2012 BMW X3 SAV
Only 6 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 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 6
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2012: 6 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 160 |
| 2008 | 56 |
| 2009 | 16 |
| 2010 | 23 |
| 2011 | 13 |
| 2012 | 6 |
Known problem areas
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
3 of 6 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
In 3 occasions (Within 2 years duration) when I braked the car (Brand new 2012 X3 2.8I) gently to stop it, it slowed down firstly but all in a sudden it accelerated with engine revved up (With noticeable engine noise), the brake seemed losing power...
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-03-30
Also filed under Service brakes
I was driving 60 miles an hour on a highway and the engine in my 2012 BMW X3 35I seized and went into neutral. I had to glide off to the side of the road into the grass.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-08-17
Bolts holding the variable camshaft timing vanos housing are defective. This is a known issue and BMW notified NHTSA of a recall in 2014 for 156000 vehicles.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-05-07
Wheels
1 of 6 total reports mentions: wheels.
Steering
1 of 6 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
When driving on the highway for more than 10 minutes in warm weather, the steering feels "Sticky" And is hard to keep in the lane.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-07-24
Service brakes
1 of 6 total reports mentions: service brakes.
Power train
1 of 6 total reports mentions: power train.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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I
2021-09-17Engineering analysisOpen Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
Buy-smart checklist
2012 BMW X3 SAV — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Wheels: 1 report on file for this year.
- Steering: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 2012 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 2012 BMW X3 SAV?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2012 BMW X3 SAV have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.