Models · BMW
BMW X3 F25 buying guide
The second X3, built from 2010 to 2017 with a facelift in 2014. Most UK cars are diesels, chiefly the 20d, with four- and six-cylinder turbo petrols also offered, and most have xDrive four-wheel drive.
The versions
- Four-cylinder diesel: 18d and 20d, with the N47 before the 2014 facelift and the B47 after
- Six-cylinder diesel: 30d and 35d
- Petrol: 2.0 turbo four-cylinder in the 20i and 28i, and 3.0 turbo six in the 35i
- xDrive four-wheel drive on most cars, with sDrive rear-wheel drive on some 18d models
- 8-speed automatic on most cars, 6-speed manual on some four-cylinder diesels
What to check on a F25 X3
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Timing chain rattle on a pre-facelift 20d
What to look for: On a four-cylinder diesel built before the 2014 facelift, ask for the engine to be started from cold. Listen at the back of the engine, near the bulkhead, for a metallic rattle on start-up or as the revs drop. Ask whether the timing chain has been replaced.
Why it matters: The early 20d's N47 engine has been known to suffer timing chain problems. The chain sits at the gearbox end, so replacing it is a big job. A facelift car with the later B47 engine avoids the question, and on an earlier car a chain replacement invoice is a strong point in its favour.
The diesel EGR cooler recall
What to look for: Ask whether the EGR cooler recall work has been done, or check with a BMW dealer using the VIN. Check the coolant level with the engine cold.
Why it matters: Three recalls cover leaking EGR coolers on X3 diesels built from August 2010 to October 2017, because leaking coolant combined with the heat of the system could cause a fire risk. Most cars have been done, but it's quick to confirm.
Heavy steering (cars built September 2011 to December 2015)
What to look for: On the drive and when parking, the steering should feel consistently light and assisted. Note any moment where it suddenly goes heavy, or a steering warning. Ask whether the power steering recall has been done.
Why it matters: An electrical fault on cars built from 19 September 2011 to 8 December 2015 could make the power steering fail, leaving the steering heavy. The recall replaces the affected system, and a dealer can confirm it from the VIN.
Also in the full guide
- Fuel supply recall on later cars
- Rear Isofix mounts
- Infotainment, sat nav and the battery
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F25 X3
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.