BMW X3 Stalling: Is Your MAF Sensor the Culprit?

Hey there! I have some experience working on BMWs. I actually had a really similar issue with my 2013 BMW X1 last year. The symptoms were nearly identical to what you're describing with your X3, especially the jerking during acceleration and high fuel consumption. My 320i had the same problem too before I sold it. Got it checked at my regular workshop and yep, it was the MAF sensor. Total repair was 365 Euro, including parts and labor. The difference in performance after replacing it was like night and day, smooth acceleration, normal fuel consumption, and no more stalling. Before we jump to conclusions though, what's the mileage on your X3? Also, when was the last time you had the air filter changed? These details would help confirm if we're dealing with the same issue.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Mine's at 120066 KM and just had a service done last month. Good to know the MAF sensor fixed it for your X1, the symptoms do sound exactly like what I'm experiencing. That repair cost seems reasonable too, much better than I was fearing. I'll get it checked out this week and see what they say. Really hoping it's just the MAF sensor and nothing more serious.

Hey again! Just wanted to follow up on this since you mentioned getting it checked this week. I had also initially worried there might be something more serious with my X1, but the MAF sensor really was the culprit. Actually, funny story, after I got mine fixed, my -in-law's X3 (same year as yours) started showing identical symptoms about two months later. He kept putting off getting it checked, thinking it would somehow fix itself. Bad move! The longer he waited, the worse his fuel consumption got. One tip though, make sure they check the wiring to the sensor too. In my case, they found some minor corrosion on the connections that needed cleaning. It's a small detail, but it can make a difference in how the new sensor performs. Let us know how it goes after the check-up! From everything you've described, I'd bet good money it's the MAF sensor. The symptoms are just too similar to what I dealt with.

Thanks for the follow-up and that extra tip about the wiring! I actually just got back from the shop and you were spot on, it was definitely the MAF sensor. They found some corroded connections too, just like you mentioned. Had everything replaced and cleaned up, and the difference is incredible. No more jerking, stalling, or crazy fuel consumption. Total cost came to 375 Euro, pretty close to what you paid. Really glad I didn't wait any longer like your -in-law did! Thanks again for all your help, you saved me a lot of worry about potentially bigger issues.