X3 (G45)
Data covers 2 NHTSA model names
Reliability Score
Complaints by Engine Code
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cyl / 255 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
3.0-V6-Gas
3.0L 6-cyl / 393 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
BMW X3 Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Owner Complaints by System
Complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the BMW X3, counted across every engine. A complaint can name more than one system.
What to check on a used 2025-2026 BMW X3
On a used 2025-2026 BMW X3, the systems with the most NHTSA owner complaints are the electrical system (17), the airbags and driver-assist systems (16) and the steering (13). Each one has an inspection step below, with counts as of 2026-10-12. A complaint is an owner report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
- Switch on every electrical item in turn: lights, windows, locks, wipers, climate fan, screen and power outlets.Costly repair. NHTSA has 17 owner complaints on the 2025-2026 BMW X3 about the electrical system.
- Switch the ignition on and watch the airbag light. On the drive, check the backup camera and any collision or lane warning.Safety. NHTSA has 16 owner complaints on the 2025-2026 BMW X3 about the airbags and driver-assist systems.
- Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked, then drive straight on a level road with a light grip.Safety. NHTSA has 13 owner complaints on the 2025-2026 BMW X3 about the steering.
- Open and close every door, the hood and the trunk or hatch. Check the latches, the seals and the gaps between panels.Minor. NHTSA has 5 owner complaints on the 2025-2026 BMW X3 about the body and structure.
- Drive over a speed bump and a rough patch at 15 to 20 mph with the radio off.Safety. NHTSA has 3 owner complaints on the 2025-2026 BMW X3 about the suspension.
Recalls (9)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024-2026 X3 sDrive30i, X3 30 xDrive, and X3 M50 xDrive vehicles. The steering spindle may have been incorrectly attached to the steering column.
BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2025-2026 X3 vehicles. While the vehicle is stationary, unexpected steering wheel movement (rotation) may occur.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The front brake discs may have been damaged during transport before they were installed on the vehicle.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 330i, 330i xDrive, 530i, 530i xDrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive) and X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The electrical connection between the starter-generator and battery may come loose.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 X3 30 xDrive and X3 M50 xDrive vehicles. The rear brake hoses may leak, causing a loss of rear brake function, and a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system.
Show 4 older recalls
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The connection between the positive battery cable and the starter-generator may have been improperly tightened and overheat.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 X3 30 vehicles. The front wheel left-side swivel bearing may crack, causing a loss of vehicle handling and control.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The gas generator in the right-side head curtain air bag may have been assembled incorrectly.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 X3 xDrive30i and X3 M50i vehicles. The front passenger air bag fabric may have been damaged during transport between suppliers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2025-2026 BMW X3 complaints?
Owners have filed 57 complaints with NHTSA about the 2025-2026 BMW X3. The systems they name most often are the electrical system, the safety systems and the steering.
Is the 2025-2026 BMW X3 a good used car?
That depends on the model year, the mileage and the maintenance history of the car in front of you. Owners have filed 57 complaints with NHTSA about the 2025-2026 BMW X3. Check which systems they name most often and whether a recall is still open on that car.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2025-2026 BMW X3 have?
NHTSA has 57 owner complaints on file for the 2025-2026 BMW X3 as of the latest data pull. A complaint is an owner's report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
What recalls affect the 2025-2026 BMW X3?
NHTSA lists 9 recalls covering some 2025-2026 BMW X3 vehicles. Which ones apply depends on the VIN: enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see the open campaigns on a specific car.
What should I check before buying a used BMW X3?
Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm every open recall has been done. Look hardest at the electrical system, the safety systems and the steering, the systems owners complain about most. Ask for maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the car and run a vehicle history report for prior accidents and title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the X3?
The 2026 BMW X3 received an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (16.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 57 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: moderate. Last updated: 2026-10-12.