Avoid the 2015 BMW X3 and Choose One of These Used SUVs Instead
When the 2015 BMW X3 first came out, Consumer Reports called it an “upscale SUV that does it all.” Now, many years later, Consumer Reports is less impressed with it than ever before. That’s why, when it comes to shopping for a used SUV, Consumer Reports recommends steering clear of the 2015 X3.
Is the 2015 BMW X3 reliable?
No one wants to buy a lemon. That’s what makes reliability ratings so important. Unfortunately for the 2015 BMW X3, reliability is not its strong suit.
With a 1 out of 5 overall reliability ranking from Consumer Reports, the 2015 BMW X3 is among the least reliable options in its segment. Consumer Reports named its fuel system, power equipment, and its suspension as potential problems.
The 2015 BMW X3 has been recalled four times by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) too. According to the NHTSA, the 2015 BMW X3 was recalled for a coolant leak, an incorrectly welded airbag inflator, possible damage to the lower child seat anchor bars, and its exterior rearview mirror.
What current owners have to say about it
Several owners of the 2015 BMW X3 aren’t happy with the vehicle either. To date, CarComplaints.com has logged 60 total complaints about the BMW X3. The most common complaints take aim at its engine, airbags, and brakes.
CarComplaints.com isn’t the only forum X3 owners have flocked to either. A number of owners have given it less than enthusiastic reviews on VehicleHistory.com too.
“Fun to drive in sport mode. Quality is lacking, typical of BMWs. Repairs are insanely expensive. Glove box delaminated, seat leather cracked within 3 years. Panoramic sunroof is nice but rattles. Wheel bearing out w/in three years. Car is otherwise fun to drive vs other SUVs,” reads just one of the reviews of the 2015 BMW X3.
Why you should choose the 2015 Acura RDX instead
If the 2015 BMX X3 doesn’t make for a great used SUV, then which one does? Well, according to Consumer Reports, the 2015 Acura RDX is the vehicle to go with if you’re not sold on a used BMW X3.
According to Consumer Reports, while “the RDX doesn’t push the envelope in styling, handling, or interior quality, it’s benign, comfortable, and easy to live with.” Additionally, Consumer Reports gave the 2015 Acura RDX a higher reliability rating than that of the X3.
Unlike the X3, the RDX scored a 5 out of 5 when it comes to reliability. As for its most common trouble spots? Consumer Reports says the RDX’s brakes can be troublesome. Minor transmission problems have also been reported.
The 2015 Acura RDX has been faced with less recalls than the X3 too. Per the NHTSA, the 2015 RDX has been recalled for its driver frontal airbag.
Why Consumer Reports also recommends the 2017 Mazda CX-5
The 2015 Acura RDX isn’t your only option either. Consumer Reports also named the 2017 Mazda CX-5 as an alternative to the problematic 2015 BMW X3.
Calling it an “under the radar alternative, Consumer Reports says the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is fun to drive, but its “Plus, the Touring and Grand Touring trims are quite luxurious.” And if that doesn’t seal the deal for you, Consumer Reports says the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is a more reliable option than the X3.
Is the 2015 BMW X3 really that bad?
Buying a used SUV can be as confusing as it can be frustrating, making it extremely important to pay attention to things like reliability ratings, recalls, and current customer complaints. Unfortunately for the 2015 BMW X3, it doesn’t fare very well in any category. Fortunately for used SUV shoppers, there are better options available.
