2014 BMW X3

I am filing a safety complaint regarding a catastrophic timing chain failure on my 2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i equipped with the N20 engine. While driving, the timing chain and oil pump drive chain failed without warning. This is a well-documented defect on BMW N20/N26 engines that has been the subject of extended warranties and numerous consumer complaints. This failure can cause sudden engine seizure, immediate loss of power steering and braking assist, and creates a serious risk of crash while the vehicle is in motion. BMW issued an Extended Limited Parts Warranty for this exact defect (timing chain and oil pump drive chain), acknowledging a manufacturing defect. However, BMW is refusing to cover my repair even though this is a known safety issue affecting thousands of vehicles. The vehicle had been properly maintained, and there were no warning signs before the failure. I purchased the vehicle in October 2021, and this defect occurred during normal use commuting to work. The cost of repair is extremely high due to the internal engine damage caused by the timing chain defect. This is not normal wear and tear. This is a known design/manufacturing defect that BMW has been aware of for years. Also, when I purchased this vehicle, the headlights, and taillights on the hatchback were not working. I had brought this up to the dealership they replaced the headlights, but did not address the tail lights. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this defect further, and the tail lights as these failures create a significant safety hazard for drivers and other vehicles on the road.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheating and the check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while driving on a busy highway. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that only a shield had been replaced. In addition, the contact was informed that the failure was not covered or associated with the recall repair. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the recall repair was performed. In addition, the contact stated that the failure occurred after the vehicle was retrieved. The contact stated that directly after driving the vehicle, the dealer was made aware that there was an issue with the vehicle after the recall repair was performed. The contact was assured that the vehicle was fine, and the vehicle was test-driven to ensure that there were no issues with the repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 171,150.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Dec 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); the VIN was included, but parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Aug 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the braking system malfunctioned and erroneously activated, causing the brakes to grab. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the brake caliper and brake lines were flushed; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V627000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 123,286.

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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

Jun 2025

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. There was an abnormal winding sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brake was inoperable. The contact activated the parking brake to stop the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to Technical Service Bulletin: SIB: 11-03-17. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the timing chaining needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

There was a recall back in October 2024 and there still is no remedy as of yet and it can cause a fire risk.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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

Apr 2025

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a rattling sound coming from the engine compartment, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 158,897. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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

Mar 2025

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the engine overheated, and the drivetrain malfunction warning light was illuminated. The contact parked the vehicle until the engine had cooled down. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 170,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Mar 2025

Incident date

Mar 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Mar 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. 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 failure mileage was not available. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Mar 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 while operating the vehicle, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 97,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Feb 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

This recall was announced last August. Now, more than 6 months later, BMW still has NOT announced a remedy for this recall. Because this recall involves the potential for an engine fire, it is not wise to continue without a recall remedy. What's taking BMW so long? NTSB recall number: 24V608 [XXX] , [XXX] Tell (cell): [XXX] [XXX] February 27, 2025 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Feb 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled, and the contact discovered that there was an unknown fluid leaking underneath the vehicle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. 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 failure mileage was approximately 90,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Feb 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

See attached document for complaint.

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Jan 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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

Dec 2024

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The high beams on the car malfunctioned. The sheathing material on the wires is supposedly “Soy based” and breaks down with heat and time. When the wire insulation breaks down beyond a certain point, it will crumble off of the wires, leading to exposed wires, which may touch each other, and cause certain functions of the headlamp to fail. If the headlamp fails while driving at night, vision may be impaired, or completely impossible. The issue likely affects almost every bmw produced from ~2007, to at least 2014. The vehicle was never taken into a shop, or dealership for the issue, as it was repaired by the owner, instead of being replaced. The vehicle was never inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others. The “Lamp faulty” malfunction message would appear on the dash when the adaptive function was activated, the high beams also did not work, but there was no error code present for this issue without the use of a code scanner. One of the codes present when using a code scanner implied that there was a short circuit inside of the headlamp, causing certain functions to cease operation.

