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Model-year record

2011 BMW X6
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2011 BMW X6

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

32

Reports to NHTSA, 2011

Safety recalls

11

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Not rated

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

16

EPA estimate

Known issues

Engine issues lead owner complaints (31% of 32 reports), followed by power train (28%).

Engine31% · 10 reports
Power Train28% · 9 reports
Electrical System6% · 2 reports
Engine And Engine Cooling6% · 2 reports
Fuel System6% · 2 reports
Steering6% · 2 reports
Suspension6% · 2 reports
Air Bags3% · 1 report

+ 2 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 32 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11742337, ODI 11579229, ODI 11176331, ODI 11119489, ODI 11022151.

Individual complaint reports(32)

Showing the 32 most recent reports
EngineJun 2026 · ODI 11742337 · fireDetails +

I returned home from shopping at local store 15 miles away. Arrived home around 11:30pm on June 3. Unloaded groceries and sat down. Around 11:45pm-11:50pm heard yelling from outside that our car was on fire. My husband ran out and and seen flames coming from under hood of car. I called 911 and within a couple mins middle of hood was completely starting to melt and components were spraying fluid and popping pieces of metal and plastic were thrown everywhere. A neighbor proceeded to use 2 fire extinguishers to try to control blaze which did not seem to calm flames. Fire department arrived and sprayed down side of house and back of our other car which was parked In front of our BMW. Do to the extreme heat we could not get into other car to move it as it was parked by closed garage doors. Myself, our 2 daughter's and visiting friend were forced from the house due to concerns that the house might catch fire. We watched as the cars whole front engine area burned completely.During the trip to the store there were no warning signs on vehicle stating anything wrong. The fire marshal did a report on the fire and it was towed to local tow yard. At this time it is available for inspection. Preceding fire since it was unexplained to us we looked into recalls of the BMW and found multiple claims and reports for recall. Looking up VIN on NHSTA' s website VIN came back as "0" unrepaired recalls. We purchased the vehicle from a private dealer who never mentioned if vehicle ever had any recalls or had been fixed. And our search before purchase said there were no recalls on the vehicle. Due to the extreme heat our driveway was burned and our vehicle in front received heat damage to whole back of car. The fire was so intense that the engine area all the way to the back seat is burned. Thank goodness me and my daughter were not driving the vehicle at the time this happened as the engine fire burned quickly. This fire was not caused by arson or any factors under our control.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 11742337 at NHTSA →
EngineMar 2024 · ODI 11579229Details +

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X6. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the mechanic stated that the timing chain gears failed. The vehicle was not repaired due to the part not being available. The contact stated that the dealer had the part but would not sell it to the contact due to the part being under a recall. The contact referenced BMW recall B110923 as a possible solution however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11579229 at NHTSA →
SuspensionAug 2023 · ODI 11541410Details +

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X6. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle inadvertently shut off. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. On another occasion while leaving a parking lot, the vehicle jerked with a delay while accelerating. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the front suspension needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. On another occasion while starting the vehicle, the vehicle started overheating. The contact shut off the vehicle and waited for the vehicle to cool down before restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 94,000.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11541410 at NHTSA →
SteeringJan 2023 · ODI 11501177Details +

While driving the check engine light came on moments later the steering wheel stiffened up then released mid turn when I turn the steering wheel the tires didn’t respond I hit a curb

Reported
Jan 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11501177 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2021 · ODI 11443848Details +

2011 BMW x6m 115k miles the car system was burning smell coming. Smell like electrical problem the system of the car shuts down no power just enough power to pull over off the road. Turned it off and back on it went away. Check engine light and reduced of power keeps coming on. We look into the truck water is leaking into the electrical. Trunk electrical broken. Comfort access not working. This car is really unsafe and its not fix.

