22.05.2017

BMW X3 (BMW X3) is an all-wheel drive premium crossover (SAV) with a modern design, a high level of handling, safety and dynamics. The onset of the financial crisis spoiled the plans of many car enthusiasts, those who until recently were going to buy a new car can now count on the same model, only with mileage and at the age of 2-4 years. Buying a used car is always a big risk, as there is no guarantee that the car won't break down tomorrow. Or maybe everything is not so scary, especially when it comes to good brand and decent model. Today we will try to evaluate all the risks of buying a car on secondary market on the example of the second generation BMW X3 with mileage.

A bit of history:

The concept "xActivity" (BMW X3) was first introduced in 2003 at the international auto show in Detroit. In the same year, the production version of the car was also presented, which was assigned the index "E83". This crossover became the second "off-road" model of the Bavarian brand. Car production was established at an enterprise in Austria, the assembly of cars for most CIS markets was carried out Russian plant"Autotor". In 2006, the model underwent a restyling, during which the appearance and the interior, as well, the engines were subject to modernization.

The debut of the second generation of the car was scheduled for October 2010, the presentation was to take place at the international auto show in Paris. However, the management of the BMW concern decided to bring the new car to the market in early autumn, and introduced the new product in July 2010. The production of the car began on September 1, 2010 (in the CIS, sales started in November 2010). BMW X3 2011 model year Outwardly, it is not much different from its predecessor, however, the crossover has become somewhat larger and received an increased ground clearance of 12 mm, as well as a 15 mm larger wheelbase. In 2014, the model was restyled. Apart from external changes, BMW X3 received a new generation 2.0-liter diesel engine.

Problem areas and disadvantages of the BMW X3 with mileage

The corrosion resistance of the body is quite high, there are no particularly rotting parts here, but, behold, the paint layer is thin. To date, few manufacturers can boast of high-quality paintwork body. But, the BMW XZ has surpassed many, in it, even from a small pebble, a chip can appear not only in paint, but also in cataphoretic soil. Therefore, when chips appear, they must be processed immediately. The windshield does not differ in durability either, there were cases when the sandblasting effect was noticeable on cars with a mileage of up to 40,000 km. You can also ruin the windshield with the help of rough or worn-out wiper blades (glass replacement will cost 150-300 USD). Optics, like most modern cars, plastic and soft and, if the car is used for long trips, clouding of the headlights is guaranteed. If you pay attention to this in time, the problem can be eliminated by polishing. To protect yourself from this problem in the future, it is enough to stick a protective film on the headlights.

Engines

BMW X3 has a fairly wide range of powertrains: gasoline - 2.0 (184, 225 and 245 hp), 3.0 (306 hp); diesel - 2.0 (120, 184 and 190 hp), 3.0 (250, 258 and 313 hp). For many years, motorists have been faced with the acute question of which engine to prefer, diesel or gasoline? If we talk specifically about this car, then in this case a diesel engine looks preferable, both in terms of efficiency and reliability.

Diesel

Diesel engines are generally reliable, but, due to set by the manufacturer long oil change interval, in our reality, the chain fails prematurely timing and tensioners. On 2.0 engines, the problem is aggravated by the fact that the chain is located on the side of the box, and this significantly increases the cost of repairs. For cars used in megacities, it is recommended to change the oil every 7-10 thousand km. These recommendations are due to the fact that when traveling short distances, the particulate filter does not have time to complete the self-cleaning process. With frequent unsuccessful attempts to start self-generation, the filter does not have time to burn unburned fuel, the excess of which enters the oil and significantly reduces its quality.

If timely maintenance is neglected, then serious problems can begin on a run of 70-100 thousand km: the oil pump fails (a hum appears with an increase in speed), the chain tensioner ( extraneous noise at cold start and idling), turbocharger (dips at hard acceleration). Also, among the disadvantages of diesel power units can be attributed to the small resource of the belt pulley of mounted units and the EGR valve. With frequent refueling with low-quality fuel after 100,000 km, problems begin with fuel injectors and injection pump.

