2011 BMW X3

I had my car towed into bmw dealership for a vanos recall repair,it went in for the repair the repair was "done" but before picking it up they told me they were unable to qc/start my engine to verify the repair claiming that because my camshaft position sensor was removed (it was removed to ultimately figure out it was the vanos system that failed)and that my car had no battery at the time of the repair they could and would not start my engine to verify the repair and that they turned it over by hand only,upon them releasing the car back to me I brought a battery and started my car and left the dealership within ten miles my engine failed and locked up due to oil starvation,I had it towed back immediately and explained what happened,and they refuse to take any responsibility for my car failing on the road while driving cause my engine to smoke and push the smoke into the cab mid traffic,this happened In July of 2025 and I am still going back and forth trying to get them to take responsibility and replace my engine,they did not follow proper procedures to ensure my vehicle was safe for pickup violating safety standards

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was an abnormal whining sound coming from the engine. While driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); and the vehicle was towed to the local dealer. The cause of the failure was not yet determined, and the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 140,000.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Sep 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that while his granddaughter was attempting to start the vehicle, there was smoke coming from under the driver’s side hood, and the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the PCV heater had overheated and burned along with the fuse box. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 150,744.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The fuse box in trunk caught fire There are tons of these incidences if you search the web Bmw has done nothing I willhope your “ safety “ agency will. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to shift into neutral. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was linked to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who replaced the engine and redesigned the timing gear assembly. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed the parts were not yet available. The contact called another local dealer, BMW of Northwest Arkansas (2500 SE Moberly Ln, Bentonville, AR 72712, (479)286-3012); but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

Feb 2018

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I own a 2011 BMW X3 with an N55 engine and am experiencing VANOS-related issues consistent with TSB SIB 11 02 13 and Recall 23V-707. While my VIN isn’t currently listed, my vehicle falls within the affected model years, and I’m seeing identical DME fault codes (130E11, 120408) and drivability symptoms. I’m concerned about potential engine damage and request an inspection and consideration for goodwill repair or inclusion in the recall.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that "Engine temperature" message was displayed on the instrument panel with the temperature gauge indicating that the engine was hot(H). Upon inspection of the vehicle, the contact discovered that steam on the radiator, and a coolant leak. The contact removed the cooling fan and shroud and discovered that the wiring from the electric water pump was burned and inoperable. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the year and model vehicle was not included in the recall. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN nor the vehicle was included in the recall for the electrical connector. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 188,000.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

In July 2022, the VANOS bolts in my 2011 BMW X3 xDrive28i failed, causing major internal engine damage. This is the exact defect later identified under BMW Recall 23V-707. The bolts sheared off while driving, disabling the vehicle. I paid $5,000 out of pocket for full repairs using OEM parts at Masny Motorwerks (BMW specialist in Rochester, NY). BMW did not issue the recall until more than two years later. At that time, there was no remedy available. A fix was not released until December 2024. I followed BMW’s reimbursement process: I visited BMW of Rochester in person on January 28, 2025 and submitted my invoice to the service advisor. I followed up by phone twice — no response. I submitted a full reimbursement claim to BMW North America on March 31, 2025 with all documentation. BMW replied on April 8 with a boilerplate response redirecting me back to the same dealership. I then followed up again with full documentation. BMW replied again, refusing to take responsibility and offering no support. I have submitted everything twice and followed the TREAD Act process in good faith. BMW has failed to reimburse me or process the claim properly.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Jul 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

