DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Optional
Type:
N/A (Automatic standard for 2004 E83 X3)
Features
Shifting Modes:
Automatic and Manual modes (Steptronic)
Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent approved fluid)
Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controlled
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
73.0 inches (1855 mm)
Height:
64.4 inches (1636 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.8 inches (2790 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,057 lbs (1840 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 20.6 cubic feet (583 liters)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 60.6 cubic feet (1715 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)
IIHS Front Offset Crash:
Good
Active Features
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking Assistance:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, head protection system (side curtain airbags)
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
BMW Professional Radio/CD player or optional Professional Navigation System.
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional upgraded Hi-Fi or Logic7 sound systems.
Connectivity:
Optional Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Standard manual air conditioning, optional automatic climate control.
Seats:
Standard manually adjustable front seats, optional power-adjustable seats with memory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-45,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (for original equipment plugs).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 BMW Premium Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (or Pentosin CHF 11S).
Known Issues
Crankcase Ventilation Valve:
PCV valve can become clogged, leading to oil leaks, rough idling, and increased oil consumption.
Oil Filter Housing Gasket:
Leaking oil filter housing gasket is a common issue, causing oil spots under the vehicle.
Power Steering Pump Hose:
Cracked or leaking power steering pressure hose can lead to fluid loss and steering issues.
Thermostat Housing:
Plastic thermostat housing can crack, causing coolant leaks.
Transfer Case Actuator Motor:
Failure of the transfer case actuator motor can result in AWD system warning lights and loss of drive to the front wheels.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Philosophy:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
The first generation X3 (E83) debuted in late 2003 for the 2004 model year, designed to fit between the compact X1 and the mid-size X5.
Platform:
Built on the BMW 3 Series (E46) platform, contributing to its agile handling characteristics.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily produced at the BMW plant in Rosslyn, South Africa.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
The X3 was generally praised for its driving dynamics, luxury features, and BMW brand appeal, though criticized by some for its ride quality and interior space compared to competitors.
Ratings
Jd Power Dependability:
Varied ratings, often mid-pack for its segment during this period.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Consumer Reports generally rated the X3's reliability as average or below average during its initial production years.
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