Petrol

BMW X3 owners with gasoline in-line fours (20i and 28i) often encounter premature wear oil pump drive (a howl appears with an increase in speed). If this defect is not noticed and eliminated in time, the turbine will slowly begin to die from oil starvation, also, it is observed increased consumption oils. If you neglect repairs for a long time, everything can end sadly (the engine will jam). The most successful among gasoline units is a 3.0 engine (258 or 306 hp), but due to the high transport tax, such instances are not common. On cars assembled in Russia, there is no gasket between the catalyst and the manifold. This leads to the penetration of processed gases into the cabin, which is not only unpleasant, but also harmful to health.

Transmission

The BMW X3 is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. Both boxes have established themselves as reliable and unpretentious units and rarely present unpleasant surprises. Even a clutch in mechanics, with careful operation, can last more than 150,000 km. Ah, here is the system. all-wheel drive not famous for its reliability and can surprise in the form of a "dead" transfer box. transfer box "kills" both untimely maintenance and a faulty servomotor - the so-called longitudinal moment module. The failure of the servomotor leads to the continuous operation of the “razdatka” itself and the “combustion” of the friction clutches.

If there are problems with the transfer case, jerks appear when accelerating, trying to turn the steering wheel and driving with the wheels completely turned out (many mistakenly think that the culprit of this behavior is a failed CV joint). Also, the disease may be accompanied by a hum from the transmission at a speed of 50-90 km / h. Most often, the problem manifests itself on a run of 80-100 thousand km, more than 2000 USD will be required to eliminate this ailment. To extend the service lines of the transmission and handouts, they need to change the oil every 40-60 thousand km.

Reliability of the BMW X3 chassis

The running BMW X3 is, in fact, an improved suspension from the BMW three-ruble note. At the front there is a multi-link with a double-articulated suspension strut, at the rear there is a five-link suspension HA5, which is adapted. In general, the suspension is quite reliable and, with careful operation, takes care of more than 100,000 km without problems. Among the shortcomings can be noted the high cost of suspension parts. So, for example, silent blocks and ball joints change assembled with levers (100-250 USD pcs.). BMW cars have always been famous for stiff suspension and the X3 is no exception. Therefore, if you are going to buy such a car, try to find a copy not with the most big wheels and no low profile tyres. Because: firstly, a car with such wheels will be even tougher, and secondly, the suspension wears out faster in such cars.

When inspecting the car, you should pay attention to: silent blocks of the suspension of the front levers, ball joints, stabilizer struts, play on the suspension arms, shock absorbers, silent blocks of the beam mounting. The main problem of this model is the fragility of the steering rack (mounted on a stretcher in front of the engine). In automotive circles, there is even such a joke “in whatever condition and with whatever mileage you would not buy a BMW X3, automatically get ready to replace the rack.” If the car breaks down steering rack, the costs will not be small, since even a used rail will cost at least 400 USD, you will have to pay much more for a new one.

Salon

Build quality and finishing materials saloon bmw X3, traditionally for a German manufacturer, high quality. And, here, there may be problems with electronics (malfunctions electronic systems), so many experts recommend not chasing rich equipment when choosing a used car. If the seller starts telling you that the car was mostly in the garage, do not rush to rejoice, as the BMW X3 does not like long downtime. In this mode of operation, the battery is quickly discharged, and when the charge is low, the electronics begin to fail. Also, failures in the electronics due to contamination of the contacts are possible. As for electrical equipment, the electric drive for opening / closing the trunk most often causes trouble - the guides of the lifting mechanisms fail (replacement 400-600 USD).

Outcome:

Though this model, in a used version, is less problematic than its older brothers X5 and X6, it is difficult to call it problem-free. BMW X3 - special car, which stands out from the line of the Bavarian brand, therefore, when choosing this car you need to be extremely careful, because if you miss something, you can get into a very expensive repair.