Reported
Dec 2021
Incident date
Dec 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11443848 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2021 · ODI 11426519Details +

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X6. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would independently shift into neutral upon the depression of the brake pedal without warning. The contact would restart the vehicle soon after the failure to resume normal driving. The contact called the dealer and was informed that there were no recalls on the Vin. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to be diagnosed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the Vin was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11426519 at NHTSA →
Fuel SystemMay 2021 · ODI 11418909Details +

The contact owns a 2011 BMW X6. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, there was an abnormal burning odor prior to the vehicle losing motive power. The vehicle was pulled over and restarted approximately an hour later. The contact stated that the fuel pump message was displayed. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11418909 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2020 · ODI 11329168Details +

MY VEHICLE CUT OF ON ME ON THE FREEWAY IN THE MIDDLE LANE AND TRAFFIC. MY ENGINE STARTED SMOKE. I WAS AFRAID FOR MYSELF AND CHILDREN. I HAVE ALWAYS TOOK MY CAR INTO THE BMW OF BLOOMFIELD DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICES AND MAINTENANCE I HAVE NEVER MISS NOT ONE APPOINTMENT. FOR THE LAST 5 TO 6 MONTHS. MY VEHICLE STAYED IN THEIR DEALERSHIP. THE LONGEST WAS APPROXIMATELY 42 DAYS AND ONCE I RECEIVED MY CAR MY ENGINE STARTED SMOKING SO I GIVE THEM BACK MY VEHICLE. I ASKED THEM IF THEY FOUND OUT WHAT CAUSED MY ENGINE TO SMOKE LIKE THIS? THERE COULDN'T GIVE ME A STRAIGHT FORWARD ANSWER. ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS WHILE PICKING UP MY VEHICLE THEY ALWAYS LEFT SOMETHING UNPLUGGED CAUSING MY INTERIOR LIGHTS TO GO CRAZY BECAUSE OF THE WIRES BEING NOT PROPERLY FIXED. THIS HAS HAPPENED AT LEAST 3 TIMES IN SIX MONTHS. I'VE PROBABLY SPENT NO LESS THAN 3,500. ON TOP OF THEM TELLING ME I NEED SOME RUN FLAT TIRES AND ALL THE LIGHTS WILL STOP BECAUSE OF THOSE TIRES. ONLY 5 DAYS LATER MY CAR STALLED RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FREEWAY. I CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AND THEY TOOK THE CAR OVER TO THE BMW DEALERSHIP THE CALLED ME TO INFORM ME OF MY ENGINE BEING DOESN'T WORK I ASKED HOW THEY SAID THEY DON'T KNOW, AND IN THE SAME BREATH THEY SAID THAT IF I WANTED A NEW ENGINE IT WILL COST ME 15,000 NOT INCLUDING TIME AND LABOR. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
May 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11329168 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemNov 2019 · ODI 11281623Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SEIZED INTERMITTENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT VEERED TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED, THE VEHICLE RETURNED TO NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BMW CLEVELAND (6135 KRUSE DR, SOLON, OH 44139, (440) 542-0600) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 72,000.

Reported
Nov 2019
Incident date
Nov 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11281623 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2019 · ODI 11206942Details +

-ELECTRICAL ISSUES IN THE BOTH REAR DOORS ALMOST BURNED THE CAR DOWN TWICE. LUCKILY MECHANIC WAS ABLE TO FIND WHERE THE SMOKE SMELL WAS COMING FROM IN TIME. 3,000 DOLLAR EXTENDED WARRANTY WOULD NOT COVER IT AND GAVE MANY EXCUSES TO NOT PAY FOR IT. -ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION ISSUE WITH THE EMERGENCY BRAKE SYSTEM.

Reported
May 2019
Incident date
Mar 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11206942 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2019 · ODI 11176331Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. AFTER FUELING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT DROVE OFF AND THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND SHUT OFF. IN ADDITION, THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO BMW OF LAS VEGAS (6900 W SAHARA AVE, LAS VEGAS, NV 89117, (702) 570-0279), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED UNLESS IT WAS FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000.

Reported
Feb 2019
Incident date
Oct 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11176331 at NHTSA →
EngineAug 2018 · ODI 11119489Details +

AFTER IDLING ON A CAR WASH FOR AT LEAST 5 MINUTES, THE CAR START TO SMOKE. I HAVE TALKED TO 3 MORE OWNERS OF MY SERIES AND THEY ARE GOING THROUGH THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS A BMW DEFECT AND NOW AM USING EXCESSIVE OIL TOO.

