Why is the ix3 powertrain damaged?
3 Answers
The main reasons for ix3 powertrain damage are the inability of the vehicle's computer to respond in time, malfunctioning programs, damaged fuel pump or fuel pump sensor, damaged fuel injectors, damaged ignition coils, damaged spark plugs, or carbon buildup. Below is a related introduction: Powertrain: For front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the torque generated by the engine is transmitted sequentially through the clutch, transmission, universal joint, driveshaft, final drive, differential, and axle shafts to the rear wheels, which are therefore called the drive wheels. The drive wheels apply a backward force to the ground, causing the ground to exert a forward reaction force on the drive wheels. This reaction force is the driving force of the vehicle. The front wheels of the vehicle generally have no direct power connection to the powertrain and are thus called the driven wheels. Extension: The composition and layout of the powertrain vary depending on the type of engine, its installation position, and the intended use of the vehicle. For example, off-road vehicles often use four-wheel drive, which adds components like a transfer case to the powertrain. In contrast, front-engine, front-wheel-drive vehicles do not have components like a driveshaft in their powertrain.
As a car mechanic, I often repair electric vehicles like the iX3, and there are quite a few reasons for drivetrain failures. The most common issue is wear and tear on the bearings or gears inside the motor, especially when frequent hard acceleration causes overheating and accelerates aging—I’ve seen this firsthand after disassembling several units in the workshop. It could also be a software problem; BMW’s electronic control units sometimes have bugs, like faulty temperature sensors causing the system to misjudge conditions and overload the drivetrain. Another possibility is a malfunctioning battery management system, where unstable voltage affects motor performance, or even loose or water-damaged connectors leading to corrosion from short circuits caused by moisture. Drivers who push their cars too hard or skip regular maintenance often face insufficient lubrication, worsening mechanical friction—a common scenario. To avoid these issues, regular full inspections at authorized service centers are crucial. Otherwise, repair costs can skyrocket, and a damaged drivetrain directly compromises driving safety. If it fails, pulling over and heading to a professional shop immediately is the best course of action.
My iX3 had a powertrain issue, and in hindsight, the cause was likely my rough driving habits. Back then, I always loved flooring the accelerator to overtake, which kept the motor running at high speeds and overheating. The sensors warned me, but I ignored it, resulting in burnt transmission gears and bearings. A friend mentioned this could easily trigger a chain reaction, such as inverter failure. Another time, shortly after driving through a puddle during heavy rain, the car malfunctioned—probably due to water seeping into the seals and corroding the wiring. I also neglected routine maintenance, skipping the manual-recommended lubrication checks every six months, leading to extra wear on the bearings. The repair cost over 5,000 RMB, a harsh lesson: an EV’s powertrain may seem rugged but is actually delicate. Gentle driving and regular maintenance save big money. A side note: don’t skimp on factory warranty when buying a car, and address minor issues promptly to prevent major failures.