If you are the owner of this car model, please describe the problems that you had to face during the operation of the car. Perhaps it is your review that will help readers of our site when choosing a car.

Sincerely, editorial Autoavenue

So, for the price of an almost “empty”, but new “Duster”, you can find a used BMW in the back of the E83 (2003–2010). Isn't it seductive? After all, subject to the serviceability of all components and assemblies, the Bavarian crossover is one of the most balanced cars in its class. Gambling and moderately comfortable chassis, cool engines, very spacious salon, a wide range of configurations ... Of course, it is difficult to argue that compared to any of the X5s, this "boomer" really looks like an ugly duckling. But this is just right for us! Perhaps the lack of a pretentious and prestigious car reputation inherent in any X5 just saved many copies from a quick death. The slogan "live fast, die young" is not about our protégé. The key role in the good safety of these crossovers was played precisely the target audience: many copies were used either by young ladies who were not devoid of the instinct of self-preservation, or as a simple family car. Well, let's not forget about design features: X3 is built on the basis of the "treshka" in the back of the E46, one of the most popular models German concern. The result justified itself - we have one of the most successful BMWs in the secondary market in terms of price and quality.

ENGINES

Most of the X-Thirds that can now be found on sale were equipped with either M54 in-line gasoline sixes with a volume of 2.5 liters (192 hp) and 3 liters (231 hp), or 3-liter turbodiesels (204 hp). In 2006, the six-cylinder engines were modernized, and their power increased: the 2.5-liter engine has up to 218 hp. s., for a 3-liter up to 272 liters. with., and the diesel "four" up to 286 liters. from. The popularity of modifications with such motors is justified: time-tested power plants are considered the most reliable, and are also well known to service station masters. The resource of these engines is impressive: even less powerful motors with a volume of 2 liters, they calmly reach 300 thousand km without any problems. What you need to remember is that gasoline units are very demanding on fuel quality and are prone to high oil consumption, which can reach 1 liter per 2000–2500 km. This is not a defect at all, but in order not to miss the moment of topping up, it is better to pay attention to the indications of the onboard computer more often. Small oil losses can also be caused by a faulty crankcase ventilation valve. Closer to 150 thousand km, the engine may disturb unstable job at idle, which is usually associated with a faulty Vanos camshaft control system.

Resource gasoline engines more than enough: with proper maintenance, 300 thousand km is not the limit for them

Also, the engine can mope due to dead spark plugs: platinum original candles no more than 40 thousand km go. More serious, but not too frequent problems include malfunctions in the intake manifold: if oil leaks are noticeable on its body, then it is not recommended to tighten it with repairs: broken dampers can get into the cylinder.

Endurance diesel units subject to high-quality fuel, it can be equated to gasoline, but the nodes at risk are already different here. The turbine, high-pressure fuel pump and nozzles, in a good scenario and gentle operation, must pass at least 250 thousand km. And if the long service interval of gasoline engines is partly compensated by frequent topping up of oil, then diesel units are deprived of such a “recharge”: the replacement frequency is usually 20–25 thousand km. Therefore, it is better to play it safe and change it earlier, especially if there is a suspicion of poor quality diesel fuel. Also, when servicing in a service, the EGR valve cannot be ignored: in traffic jams and due to poor-quality fuel, it regularly clogs with soot, so owners often turn off this system altogether. This "anti-environmental" measure also saves from another trouble: the additional heat exchanger installed in the system often burns out and begins to let coolant into the exhaust system.

The chassis of the BMW X3 is a modified base of the E46 all-wheel drive three-wheel drive, as a result of which the crossover has become one of the most driver-friendly in the class.

