained is key to getting to most of its useful life.