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

In May 2022, BMW of Bellevue performed recall service on my BMW X3 with a car wash. Within miles of leaving the dealership, the car displayed a warning "Passenger restraint system: malfunction. Continue wearing safety belt. Consult nearest service center." My understanding is that the airbag will no longer deploy in an accident, posing a serious risk to my family. Both BMW of Bellevue and Eastside Bavarian have confirmed the issue. Eastside Bavarian confirmed that the defect could have been triggered by the dealership's service. BMW of Bellevue denies responsibility, and has quoted $3k to repair the airbag. Based on internet searches, this error message is a frequent defect in BMWs. Attached is a photo of the error message and two invoices from BMW of Bellevue: the first is for the recall and the second is for their inspection of the fault.

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

May 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My car has a water pump recall and BMW notified me on August 13. BMW said they will send a letter out to take my car in to service by October 4th 2024. I called BMW and they sent a letter out saying they still don't have a remedy for my car yet. It's been 5 months and still haven't fixed my car yet and when I call they still don't have an answer. I am highly upset. It shouldn't take this long.

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 failure. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Nov 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that when the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed a faint burning odor. The contact stated that the odor was noticed directly after the vehicle had been driven and then parked in the parking garage. In addition, the contact stated that the odor had begun during the summer months. The contact stated that it was a burning odor. In addition, the contact stated there was no smoke but noticed there was a burning odor several times when the vehicle was parked. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure and the contact was quoted a price for the diagnostic test fee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V60800 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 failure. The failure mileage was 44,500. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported

Nov 2024

Incident date

Jul 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact's wife owns a 2014 BMW X3. The owner received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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

Oct 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I have a 2014 X3 xDrive28i with 114, 000 miles. On August 4th 2024 while I was going 15 miles per hour on a residential road, when my iDrive instrument notification panel displayed "drivetrain malfunction! pullover shut off engine". I immediately came to a stop and turned off the engine, I was unable to re-start it afterwards. I had it towed to my local Ralley BMW dealer, where it then restarted after being removed from the flatbed tow truck. They were unable to determine the cause of the issue. They did a software update and told me that was probably all it was. I soon found out there is a massive issue with the timing chain & chain guides that can cause the timing to skip, resulting in premature shutdown or catastrophic engine failure. I took it to a reputable independent shop who later identified that the timing chain had excessive slack and was not able to be adjusted for proper tension, due to the catastrophic failure of the timing guides. Required repairs will cost upwards of $4,000.00, which I am currently in the process of completing.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

While driving at highway speed, my vehicle began to drag and slow down, I had to apply more on the gas pedal to keep it going. It scared me very much. I took it to my shop where they diagnosed a bad ABS pump, they also told me they had done several of these pumps on the same vehicles. I hope this helps, something needs to be done.

Reported

Sep 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,482.

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the transmission unintendedly shifted into neutral(N), and the engine seized. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The contact was awaiting a call back from the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Reported

Jun 2024

Incident date

Jun 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH, the hatchback's rear latch had inadvertently opened, and the personal content had fallen out. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was test-driven with the service manager and the failure was replicated. The contact also stated that they drove 3 other SUVs and the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that 3 other SUVs were test driven and the failure occurred. The service manager's diagnosis was that the hatchback release button was inadvertently depressed. Per the contact, the manufacturer advised the dealer to upgrade the SUV software free of charge. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Reported

