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BMW X3

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Comments

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 235,175
    Most BMW sound systems leave a lot to be desired.. Even the optional Harmon-Kardon in the 325i is pretty lame...

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  • rob34rob34 Member Posts: 58
    I have noticed that the brake pedal and gas pedal are very close together. She probably hit the gas even though she says she didn't. Did she pull the emergancy brake? What did the dealer say?
  • rob34rob34 Member Posts: 58
    The premium sound stereo is pretty good. Better then the base stereo in my 2002 X5. But my reception was better in the X5. I just think they should have a standard CD changer in the head unit itself. I mean many American cars and trucks have that standard. Also, I sure wish I knew how much time elapsed in a given song with a CD. Why there isn't more track info I have no idea but there should be.
  • junm3junm3 Member Posts: 1
    Does anybody know when BMW X3 2006 will come out
  • sponge_worthysponge_worthy Member Posts: 27
    Thats a disappointment... BMW should really get their act together on the sound system. I'm not saying it needs they to put in a audiophile grade system, but the standard system is a joke.
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    We test drove three X3's all with the base model audio -- this is probably NOT literally true, but for the moment I can only comment it was the worst audio system I have heard in a "new car" in the past 15 years! I cannot remember anything sounding this bad, that is.

    The upgraded system is pretty good -- it is a stereo system (not "surround sound") with multiple speakers front and rear -- actually considering it is "stereo" it is more than pretty good, it is very, very good indeed.

    Were I the dealer, I would keep at least one X3 in stock with the high zoot stereo and Sirius (which is what we ended up with) because I, for one, always bring a couple of CD's with me to make sure I give the whole car a test drive. When I put in my test CD's, I thought the woofers were disconnected the thing sounded so tinny.

    Also, my dealer says all inventory X3's "from now on" will ONLY come with Servotronic ($250 option) steering -- this too, is a deal breaker option (you must have it, that is.)

    We ended up with:

    X3 3.0 6spd manual Black Gloss w/Terracotta "Montana Leather" Sport seats.

    Premium
    Sport
    Cold
    Sat Nav
    Sirius
    Parktronic
    Upgraded Audio
    Xenons
    Servotronic. . .

    . . .and a couple of other things that completely transform the X3 into a comfortable and darn near luxurious vehicle.
  • oldybutgoodyoldybutgoody Member Posts: 2
    I just ordered a 2006 X3 that supposedly is to be built in September and delivered in October sometime. Time will tell... But I try to be optimistic :)
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    Hard to believe, but true: our ordered X3 took 7 weeks to come in.
  • sponge_worthysponge_worthy Member Posts: 27
    Does anyone know of a website where can purchase BMW OEM Accessories? My dealership sucks (bunch of classless, dishonest jerks) and I don't want them making even another $1 off me.
  • stone3stone3 Member Posts: 9
    No. Not at all. She clearly pressed the brake but the car would not stop. The police came and now the car is being examined by the dealer. But I think it is not right for the car to be examined by the dealer. Does anyone know any other place where she should have her car examined other than dealer?
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 235,175
    All ABS systems are computer controlled...

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  • sponge_worthysponge_worthy Member Posts: 27
    Never trust a dealer - PERIOD. She should contact BMW of North America customer service, let them handle the dealer.
  • babydocbabydoc Member Posts: 20
    Does anyone else have a problem with their 2004 BMW X3 windows rattling? I took it to the dealer, and was told that BMW was working on it, and for now, I am stuck with the annoying rattling. If the windows are rolled down half-way, the rattling stops.
    Also- dumb question- but do I really need premium gas for this car? The pinging sound is there no matter what grade of gas I use. Any input would be appreciated.
  • kdshapirokdshapiro Member Posts: 5,751
    As far as the gas goes, I've never heard a BMW knocking as they have knock-sensors to change the timing should knock occur. As far as the grade of gas, I would follow the manufacturers recommendation.