Reported
Aug 2018
Incident date
Jul 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11119489 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingJul 2018 · ODI 11105379Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST FORWARD MOMENTUM WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED; HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO BMW OF ALBANY (801 E OGLETHORPE BLVD, ALBANY, GA 31705, (229) 883-2040) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TURBO NEEDED TO BE SERVICED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. *TT

Reported
Jul 2018
Incident date
May 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11105379 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2018 · ODI 11099128Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. WHILE MAKING A TURN AT APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO VIBRATE AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL LOST TRACTION. THE VIBRATION STOPPED WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ABOVE 5 MPH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER HAD NOT BEEN CONTACTED FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000.

Reported
Jun 2018
Incident date
May 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11099128 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJan 2018 · ODI 11065228Details +

AFTER THE CAR IS BEEN DRIVEN UNDER A SNOW STORM , WHEN THE SNOW IS NOT CLEAR HAVE TO DRIVE TO WRK 1 HOUR AWAY , THE NEXT DAY ONCE ALL SNOW IS CLEAR THE CAR TENDS TO SHAKE VERY BAD , EVERY TIME THE SAME WHEN U HIT 30MPH SHAKES VIOLENTLY LIKE THE CAR IS GONNA BREAK APART. BUT ONCE U TAKE IT INSIDE THE CARWSSH AND WASH IT TENDS TO GO AWAY? I DON'T UNDERSTAND IT? IT'S NOT THE SNOW ON THE TIRES CUZ I CLEAR ALL THAT BEFORE , I LEAVE THE HOUSE THE NEXT DAY.

Reported
Jan 2018
Incident date
Jan 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11065228 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2017 · ODI 11022151Details +

TURBO COOLANT RECALL. THE TURBO COOLANT PUMP IS NOT WORKING WHICH CAUSE THE CAR TO OVER HEAT NOW CURRENTLY LEAKING FROM THE HOSES. THE CAR IS CURRENTLY PARKED AND IF I START TO DRIVE IT, IT STARTS TO OVERHEAT AND SMOKE.

Reported
Sep 2017
Incident date
Sep 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11022151 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2017 · ODI 11020614Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS AND MAKING A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN AS WELL AS A U-TURN, THE VEHICLE SHAKES, AND MOVES UP AND DOWN. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED AT BMW OF MANHATTAN LOCATED AT 555 W 57TH ST, NEW YORK, NY 10019 UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V311000 (POWER TRAIN). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO BMW OF MANHATTAN WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A FAILED TRANSFER CASE THAT NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Reported
Aug 2017
Incident date
Sep 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11020614 at NHTSA →
Fuel SystemOct 2016 · ODI 10920058Details +

WITHIN THE FIRST YEAR OF OWNING MY VEHICLE (BMW X6) I HAD ENGINE PERFORMANCE ISSUES, WHICH REQUIRED SENSORS TO BE REPLACED. AND SEVERAL MONTHS LATER I HAD TO REPLACE A WATER PUMP. AFTER OWNING MY VEHICLE FOR A LITTLE OVER 2 YEARS AND WITH 2 YEARS REMAINING ON MY CONTRACT. AS I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE THE ENGINE JUST DIED AT A STOP LIGHT, WITH NO WARNING. I WAS INFORMED BY THE BMW DEALERSHIP THAT MY ENGINE HAD FROZEN AND WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF $21,000.00 DOLLARS. MY VEHICLE WAS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION AND MAINTAIN BY THE DEALERSHIP WERE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE (ERHARD BMW, FARMINGTON HILLS, MI). I INFORMED THEM THAT I SMELLED WIRES BURNING EACH TIME I TRIED TO STARTED MY STALLED VEHICLE. I THINK THE ENGINE FAILURE IS DUE TO AN ELECTRICAL ISSUE. MY CAR IS STILL AT THE DEALERSHIP IN THE BACK PARKING LOT. I WAS BLESSED NOT TO BE ON THE HIGHWAY WITH THIS FAILURE. *TR

Reported
Oct 2016
Incident date
May 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10920058 at NHTSA →
Air BagsOct 2016 · ODI 10914304Details +

TAKATA RECALL I HAVE CONTACTED MY BMW CENTER IN SAVANNAH ABOUT THIS RECALL AND WAS TOLD IT WOULD TAKE UP TO MORE THEN YEAR FOR THE PARTS, THIS HAS BEEN ABOUT 9 MONTHS AGO AND IM YET TO BE CONTACTED. I TRULY DO NOT FEEL SAFE IN MY VEHICLES!

