2022 BMW X3 diesel: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the diesel BMW X3 first registered in 2022 (diesel cars only): we looked at the 3,465 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Common 2022 BMW X3 diesel MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2022 BMW X3 diesel MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres19% 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 mirrors4% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- 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.
- Seats and seatbelts2% of testsRough price £80–£250
At the viewing: Pull each seatbelt sharply. It should lock, and retract cleanly.
- Brakes1% 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.
- Suspension1% 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 2022 BMW X3 diesel
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
- 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 2022 BMW X3 diesel
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?
- 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% |
| 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% |
| 2012 | 20,297 | 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 2022. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score