TRANSMISSION

Most of the cars on our market - with a gun. In our conditions, the resource of automatic transmission (again, with adequate operation) approaches the resource of motors: 250-300 thousand km is not the limit for them. But under the condition of aggressive driving, you can “get” to replace the clutch package and torque converter much earlier. mechanical boxes the assortment is smaller - they were mainly equipped with European crossovers. These units are even more durable: their repair is usually limited to replacing the clutch (usually after 150 thousand km). In the transfer case, not everything is so smooth: in the interval from 100 to 150 thousand km, there are cases of chain stretching, as well as failure of the multi-plate clutch servo. By this time, the crosses of the front cardan may wear out, because of which the entire shaft will have to be changed - it is not separable.

By 150 thousand kilometers, there is a possibility of stretching the chain in the transfer case and failure of the multi-plate clutch servo

CHASSIS

The suspension of this crossover perfectly tolerates Russian roads, which is not very typical for BMW: the levers here are not aluminum, as in the X5, but steel. Stabilizer struts are traditionally handed over first (70-80 thousand kilometers), but the reason for the next trip to the service will not come soon: shock absorbers, silent blocks of levers, wheel bearings and ball bearings rarely need to be replaced before 140-150 thousand km. The steering gear is also quite reliable: the rack usually lasts more than 170 thousand km.

Diesel engines M47 and M57 are not only more economical than gasoline units, but sometimes more reliable

BODY AND INTERIOR

With corrosion resistance, the BMW X3 is all right: only external chrome-plated exterior elements, luggage rails or a hood with headlights clouded from strong sandblasting can lose their gloss. No frequent problems were found either with the interior electrics or with the quality of its finish. Dampness can be an unpleasant surprise: water entering the cabin can happen both due to a clogged hatch drainage and due to peeling door seals.

pros

Liquidity in the secondary market, reliable suspension and power units rich equipment.

Minuses

Demanding on the quality of fuel, the need for a qualified service station.

The interior of the BMW is strict, concise and comfortable

The back side is very practical when transporting goods.

APPROXIMATE COST OF MAINTENANCE IN SPECIALIZED INDEPENDENT HUNDRED, r.

	ORIGINAL S/H	NON-ORIGINAL S/H	JOB
Spark plugs (6 pcs.)	2000	1600	1500
Engine oil change	-	-	1100
Replacing the valve cover gasket	-	-	2900
Pumps	7000	4000	3200
Fuel filter (diesel)	800	500	1000
Brake discs / pads (2 pcs.)	5000	2000	2800/1590
Rear hub bearing	3500	1400	3100
Spherical bearing	2300	1300	1900
Front shock absorber	11 000	6000	1700
Front Upper Arm	4000	2700	1000
Hood	44 000	17 000	1600
Bumper	17 000	9600	1400
Wing	19 000	11 000	700
Headlight	56 000	37 000	500
Windshield	10 000	6000	2000

VERDICT

The above problems are unlikely to occur in one car, and if you do not skimp on competent diagnostics, then at the price of a budget foreign car you can buy a much more interesting car. BMW X3 is perhaps one of the most suitable cars of the Bavarian brand for Russian conditions. On its side is a successful suspension, clearance sufficient for a crossover, powerful engines and comfortable lounge from quality finish. The main thing, and after the purchase, do not forget about regular maintenance.

Reconciliation of contradictions is the basis for creating new cars. Consumers want each successive generation to be more spacious, safer and richer equipped. And at the same time, the manufacturer must take care of reducing weight and fuel consumption, while maintaining its reputation and profitability.

bmw x 3 of the second generation is a typical mid-size SUV. Its length is 465 cm, and wheelbase 281 cm. This is somewhere between the BMW 5th and 3rd series.

The BMW X 3 Series F 25, which debuted in 2010, good example complex compromises. Compared to the previous generation BMW X3 of the E83 series (2003-2010), the crossover has increased by 7 cm, and the wheelbase has grown by only 1 cm.

The main innovation is the transfer of production in the United States to the BMW plant in South Carolina. The predecessor was assembled in Austria. Some may think that it doesn't matter. However, the result of comparing the quality of the cabin is not in favor of the new model. Customers from across the ocean are not so demanding on the quality of plastic. For the Russian market, local assembly is organized at the Avtotor Kaliningrad enterprise.

