BMW X3 Diesel Won't Start, AdBlue Tank Issue?

Hi there! I have some experience working on cars and had a similar issue with my 2008 BMW X5 diesel last year. The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I went through. My car wouldn't start and had warning lights too. Turned out the AdBlue system had a faulty dosing line from the tank to the dosing unit. My regular workshop fixed it by replacing the line and cleaning the system. Cost me around 250 Euro, but the car's been running perfectly since. Before I can help more specifically, could you share: What exact error messages you're seeing? Have you checked your AdBlue fluid level? Any other symptoms before it stopped starting? By the way, my has a newer X3 and they're generally solid cars. Let me know those details and I can probably point you in the right direction.

Thanks for the detailed response! Yes, I'm seeing the "Emissions-relevant Vehicle Malfunction" warning along with a "Start Not Possible" message. Just checked the AdBlue level and you're right, it's completely empty. Totally my fault for not monitoring it earlier. My X3 is at 130269 KM and had its last service about 6 months ago. Really hoping it's just a matter of refilling the AdBlue and not a bigger issue with the dosing system like you experienced. Curious if I can just add AdBlue and reset the system, or if I'll need to take it to the workshop anyway?

Hey again! Thanks for the additional info about your X3. Based on those error messages, it definitely sounds like an AdBlue-related issue, but might be a bit more complex than just being empty, though that's certainly part of it. When I had my X5 serviced last year, my mechanic explained that running completely empty on AdBlue can sometimes cause issues with the dosing system, which is exactly what happened to me. Even after refilling, my car wouldn't start until the system was properly reset. In my case, I tried refilling it myself first (added about 10 liters), but the car still wouldn't start. That's when I discovered the damaged dosing line. The empty tank had apparently allowed some crystallization in the line, which blocked proper flow. My advice would be to have it towed to your workshop. They'll need to: 1. Refill the AdBlue 2. Reset the system 3. Check the dosing system for any damage 4. Clear the error codes The good news is that if it's caught early enough, you might avoid the issues I had with the dosing line. My total repair ended up being more expensive because I waited too long. These cars are pretty forgiving, but they really don't like running without AdBlue! Let me know how it goes, I'm genuinely curious if you'll have the same experience I did.

Thanks so much for sharing your experience and the detailed explanation! I really appreciate you taking the time to break this down. After reading about your X5's issues, I've decided not to risk making things worse by attempting a DIY fix. I've already called for a tow to my regular workshop tomorrow morning. You're probably right about it needing more than just a refill at this point. I'll make sure to mention your experience with the crystallization in the dosing line to my mechanic so they can check that too. It's honestly a relief to hear from someone who's been through something similar, makes me feel a bit better about the whole situation. I'll definitely keep a much closer eye on the AdBlue level from now on! Will update you on what they find once the workshop has taken a look. Really hoping it won't be as complicated as your repair was, but at least I know what I might be in for. Thanks again for all the helpful info!