Where is the air intake of BMW X3 located?
3 Answers
The engine air intake can be found by opening the engine hood and locating the air filter. The area connected to the air filter is the air intake. Here is more information about the BMW X3: 1. Exterior Highlights: The exterior of the new car remains consistent with the 2019 model, still featuring two design packages: the Luxury Design Package and the M Sport Package. The side and rear profiles also match the current model. In terms of dimensions, the new car measures 4717/1891/1689mm in length/width/height, with a wheelbase of 2864mm. 2. Interior Highlights: For the interior, the 2020 model adds a new black/beige dual-tone interior, while other aspects remain unchanged from the current model. In terms of configuration, the most significant change in the 2020 model is the upgrade of the xDrive25i series to a 12.3-inch full LCD instrument cluster, now standard across the lineup. Additionally, the new car adds front seat heating, removes the CD player, and the 9-speaker audio system is no longer optional. The xDrive28i series adds a hands-free tailgate, front seat heating, Harman/Kardon audio, and a 16-speaker system. The M Sport Design Package models also come with steering wheel paddle shifters. The xDrive30i adds ACC adaptive cruise control, Harman/Kardon audio, and a 16-speaker system, among other features. For safety, the new car comes standard with road traffic sign recognition, and the xDrive30i adds lane change assist and lane departure warning.
I usually enjoy studying car structures. The BMW X3's air intake is located behind the iconic kidney grille on the front fascia. When you open the hood, you can see a thick black intake pipe extending from the grille and connecting to the air filter box. This design is quite clever, as it maintains the signature appearance while directly drawing in cooler air from the front of the vehicle. The intake position is significantly higher than that of sedans, roughly at mid-wheel arch height, so it's generally safe when crossing water as long as the water doesn't reach the wheel center. During my last maintenance, I replaced the filter element myself—you have to remove the securing clips first to access the inner walls of the intake pipe. When driving daily, be careful not to let leaves or debris block the grille gaps, as this can reduce intake efficiency and increase fuel consumption.
With over a decade of experience running an auto repair shop, I've handled hundreds of BMW X3 intake systems. Its main air intake is located right behind the two kidney grilles, mounted to the radiator support with metal brackets. Positioned about 50cm above ground level, it's roughly 10cm higher than most sedans, but you should still avoid water depths exceeding the wheel hub center when wading. After entering through the grille, airflow passes through a deflector to eliminate turbulence before reaching the air filter box. Common issues include rodents chewing through corrugated pipes in winter or small stones getting stuck in intake pipe folds, both triggering the engine warning light. I recommend checking pipe seals every 20,000 kilometers.