In 2021, my car broke down due to the VANOS gear brackets; the bolts had snapped off. The only way I found out what was wrong was by taking the car to multiple places and paying for diagnostic services, but nobody could identify the issue. Eventually, I brought it to BMW, where they were the only ones who diagnosed the problem. However, they quoted me an exorbitant amount to fix it. I felt I had no choice but to take the car home and handle it myself. I discovered that three bolts were broken, and I suspect the other two had fallen into the oil pan. I managed to acquire both parts for the two VANOS gears and installed them myself since dealing with this issue. After reinstalling the gears, I encountered a problem with the valve cover; I wasn't sure if one of the broken bolts had hit the top of it, but I knew I needed to replace it as well. To get an update on the situation, I took my car to the first BMW dealership in Hartford. There were complications regarding the loaner car, a $200 deposit on my credit card, and coverage under my full insurance. I contacted BMW headquarters to file a complaint, and during that conversation, the BMW manager told me not to come back, to which I agreed. After filing the complaint and discussing the situation with BMW headquarters, I scheduled an appointment at the Waterbury location. When I took my car there yesterday, April 1, 2025, they refused to address the issue because they claimed they could not see the broken bolts. I explained that the bolts had already broken off and that I had previously brought the vehicle to BMW for a diagnosis, which confirmed that the problem involved the gear brackets and the bolts. I also mentioned that the broken bolts had damaged my valve cover, which I had to replace. However, all they did was inspect the car and dismissed the work I had done as if it were performed by them. My car hasn’t felt the same since, and I’ve been struggling with this ongoing issue. Damage that already a cured to my car

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact discovered that an unknown substance was leaking from the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that there was a coolant intrusion into the cylinder, and that the thermostat and several other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The contact was made aware of an unknown recall however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The car had all of the symptoms of the vanos bolt recall. It started in October of 2023. I received an email notice for the said recall. I called BMW for 9 months, as I was without a car. That's not a timely manner to fix anything. I finally called last month and saw a remedy was available. After taking it in to the dealership, I came home and my car is now shaking violently at speeds above 40 mph. Another person stated this same thing happened to their car after the recall fix.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

See attached document for complaint.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The car started lurching and then the power went off. When turned back on and put in gear, the gas pedal did nothing. Then a few minutes later, it would kick back on. I finally got a letter from BMW about a recall. The symptoms matched. However, for the last 10 months, they offered no help. I understand there was no remedy until recently. However, we were out of a car since November 2023 and put $3,000 into engine work trying to fix the car, before the recall came. The recall said to report if the Manufacturer failed to remedy the recall in a timely manner. I'd say 10 months is way over a timely manner. Thanks for your time.

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Nov 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Jul 2024

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact was notified of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Jul 2024

Incident date

Dec 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Jul 2024

Incident date

Jul 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I purchased my vehicle less than three years ago for a large sum of money. It is a 2011 BMW X3 and shouldn’t have any engine problems especially at 130,000 miles. My engine is currently stalling and is a safety hazard to drive as it will stall while driving in high volume traffic. It has put me at risk for accidents and I have spent thousands trying to fix it. My mechanic found metal pieces that broke throughout the engine which he mentioned were the vanous bolts that hold the engine together. BMW has not issued a recall remedy and because of which, I currently have an undrivable vehicle that nobody will purchase. There are over 155,000 vehicles affected by this recall and BMW has not been helpful at all in prioritizing a solution as these are older vehicles and do not take “precedent” according to the BMW staff I have spoken with. Additionally they have not provided me with any sort of remedy in the interim stating that because it is an older car they cannot give me a loaner. They clearly do not treat all customers the same and prioritize remedies based on the newness of the car.

Reported

Jun 2024

Incident date

Feb 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

May 2024

Incident date

May 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

May 2024

Incident date

May 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I have been stuck on the road twice due to the engine stalling and the car just does not accelerate. This last time I was stuck in between 2 lanes and could not get the car to start. I was in danger with my daughters. I was able to get the car towed to the dealer and they are saying it is not the recall but everything that happened was what the recall is for. I now have to pay the dealer for a diagnostic that clearly is what the recall is. They are giving me the run around every time I bring up the recall and this is clearly a safety issue.

Reported

Apr 2024

Incident date

Apr 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMX X3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle began to shake, with the "Drivetrain Malfunction," message displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power and was unable to accelerate above 20 MPH. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed failures with the spark plugs and ignition coil. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The VIN was included, but parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 218,000.