Reported
Oct 2016
Incident date
Feb 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10914304 at NHTSA →
Power TrainSep 2016 · ODI 10904566Details +

ABOUT SAFETY CAMPAIGN #16V-311, AT THE BEGINNING OF 2015, MY 2011 BMW X6 WITH ONLY 45000 MILES STARTED TO VIBRATE WHEN I TURNED THE WHEELS, I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY NEVER FOUND ANY ISSUES, I HAVE RECEIVED A NOTICE OF WARRANTY EXTENSION ON THE DRIVE SHAFT AND RECENTLY A RECALL TO REPLACE IT, THE CAR KEEPS GETTING WORSE EVEN AFTER A NEW DRIVE SHAFT, I HAVE EMAIL BMWUSA BUT NO RESPONSE, I ONLY DRIVE THE CAR WHEN IS NECESSARY BECAUSE I'M ALMOST SURE SOMETHING IS GOING TO BREAK AND MIGHT CAUSE AND ACCIDENT, THE CAR VIBRATES AND MAKES MECHANICAL NOISES MOSTLY WHEN I'M TURNING THE WHEELS AND PRESS ON THE GAS.

Reported
Sep 2016
Incident date
Jul 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10904566 at NHTSA →
EngineAug 2016 · ODI 10899466Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE ENGINE OVER HEATED AND THE DASHBOARD DISPLAYED AN ERROR MESSAGE "GO TO A BMW CENTER". THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V521000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,000.

Reported
Aug 2016
Incident date
Aug 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10899466 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2016 · ODI 10873898Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED INDEPENDENTLY AND A REDUCED POWER WARNING MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WATER PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED IMMEDIATELY AFTERWARDS. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V521000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,000.

Reported
Jun 2016
Incident date
Dec 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10873898 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2015 · ODI 10809838 · fireDetails +

WHILE IN TRAFFIC DRIVING AROUND 45 MILES PER HOUR AT 8A ON DEC 7, 2015 ON GA400 MY 2011 BMW X6 HYBRID REAR GLASS SPARKED WITH FIRE AND SHATTERED. THE SPARKS WERE FOLLOWED BY A VERY LOUD BOOMING NOISE. THE DEFROST CONNECTOR EXPLODED APPARENTLY IN THE REAR WINDOW CAUSING REAR GLASS TO SHATTER. PICTURES ATTACHED. YOU CAN CLEARLY SEE WHERE THE EXPLOSION/SPARK OCCURRED AND WHERE THE DAMAGE STARTED. CAR IS AT DEALER NOW AND THEY HAVE TOLD ME IT IS NOT COVERED. ISSUE IS DEFROST FAILURE. CAR IS UNDER FULL FACTORY WARRANTY. THE TINT MOSTLY HELD THE GLASS IN PLACE. PROBLEM AFTER PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. HYBRID BATTERY REPLACED AT 18K MILES. ENGINE ISSUES. BATTERY NODE ISSUES. 43K MILES CURRENTLY. PURCHASED IN 2013 WITH 3K MILES ON IT.