    Do you buy gas from one of the national manufacturers: Exxon/Mobil..etc? Are you putting a no-name brand into the gas tank?
  • yankeeclipperyankeeclipper Member Posts: 11
    I have my X3 about a year. When I got it it creaked and rattled. The fix was some type of lubricant on all the weather seals. It worked. However both my front door weather seals started to wear as a result. I had one replaced but the wear problem came back. I don't know if the wear is related to whatever they put on the weather strip. But I am not impressed with the body of this vehicle. For what they charge it is totally unacceptable!
  • sponge_worthysponge_worthy Member Posts: 27
    I wonder if the rattling is somehow temperature related - metal/rubber expansion at the in the heat. I found the my previous car '01 Saab 9-3 was much noisier on hot days. Do you notice if its better/worse on hot or cold days?
  • babydocbabydoc Member Posts: 20
    I mostly purchase gas from Phillips, as it is the closest. I will try some of the other name brands and see if there's a difference. If not, sounds like I need to call the BMW service centers.
    The rattling doesn't seem to be heat-related.
    When I took it in for the problem, I was told that BMW was going to have to replace all the window seals- so far, nothing, and it's driving me nuts. I'll have to try and write BMW to see if what recourse I have. It's ridiculous to buy a car of this price and reputation and have to be barraged constantly with the rattling. Of course, when I test drove the car, they'd sealed it up well, so there was no rattling. Now they can't repeat the sealing process for whatever reason. :(
    I do love the looks of the car and the zippiness, but I'd think that I shouldn't have to put up all these noises.
    So if anyone out there is looking for a 2004 X3- check the windows!
  • kdshapirokdshapiro Member Posts: 5,751
    I wonder if it is possible for a total vacuum loss on the system? Brakes are mechanical (until I guess drive-by-wire-brake becomes standard). With two cylinders and multiple lines I would think the odds of both cylinders failing at the same time are astronomical. Even with a loss of vacuum one can stop the vehicle if the brakes are pressed hard enough or use the emergency brake.

    I don't know enough about how brakes are engineered with respect to the boost. We all know after the engine is shut off and the brakes are pumped 5 or 6 times there is no boost left. Maybe someone could comment.

    FYI - This link has a drawing of the master cylinder.

    http://www.chris-longhurst.com/carbibles/brake_bible.html
  • div2div2 Member Posts: 2,580
    It sure sounds like driver error to me, especially the part about "only" going five miles per hour. Heck, at that speed you can almost stop the car by dragging your foot. How much do you want to bet that the brake system checks out fine?
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 235,175
    99.9% of these cases are driver error...

    However, if the engine died, it would sure feel like the brakes had failed, without any power assist..

    Without that qualifier... I'd say the percentage increases to 99.99%..

    regards,
    kyfdx

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  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    The BMW engine (either one) requires premium gas. It is MORE expensive to use lower grade gas, since it is typical that more gas is used to keep the power up. This engine(s) has a high compression ratio. Use a minimum of 91.

    Also use a top tier gas and you will notice an improvement after perhaps a half a dozen tankfuls.

    "TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline is a recently established new standard for gasoline performance. Four of the world's top automakers, BMW, General Motors, Honda, and Toyota recognize that the current EPA minimum detergent requirements do not go far enough to ensure optimal engine performance."

    Top Tier Gas Home Page

    Over the weekend, another 600 miles -- purchased 3 tankfuls (never allowed the car to get to 1/2 full, always refilled above 1/2 tank that is, arrived home with almost a full tank.) Reset the mileage computer each time. Highest just under 26, lowest about 23.5. My QND average would be 24.5 for the whole weekend.

    Yesterday: 90+ degrees. Speed average 73. Speed peak 88, speed "normal" about 80, 2 people, luggage, 2 shelties (Sammy and Sophie) A/C set to 67, sunroof closed but inner light shield open (HOT DAY!).

    We are pleased with the milage -- been using about 2/3 toptier gas -- car passed 5,000 miles last week.
  • yetialanyetialan Member Posts: 13
    Anyone have window noise problem or switch problem with 05 model 3.0?

    Looking to lease an x3 3.0 for wife. Picking it up 9/1/05 should I not get it? Are there many problems with the car from your exp.?

    Thanks
  • rob34rob34 Member Posts: 58
    I have about 800 miles on my X5 '03. I use only top tier premium gas. I have been getting about 16.5 miles to the gallon. I would say 90% city as most of my highway driving is in traffic. I have used the AC at most 5% of the time. I have not been driving aggressive.

    Would this be classified as normal? I do notice when I am able to drive on the highway at 60 mph plus miles miles per gallon go up. But overall I have been disappointed in the mpg.

    My '02 X5 averaged over 18 mpg over the time I had it.

    On another note it was nice having the trip computer in the X5. It is way more comprehensive than the X3. I could reset my mpg for each trip and then leave the other one alone to calculate long period's of time. It was also nice to be able to see the outside temperature, clock, radio station and whatever the computer was set on all at the same time. In the X3 if I want outside temp and radio station, I have no clock etc etc.
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 235,175
    The X3 shouldn't have any worse gas mileage than the X5 it replaced...

    800 miles isn't very much... give it some time to break-in..

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  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    Our X3 3.0 has a manual transmission. I would be shocked if your X5 was a stick.

    The stick does get somewhat better MPG.

    The X5 weighs more than an X3.

