BMW X3 owners have reported 4 problems related to timing tensioner (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Vehicle indicated a drivetrain malfunction. It was determined by the dealer that the system that failed was timing valvetronic motor. The vehicle stalled as I was making a left hand turn off of a busy highway, putting myself and oncoming traffic at serious risk of collision. Oncoming vehicles were able to slow until I was able to maneuver the vehicle out of the lane of oncoming traffic. The dealer confirmed that they "found the vehicle stalling and not running correctly. Performed vehicle test. Found faults for valvetronic motor. Set multiple additional faults for mixture and air mass. Valvetronic is failing and should be replaced. " the vehicle component was inspected by the dealer who sold me the car. There were no warning lights nor other indicators of component failure prior to the vehicle stalling on the highway. This is the second time this vehicle has stalled in dangerous situations. The first time was a drivetrain malfunction/engine failure due to timing chain and timing tensioner malfunction. Most likely the valvetronic system failure is directly related to the timing chain tensioner malfunction. Both systems failed within a very short period of time, and within fewer than 4,000 miles of each other.
See
all problems of the 2013 BMW X3
🔎.
The system that failed was the timing chain and chain tensioner. The vehicle stalled while I was driving on the interstate. Immediately, I had no power and had to maneuver the vehicle to the emergency lane, placing me and other drivers in extreme danger. The problem was inspected, confirmed and repaired by the vehicle dealer. Prior to stalling, there were no warning lights to indicate a problem. The lights did come on simultaneously with the engine failure.
2013 X3 28i-drivetrain malfunction I had an issue yesterday. 2013 X3 28i; 67k miles. No warning. On expressway car feels like its losing power so I slow down to pull to side. Drivetrain malfunction warning comes on as car is dying. Had it towed to closest shop, not bwm. They say timing chain tensioner failed and likely did extensive damage to engine. Shop is quoting $2500 to replace the tensioner to see if engine is shot? once they confirm engine is dead $10k for replacement ?? car is out of warranty. Any help much appreciated. Thanks.
Earlier this year while driving my 2013 BMW X3 on the highway it broke down with little warning. Fortunately I was able to get to an exit ramp before my car completely failed. After having it flat bedded to a mechanic who had to push the vehicle into the shop they verified that the vehicle would crank over and not start. It was relatively clear from the sound the engine was making during the starter engagement that the camshaft timing was off. The valve cover was removed and the mechanic verified that the timing was indeed off. The timing chain had jumped time on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The timing was off due to excessive slack in the timing chain due to a failed chain tensioner. This should not happen on a 2013 BMW with mainly highway miles. I was told I need a new engine that will cost upwards of $15,000 or buy a slightly used one for approximately $9,000. I've reached out tot he dealer and BMW na with no relief. Similar issues have been identified in the x5 and other BMW cars which were recalled but for some reason no recall was sent out on the n20 engine for the X3. From a quick internet search there are many X3 owners that have the same or similar problems. Something needs to be done to get relief for these owners. Unfortunately this once proud vehicle maker that no longer backs the longevity of the luxury car they build.