2012 BMW X3 petrol: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the petrol BMW X3 first registered in 2012 (petrol cars only): we looked at the 102 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 102 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2012 BMW X3 petrol MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2012 BMW X3 petrol MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres25% 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.
- Steering18% of testsRough price £100–£450
At the viewing: On a straight road the steering wheel should sit straight. Feel for play or knocking when turning.
- Brakes13% 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.
- Lights and electrics11% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Suspension10% 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.
- Oil and fluid leaks5% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
Known faults on the 2012 BMW X3 petrol
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
Fuel flow recall
A 2018 recall covered restricted fuel flow that could cut out the engine.
At the viewing: Ask for proof the recall was done.
Source: Auto Express: used BMW X3 (Mk2, 2010-2017) what to look out for
- All engines
Valve timing fault and limp mode
A variable valve timing fault could put the car into limp mode. There was a campaign in 2014.
At the viewing: Watch for warning messages or a sudden lack of power.
Source: Auto Express: used BMW X3 (Mk2, 2010-2017) what to look out for
- All engines
Rattles and creaks
Creaks and rattles from the doors, seats, tailgate and parcel shelf are quite common.
At the viewing: Drive on a rough road and listen.
Source: Auto Express: used BMW X3 (Mk2, 2010-2017) what to look out for
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2012 BMW X3 petrol
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- 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 | 288 | Tyres 7% |
| 2022 | 7,829 | Tyres 20% |
| 2021 | 21,680 | Tyres 23% |
| 2020 | 22,832 | Tyres 23% |
| 2019 | 46,930 | Tyres 23% |
| 2018 | 24,162 | Tyres 24% |
| 2017 | 24,006 | Tyres 26% |
| 2016 | 26,826 | Tyres 27% |
| 2015 | 20,914 | Tyres 26% |
| 2014 | 18,171 | Tyres 28% |
| 2013 | 21,353 | Tyres 29% |
| 2011 | 11,932 | Tyres 27% |
| 2010 | 2,667 | Tyres 28% |
| 2009 | 3,982 | Tyres 31% |
| 2008 | 4,456 | Tyres 31% |
| 2007 | 6,745 | Suspension 36% |
| 2006 | 9,153 | Suspension 37% |
| 2005 | 7,726 | Suspension 42% |
| 2004 | 6,512 | Suspension 39% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of BMW X3 cars first registered in 2012. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score