BMW X3 Multiple Warning Lights & Spongy Brakes, Help!

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2015 BMW X1 last year. Those exact warning lights came on, and the brake pedal got super spongy. Turned out it wasn't the brakes at all, it was an undervoltage problem with the battery system. The voltage was dropping below what the car's systems needed, causing all those safety features to go haywire. When I brought it to the garage, they ran diagnostics and found the original battery was failing. They also discovered the alternator wasn't charging properly. Had to get both replaced because the old battery had damaged the charging system over time. It was definitely a serious issue since it affected all the safety systems. Quick tip: When multiple warning lights come on simultaneously, it's often an electrical issue rather than mechanical. I'd suggest getting it checked at a BMW specialist rather than a general mechanic, they'll have the right diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact problem. Just a heads up from my experience: don't wait too long to get it fixed, as driving with compromised safety systems isn't worth the risk. Best of luck!

Hey, thanks so much for sharing your experience! Really helpful to know about that battery and alternator issue. Would you mind telling me roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? Also, curious if you've had any similar problems pop up since getting it fixed? Been debating whether I should tackle this repair now or wait a bit, but sounds like you're right about not delaying with safety stuff.

Hey again! Happy to give you an update! After getting the undervoltage problem fixed for 240€, everything's been running perfectly smooth. The mechanic also spotted and fixed the worn brake pads while they had the car in, turned out you were right about that part too! I haven't had a single warning light come on since the repair, which was about 8 months ago. The brake pedal feels nice and firm now, just like it should. My only regret is not getting it checked sooner, I was a bit nervous about the cost, but it ended up being way more reasonable than I expected. Definitely don't wait on getting yours fixed. The peace of mind is totally worth it, and you don't want to risk those safety systems acting up while you're driving. Trust me, it's better to tackle it now before it potentially becomes a bigger (and more expensive) problem! Let me know how it goes when you get yours sorted!

Thanks for the detailed follow-up! I actually just got back from the mechanic today. You were spot on about getting it checked quickly. Turned out my issue was a combination of a dying battery and a faulty brake sensor. The repair wasn't as scary expensive as I feared, around 300 bucks total. The mechanic I found was really great, super transparent about everything and even showed me the old parts. Honestly, what a relief to have it sorted! The brake pedal feels solid again, and all those warning lights are finally gone. No more anxiety every time I start the car! They also gave the whole system a thorough check and said everything else looks good. Really glad I didn't put this off any longer. Thanks again for pushing me to get it looked at right away, definitely saved me from bigger headaches down the road!