Reported

Apr 2024

Incident date

Apr 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the check engine light warning illuminated while driving at an undisclosed speed. The failure mileage was 75,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Mar 2024

Incident date

Mar 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Mar 2024

Incident date

Mar 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Mar 2024

Incident date

Mar 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed with a failed sensor. The contact was informed of the active recall investigation NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to a second independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed with a failed cam shaft and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that several additional repairs were needed. However, the contact stated that the VANOS bolts were not included in the recall repair. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the current recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle had been at the dealer since October 2022. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 149,000.

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

We received a notice of the VANOS assembly bolts recall in December from BMW. We have checked back (with the dealer and BMW of No America) for the last 2 months and have been told there is no word when the parts will be in. On your website you say: "If the manufacturer has failed or is unable to remedy this safety recall for your vehicle in a timely manner, please contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at: 1-888-327-4236 or TTY: 1-800-424-9153 or file an online complaint with NHTSA." 2 months, with no end in sight is too long to have a vehicle that I am afraid to drive. Please help!

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Dec 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

At this time nothing has happened yet. However, the recall notification clearly indicates the possible dangerous situations that can result. And, it seems to me that the idea behind a recall is to remedy the problem and avoid the possibility of a harmful event happening on the road. I have spoken with a BMW dealer and no one has suggested that the car should be inspected to see if there nis a problem or not.. Also, there have been no warning lamps or other symptoms or messages yet. Safety for myself and the vehicle is put at risk by the very fact that this recall has been issued as of October 20, 2023. I would very much like to avoid the possibility of any of the incidents happening that are listed in the "Additional Details" list below.

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Feb 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while stopped at a traffic light, the light changed, and the contact depressed the accelerator pedal and heard an abnormal sound coming from under the floorboard and the vehicle stalled. The contact observed that the shifter had shifted independently into neutral (N) and a warning light flashed on the instrument panel but the vehicle lost electrical power and stalled. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle was unable to be restarted. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 139,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Jan 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V7070000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle however, several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle back to the residence. The vehicle had not been taken to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Nov 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Electric Power Steering Failure. Available for inspection. SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH. Confirmed by BMW Dealer. Increased steering effort light came on when EPS fails. A CONTROL MODULE IN THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) UNIT MAY MALFUNCTION, RESULTING IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Nov 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the failure was due to the PCV. The local dealer was not contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V683000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Feb 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing electrical failures. The contact stated that the door lock pins failed to go up or down while using the key fob. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the door lock actuator had failed. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred two weeks later. Additionally, the turn signals and the windshield wipers were inoperable while driving. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who informed the contact that the battery needed to be replaced; however, the contact declined the battery replacement because the battery was 5-month-old. AAA inspected the vehicle at the residence and informed the contact that the battery was in good condition. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who made the same assessment and diagnosed that the failure was related to the footwell module. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown warranty extension program. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 57,486.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

May 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Went to have hesitation when accelerating checked with my mechanic. This problem called for ignition coil and spark plugs to be replaced. During final test drive -- check engine light illuminated. Vehicle was scanned for stored fault codes. During this scan it was found faults for intake vanos not controllable. Inspected camshaft gears via bore-scope. Found vanos securing bolts to be broken. This was a recall issue on this particular model except for the engine that is in my vehicle. Feel as though this issue should be addressed for all vehicles that are this model. The recall was faults stored in DME, Vanos and camshaft position. I realize that BMW is not responsible for my particular vehicle but feel that someone should be looking at why ONLY this specific engine was not included?? I did have my mechanic fix the issue which incurred an expense of $2499. If this problem could be looked into further, I would appreciate your help. (I do have invoice from mechanic, but I don't know how to upload file.

Reported

Aug 2023

Incident date

Aug 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact initially took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that there was an unknown sensor fault with the vehicle. The contact then took the vehicle to another independent mechanic who informed him that the camshaft bolts were loosened, and the contact was instructed to no longer drive the vehicle. The mechanic informed the contact of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V176000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) which he linked to the failure. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not under recall. The vehicle was towed back and remained at the residence. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 149,000.