The photo looks like a brand new car. But there are already 160,000 km on the counter. There are no significant signs of wear. The only thing that gives out the mileage is the wear of the protective layer on the central display.

For the whole family

When it comes to practicality, the X3 F25 is an example. Despite BMW's characteristic longitudinal engine layout behind the front axle (which should reduce the length of the cabin), passengers find no reason to complain. The driver's landing is high - in an off-road manner without a shadow of sporting ambitions. The chair has a wide range of adjustments, as does the steering column. Two adults can comfortably sit in the back. Behind the driver's seat (taking into account the meter distance from the pedals) remains 73 cm. This is very good result. Few rivals can surpass it, except perhaps the Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester. The Mercedes GLK is much cramped.

Interior width BMW X 3 is comparable to the Honda CR-V, and only slightly inferior to the Japanese in terms of legroom.

The owner also has a huge 550-liter trunk. Cargo capacity can be increased by partially or completely folding the rear sofa with a backrest divided into three sections (40/20/40). Under the floor of the trunk is a small compartment where the battery is located. On the right side of the trunk, there is an emergency opening of the filler flap fuel tank. Many cars have an electric trunk lid. True, the drive cylinders wear out over time.

BMW X3 E83 on the left and F25 on the right.

Most crossovers have rich equipment, but the configuration of each instance is different. It's just that almost all the equipment required an additional payment, and the list of options itself consisted of several pages in small print. The most popular element is the iDrive controller with a 12-inch center screen. Poorer configurations have an 8.8-inch screen.

Focus on comfort

It is worth noting that rich equipment is not the main thing. It is better to focus on finding cars with low mileage than generously equipped ones. A calm driver is unlikely to appreciate the Dynamic Damper Control active damping system or steering with variable gear ratio. But attention is paid to instances with front seats of the Comfort series and active cruise control.

Gasoline or diesel?

All 4-cylinder petrol units are turbocharged and produce 184 or 245 hp. (20i and 28i). The second option turned out to be less successful. Recently, more and more often, owners have to deal with premature wear of the oil pump drive. The only symptom is extraneous noise (howling) during an increase in speed. The defect leads to accelerated wear of the turbocharger, increased oil consumption and, in extreme cases, to engine seizure. The atmospheric 6-cylinder engine with a volume of 3 liters (258 or 306 hp) is completely devoid of serious shortcomings. But there are very few such modifications, and transport tax unlikely to please anyone.

Share of ads with diesel versions F25 reaches 60 percent. That's enough. Among diesels, versions with a 2-liter turbodiesel with a return of 184 hp predominate. For your information: in Europe, the weakest diesel modification developed 143 hp. and had a drive only on the rear axle.

The main enemy of a diesel engine is too long an oil change interval, which loses its viscosity much earlier. This has a particularly negative effect on the condition of the timing chain, as many European users have seen. There, the recommended oil change interval is an incredible 30,000 km. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that the chain is located on the side of the box, which significantly increases the cost of repairs.

With frequent trips over short distances (for example, in the city), problems may also arise with the particulate filter. He simply does not have time to complete the process of self-cleaning. With too frequent unsuccessful starts of the DPF self-regeneration, excess fuel is formed that enters the motor oil. Its lubricating properties are lost, which leads to wear of the turbocharger, the motor itself and the timing chain. An alarming sign is an increase in oil level between changes.

The N57 series 3-litre turbodiesel, for the same reasons, is not tolerant of frequent short trips. The timing drive here is also located on the side of the box. Luckily chain problems are much less common than in 2.0d. Among the disadvantages: a low resource of the belt pulley of mounted units and the EGR valve (exhaust gas recirculation system).

