2011 BMW X3 SAV
Only 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 13
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2011
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2011: 13 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 160 |
| 2008 | 56 |
| 2009 | 16 |
| 2010 | 23 |
| 2011 | 13 |
| 2012 | 6 |
Known problem areas
Only 13 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
4 of 13 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Vehicle is parked on driveway the engine started . Drivetrain malfunction shows with check engine light on. Engine starts but can not put it drive or…
NHTSA ODI report, 2016-06-24
Steering
3 of 13 total reports mention: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that while traveling 25 MPH, the steering control malfunction light illuminated and the power steering assist failed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where unknown repairs were performed.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-05-01
Air bags
3 of 13 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
Only have my car for only a year. Taillight from passenger side: the running light defects when I hit the brake the brake light comes on. I was told I need to replace the whole assembly light and this is well known for this car.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-05-22
Takata recall: the dealer had failed to obtain the part or parts necessary to fix the airbags problem for more than six months already since they claimed had ordered the parts.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-04-02
Power train
2 of 13 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
I feel this vehicle is unsafe due to the configuration of the gearshift which is electronic.
NHTSA ODI report, 2016-07-21
Structure
1 of 13 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing body.
Show complaint excerpts
In the summer of 2014, the panoramic moon roof exploded for no reason. While driving to work, with the moon roof shade closed,there was a very loud "Bang".
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-12-27
Safety timeline
1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2014-09-24Engine and engine cooling14V176000 BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 128i Coupe, 128i Convertible, 328i Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 328i Coupe, 328i Convertible, 328i Sports Wagon and Z4 sDrive 30i, 2011-2012 135i Coupe, 135i Convertible, 335i...
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the four VANOS housing bolts for both VANOS units (intake and exhaust), free of charge.
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I
2021-09-17Engineering analysisOpen Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
Buy-smart checklist
2011 BMW X3 SAV — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Steering: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 14V176000 · Engine and engine cooling
FAQ
- Is the 2011 BMW X3 SAV reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2011 BMW X3 SAV?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 31% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2011 BMW X3 SAV have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.