BMW X3 Stalling & Power Loss: Fuel System Issues?

Hey there! I had a pretty similar issue with my 2012 BMW X1 last year (I have some experience working on cars but nothing too advanced). The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I went through! My car was doing the same dance, rough idle, stalling, weak acceleration, and that annoying check engine light. Took it to my trusted workshop and yep, it was indeed the pressure sensor that gave up. They replaced it, and it cost me around 240 Euro. The car's been running smooth as butter since then. Before you jump to conclusions though, could you share some more details about your X3? What's the mileage on it? Also, have you noticed any other warning lights or weird behavior? Just want to make sure you're not dealing with something different, as these symptoms can sometimes be tricky to diagnose. The X series can be a bit finicky with these sensors, but they're generally solid cars once fixed properly. Let me know those details and I might be able to help more!

Thanks for your input! My X3 has clocked 134191 KM, and I just had my regular service done last month. Your experience sounds spot on with what I'm dealing with right now. The pressure sensor replacement seems like a reasonable fix, and that price isn't as scary as I thought it might be. I haven't noticed any other warning lights besides the check engine one, but it's definitely getting more annoying with the stalling issue, especially in traffic. Guess I'll have to bite the bullet and get it checked out. Did your mechanic mention anything about preventive maintenance for this issue?

Hey again! Yeah, I totally get your concern about the stalling in traffic, it's super annoying and a bit scary too! When I had my X1 fixed, my mechanic actually gave me some useful tips about preventing future sensor issues. He mentioned that keeping up with regular fuel system maintenance is key, like using good quality fuel and changing the fuel filter according to schedule. One thing I didn't mention in my first reply, before I got the sensor replaced, I tried cleaning the fuel system with a fuel injector cleaner, thinking it might help. Didn't solve the problem, but my mechanic said it's still good practice to use it every now and then. Your mileage is pretty close to what mine was when I had the issue (mine was around 140,000 KM). The good news is, since getting that sensor replaced, I haven't had any similar issues pop up. It's been about 18 months now, and my car runs like a champ. Your symptoms really do sound identical to what I experienced, but definitely get it diagnosed properly. If it turns out to be the same issue, at least you know it's a straightforward fix! Let us know what you find out when you get it checked. Always good to have this info for other X3 owners who might run into the same problem!

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up! Your maintenance tips are really helpful, and it's reassuring to hear that your car has been running great since the fix. I'll definitely look into using fuel injector cleaner as preventive maintenance once this is sorted out. I've actually just booked an appointment with my mechanic for next week. After hearing about your experience, especially since our cars had similar mileage when the issue occurred, I'm feeling more confident that this might be a straightforward fix. It's a relief to know the repair cost isn't astronomical either! I'll make sure to come back and update everyone once I get it sorted. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, it's helped put my mind at ease about the whole situation. Fingers crossed it's just the pressure sensor and nothing more complicated!