MotorDeets

BMW X3 Sav problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every X3 Sav from 2007 to 2012: 274 owner complaints and 10 recalls across 6 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2007 (160), 2008 (56), 2010 (23).

BMW X3 Sav
Photo: IFCAR · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Airbags98
Transmission & drivetrain55
Seats50
Engine37
Electrical28
Steering11
Speed control / throttle8
Body & structure8

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
20072160–
2008256–
2009216–
2010323–
2011113–
201206–

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the BMW X3 Sav.

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Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the BMW X3 Sav?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2007 (160), 2008 (56), 2010 (23).

How many recalls has the BMW X3 Sav had?

Across 2007–2012, NHTSA lists 10 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).