Reported
Dec 2015
Incident date
Dec 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 10809838 at NHTSA →
Power TrainOct 2015 · ODI 10779594Details +

ON 10/02/2015, I WAS DRIVING MY KIDS TO SCHOOL. SUDDENLY, THERE'S THIS LOUD EXPLOSION NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT, THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A CITY STREET. THE ROAD WAS VERY SMOOTH, THE VEHICLE DID NOT COLLIDE WITH ANY POTHOLES OR ANY ROAD OBJECTS. I PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, DID A QUICK INSPECTION, DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING. SO I GOT BACK ONTO THE CAR AND CONTINUE DRIVING. DURING ACCELERATIONS AND GOING ABOVE 40MPH ON THE FREEWAY, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO VIBRATE AND I STARTED TO LOSE CONTROL BUT MANAGED TO SLOW DOWN AND PULL TO THE SIDE OF THE FREEWAY. AFTER DOING RESEARCH AND ASKED SEVERAL MECHANICS, IT TURNS OUT THAT THE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT OF THE VEHICLE IS GOING BAD, AND THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE BMW X6. I WAS ADVISED TO HAVE THE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT REPLACED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE OR ELSE IF THE DRIVE SHAFT HAPPENS TO BREAK ON THE FREEWAY, IT COULD CAUSE A MAJOR ACCIDENT WHICH ME AND MY KIDS COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED. ADDITIONALLY, AT 54K MILES, THE VEHICLE'S VALVE STEM SEALS HAS ALREADY GONE BAD, (THEY USUALLY DON'T GO BAD UNTIL 120K MILES) THE ENGINE OIL IS LEAKING TOWARDS COMBUSTION CHAMBER AND BURN OFF THROUGH THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THE VEHICLE IS EMITTING AN EXTREMELY TOXIC, SULFURIC SMELL FROM THE EXHAUST, YOU CAN SMELL IT FROM FAR AWAY WHILE THE VEHICLE IS STARTED. I HAD SEVERAL NEIGHBORS COMPLAINED ABOUT THE SMELL. NOT ONLY THAT THIS IS BAD FOR OUR HEALTH DUE TO THE CANCER-CAUSING CARCINOGEN IT IS ALSO BAD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. BMW HAS LONG ACKNOWLEDGED THE PROBLEM AND ISSUED A "CUSTOMER CARE PACKAGE" WHICH THEY REFUSED TO CALL IT A RECALL. IN FACT, THEY REPLACED MANY DIFFERENT COMPONENTS ON MY VEHICLE, BUT THE CUSTOMER CARE PACKAGE DID NOT FIX THE TOXIC, SULFURIC SMELL FROM THE EXHAUST. THIS IS EXTREMELY UNACCEPTABLE THAT FALSELY ADVERTISE AND SOLD US AN UNSAFE VEHICLE FOR NEARLY $85,000. *TR

Reported
Oct 2015
Incident date
Oct 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10779594 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2015 · ODI 10671058Details +

BROKEN FRONT DRIVE SHAFT; COMMON PROBLEM WITH X5 FROM THE SAME ERA WHICH WAS RECALLED. *TR

Reported
Jan 2015
Incident date
Jan 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10671058 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2014 · ODI 10667132Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE TURBO PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V521000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.

Reported
Dec 2014
Incident date
Dec 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10667132 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2014 · ODI 10653453 · 2 injuriesDetails +

