Not to defend them in any way, but it appears that now they are at least trying to correct the problem and not just "brushing you off' until BMW issues a TSB on the issue. The factory engineers certainly don't want chronic problems to impact their image of selling a product with superior engineering. The problem is always having to cope with the dealership contact (Service Advisor) who, in my experience is usually not as well informed about the cars as he/she should be.
Maybe when you return to pick up the X3 you should walk in carrying a 33" Louisville Slugger to underline the seriousness of the situation.
