2008 BMW X3 recalls and problems
The 2008 BMW X3 has 3 safety recalls and 66 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2008 BMW X3 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2008 BMW X3 recalls
Recall 20V-017: Air Bags
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver air bag. On X5 and X6 vehicles, only the inflator will be replaced. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall 17V-683: Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2011 128i and 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
Risk: An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the PCV valve heater, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notification by the end of October 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall 17V-605: Air Bags
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2010 BMW X3 2.5i, X3 3.0i and X3 xDrive30i Sports Activity Vehicles. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if, and how, the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
Risk: Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat occupant detection mat, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. A second notification letter will be sent when parts are available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
2008 BMW X3 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Air Bags | 32 | |
| Engine | 16 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 15 | |
| Seats | 6 | |
| Unknown or Other | 5 | |
| Power Train | 5 | |
| Electrical System | 5 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler — 1
- Power Train › Driveline › Constant Velocity Joint — 1
- Electrical System › Seat Heater › Wiring Harness — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 119,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2008 BMW X3 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other BMW X3 years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2008 BMW X3 have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2008 BMW X3: 20V-017 (air bags), 17V-683 (engine and engine cooling), 17V-605 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2008 BMW X3?
Owners report air bags problems most often (32 reports), followed by engine (16). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 119,000 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.