Top 5 Problems BMW X3 SUV 1st Generation 2003-10

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Do you have a 1st generation BMW X3? Looking to buy one used? In this video, Andy lists the top problems you may find on a 2003 - 2010 BMW X3, and offers suggestions on how to resolve them.
Check out this playlist for even more great 1st gen BMW X3 videos! • BMW X3 2004-10 1st Gen...
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• How to Replace Valve C...
0:00 Top Problems BMW X3 1st Gen 2003-10
0:19 cooling system
1:45 Transfer case
2:34 valve timing
3:19 29E0 or 29E1 code
4:08 oil leaks
🔧 List of tools used:
• No Tools Needed
For More Info visit us at 1aau.to/h/bWu/
⚠ DISCLAIMER:
While 1A Auto strives to make the information provided in this video as accurate as possible, it makes no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or applicability of the content. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All do-it-yourself projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. 1A Auto is not responsible or liable for any loss damage (including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, or punitive), liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or resulting from any information posted in this video.

[@1AAuto]

√ *Watch the Video* √ *Buy The Part at 1A Auto* 1aau.to/m/Visit-1AAuto √ *Do it Yourself* √ *Save Money*

[@alinalupei8044]

Hi! I have this vehicle model, I mention that the car has a 2.0 diesel engine, automatic transmission and I have some questions: 1. When should the distribution be changed !? The distribution is on the chain, the engine code is N47? Km? 2. When is it advisable to replace the gearbox oil? Km? 3. When should I expect to change the particle filter? Km, approx. 4. When can the first problems with EGR occur? Estimated km.

[@1AAuto]

+Alin Alupei Thanks for the feedback! We always recommend changing fluids at the factory recommended intervals if not slightly sooner to prevent any damage or undue wear. We'll pass these questions along to our production team and see if we can have the rest of your questions answered!

[@diduck6878]

Save money?!. Yes, not on parts

[@yellowsirocco]

You guys are awesome! I'm going to look at one of these tomorrow. Looks like all jobs I could do if needed!

[@Bensuken]

Oil pan leak is one as well but this was a great video! 1A Auto Parts have everything for my 2004 x3 sport!

[@mr2_mike]

Definitely! Pain to change it too.

[@silviataylor92]

Hi, My bmw E83 crankcase vent valve went bad with pressure in engine & blow out my valve cover gasket. Do you think it could have damage any other seals

[@danielfransson6000]

very accurate info given here. have been fighting all those problems..=(( =D ..22000km just driven.

[@guillermomulgrave7330]

Question(My 2007 x3): My transfer case was changed to a used one and it removed the ABS/Brake/4x4 lights from being on. Now I hear a scratching sound from the back that was NEVER present before. Do you have a professional opinion what could be happening or what could be checked?

[@JLDJR]

How about how are steering squealing in the morning 2004 X3 2.5L?? Stops after drive it around a little bit

[@hellswindstaff91]

great video thinking of buying my neighbors 2006 X3 manual to replace my rusted deathtrap Suburban after 4 brake failures my luck will run out soon. Need a replacement truck. So pretty much replace the entire cooling system and inspect/maintain the 4wd meticulously. Ill take that over rusted brake lines popping and fuel leaks

[@jaeb.2842]

Would love to see a top 5 problems video for Ram 1500 soon ... Keep up the great content!

[@1AAuto]

+Jae B. We're always cycling through common cars. We'll add this repair to our list! 1AAuto.com

[@edorofish]

My 2007 BMW shifts fine but the something is slipping in the drive train. The symptom is prominent when taking off from a stop. I was thinking the AWD transfer case is slipping. Any ideas?

[@sikskillz2186]

so all crappy parts that’s are expensive to fix, and could be alot of other things, so it’s hard to figure out. this video was very helpful. it’s not worth buying this vehicle. i was, but now i realize what they portrait the vehicles to be and what they actually sell you, is not the same. this was made to fall apart, and it’s made to be difficult for the average guy mechanically to fix.

[@perrysouvana2049]

Thanks for sharing, you are right on the money.

[@johnny1o1]

Well explained 👍👍

[@klemensrosberg7823]

I am about to connect the wire for reverse Light to my trailer. Do you how and where, in the trunk, to find the cable for the reverse Light?