Transmission

Unlike other BMW models, the X3 F25 has a slightly different design of the transfer case for the xDrive all-wheel drive system. Instead of gears, a chain is used here. According to experts, this solution is more reliable, and any problems are associated only with the neglect of changing the oil. The malfunctions of the all-wheel drive system will be indicated by jolts (jerks) when driving with the wheels completely turned out. Mechanics recommend changing the oil as often as possible - every 40-60 thousand km. Subject to regular oil changes (every 60-80 thousand km), for a long time there are no complaints about the operation of the 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

Again, not everything is smooth

The trade-offs mentioned at the outset have probably led to excessive reductions in production costs. BMW X3 owners often complain about various malfunctions. For example, for many, after several tens of thousands of kilometers, the steering rack begins to knock. The ZF unit is a real wreck. Judging by the parts catalog, it has been upgraded several times already, but complaints about knocking appear again and again, regardless of the year of manufacture of the car. Some were lucky enough to install the third rail already.

Like most modern cars, the X3 doesn't handle long periods of inactivity well. The battery drains quickly, causing starting difficulties and electronics errors. Luckily, the suspension doesn't pose any major problems - it's quite expensive to repair.

The above is also confirmed by BMW dealership mechanics, who say that the main problems of the X3 F25 are malfunctions of the steering rack and 2-liter oil pumps. gasoline engines N20 series (245 hp). Everything else is rare, and little things on the electrician, as a rule, are caused by contamination of the contacts.

Conclusion

In the secondary market, the beginning of a sharp decline in prices for the second generation BMW X3 is already noticeable. Some proposals even broke down the psychologically important mark of 1,000,000 rubles. So is the X3 F25 worth it? Is it really the best family car– roomy, rulitsya well and superbly equipped? Probably not, unless you're an avid BMW fan and you're willing to bear the cost. The level of reliability is significantly lower than the first generation model, and the cost possible repair will cause a heart attack. When purchasing a second X3, first of all, you should be prepared to restore the steering rack. All the rest? If we get lucky. Service history is paramount.

BMW x3 with mileage is a prestigious, reliable and quality car in every way. Ultimately, much depends on real mileage, operating conditions and competent Maintenance. Sometimes the question of whether to take a BMW X3 used disappears by itself if you are confident in the seller and have carried out a complete technical audit of the car, as a result of which different kind malfunctions. The used car market pleases with prices and an abundance of offers for the BMW x3.

In 1917, BMW (Bayerisch Motoren Werke) was registered in Munich. Then its specialization was aircraft engines. But in 1928, several factories were bought in Eisenach and a license for the production of a Dixi subcompact car. Today, BMW factories are located not only in Germany, but throughout the world. A modern feature of the famous BMW brand today is that the assembly of cars is done manually, without the help of robots. Latest Models BMW cars created using the latest technology. At every car show you can see cars with great innovative solutions. Therefore, many motorists Brand BMW considered a model of quality and respectability of the owner.

BMW's achievements include the invention of the in-line six-cylinder engine, and much later, the creation of a digitally controlled engine, as well as the emergence of the ABS system. Launch of the first german car with 12 cylinders in the engine also belongs to this company. Exactly bmw engines from year to year are recognized as the best in the world and receive international awards. You can't ignore the great design decision registration of any car is radiator screen with two ovals. It resembles the face of a predator, ready for a victorious battle with a problem track and bad weather in the form of rain, ice and snow.

Used BMW cars X3 has an excellent reputation. Choose a used BMW X3 with low mileage, with good pre-sales preparation, without accidents and crime is quite real. The main benefit of buying such a used car is the price. It is much lower and accessible to more motorists than new premium BMW crossover.

German legendary production quality and advanced technology allows you to get xenon headlights, rain and light sensors, multifunction steering wheel, parking sensors, preheater engine, both automatic transmission and mechanical, upgraded audio system, etc. options. Rear or four-wheel drive, a large selection of motors. In any case, you will receive a BMW x3 with a spectacular design, comfortable lounge and excellent technical performance.

