2021 BMW X3 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2021 BMW X3?
The 2021 BMW X3 stands as a remarkably solid luxury compact SUV, boasting robust powertrains and an excellent overall build quality. While it demands diligent, premium-level maintenance, it's one of the more dependable German offerings, making it a confident choice for discerning buyers willing to invest in its care.
Biggest Strengths
- Excellent engine and transmission durability (B48/B58 and ZF 8HP)
- Superior build quality and cabin materials
- Strong safety record and driving dynamics
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2021 BMW X3. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
10 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X3 sDrive 30i, X3 xDrive 30i, X3M 40i, X3 xDrive 30e, X4 xDrive 30i, X4M 40i, 530i, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 550e, 550e xDrive, and 550e iPerformance vehicles. A small portion of the rearview image may be slightly obscured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
What breaks on the 2021 BMW X3?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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BMW X3 by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the BMW X3. Click any year for its full report.
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Relevant Products for Your 2021 BMW X3
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Frequently Asked Questions
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