[@sidvicious3129]

Why are we using cheap plastic parts in expensive cars like this. Is it no wonder why they are so cheap to buy used because of the problems that you will experience later. Thank you for doing this.

[@1AAuto]

+sid vicious Thanks for checking us out!

[@laryanryan9170]

Don't mention the cheap glue they use on the plastic interior parts.

[@albertomariojorge9007]

hi what about 2006 x3 that cranks but no start until i step on gas twice i check some fuses under hood are ok thanks

[@stevehunt3847]

Hi I have a X3 e83 and the large top pipe going to the engine from the intake aluminium charge pipe is very loose and floppy. It's the hose with the large metal c clip on it it moves side to side as if ready to fall of its pipe on rh side of car

[@KittyKat-xn7fy]

What if the issue is the AC system won't hold freon but the dye does NOT show a leak??? (04' BMW X3)

[@isartoraplatz]

You are exactly right.. 💯

[@blackterminal]

Can you replace the plastic transfer gear with metal?

[@steveread7710]

Hi I'm. Changing my lock on door can't get handle off each video I have watched it's not the same once screw comes out side lock barrel pops out mines doesn't

[@davidhalley9795]

Okay, good to know. I hadn't had one of those issues yet and hopefully I won't in the future. The biggest issues were the windshield washer motor stopped working a few years ago and recently the engine ground cable had disintegrated. Driving cross country would have been memorable in a bad way. With 54K on mine with a 6 speed manual I think I've got a lot of years left. 🤞🏾

[@12babyapes59]

I got 300k , engine is good , the supporting cast is quitting one by one . small parts .

[@NomadNiiji-sm9et]

windshield wipers only work in the mode to squirt window cleaner my 2004 3.0 manual x3 is still great after 40,000 miles i bought it at 173,000 miles now at 213,000 i replaced my coolant resevoir ($74) thermostat ($55) BMW WANTED $1400 I Did it myself panoramic roof has issues but i love my car

[@billwynne3569]

THANKS SO MUCH, DID NOT KNOW THAT THEY WERE THAT MAINTENCE INTENSITIVE, HENCE NOT GOING TO BUY THIS ONE; THANK YOU MANY TIMES OVER AND WILL SUBSCRIBE!!q

[@chriskonte1909]

So what are you gonna buy then?

[@johnjohns5027]

Buddy was top dog in the company, he warned me all the plastic parts are warranty headaches.....if buy one and get so much prob as its got all these plastic parts....When repairing parts, just removing them they crack and split....lol. Leaking....lol.Yup. German engineering....

[@jaeb.2842]

Great video!

[@1AAuto]

+Jae B. Thanks for checking us out! 1AAuto.com

[@cthompson0531]

I pretty much experienced every one of these issues and he didn't even get into the windshield washer reservoir leaks, or how the oil cap will leak. In the end, after fixing everything, the oil pan had a slight leak and the thought of dropping the 4x4 system just to fix it was enough to sell it. Enjoy BMW wrenchers, plenty of work waiting for you under this hood.

[@cosmo1kramer]

I am looking to buy a used 2007 with 120k miles for 8k. What do u suggest. Are these issues expensive to fix

[@xanzibar3740]

@@cosmo1kramer that’s pretty high priced for the mileage, if you can do the work yourself it’s not bad but if not consider that you’d be taking it to a shop, anytime I look at vehicles with high mileage I always look for the maintenance done on it, high mileage with little to no maintenance is just a cherry bomb waiting to happen

[@erez161]

So you fixed all those issues and gave someone else a perfect car, nice

[@chipdiamond2628]

Does anybody know whats the problem, im getting some shaking when the car is running, NO code , no engine

[@Webhead787]

Bring My Wallet

[@travisperry6727]

I have some issues. The coolant cracked. And value cover gasket leaked. All fixed. Now i have code P0174 air mixing with the gas

[@louisbaladez1186]

Great video Bro

[@1AAuto]

+Louis Baladez Thanks for the feedback!