    The miles on your X5 are so low, I would call it in break in mode.
  • yetialanyetialan Member Posts: 13
    Is the x3 body style changing for 06 or 07?

    Anyone know I am going o buy one but would hate to have the older style I guess I will be stuck with the 225hp engine sounds like they will put the 255 engine in the car

    Thanks
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    The X3 IS the newer body style.

    The upcoming versions of the SAV's from BMW all are based on the X3 look.

    The 255HP engine will be put into the X3 after January 2006.
  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 16,373
    My Dad's X5 was in for service (only the 2nd time in 32,000 miles) and they gave him a Non-Sport X3 3.0iA as a loaner. He brought it to work today with our Great Dane (security for work) in the back. The car was white/Tercotta. Great Combination. I especially like the White Exterior on the X3. You don't see too many of them. The Tercotta Leather was really nice too. He said it drove quite similar to his X5 3.0iA w/ SP. Body motions were very controlled (for an SUV). The X3 is like a bull dog. It only weighs 600 lbs less than his X5. He said he'd consider it as a replacement (with the 255hp motor and Sport Package) for his X5 (rumnored to get bigger and more expensive) when the lease is up about 2 years from now.

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2022 Wrangler Sahara 4Xe, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD

  • bargamon1bargamon1 Member Posts: 110
    What are some of the drivers MPG for the after 5000miles (break in)?

    Thank you!
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    At least 22 and on trips over 24. And we have the stick shift and the 3.0 with virtually every do-dad BMW offers.

    We are using top tier gas, BTW.
  • bargamon1bargamon1 Member Posts: 110
    Thanks......

    If they upgrade interior just a bit, and go to the new 255hp, this think will be at the top of my list!

    Funny, in your garage are my two top choices!

    In my garage is your allroad.

    New Falkens on the way. More love!

    Is the X3 a sport model?
    Do you fell the 0-60 in the X3 is fast enough?
  • sponge_worthysponge_worthy Member Posts: 27
    Depends on what "fast enough" means. For an SUV, its plenty fast enough, but if your comparing it a sports sedan (G35, 3-series etc), its probably a couple (2-3) seconds slower.

    Remember, Torque is what ultimately determines your 0-60, not Horsepower. The BMW engines reach peak torque at lower RPMs than most.

    However, you will find the X3 3.0i to handle like a sports car, not like truck or mini-van.

    My only complaints about my X3 are the MPG, the noisy door seals (sometimes it sounds like the car is made out of wood), and the base sound system is subpar for a 40K car.
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    You mean you have my actual allroad that I turned in in June?

    Did you get Azenis ST115's 245 x 45 x 18"?
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    The X3 is such a chameleon.

    At its "base" (basic) optionless self -- it is a economy BMW but its materials while probably sturdy look and feel cheap and plastic-y.

    Start piling on the things that really transform the vehicle (Premium, Sport, Cold, sat radio, sat nav and upgraded sound system & Servotronic -- for starters) and whoooosh the thing can ring the register at close (too close) to $50 grand.

    But then you factor in the deal we got -- $581/36 months 15/k miles per year, no money up front other than a sec dep and first mo pay -- and the $47K sticker and the very nice outcome somehow don't seem overpriced (not that they seem like a screaming bargain either, mind you) -- the car is a blast to drive.

    And, don't you be callin' it no S.U.V. -- at least not at the BMW dealer -- they are quick to point out it is an S. A. V. BMW doesn't sell S.U.V.'s (according to them.)

    I am getting jealous, for once a week or more, my wife calls me on the phone to say "I love . . . my X3!"

    What am I chopped liver?

    Don't answer.

    :shades:
  • bargamon1bargamon1 Member Posts: 110
    Ziex ZE-512 225/55ZR-17 97W BLK

    No man, im not stalking you and your car!

    I have a burgandy allroad with 6spd. I was over at audiworld allroad forums a bit for a while. I have mine 2 years now.

    Those dudes at audi world are way too into mods fo rme. I keep it stock, including the tires. I think the sway bar and 18'S would have been nice. Should be done when leased, not put cash into it. No chipping though! Coming off my stock 2001 E-430 anything would seem sporty in comparison! Great engine, boring car!

    The falikens for 102$ a piece are nice tires, and if I chew them up fast, then so be it. Two sets are the same as some of the Mich's, and just almost as good.
  • julesqjulesq Member Posts: 1
    Just wondering if anyone has taken their X3 (smaller engine) on the beach? the surf permit requires 4 wheel drive...does the X3 with All wheel drive fall into this catagory?

    Thanks.
  • heinzerheinzer Member Posts: 6
    Getting familiar with my one week old X3 3.0. Love it!

