GradeBMW X3 Reliability Grade
Above-average reliability
Grade a specific BMW X3
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The BMW X3 earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B- for its engine and a B+ for its transmission. It ranks 7th of 17 luxury vehicles we grade. The engine (B-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 1,153 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
BMW X3 reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2005, 2010, 2012, 2018 and 2023
Years to avoid: 2007 (stalling / loss of power)
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the BMW X3 last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
BMW X3 vs. other luxury vehicles
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus RX | A | A | A |
| Lexus ES | A | A | A |
| Lexus GS | A- | A | A |
| Lexus NX | A | A | A |
| BMW 5 Series | B | A- | A- |
| Audi A4 | B+ | A | A- |
| BMW 3 Series | B- | B+ | B+ |
| BMW X3 | B- | B+ | B+ |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | B | A- | B+ |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class | B+ | A- | B+ |
| Audi Q5 | B | A- | B+ |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC | C+ | B+ | B |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | B | B | B |
| Acura RDX | B+ | B | B |
| BMW X5 | C | C+ | C+ |
| Acura MDX | B- | D | C |
| Acura TLX | C | D | C- |
Own a BMW X3?
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Rate your X3BMW X3 reliability FAQ
Is the BMW X3 reliable?
Above-average reliability. The BMW X3 earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B- for its engine and a B+ for its transmission. It ranks 7th of 17 luxury vehicles we grade. The engine (B-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 1,153 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a BMW X3 last?
We estimate a well-maintained BMW X3 lasts around 175,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the BMW X3?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable BMW X3 model years are 2005, 2010, 2012, 2018 and 2023.
What BMW X3 years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the BMW X3 years to be most careful with are 2007. The 2007 grades a D overall (engine C-, transmission D), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power.
Is the BMW X3 transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the BMW X3 transmission a B+ (above-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the BMW X3 engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the BMW X3 engine a B- (average reliability).