BMW X3 E83 (2004-2010) Questions & Answers

If there is a problem on your car, usually there will be one or more fault codes recorded in the computer. For DIY drivers they can find a suitable code reader and read the codes then go on line to find the fault code list. The fault codes can pin point where the problem is. If you are not a DIY driver, the best is to take the car to a BMW repairer, they should be able to read the codes and explain what happened to your car.

Thank you. Our repairer feels he knows (after trying everything) but is reluctant to try his idea as if it doesn't solve the problem it will lead to a more serious and very costly problem. Hence our thought to ask for ideas via this site in case there were other experiences/suggestions. It might be worth getting a second BMW repairer opinion just in case. Fortunately it only happens on first start of the day but puts uncertainty in our minds in case it starts happening more often.

Hi, This feature is an option im afraid.

Optional. There are two options, navigation system business and navigation system professional. The 1st option can be fitted after factory and the 2nd one has to be fitted by the factory.

No nothing at all, Tranfer case issues are only prevalent in abused units

It's definitely a common problem. This can be verified by Googling the internet. I'm generally a city driver but entering and getting out of the house has to pass some slippery surfaces and pot holes, the transfer case will act on these conditions. As a result of that, the transfer case failed at 45K KM. The X-Drive is excellent to drive but it relies on the constant adjustment of the transfer case to alter the power distribution between the front and rear wheels. This design wears out the transfer case quicker. I was told by a transfer case actuator (servo motor) gear manufacturer that with the same transfer case, the X-Drive have 500:1 failure rate in comparison to Mercedes Benz as The Mer does not program the transfer case to act like the X-Drive.

Hi, These vehicles are quite good for traction but are not a real 4x4, Make sure it has a good service history and look out for excessive brake rotor wear these cars tend to chew the guts out of them and will wear a set of brake pads very quickly, you get only 40,000 out of both. Faulty tyre sensors tend to be an issue indicating a flat tyre when nothing is wrong so be sure to test drive and check no fault lights appear. Mechanically they are very robust look for a mechanic who is familar with bmw"s to service it as the dealers will rob you blindly. I own the 06 Model and have found My mechanic to be around 70% cheaper than BMW. Hope this has helped