May 2024

Incident date

Apr 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Several warning lights flashed on and off while driving. My display/computer turned off and rebooted while driving. A day or two later the electric rear hatch stopped working. I opened the cover in the back where the spare is, and found several inches of water (4-5) in the well. I called the dealer first thing since it was a frightening thought thinking the car may blow up or trigger the airbag making me (or whoever is driving the car) crash into someone else. To my surprise there was no warning or recall on the problem. A surprise since a simple google search turned up pages of complaints, chat rooms and discussions concerning the same issue. This is where the battery is stored in this car. The battery was sitting in inches of water even though it is slightly elevated. The control module for the electric hatch (according to a schematic found by google) although in a separate raised styrofoam holder, was halfway submerged in water. Under the side panel was wet. In that side panel is the fuse/ relay panel. Water was dripping down the side of that wall and the insulation was wet and dripping at the bottom and into the bay. The safety of myself, the driver, or my wife the primary driver of the car could be affected in many unexpected/ unknown ways with a short on the fuse panel or worse yet water sloshing around a big 12 volt car battery. Could it explode? I don’t know. I vacuumed out the water and it has come back and fills a substantial amount in a couple weeks. About one inch per week. It is certainly ongoing. My wife won’t drive it so deduction tells me it is not coming in from driving it. It is available for inspection although I have not driven it to the dealer since it has been quite wet and is some distance away. I tried to follow your format and include all your requested details. If I have left anything out I am happy to answer any questions. Thank you for the opportunity to bring this to someone’s attention. Thanks again, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Mar 2024

Incident date

Mar 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On December 27, 2023, vehicle was taken to the service center of the dealership where it was purchased. The primary concern was that the car would at times suddenly launch forward and increase in speed on its own. Employees/repairmen test drove the vehicle, scanned the codes and the concern was not duplicated. On January 14, 2024, when slowing to park this vehicle, it suddenly raced forward, causing driver to hit a post. I have this documentation. Vehicle was totaled (at loss to me). I need some remedy.

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Jan 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

After a collision, the driver side airbag exploded and a large piece of metal was projected from the airbag and into the driver's lung. The surgeon removed a gold colored disc from the drivers lung. (See Photo) Further, the driver had a large laceration to their chest and shoulder that appears to be the result of shrapnel. (See Photos)

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash 1 injuries

I was driving the car on the highway when the engine suddenly stopped. After towing it to the auto mechanic, he informed me that the timing chain was damaged, so the oil pressure went down and the engine was gone. The car never displayed any warning messages. I was driving my father and my sister to the airport and the trucks could have hit us. There was no shoulder and I could hardly pull over on a small and narrow piece of shoulder on i17 South. BMW said a new engine and other parts would cost me $15,000.

Reported

Jun 2023

Incident date

Jun 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I started my car on 3/17/23 and immediately noticed two things: a 'drivetrain malfunction' error message in my console, and the engine was almost sputtering like it was about to die. When I put the car into Drive, I then noticed that it had great difficulty to accelerate and change gears automatically. It was very unsafe to make any cross-traffic turns because it would be slow as a turtle putting me at great risk. Immediately took it to Schomp BMW, where it stayed for 5 days and was diagnosed with a timing chain issue. The cost for repair at the dealer was outrageous, so I transferred the vehicle to my local shop, The Garage, to confirm the diagnosis and perform the actual repairs with original BMW parts which they had to order.

Reported

Apr 2023

Incident date

Mar 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owned a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 35 MPH, she lost control of the steering wheel, the vehicle suddenly jerked to the left, and she crashed into a cement light pole. The Chassis Stabilization warning light was illuminated intermittently. The driver's side air bag had deployed. The contact stated that she hit her head on the steering wheel but had declined medical attention. A police report was filed. The contact made a local dealer aware of the failure; however, the vehicle had not been taken to be diagnosed or repaired, and the contact was informed the VIN was only included in an emissions recall. The contact stated that the OBD monitor was removed when the vehicle was previously impounded. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and was deemed totaled. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 74,526.

Reported

Mar 2023

Incident date

Feb 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash 1 injuries

The contact owns a 2014 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, an abnormal burning odor was detected while the heater was activated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

Reported

Feb 2023

Incident date

Aug 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The LED chips that control the running lamps in the rear and prone to fail based on my personal experience and reading forums; I've replaced 3 so far. However, BMW has yet to acknowledge the issue and will only sell you an entire brake lamp for $400+. You can find the chip that needs replacing on Amazon for ~$15 with a Lifetime Warranty through the Amazon retailer. During normal operation, these LED lights stay lit in the rear when you're not actively braking or signaling and when you're parking so they're important for any traffic following from behind especially if it's dark. I've seen other German auto manufacturers with similar issues where the rear LED lights no longer function due to defective chips or simply not making them easily available for repair should the chip fail.

