BMW X3 Height Control System Failure, Troubleshooting Help

Hey there! I can relate to this, I had a similar issue with my 2018 BMW X5 last year. The symptoms were almost identical to what you're describing. In my case, it turned out to be a faulty control rod sensor. Had it checked at my regular workshop, and they found the sensor was sending incorrect signals, causing the height control system to malfunction. The fix cost me around 110 Euro, mostly for the part replacement and diagnostic work. For temporary relief, they recommended clearing the error codes, but the permanent solution was replacing that sensor. The whole job took about 2 hours, and it's been working perfectly since then. Before I can provide more specific advice, could you share: The exact error code you're getting? Did this start suddenly or gradually? Have you had any recent work done on the suspension? These details would help me determine if you're dealing with the same issue I had on my X5. The X3 and X5 share quite a few components in their height control systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the X5! My X3 just hit 94255 KM on the clock, and I had the last service about 3 months ago. The warning light popped up suddenly after hitting a pretty deep pothole. The error code I'm getting is B39284 (had to use my OBD scanner to check). Haven't had any suspension work done recently, just regular maintenance. Interesting that you mention the control rod sensor, the price sounds way better than what I was worried it might cost. Did you notice any clunking sounds before your sensor went bad? I'm hearing a slight noise when going over bumps, wondering if it might be related.

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your X3. Yeah, I remember when my X5 had that issue, it really helps to compare notes! Actually, now that you mention the clunking noise and the pothole incident, this sounds even more similar to what I experienced. I did hear some clunking before the sensor completely gave up, especially when hitting bumps. It started right after I hit a nasty pothole too, talk about déjà vu! The error code you're getting (B39284) is different from what I had though. Mine was B39278, but they're in the same family of height control system errors. Given how it started after hitting that pothole, I'd bet good money the impact either damaged or knocked the sensor out of alignment. Quick tip from my experience, while you're waiting to get it fixed, try to avoid any harsh bumps or uneven terrain. I learned the hard way that continuing to drive on rough roads just made things worse and ended up causing more strain on the system. One thing I'd suggest differently from my situation, get it checked sooner rather than later. I waited about two weeks before getting mine fixed, and the uneven ride height started causing weird wear on my tires. The 110 euro fix ended up being closer to 200 because I needed to get my wheels realigned too. Not my smartest move! Let me know how it goes when you get it checked out. I'm curious if it turns out to be the same issue!

Thanks so much for all this detailed info! Really helpful to hear about your similar experience with the sensor issue. You're probably right about getting it checked soon, I've already booked an appointment with my mechanic for next week. After hearing about your tire wear situation, I definitely don't want to risk making things worse by waiting too long. The clunking noise being similar to what you experienced makes me feel a bit better about it potentially being just the sensor. I'll definitely keep the car off rough roads until then. Been taking the smoother route to work already, even though it adds a few minutes to my drive. Better safe than sorry, especially after what you mentioned about additional damage. Really appreciate you sharing the cost details too, helps me budget for what's coming. Even if it ends up being a bit more than what you paid, it's still way better than what I was imagining when I first saw that warning light! I'll update the thread once I get it sorted out. Thanks again for all your help!