Reported

Aug 2023

Incident date

Nov 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The bolts backed out of my camshaft (VANOS) adjustment units. The related "warranty (not a recall)" information is found here: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10135011-9999.pdf. I purchased a 2011 X3 28i last May (2022) with ~110k miles, and there was no open recall information attached to the vehicle. Inspecting prior service records the VANOS bolts were never replaced. After a few thousand miles the bolts backed out and sheared. BMW NA said it was out of warranty and would not be covered. There was no information found when searching the VIN for necessary repairs. I've seen 10+ reports in online forums in the past two years explaining they needed or got the repair and BMW NA told them it would not be covered. I don't understand how I was to know, or even the past owner (2nd owner, I'm the third), that this engine part failure would or could occur. If the "warranty (not a recall)" was recalled on other models it seems nefarious that a warning wouldn't be attached to the vehicles. The vehicle was inspected and passed, and then inspected by a indie BMW technician who used to work for BMW as well. The vehicle had repairs done, but even he did not suspect any engine issues. This issue is a matter of when and not if with the vehicles within the "warranty" time span. My request would be that BMW reopen the warranty or rightfully claim it a recall as it should have been in the beginning. I would appreciate any guidance on the matter. Thank you.

Reported

Apr 2023

Incident date

Jan 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I parked my vehicle in front of my house for the night after driving for only about 15-20 minutes. Maybe less. Roughly 3-4 hours later, I was alerted to my car being completely up in flames by the sounds of fire trucks / police sirens. Flames were 20-30 feet in the air coming from the engine compartment area. Fire department / police worked to extinguish the flames, but the vehicle is totally destroyed.

Reported

Feb 2023

Incident date

Feb 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the "Steering Response Affected!" and "Chassis Stabilization" messages displayed and the steering wheel seized. The contact used physical strength to steer the vehicle and veered to the side road. The contact stated upon turning off and restarting the vehicle, the warning messages disappeared. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who informed the contact that they could not duplicate the failure. However, the failure reoccurred while driving. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer who informed the contact that they could not duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V341000 (Steering). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.

Reported

Aug 2022

Incident date

Jun 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V341000 (Steering) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.

Reported

May 2022

Incident date

Apr 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The passenger side weight sensor that indicates whether it is safe for the airbag to fire is failing, giving a repeat error. It has put individuals sitting in the passenger side in potential harm's way if we were to get in an accident. It is available for inspection upon request. The problem has been reproduced by the dealer. They want an exorbitant amount of money to fix it. Prior models had the same defect, and were subject of recalls/repairs/warranty extensions. Not so for this model-year. The dashboard warning lamp indicating that the passenger airbag sensor is defective has lit intermittently.

Reported

Jan 2022

Incident date

Jan 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact pulled over but was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired and was towed to the residence. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V176000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 146,590.

Reported

Sep 2021

Incident date

Sep 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Background •Per a letter sent out to the NHTSA on April 9, 2014 a recall was issued for several vehicles as the housing bolts for the vanos cams were deemed to be faulty and could loosen or shear off causing a stall. oNHTSA Campaign 14V176000 and all defect notices, recall acknowledgements, etc which are currently extant on the NHTSA website. Technical Service Bulletin SI B11 07 14 dated 10/14 oIncluded in this recall are X3 28i with engine type N52 manufactured between 1/2010 – 9/2011. oA 10-year extended warranty was issued for vehicles not specifically covered under the recall. oMy vehicle was manufactured and put into service 1/2011. oNo one to date has given a clear answer on why my VIN wasn’t listed as part of the recall. Incident •My wife and daughter were driving on the highway when the car stalled putting them in danger. They were able to pull off to the side without incident but were unable to start it again. •I had the car towed to BMW Fairfield where the team under Nate Sanchez diagnosed the issue. The was no check engine light, no drop in performance nor any indication at all that something was wrong before this happened. In fact, I had the car at Dave Parker’s Eurasian Autoworks for an AC diagnostic. They thoroughly checked the vehicle and could find no faults. oThe cause of failure was the bolts shearing off the Vanos cam, exactly as stated in the recall. oThe engine was inspected with an Otoscope and no additional engine damage was apparent. oTotal cost of the repair is estimated at $6100 Involving BMW NA Customer Service •Customer service was engaged to attempt to find a goodwill solution to the manufacturers defect. oCustomer service communication was spotty at best. When first I called, they told me that the car was covered under the extended warranty for the entirety of 2021. Upon the dealership calling, they were told that the warranty had expired. Throughout the process, deadlines for information were promised and then w