[@crispynotburnt]

It would've been important to segregate the 2 versions of this car into 2 separate videos: 2004-2006 models are the first generation with M54 engine, and are easier & cheaper to work on. Different and less problematic thermostat. 2007-2010 models are the second generation with the N52 engine, with electric waterpump, and a few other inconveniences. (Google them) For an old BMW, this is probably one of their most reliable SUVs, and you hardly ever see them rust. They had excellent anti-corrosion treatment. There is no 2003 model year for this vehicle. Your video title should be corrected.

[@AthrazhuR]

Thanks for this, I'm looking at a first generation, and was dissuaded by this video.

[@joesmith9216]

SAVAGE, yeah you know your stuff!!! just got a 2007 after ten years with a 2005, I took the leap after getting sick of the problems my 2005 had and no it was not the cars fault, previous owner to me did some damage to it, however, sunroof did leak bad on that, otherwise it was gold, I also messed up the cats, only damage I did. Ya know whats funny about the first gen? good luck even finding one thats not destroyed from lack of maintenance , my 2005 was one of the best on the East coast, I did everything for that sav, loved it.

[@SeasonsOFcolors]

Oil leaking since oil change 3 weeks ago and had it checked and redone 3 times after and it’s still leaking

[@juanmondeja4078]

Thanks

[@alinalupei8044]

Hi! I have this vehicle model, I mention that the car has a 2.0 diesel engine, automatic transmission and I have some questions: 1. When should the distribution be changed !? The distribution is on the chain, the engine code is N47? Km? 2. When is it advisable to replace the gearbox oil? Km? 3. When should I expect to change the particle filter? Km, approx. 4. When can the first problems with EGR occur? Estimated km.

[@1AAuto]

+Alin Alupei Thanks for watching! We recommend checking your owner's manual to find the service intervals for those, as we do not have that info available.

[@Saywhatohno]

I have a ticking sound in the engine and the dealer is saying its the timing guide issue and charging $4,000, is that true or can it be done cheaper somewhere else? I thoght the ticking sound in bMW was the hydraulics leaks?

[@1AAuto]

+fahad waliany We wouldn't be able to diagnose an issue like that here, you may want to have a local mechanic take a look at it. Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@Saywhatohno]

@@1AAuto oh yea totally understandable I am just wondering if the ticking sound is always “easy to” fix like you showed or could it be timing huides

[@Strickdaddy59]

Thanks for the video. Do you have one on the removal and replacement of the actuator motor & gear?

[@1AAuto]

+Gabe Strickler We do not have a video for this repair right now, but we'll keep this request in mind for a future video! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@jimmmmmypokemonplug206]

Umm how about the coolant pipes that go under the manifold???? Like top problem

[@deanedward2379]

glad i saw this. i will definitely not be buying one of these used now. thanks.

[@soonbmw4984]

Hey can you help me please i have a problem with my 2003 x3 I have oil in my exhaust and I don't know what the problem is and why there is oil in my exhaust when I start a big cloud of blue smoke comes out of my exhaust

[@1AAuto]

+Soon BMW We would suggest consulting with a reputable local mechanic for further assistance with this.

[@JiTengful]

Head gasket problems or pcv need to be change

[@edwinoba3612]

My 2010 x3 ac dont work in idle.whats my problem and how I will fix this.thank you and need your help.

[@1AAuto]

+edwin oba We wouldn't be able to diagnose an issue like that here, you may want to have a local mechanic take a look at it. Thanks for checking us out! 1AAuto.com

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

lol

[@kahlilcalvo9610]

Got 2 of the most common problems the radiator & coolant reservoir issues...now i got high beam on despine engine off....

[@1AAuto]

+KAHLIL CALVO We wouldn't be able to diagnose an issue like that here, you may want to have a local mechanic take a look at it. Thanks for checking us out! 1AAuto.com

[@johnsumner6185]

I've got a 'smoke machine'.....that cousin of mine is addicted to Marlboro Reds!!!

[@maxw2553]

Never had Any problems With My bmw x3 from 2008. Just take care of a car 😂

[@serio06]

How many miles if you don't mind me asking

[@maxw2553]

220.xxx

[@laryanryan9170]

I put 200k miles on my 08 X3. The only problems were sunroof leaking (the main reason I sold it), coolant reservoir leak, window regulator, and cheap plastic parts falling off inside.

