I noticed something for the first time yesterday
 

When I got out of the car yesterday I heard the sound of a small motor or motor like noise coming from the underside rear of the X3. The engine had just been turned off and the car was parked. Any clue, anyone?

It's normal and happens all the time. Don't know what it is (and truth is, dont really care either).

Well, I figured it was happening all the time but it's the first time I've heard it. Although I'm sure it's normal, I'm still curious about what it is.

I've been hearing too, I don't know what it is, maybe the fuel pump or something that shuts down.

Does the X3 have a self-leveling rear axle? That'd be the source if it does..

Ok, now I'm curious. I haven't heard it, but I'll be looking (listening).

i hear this sound too and wondered what it is. oddly enough, my husband test drove a toyota fj cruiser last weekend, and there was a small notice wrapped around the gearshift that described a pump in the fuel tank that would activate within 5 hours after the vehicle is turned off to remove fumes (iirc) from the gas tank, and not to be alarmed by this sound. it made me think that there's something similar in the X3...

Very interesting...sounds like a win :thumbup: .

How did you guys like the FJ?

the fj was okay - my husband really likes the styling and wants a little more "utility" than the pathfinder he currently drives. the windshield is tiny and is set away from the front passengers - it was a reach for him to even adjust the rearview mirror. there are no rear quarter windows in the usual place because of the suicide doors, so side visibility is pretty limited. it rode well for a truck and seemed pretty peppy (we argued about which would be faster off the line between the fj and my X3). ergonomically, i'd prefer an xterra over the fj (i had an xterra a few years ago) in looking at that class of SUV. and i'll take the X3 over any other SUV in any class anyday, of course!

The new Xterra is very good. Seems like it's bit more balanced than the FJ. Nonetheless, I'm sure the FJ is a great quality Toyota product...can't really go wrong with either choice.