2021 BMW X3: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the BMW X3 first registered in 2021: we looked at the 10,679 MOTs these cars had during 2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Common 2021 BMW X3 MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2021 BMW X3 MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres23% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors6% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- Brakes3% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Seats and seatbelts3% of testsRough price £80–£250
At the viewing: Pull each seatbelt sharply. It should lock, and retract cleanly.
- Lights and electrics2% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Suspension2% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
Known faults on the 2021 BMW X3
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- All engines
Steering, suspension and seatbelt recalls
Recalls covered a steering part that could work loose (2018), front suspension parts (2019), seat frames, rear spoiler, airbags, and front seatbelt buckles and seatbelts (2020).
At the viewing: Ask a BMW dealer to check the VIN for outstanding recalls.
Source: Auto Express: used BMW X3 (Mk3, 2017-2024) buyer’s guide
- xDrive30e plug-in hybrid
Battery recall (plug-in hybrid)
The xDrive30e was recalled in 2020 for short circuits in the battery pack.
At the viewing: Ask for proof the recall was done.
Source: Auto Express: used BMW X3 (Mk3, 2017-2024) buyer’s guide
- All engines
Run-flat tyres cracking
Some owners found the factory Bridgestone run-flats cracked or wore early.
At the viewing: Look at the tyre sidewalls for cracks.
Source: Auto Express: used BMW X3 (Mk3, 2017-2024) buyer’s guide
- All engines
Software crashes
Some owners report software crashes the dealer couldn't fix.
At the viewing: Use the screen and connect your phone.
Source: Auto Express: used BMW X3 (Mk3, 2017-2024) buyer’s guide
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2021 BMW X3
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Have all the recalls been done? Can a BMW dealer confirm from the VIN?
- Has the battery recall been done?
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a BMW X3?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the BMW X3 compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | 293 | Tyres 7% |
| 2022 | 7,442 | Tyres 21% |
| 2020 | 7,575 | Tyres 23% |
| 2019 | 15,681 | Tyres 24% |
| 2018 | 8,148 | Tyres 25% |
| 2017 | 8,054 | Tyres 26% |
| 2016 | 8,948 | Tyres 27% |
| 2015 | 7,025 | Tyres 26% |
| 2014 | 6,052 | Tyres 28% |
| 2013 | 7,109 | Tyres 28% |
| 2012 | 6,659 | Suspension 29% |
| 2011 | 3,844 | Suspension 30% |
| 2010 | 818 | Suspension 31% |
| 2009 | 1,181 | Suspension 31% |
| 2008 | 1,257 | Suspension 33% |
| 2007 | 1,787 | Suspension 40% |
| 2006 | 2,382 | Suspension 40% |
| 2005 | 2,022 | Suspension 45% |
| 2004 | 1,719 | Oil and fluid leaks 42% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2025, counting the MOTs of BMW X3 cars first registered in 2021. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score