Reported

Nov 2022

Incident date

Nov 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2014 BWM X3. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the engine was running rough. The contact pulled over on the side of the road and noticed that the timing chain was stretched. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 47,000.

Reported

Oct 2022

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

No oil change or engine light on dash. Passed state emissions test with no indicator lights on weeks ago. Engine timing chain malfunction. A warning light displayed once the engine stopped my vehicle. Also, pressed SOS button for 911 after vehicle stopped right off highway and stopped mid intersection, but learned it doesn’t work after 5G towers upgraded.

Reported

Sep 2022

Incident date

Sep 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

driver seat will not move forward <driver restraint system malfunction, computer keep restarting while driving and SOS keep popping on the computer

Reported

Aug 2022

Incident date

Jul 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

All BMW n20 engines have a timing chain malfunction causing damage to the engine and hazardous driving. There was a lawsuit settled two years ago, however, anyone who wasn’t alerted of the settlement or had not experienced mechanical issues yet are now left with costly repairs on their as the claim window has closed. BMW lost the lawsuit - there is a manufacturing defect that should have been recalled. Please help hold bmw accountable for repair ALL vehicles with this issue, not just some. Thank you.

Reported

Jul 2022

Incident date

Jul 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On 10/2/2021 my driver side mirror assembly fell off when driver door was closed. On 3/7/2020 my passenger mirror assembly fell off when the passenger door was closed. My safety was at risk when not being able to effectively use mirrors for travel visibility. Others traveling behind me may have if my mirror wires shredded and it became a projectile as in both incidents I was 45 minutes from home. Both times I had to find tape to hold it up. I contacted BMW North America Customer Relations case #2021-27700837. I was told on 10/8/2021 by supervisor Ashley ext.1461 my vehicle is out of warranty and they do not have reports of mirrors falling off being an issue and would not assist with goodwill for this second incident. Please see in the forum attachment BMW is aware of the faulty mirror assemblies. Ashley informed me my call was recorded. My local mechanic changed the mirror assembly in 2020. See attached invoice. My local mechanic will change the drivers side mirror assembly this week. I had scheduled BMW Fort Myers FL appt for 10/11/2021 10:00am but service advisor Jose quoted an amount $500 higher than Walt’s Garage. Walt’s initially ordered the assembly from Fort Myers BMW via parts Dept tech Michael who held assembly in my name. See Walt’s quote attached. There were no warnings that the mirrors would fall off. My vehicle has been garaged both in NJ and FL since I purchased it. A few times I noticed the driver mirror assembly not close when pressing the fold button. This was not noticed for the passenger mirror. I did a web search and have noticed several times individuals complaints of broken BMW mirror assembly. I have attached photos of most relevant case on Bimmerforum.com where a tech saw a mirror fall off. The report dated 5/19/20 shows that they contacted BMW Customer Relations so they were aware of the fault and also reimbursed the customer. Although the repair shop name was not mentioned it seems that it could have been BMW dealership.

Reported

Oct 2021

Incident date

Oct 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

FAULTY TURBO HOSE CAUSES OIL TO LEAK AND SMOKE FROM ENGINE. SEEMS TO BE COMMON PROBLEM THAT I WISH BMW WOULD ADDRESS.

Reported

Apr 2021

Incident date

Mar 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

TURBO WASTE GATE ACTUATOR ROD RUSTED OUT. THIS IMMEDIATELY LED TO LOSS OF TURBO-CHARGING, LEADING TO A DANGEROUS SITUATION DUE TO LOW ENGINE OUTPUT. THERE IS NO WARNING PRIOR TO THIS OCCURRING. THIS IS A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM FOR THIS MODEL/ENGINE AS EVIDENCED BY THE BMW TSB: HTTPS://STATIC.NHTSA.GOV/ODI/TSBS/2018/MC-10154818-9999.PDF I FEEL THIS ISSUE IS WIDESPREAD ENOUGH AND UNSAFE ENOUGH TO MERIT A RECALL OF THE ACTUATOR UNIT/ROD -- AT LEAST IN NORTHERN STATES THAT USE SALT ON THEIR ROADS