    Please - someone tell me what that white plastic light strip is for on the small tailgate hood that sticks out on top of the tailgate. Looks like LED lights - but what are they for? Thanking a knowledgeable X3'r in advance.
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    Center high mounted stop light -- comes on when you press brake pedal and it is RED.
  • divermandiverman Member Posts: 2
    Its a rear brake light. It appears white, but the bulbs are orange/red. Also, it does not turn on when you step on the brakes if the car ignition is completely off.
  • divermandiverman Member Posts: 2
    I passed on the Bluetooth option because I really didn't want or need the BMW Assist, nor the Premium package. But I would really like to have the wireless bluetooth capabilities. Does anyone know if this is something that can be added separately? I have an 05 X3 with the std. audio system and navi system. Thx, A
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    It would be less hassle, less money, less aggravation to trade your X3 in, get one with the Premium Package, Upgraded sound system with Sirius and BT -- while you're at it get the sport package also -- than it would be to add the BT capability.

    The BMW assist is 100% free forever -- if you don't use it. It is free for one year even if you do -- and unlike the On*star system, you can actually use it on a pay as you go mode.

    No offense meant -- but the factory standard sound system in the 2005 X3 would have to improve somewhat to rise to the description "it sucks."

    The upgraded system w/Sirius however is very nice and if it had a changer and a tape player (for books on tape that still haven't made it to CD) it would be ideal.

    Of course these are MY opinions and in no way are they intended to suggest you should be unhappy with your system.

    All this electronic stuff -- take the navi system for example -- can be outrageously expensive to add after the fact.

    You must've ordered your car for I don't think our local dealer has ANY cars without Premium and Cold weather packages and none with the stick shift.

    We ordered ours and it is, frankly, one of the best kept secrets in the automobile world -- ours has: Cold, Premium, Sport, Servotronic (a must have), Sirius, Sat Nav, Advanced Lighting, Upgraded Audio and several other toys (Black Gloss, Terracotta Montana Leather Sport Seats) & the built in Sony T637 phone. It is a 3.0 w/6spd manual.

    Can't say enough positive stuff about this little dude. :shades:
  • timmbojtimmboj Member Posts: 123
    Is the X3 lease incentive so good that I could likely pay the same monthly fee for a $36K BMW that I would on a $26K 2006 Saturn Vue?

    I'm waiting for some GM financing information in the General Leasing forum, but I have a sinking feeling I'd be getting a whole lot more for my money with the BMW.

    Does anyone know or have any input? I've got to make a decision on the BMW this weekend.
  • markcincinnatimarkcincinnati Member Posts: 5,343
    Why pray tell do you have to make a decision this weekend?

    The GM employee discount has been extended and the deals on the X3's (3.0's) are and probably will be awesome for at least another week.

    The X3 is probably very unlike the Saturn Vue. . .

    Worth and value are in the mind of the buyer. The X3 is certainly going to offer more performance than the Saturn. Of that, alone, there can be little doubt.

    The X3 may be worth more -- but the only opinion that counts, really, is yours.

    My opinion is that they both may have their places -- my preference is the X3 -- but it is just that MY preference.
  • timmbojtimmboj Member Posts: 123
    Thanks for your input Mark.

    I wanted to decide this weekend because its the last weekend of August and there's not many 2005 X3's left for the current lease deal, well, that is, those with 6-speed transmissions like I want.

    My e-mail feelers to BMW dealers are proving that I may have waited too late anyway. One is telling me there are only 23 X3 3.0 6-speeds in the US right now. Oh well... live and learn....
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 235,175
    Figure on $11 per thousand of MSRP plus tax for an X3 3.0.... 39mo/15K lease.

    That is if you bargain hard....

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  • timmbojtimmboj Member Posts: 123
    Thanks. That's EZ to remember.
  • timmbojtimmboj Member Posts: 123
    Some of the dealers I've contacted today have said I can still order a 2005 X3 using the current lease incentives.
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    In case you missed the update that came out August 1 (the X3 hasn't had much luck in Santa Monica):

    Road Test (Inside Line )

    Steve, Host
  • delrickdelrick Member Posts: 105
    Given the powerful BMW resale value, as reflected in the 36 month 60% plus residual, and the very competitive money factors that BMW is offering, you will definitely be able to get a lot more vehicle for your lease dollar in the BMW versus the Saturn.

    A well equipped X3 3.0 should be around $400/month.

    Not sure what the Saturn would run you, but the difference in vehicles should justify and additional cost, if it is affordable to you.

    And all of the maintenance on the BMW is included in the price......
  • kdshapirokdshapiro Member Posts: 5,751
    Ouch - that's one unlucky X3.
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