[@TheGreatUniterIsHere]

Well if you change once a decade oil, filters, coolant. No wonder leak accur somewhere.

[@rugrat343]

After owning mine for 2 years with 145k(doordash and UE) I only had 1 main problem and that's the rough idle. Got it fixed and it's back, but that's the only problem I had

[@russella7263]

Nope didn’t have any of those. Had cam cover oil leak. EGR cooler coolant leak. Glow plug controller fail. ABS sensor rings fail due to corrosion on driveshafts pushing them out of round, starter motor fail and ultimately a timing chain snapped at around 117,000 miles and that was it.

[@paulnorman6061]

All the problems listed are from poor maintenance. Cooling system is standard for most BMW's Transfer case is from not maintaining wheel alignment and changing all wheels at the same time. Oil leaks are from a blocked crankcase ventilation system. Don't forget that there are 2 generations of engines/drive trains in the E83 X3

[@davideyt1242]

plastic parts cracking have nothing to do with maintenance, and have everything to do with the poor build quality - when buying a highly priced "luxury" car the least you expect is that basic parts such as the valve cover (!!!) will not crack or leak, or be made with cheap plastic. BMW = Broke My Wallet such a disgrace, any BMW made after 2010 is even worse

[@VQ.Family]

@@davideyt1242 bmw’s went to crap after 2000

[@laryanryan9170]

PMW = Plastic Motor Works.

[@joesmith9216]

@@davideyt1242 yes, bmw and mercedes sold out, they just want people to buy their new crap so they rig the cars to die now before 100k.

[@818Arek]

Can you please make a video on how to replace the starter?

[@1AAuto]

+Arek Daniyelyan We're always cycling through common cars. We'll add this repair to our list! 1AAuto.com

[@818Arek]

Looking forward to it, thank you!

[@diduck6878]

L.O.L. remove the intake

[@junkdubious]

What? No CCV problems?

[@gabmax1013]

I really wished BMW could be as reliable as honda or toyota. I really like the look of their vehicles.

[@1AAuto]

+Gabmax101 Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@peterolley7159]

That is a brilliant comment like you say BMWs like ok great but that’s about it

[@iilisette4225]

Could you please do a TOP Problems with Chevy Colorado, GMC canyon Gen 1 style. Also I think more people would like to know about F150 engines and issues

[@1AAuto]

+Iilisette We're always cycling through common cars. We'll add this repair to our list! 1AAuto.com

[@iilisette4225]

@@1AAuto Thanks, I find some brands or models come with extra features we wish did not. There should be a category for upgrade parts to fix poorly engineered even, sadly not the case for a Colorado timing chain.

[@jerrykampitsis3052]

I have a 2008 BMW X3, and I discovered their exists a major design flaw in every motorized BMW vehicles. The serpentine belt broke which is no big deal as I installed a new one. I didn’t know that part of the belt wrapped around the crankcase behind the pulley, and over time it made its way into the motor and I had no idea. My motor was destroyed! $6000 later I did an engine swap! I’m never buying BMW again!!!

[@macthemec]

All good points but not x3 specific, its known that overhauling the cooling system on a BMW is part of the game if you want to drive one.

[@1AAuto]

+macthemec Thanks for the feedback!

[@laryanryan9170]

I got rid of my 08 X3 because the sunroof was leaking so bad it needed replacing. Just before I sold it the coolant reservoir started leaking. Other than that everything else worked fine and it drove like a new BMW.

[@claudiomagumane3751]

Hi I have bmw X3 definitely I need your help guys how I can contact you?

[@claudiomagumane3751]

Its 2004

[@1AAuto]

+Claudio Magumane You can contact us at [e-mail] or give us a call at 888-844-3393.

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

Or you can just buy a Japanese suv and not worry about any of this BS (former 5x BMW owner).