Reported

Feb 2021

Incident date

Sep 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I WAS DRIVING HOME ON A CITY STREET WHEN THE ENGINE LIGHT BEGAN TO FLASH. I WAS GETTING CLOSE TO BEING HOME SO I CONTINUED TO DRIVE TO TRY TO SAFELY GET MY CAR OFF THE STREET. IT THEN BEGAN TO DRIVE SLOWER AND SLOWER EVEN AS I WAS STEPPING FULLY ON THE GAS PEDDLE (WELL BELOW THE CITY STREET LIMIT OF 35, AS CARS STARTED TO GO AROUND ME). THE CAR THEN COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. I LUCKILY HAD MADE IT TO A NEIGHBORHOOD ROAD AND WAS ABLE TO GLIDE OVER TO THE SIDE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. HOWEVER, BECAUSE THE CAR WAS NO LONGER OPERATIONAL IT WAS STILL IN THE STREET AND I WAS STRANDED IN THE RAIN UNTIL THE TOW TRUCK GOT THERE HOURS LATER. ONCE I PUT THE CAR IN PARK IT WOULD NOT GO BACK TO NEUTRAL SO I HAD TO WAIT FOR A SPECIFIC TOW TRUCK. ONCE MY MECHANIC WAS ABLE TO TAKE A LOOK HE SAID THAT THE TIMING BELT HAD BROKEN AND DESTROYED THE ENGINE. IN HIS OPINION THIS IS UNHEARD OF IN A CAR WITH JUST OVER 70,000 MILES AND 6 YEARS OLD. I HAD JUST PURCHASED THE CAR FROM A HIGH END USED DEALERSHIP 5 MONTHS PRIOR AND THEY SAID THEY FOUND THAT BMW HAD PUT AN EXTENDED WARRANTY ON THE TIMING BELT FOR 70,000/7 YEARS FOR THIS SPECIFIC ISSUE. WHEN I CALLED BMW THEY WOULD DO NOTHING BECAUSE THE WARRANTY WAS NO LONGER IN EFFECT, EVEN A MILE OVER 70,000. THEY CLEARLY KNOW THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH THIS VEHICLE AND NEVER PROPERLY REMEDIED A VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. MY NORMAL COMMUTE IS ALL FREEWAY. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A VERY SERIOUS, IF NOT FATAL ACCIDENT IF IT HAD OCCURRED ON THE FREEWAY.

Reported

Nov 2020

Incident date

Nov 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

OUR PARKED BMW X3 WAS IN OUR DRIVEWAY TURNED OFF WHEN IT SUDDENLY BURST INTO FLAMES AND ALSO CAUGHT OUR HOUSE ON FIRE AND OUR NEIGHBORS HOUSE. THERE IS CURRENTLY NO RECALL ON THIS YEAR AND MODEL. NO ENGINE LIGHTS WERE ON AND WE REGULARLY SERVICE OUR CAR ONLY WITH CERTIFIED BMW MECHANICS. THE CAR IS COMPLETELY BURNT TO THE GROUND. AFTER FURTHER RESEARCH THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME THE X3 HAS CAUGHT ON FIRE AND BURNT DOWN SOMEONE'S HOME AND YET NO RECALL AND BMW HAS YET TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. WE HAVE EVERYTHING ON OUR SECURITY CAMERAS.

