Market Niche:
Premium compact SUV, targeting buyers seeking BMW's blend of performance, luxury, and utility.
Competitors:
Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, Lexus RX, Acura RDX, Land Rover LR2.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and BMW owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge.
Value Proposition:
Access to licensed OE repair information at a fraction of the cost of professional shop manuals, with the convenience of digital access.
Engine:
Complete diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline engines.
Drivetrain:
All-wheel drive (xDrive) system, transfer case, differentials, driveshafts, and axle shafts.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and diagnostics, including fluid specifications and torque converter procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and wheel bearings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including ABS, DSC, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics, repair, refrigerant handling, and component replacement.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and interior trim.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, and belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation, and problem-solving strategies.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component replacement, system overhauls, and complex repairs across all vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, module programming, and advanced diagnostic techniques.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed schematics and specifications.
Engine Code:
N52B30 (for 3.0si model, which may have been introduced late in the 2005 model year or as a 2006 model, but relevant for E83 chassis).
Engine Name:
3.0L Inline 6-Cylinder
Horsepower 2005:
225 hp @ 6000 rpm (for the 3.0i model, often referred to as X3 3.0i)
Torque 2005:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for the 3.0i model)
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Rating:
Good
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags).
Infotainment System:
iDrive infotainment system (optional), BMW Professional Radio, CD player, optional navigation system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Parking Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control.
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth mobile interface.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Refer to CBS for precise interval.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles for the N52 engine (specific OE part numbers like NGK BKR6EQUP recommended).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30. Oil capacity: 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: ~8.5 liters (9.0 US quarts).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
BMW ATF LT-5 or Pentosin ATF1. Refer to manual for specific procedure and capacity (approx. 7 liters).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent. Capacity: 1.5 liters.
Common Issues:
PCV valve failure, oil separator issues (leading to oil consumption or leaks), cooling system component wear (water pump, thermostat), VANOS solenoid issues, front control arm bushings, transfer case actuator failure, fuel pump failure.
Brand Focus:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, renowned for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics.
First Generation:
The E83 generation X3 marked BMW's entry into the compact premium SUV segment, launched in 2003 for the 2004 model year.
Production Location:
Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
