Which Years Of Used BMW X3s Are Most Reliable?
We've identified three of the most reliable years for the BMW X3. Read on to learn which ones (and which X3 years to avoid so you can make a dependable purchase).
The BMW X3 is a luxury SUV that’s come a long way since its first years on the market, offering an impressive appearance even though it isn’t the most dependable vehicle. If you want to make the vehicle yours, it’s vital to know which years have the best track record. Which model years of the BMW X3 are the most dependable?
If you want to purchase the most reliable BMW X3 year, you’re in the right place. The better you understand what you’re getting into, the safer you will make the ideal selection for your BMW X3 selection. Read on to learn more about the safest selections to purchase used, the versions to avoid, and other valuable information.
Quick Answer: Avoid BMW X3 Models 2007, 2013, 2014, 2017, and 2019.
Unfortunately, not every year is a winner for the BMW X3. If you don’t want to waste your money and time, we advise refraining from 2007, 2013, 2014, 2017, and 2019 iterations. They have far less dependability, poor ratings, and require more time and expenses on the market. We advise the most reliable BMW X3 year.
Which Year Models of BMW X3 are Safe to Buy Used?
Luckily, there are several selections if you want a version of the BMW X3 that provides the maximum bang for your buck. These scored decently in reliability and offer the lowest price point for repairs.
The most reliable BMW X3 year choices include the following:
- 2005 BMW X3
- 2016 BMW X3
- 2021 BMW X3
These are the best selections for your money.
These have fewer issues and typically don’t take as much money to keep in ideal condition as other used counterparts with worse scores. The older, more reliable versions of the BMW X3 will cost less than the newer iterations.
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Which Year Models of BMW X3 to Avoid?
Unfortunately, there are more negative years than positive when considering the best for the BMW X3. These have a high number of faults and prove to cost more time and money than they are worth for the typical car owner.
Here are the worst selections for the BMW X3 on the market:
- 2007 BMW X3
- 2013 BMW X3
- 2014 BMW X3
- 2017 BMW X3
- 2019 BMW X3
These can be a pain to handle for the typical driver.
Out of these, the 2013 iteration of the BMW X3 is the worst. It underwent significant trouble in the engine department. In particular, this version failed with a broken timing chain guide, engine failure, and even the engine shutting down and stalling while the driver was behind the wheel. We recommend going with the most reliable BMW X3 year instead.
Common BMW X3 Problems
If you own a vehicle, especially one with a luxury base like the BMW X3, it’s vital to know some troubles you’ll encounter as an owner. These reveal what to look for and what you must spend most of your energy on.
Common faults include the following:
- Broken timing chain guide
- Overheating engine
- Oil leaks
- Sunroof leaking and rattling
- Steering issues
- Faults with the window regulator
These can be expensive if something goes seriously wrong.
The older and less reliable your BMW X3, the more likely you will encounter one of these troubles. No matter what, ensure you care for your vehicle and put in proper maintenance to provide it with the best chance at life in the long term.
BMW X3 Problem Counts by Year
One of the best places to look for issues in the BMW X3 is by checking out first-hand complaints from customers. The more complaints a model year has from customers, the less dependable the selection is.
According to carcomplaints.com, here are the complaints by year for the BMW X3:
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Is The BMW X3 a good car?
The BMW X3 doesn’t have the best history in dependability. However, it’s an attractive vehicle and offers ample experiences that are fast and exhilarating. If you invest in one of the most reliable years for the BMW X3, it’s worth it to have it in your driveway.
THE BMW X3 YEARS TO AVOID
We take a quick look at the BMW X3 years to avoid, plus the ones worth your time and money.
How much does a new BMW X3 typically cost?
Since the BMW X3 is a luxury vehicle, it doesn’t have a low starting price point. You can expect the cost for the lowest trim level to be around $46,900. This price will rise depending on factors like the trim level, features added to the machine, and more.
How much does a used BMW X3 typically cost?
Those who want to invest in a BMW X3 but don’t want to spend all the money on a new vehicle might want to purchase a used iteration. In that case, the price range for a used vehicle goes from $14,000-$40,000. Again, this price point varies depending on the trim and other details.
FAQs: Most Reliable BMW X3 Years
Q: Which BMW X3 years are recommended for their reliability?
Several years of the BMW X3 are recommended for their dependability. We advise purchasing the 2005, 2016, and 2021 iterations for the most bang for your buck.
Q: What common issues should I be aware of in the less reliable BMW X3 years?
You’ll find several issues at the forefront of the BMW X3, especially apparent in the worst years for the vehicle. Keep your eyes peeled for troubles like an overheating engine, oil leaks, steering issues, and more.
2025 BMW X3 RELEASE DATE: WHAT TO KNOW
Before making any financial moves, it’s helpful to know the details surrounding the 2025 BMW X3 release date.
Q: Can I trust the BMW X3 models from the early 2010s?
We only recommend the 2005 and 2016 iterations from the earlier years of the BMW X3. Most of the other selections fall on our least dependable list.
Q: Is the 2021 BMW X3 model reliable?
Yes, the 2021 model year of the BMW X3 is a reliable selection. It’s one we highly recommend for the newer model years of the vehicle.
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