Reported

Sep 2021

Incident date

Aug 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

WHILE DRIVING ON A MOTORWAY AT MODERATE SPEEDS OF ABOUT 45 MPH, VEHICLE STARTED THROWING DYNAMIC STABILITY CONTROL, ENGINE CHECK LIGHT AND TRACTION CONTROL DEACTIVATION WARNINGS AND STARTED CUTTING OUT POWER TO THE WHEELS ALTHOUGH THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO IDLE SMOOTHLY. STRANDED ON THE MOTORWAY FOR A WHILE AND THEN AFTER SWITCHING OFF AND SWITCHING ON THE IGNITION COUPLE OF TIMES, VEHICLE STARTED TO DRIVE FORWARD IN LIMP MODE. HAD TO PULL OVER FOR SAFETY AND TOWED THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC SHOP. THEY SAID THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FAILED AND STOPPED SENDING ANY SIGNALS TO ENGINE CONTROL UNIT. THEY REPLACED THE GAS PEDAL AND EVERYTHING SEEMS TO BE BACK TO NORMAL.

Reported

Feb 2021

Incident date

Feb 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

FRONT PASSENGER WINDOW DROPPED AND WILL NOT ROLL UP. WAS ON A CITY STREET IN MOTION WHEN OCCURRED.

Reported

Feb 2021

Incident date

Dec 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I WAS SLOWLY DRIVING ON THE PARKING LOT AND SUDDENLY THE STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED AND I AM NOT ABLE TO TURN AT ALL. I TURNED OFF THE CAR (LUCKILY, NO CAR AROUND ME) AND RESTART IT THE ISSUE WENT AWAY. LATER TODAY (11/20/2020), I PULLED OUT FROM MY DRIVER WAY AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN. WHEN I RESTART MY CAR THE ISSUE DISAPPEARED. I SEARCHED ONLINE AND I FOUND MANY PEOPLE HAD THE SAME ISSUE AS MINE AND UNFORTUANTELY MY CAR IS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST. PLEASE HELP!! THE REPAIR COST FOR REPLACING SUCH MODULE IS THOUSANDS. THANKS!

Reported

Nov 2020

Incident date

Nov 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

TAIL LIGHT SEEMS TO CONSTANTLY HAVE PROBLEM. I HAVE FIXED IT MULTIPLE TIMES AND AFTER FEW DAYS/WEEKS MY NEIGHBOR COMPLAINS AND I HAVE BEEN FLAGGED MULTIPLE TIMES ON ROAD ABOUT RUNNING TAIL LIGHT NOT WORKING. ISSUE SEEMS TO ALWAYS BE THERE EVEN IF I CHANGE THE WHOLE PANEL OR THE LED PANEL. IT IS AN LED LIGHT THAT SHOULD NEVER GO OUT BUT IT LOOKS LIKE MY CAR BEHIND ME ALWAYS SEE IT AS NOT WORKING TAIL LIGHT.

Reported

Aug 2020

Incident date

Feb 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I AM CONSTANTLY GETTING DRIVETRAIN MALFUNCTION ERROR MESSAGES. THE CAR'S PERFORMANCE IS REALLY BAD. NOT GETTING FULL POWER. CAR HAS STARTED SHAKING A LITTLE. ALSO EXHAUST SOUNDS LOUDER THAN IT SHOULD.