[@CoolKD2005]

My wife's car have gone through all these issues and more. Leaking valve cover, bursting coolant system plastic parts, clogged/leaking solenoids, pealing finish on interior plastics, leaking valve stem seals, failed valve breather system, leaking panoramic roof and the list goes on. If I had not been able to do these repairs my self this would have cost more than what the value of the car is. I would strongly recommend just staying clear of these X3's. They are really junk cars. Take this from a guy that has seen the bad quality of these cars first hand. I drive a 2009 BMW 318D and my wife a 2006 X3....Owning and servicing these cars for over 6 years now has told me one thing about BMW. They are really nice to drive, but if you want reliability from BMW you really just want to own them from brand new and sell them off after a few years. My previous car was a tiered 2001 Opel Vectra 2.0i and that thing fell apart, but was still a more reliable car with no problems except for rust that was it's downfall. But .... I would buy BMW again, why you ask.... Cos the handling and fun factor of BMW's is so good. So if you want BMW get ready for one of two things. Number one: Be ready for high bills from your mechanic. Number two: Be ready for allot of wrenching if you do it your self.

[@adal8590]

Would this apply to also any newer BMWs?

[@1AAuto]

+Ada L It may be similar!

[@davideyt1242]

the newer BMW are even worse, from own experience.

[@diduck6878]

Yes especially the cooling system

[@Bob-mo6iv]

turn on automatic translator, please

[@hardcoreftw95]

would love a 2nd gen

[@rossbowman202]

👍

[@1AAuto]

+Ross Bowman Thanks for checking us out!

[@12babyapes59]

my 2005 X3 HAS A BATTERY DRAIN PROBLEM ,

[@jhammond4344]

Whoa... I have almost every one of those issues, I’m at 100,000 miles.

[@1AAuto]

+j hammond Thanks for checking us out. Shop for high quality auto parts on 1AAuto.com: 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@DoArtTheMovement]

Hows it doing now?

[@aliosha123]

its e83 not e82

[@alb12345672]

Wonder if they stole that plastic thermostat design from the ford 4.0 SOHC Cologne (German) engine in the Explorers :lol:

[@1AAuto]

+alb12345672 Thanks for checking us out! 1AAuto.com

[@diduck6878]

I don't know but it's a $150 piece of plastic

[@imranabbasi7871]

👍💖💚🧡

[@Panooch17888]

My expansion tank literally exploded. The crack was about 6 - 8 inches.

[@slavyanskiyrusich3368]

😉👍👍👍👍👍

[@1AAuto]

+Slavyanskiy Rusich Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@chrisa.8175]

Sounds like a headache.. no not all cars of other manufacturers have these problems!! Buy Toyota or honda.. i have 300,000 on my hondas from new! Not any of these bmw problems.. do not buy bmw,Mercedes audi,range rover.. unless you have money to burn. And want spend your free time at the dealership 😅

[@davideyt1242]

Too many plastic parts that should have been made of aluminium or stainless steel (valve cover, sensor housing, radiator inlet and outlet parts etc..), is that even a "Luxury" car? so much junk instead of quality and durable parts, those cars cost a lot of money brand new, I would expect at least a decent build quality - that is not an economy grade car, why skimp on so many parts? beyond my understanding!

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

It's always about the money. Plastic parts cost less so they can PROFIT more. Problem is, they've shot themselves in the foot and devalued the brand. It can take decades to build your reputation but minutes to lose it. I've owned 5 BMWs and loved them all, but will probably never buy another one because of their reliability reputation now.

[@joesmith9216]

@@OMGWTFLOLSMH yes, so well said! and they want people to buy their NEW shit, if these x3's were made better they'd all go a million miles, I mean these go to 300k easy if you care about them and get them fixed but some of the bmw shit just wears you out after time.

[@diduck6878]

90%of cooling system plastic. The system lives above 200 degree

[@1AAuto]

+Di Duck Thanks for the feedback!

[@craigme2583]

You don't say what motor you are discussing.

[@jay6817]

So basically they built them cheaply, and not to last. 😢

[@jameswaugh115]

Well looks like i aint buying no bmw

[@DashCamSerbia]

German engineering...

[@davideyt1242]

I don't think it has anything to do with the German engineering, but with the cheap skating from BMW - who are selling you an expensive car and still pre-plan so many parts to break within a few years and then charge you 800 euros for each one of them! not because of bad maintenance, but because the parts are poorly made and from cheap materials that are prone to break

[@EagleAbd2021-ku9yf]

Plastic BMW

[@chilemac007]

Horrible horrible car , I haven’t suffered so much since I bought my x3 , bmw sucks