In the secondary market today you can find quite a lot of X 3 of various origins. These can be European options, American ones, or Russian ones bought from official dealers. In any case, you often do not know the real mileage. as the run twisting masters today do beautifully, do not undermine. Stories that the car has been in the garage for the last 5 years are best ignored.

BMW x3 engine mostly petrol, it is the inline 6-cylinder 2.5-litre M54B25 or 3.0-litre M54B30. All-aluminum cylinder block, with cast iron sleeves, aluminum cylinder head, reliable timing chain drive. The engine is almost no problem, but there is one technical subtlety that almost any buyer of a used BMW X3 should know. Special attention it is worth paying attention to the elements of the engine crankcase ventilation system (valve, four pipes, oil dipstick sealing ring). They are subject to mandatory replacement every 70-80 thousand km. Failure to comply with this rule threatens either with extraneous air leakage in the intake tract and, as a result, uneven engine operation and even in especially neglected cases - burnout of the pistons of the 3rd 4th cylinders (in the event of a valve diaphragm rupture). If the ventilation system is clogged with oil deposits, the pressure of crankcase gases in the engine increases and everything starts to flow - valve cover gaskets, sump, oil filter housing ... That is, if you are offered to buy an X3 used with an engine that is up to its neck in oil, then most likely the problem is this.

Used BMW X3 diesel captivates with its low fuel consumption, but will it be possible to save. The endurance of diesel units X of the third, subject to high-quality fuel, can reach 250 thousand kilometers. But what if the turbine, high-pressure fuel pump breaks down, the particulate filter clogs or the nozzles die. All these elements are expensive, and with our low-quality diesel fuel, they may even turn out to be consumable, so even saving on fuel can be unprofitable against the backdrop of constant spending on a diesel X3.

Buy X3 with mileage and not invest in it will not work. automatic box rarely goes more than 200 thousand kilometers, mechanics on the market come across less often, but it is much more reliable. The xDrive dispenser with its electronics may start to fail after 100 thousand kilometers. The suspension is very strong, but no racks last long on our pits, this must be borne in mind. It is better not to touch the timing chain drive, but if the mileage is high, then you will have to change the chain, sprockets, slats, in general, in full.

The clumsy, angular appearance and rather modest, by premium standards, interior trim of the X3, which debuted in the fall of 2003, caused a lot of controversy among zealous BMW fans. The popularity of the car has gained quite limited - including in Russia. Despite the ubiquitous "parquet" fashion and, in general, quite an adequate price, in seven years we have sold only eleven and a half thousand younger "Xs". At the same time, the circulation of the more prestigious X5 exceeded this figure by seven thousand ... however!

And yet, the buyer, who chose the smaller of the two "Xs", subsequently rarely regretted his choice. In addition to the advantages inherent in most all-terrain vehicles - a high "far-sighted" landing behind the wheel and an increased ground clearance- a crossover built on the platform of the 3rd series was hardly inferior to the latter in handling. Even the weakest of its engines - 4 cylinders, 2 liters and 150 forces - at the very least, but allowed to reveal the advantages of the chassis. In addition, it was on X3 that it first appeared intelligent system all-wheel drive "X-Drive", now widely used on other Bavarian cars. Yes, the Germans did not install sophisticated electronic systems on the crossover, such as Dynamic Drive, which regulates the stiffness of the shock absorbers, but this can hardly be attributed to the significant disadvantages of the X: it is well known that any design is more reliable than it is simpler.

Holds its shape (body and its electrical equipment)

For the production of their crossover, the Bavarians engaged the Austrian plant of Magna-Steyr, and the X3 only benefited from this. The mechanics who service the car have not and never had the slightest claim to the quality of assembly and painting. Details of trouble-free specimens and at the age of five are not subject to corrosion. As for the electrical equipment and interior equipment, then weaknesses minimum here: wedged rear section panoramic sunroof, included in the airbag control circuit touch mat passenger seat, air conditioning radiator And rear wiper motor. It is worth noting that the failure of the sunroof and sensor is usually due to a decent age of the car - from five years and older. The last two problems are most often characteristic of cars that are operated in Moscow: parts die from interaction with salt and other anti-icing chemicals. In order not to pay at an authorized service for an expensive replacement of the hatch frame, it is wiser to drown it out from unofficials for 4000-5000 rubles.

