2018 BMW X3 engine problems

Filed Aug 14, 2026 · Engine · NJ

There were several radiatior hose leaks that happened in the winter due to the outdated plastic housing and lines that seized and cracked with colder temperatures.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.

Filed Apr 9, 2026 · Engine · IN

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.

Filed Feb 27, 2026 · Engine · AK

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.

Filed Feb 27, 2026 · Engine · CA

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.

Filed Feb 11, 2026 · Engine · PA

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.

Filed Dec 19, 2025 · Engine · MI

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.

Filed Oct 16, 2025 · Engine · VA

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.

Filed Oct 10, 2025 · Engine, Transmission · FL

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 the federal safety agency 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)

Filed Sep 11, 2025 · Engine · NC

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.

Filed Aug 12, 2025 · Engine · CA

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.