Reported

Sep 2020

Incident date

Sep 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

THE OIL-FEED LINE FOR THE TURBO ON THE (N20) ENGINE OF THE 2014 BMW X3 WAS REPLACED DUE TO LEAKING OIL INTO THE ENGINE. ON COLD STARTUP A PLUME OF BLUE/WHITE SMOKE IS SEEN EMITTING FROM THE EXHAUST TAILIPIE FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS. THIS BMW X3 HAS THE STANDARD, COMMON N20 ENGINE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN ADDRESSED BY BMW FOR MODEL YEARS 2012 AND 2013, BUT NOT 2014. THIS TURBO-OIL LINE FAILURE IS A WELL-KNOWN AND COMMON DEFECT. BMW HAS ISSUED "SERVICE BULLETINS" AND EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THE 2012 AND 2013 MODELS FOR THIS EXPRESS ISSUE. THE SERVICE BULLETIN IS ATTACHED. BMW HAS BEEN CONTACTED AND ARE REFUSING TO COVER THE 2014 MODEL ALTHOUGH IT IS THE SAME ENGINE DEFECT. THE REPAIR PART INCLUDES A REDISIGN OF THE ORIGINAL PART AND NOW INCLUDES A CHECK VALVE. THIS IS A CLEAR EXAMPLE OF DEFECT IN DESIGN. BMW VERBAGE IS LISTED BELOW: THE 'NEW' ENGINE OIL FEED LINE PART NUMBERS LISTED ABOVE INCORPORATES A 'CHECK VALVE' ON THE ENGINE SIDE OF THE ENGINE OIL FEED LINE. THE CHECK VALVE ELIMINATES ENGINE OIL PRESSURE EQUALIZATION AND THE CONSEQUENTIAL ENGINE OIL LEAKAGE PAST THE TURBOCHARGER'S 'EXHAUST SIDE' TURBINE SEAL. ON CONTACT WITH BMW I COULD NOT GET A CLEAR ANSWER WHY THE 2014 MODEL WAS NOT COVERED, BUT I DID GET BMW TO CONFIRM THAT THE ENGINE AND THE ORIGINAL PART ARE IDENTICAL TO THE DEFECT PARTS IN THE 2012 AND 2013 MODEL. WOULD NHTSA OPEN AN INQUIRY ON THE 2014 MODEL N20 TURBO OIL-LINE DEFECT PLEASE? THANKS [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Reported

Aug 2020

Incident date

Jul 2018

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I PURCHASED A VEHICLE IN GOOD FAITH FROM BMW ON 12/23/2019 WHAT I THOUGHT WOULD BE A GREAT CHRISTMAS PRESENT, FOR MYSELF. LITTLE DID I KNOW I WAS BUYING A ROAD HAZARD. IN LESS THAN TWO MONTHS A TIRE LIGHT CAME ON, I TOOK THE VEHICLE A GUY A THE SERVICE DESK RESET THE LIGHT IT NEVER WENT OFF I THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE AGAIN TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT AND I WAS TOLD IT WAS A $4600 REPAIR. I WAS TOTALLY TAKEN ABACK. I ADVISED THE DEALERSHIP THAT I WOULD NOT PAY FOR A PROBLEM THAT WAS CLEARLY THERE WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. I TOLD BMW I WOULD NOT PAY FOR THE REPAIR OF $4600, CONSIDERING IT APPEARED TO BE AN UNDERLINE PROBLEM THAT WAS NOT DISCLOSED WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE.

Reported

Mar 2020

Incident date

Dec 2019

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.

Remedy: The driver's front air bag will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 BMW 328i xDrive Sports Wagon, 2012-2014 BMW 320i Sedan, 328i Sedan, 320i xDrive Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 2012-2013 BMW 528i Sedan, 528i xDrive Sedan, 2013-2014 BMW X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2013-2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2012-2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i Roadster, and 2014 BMW 428i Coupe, and 428i xDrive Coupe. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13V-454.

Risk: A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will install a locking ring in the camshaft to retain the camshaft seal disk in the proper location, free of charge. The recall began on December 2, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 320i, 328i, 320i xDrive, and 328i xDrive sedans; model year 2014 328i xDrive Sports Wagons; model year 2012-2013 528i and 528i xDrive sedans, model year 2013-2014 X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i vehicles and model year 2012-2014 Z4 sDrive28i roadsters. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail.

Risk: A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will modify the vehicles to prevent insufficient vacuum pump lubrication, free of charge. The safety recall began on January 31, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

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 2014 X3 xDrive28i, X3 xDrive35i, X5 sDrive35i, X5 xDrive35i, and 2015 X4 xDrive35i vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's front air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.

Risk: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.