Generally reliable (transmission)

Most of the copies on the secondary market are equipped with "automatic machines". Regardless of motor power, 5-band hydromechanical boxes the German company ZF and the 6-speed units that replaced them after restyling in 2007 live happily ever after: runs of 200 thousand kilometers are not the limit for them. The hinges of the drives, provided that the anthers are preserved, are also quite durable. Mechanics have no complaints about manual gearboxes, which were installed on cars with 2-liter engines - gasoline or diesel. The clutch resource with adequate operation is 130-160 thousand. However, the driven disk should be changed at the first sign of a malfunction (difficulty shifting gears or slipping) - otherwise there is a risk of getting into the replacement of an expensive dual-mass flywheel.

Overall, the X3's transmission is very reliable. the only trouble spot in it is handout servo drive all-wheel drive systems. It happened that the person responsible for the connection front axle The part failed even within the warranty period. Installing a new servo, although it will turn out to be a very costly undertaking, is much cheaper than buying a whole razdatka, which X-fifth owners often face with the need to replace.

Less hassle with gasoline (engines)

In-line gasoline "sixes" of the M54 family with a volume of 2.5 and 3 liters, as well as more modern engines with the N52 index that replaced them in 2007, mechanics recognize as optimal for the X3. Yes, overruns on old oil can lead to failure. executive mechanism adjusting the valve timing "Double Vanos", and neglecting the cleaning of the radiator - to overheating. But if you don’t scoff at the engines and feed them with high-quality fuel, then they calmly take care of 250-300 thousand km. Happening sometimes in winter time Starting problems with the N52 are easily fixed by replacing the expensive platinum plugs with cheaper ones designed to be installed on the previous M54.

It is wiser to refuse the weakest 2-liter gasoline unit (N46). The in-line “four” is very demanding on fuel quality, it is noisy and unstable at idle, and besides, it has seen repeated breaks in the timing chain, which is often fatal for the engine. The 2.0L and 3.0L diesels installed since 2006 on the X3 can bring unpleasant surprises. The fact is that both engines have intake manifolds of variable length with swirl flaps. The latter tend to become loose, and then at one fine moment the air flow draws them into the engine cylinders. Since these motors have only one repair size, and scoring from metal dampers may turn out to be deeper than the processing tolerance, then no treatment will help - only replacing the unit. To avoid such troubles, it is wiser to simply replace the collector with a new one with a run of 100,000 km. Another option is to look for a copy produced until 2005 inclusive with a 204-horsepower 3-liter diesel engine, intake manifold which is devoid of any barriers.

Cannot stand self-activity (chassis and steering)

We have already mentioned that the "X-third" boasts excellent handling. However, all the efforts of engineers who have spent a lot of time looking for ideal chassis settings can be easily ruined at one moment by installing wheels and tires that do not meet its passport requirements on the car. Moreover, by dressing up their BMW in wide bast shoes, people not only deprive themselves of the pleasure of driving, but also kill the suspension by unnecessarily loading its elements. On the right wheels and disks, the X3 is able to drive without any problems for a very long time - 100-120 thousand. By this time, shock absorbers can give up, and the average resource of silent blocks and wheel bearings extends up to 140,000 km. Approximately the same amount of nursing rods and tips. And the front and rear arms mechanics changed at all only on cars that had an accident on their track record.

Good endurance is also characteristic of the components brake system. The front pads rarely have to be changed before 30,000 km, and the rear pads easily reach up to fifty dollars. Discs, like most other cars, last twice as long as pads.