Reported

Nov 2019

Incident date

Nov 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

THE ERROR "CHASSIS STABILIZATION" POPPED UP WITH MULTIPLE LIGHTS ON THE INSTRUMENT GAUGE CLUSTER. STEERING, ACCELERATION, AND BRAKING WERE EFFECTED. AFTER BACKING OUT OF DRIVEWAY, MADE A SHARP RIGHT TURN AND WARNINGS APPEARED. THEY ALSO HAPPEN INTERMITTENTLY DURING DRIVING, MOST OFTEN IN THE FIRST 2 MINUTES OF DRIVING.

Reported

Nov 2019

Incident date

Nov 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

VEHICLE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM HAS FAILED DUE TO CORROSION IN WIRING HARNESS FROM LEAKING REAR WIPER FLUID LINE. THE WIPER FLUID LINE IS BUNDLED TOGETHER INSIDE THE VEHICLE WIRING HARNESS. WIPER FLUID LINE DEFECTIVE AT TIME OF VEHICLE ASSEMBLY. DESIGN ENGINEERING BLUNDER TO PACKAGE A FLUID LINE INSIDE AN ELECTRICAL HARNESS. ROOT CAUSE FOR FAILURE IS MANUFACTURER AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND HAVE ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN BUT MANUFACTURER UNWILLING TO REPAIR UNDER WARRANTY DUE TO LAPSED WARRANTY PERIOD NOT MILEAGE CRITERIA. PROBLEM IDENTIFIED AT 24,779 MILES. MORE DETAILED DESCRIPTION IS ATTACHED. VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS, DRIVING STABILITY SYSTEMS, CRUISE CONTROL FUNCTION, HAVE BEEN COMPROMISED AND DO NOT FUNCTION. DIAGNOSTICS SYSTEMS AND WARNING LIGHTS ALL STAY LIT ON THE DASH. NO WAY TO TELL IF ANY OF THE ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS, EMISSION SYSTEMS, SENSORS AND ACTUATORS ARE WORKING PROPERLY.

Reported

Oct 2019

Incident date

Apr 2017

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

WHILE DRIVING THE STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED WITH A MESSAGE "CHASSIS STABILIZATION MALFUNCTION....". ALMOST HAD A MAJOR ACCIDENT. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS THE ELECTRONIC STEERING FAILED AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. IT WILL COST $6000!! A 8-YR OLD BMW WITH STEERING FAILURE. NHTSA MUST FORCE BMW TO FIX THIS RECURRING MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE BEFORE THERE IS FATALITY.

Reported

Aug 2019

Incident date

Jul 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM WARNING INADVERTENTLY POPS UP WHEN CAR IS STARTED AND/OR WHILE DRIVING REGARDLESS IF SOMEONE IS SITTING IN THE PASSENGER SEAT OR NOT.

Reported

Aug 2019

Incident date

Jul 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 X3 PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 27, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 8, 2011. A CONTROL MODULE IN THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) UNIT MAY MALFUNCTION, RESULTING IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE.

Risk: SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011-2017, X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i and X3 xDrive35i, vehicles manufactured July 2, 2010 to April 14, 2016, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014 to March 31, 2016, and 2015-2017 x4 xDrive28i, X4 xDrive35i and X4 xDriveM40i vehicles manufactured March3, 2014 to April 15, 2016. The affected vehicles have lower anchor bars for securing child restraint seats that may become damaged when using the European-ISOFIX-type, rigid-style connector, child restraint system.

Risk: Damaged lower anchor bars may increase the child's risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will weld a reinforcing bracket to the lower anchor bars and the vehicle body, free of charge. The recall began on July 13, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2011 128i and 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.

Risk: An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the PCV valve heater, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notification by the end of October 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2010-2012 1 Series Coupe, 1 Series Convertible, 3 Series Sedan, 3 Series Convertible, 2010-2011 3 Series Sportswagon, 3 Series Coupe, 5 Series Sedan, X3 xDrive 28i, X3 xDrive 30i, X5 xDrive30i, and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The aluminum bolts that secure the housing for the variable camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit can loosen over time and possibly break.

Risk: Loose or broken VANOS unit bolts can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the four VANOS bolts, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed December 18, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 19, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.