HI MY NAME IS [XXX] I BOUGHT A BMW X6 5.0 2011 I'VE BEEN HAVING A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH MY SUV! IN THE LAST MONTH I'VE BEEN IN THE DEALERSHIP 4 TIMES FOR COOLANT ISSUES IT'S SAD BECAUSE THE THIRD TIME MY WIFE AND I WERE AT THE MOVIES OUR EYES STARTED TO ITCH,BURNING AND FELT LIKE VOMITING. SO I BROUGHT THE CAR BACK AND THEY FOUND LEAKS IN THE HOSES AND CAR WAS THERE FOR ABOUT EIGHT DAYS,DON THE HEAD SERVICE MANAGER TOLD ME THEY RAN ALL THE TEST THEY CAN AND GOT EVERYTHING DONE. ON THE 3RD OF NOVEMBER OUR EYES STARTED TO ITCH AND FELT LIKE VOMITING AGAIN, SO I CALLED THE DEALER THIS THURSDAY AND TOLD THEM WHAT'S GOING ON,DON THE HEAD SERVICE GUY AND THE HEAD MECHANIC AND THE SERVICE GUY BOTH SMELLED A SENT IN MY VEHICLE SO FOR THE FOURTH TIME MY CARS IN THE SHOP AGAIN.I PICKED MY CAR UP THIS MONDAY AND BROUGHT IT BACK TO THE DEALERWITH LOW OIL LIGHT ON AND A SENT IN MY CAR! I LOVE THE BMW VEHICLES BUT I JUST DON'T FEEL COMFORTABLE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE ANYMORE I FEEL LIKE IT'S NOT SAFE OR FEEL COMFORTABLE DRIVING IT ANYMORE :( MY WIFE IS PREGNANT SHE'S FOUR MONTH IN THE PREGNANCY AND I'M SAID THAT BMW TEST US AS TEST DUMMIES. I JUST HOPE THIS DIDN'T CAUSE ANY KIND OF HEALTH ISSUES FOR US LONG-TERM AND FOR THE BABY,I SPOKE TO [XXX] FROM BMW I EXPLAINED TO HER THAT I DID NOT GO TO THE HOSPITAL BECAUSE I DO NOT HAVE HEALTH INSURANCE AND I DID NOT WANT TO HAVE A HOSPITAL BILL. PLEASE HELP I COULD GIVE YOU MORE INFO YOU COULD CALL ME AT [XXX] I REALLY DON'T WANT TO PUT MY FAMILY BACK IN THE VEHICLE AGAIN. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Reported
Nov 2014
Incident date
Oct 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
2 injuries
Open ODI 10653453 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingAug 2014 · ODI 10625889 · fireDetails +

MY BMW X6 5.0I SPORT ALMOST STARTED ON FIRE, I BEEN HAVING A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH MY CAR JUST YESTERDAY MY WATER PUMP WENT BAD AND I ONLY HAVE 48,000 MILE ON MY CAR, SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR LAST YEAR THE WATER PUMP BEEN MAKING NOISES!! ITS SAD THAT I COULD OF LOST MY LIFE OR DID MORE DAMAGE TO MY CAR BECAUSE ITS HEATING UP AND ITS NOT FEAR TO ME OR TO ANYONE ELSE THAT OWNS THIS CAR!! I WILL CONTACT BMW NORTH AMERICA AND TELL THEM THE PROBLEM.. PLEASE RESEARCH THE PROBLEM BEFORE SOMETHING HAPPENS. *TR

Reported
Aug 2014
Incident date
Aug 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 10625889 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2014 · ODI 10608959Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD EXPLOSION AND THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH SOME WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS MERGED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE, DRIVE SHAFT AND TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.

Reported
Jul 2014
Incident date
Jul 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10608959 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2014 · ODI 10608961Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X6. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD EXPLOSION AND THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH SOME WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS MERGED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE, DRIVE SHAFT AND TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.

Reported
Jul 2014
Incident date
Jul 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10608961 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2013 · ODI 10496170Details +

WE LEASED OUR 2011 BMW X6 3.5I IN AUGUST 2010 FROM BMW OF TENAFLY. THE FIRST HIGH FUEL PRESSURE PUMP MALFUNCTION OCCURRED WITHIN THE FIRST 6 MONTH - IN FEBRUARY 2011. THE CAR STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF BUSY HIGHWAY AND BECOME UNCONTROLLABLE WHILE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR KIDS FROM KINDERGARTEN. THE DEALERSHIP IDENTIFIED THE FAULTY FUEL PUMP AND THE CAR WAS IN SERVICE FOR THE WHOLE 2 MONTH, WHILE WE WHERE DRIVING LOANER. WITHIN A YEAR FROM THAT SERVICE, IN APRIL 2012 THE ENGINE STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD AGAIN. I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 40MPH WHEN SUDDENLY THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS TURNED OFF AND THE CAR BECOME ABSOLUTELY UNCONTROLLABLE, ENDANGERING THE LIVES OF MY FAMILY, BYSTANDERS AND OTHER DRIVERS ON THE ROAD. FORTUNATELY, I WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR BY APPLYING MY WHOLE WEIGHT ON THE BRAKES AND ENORMOUS FORCE TO TURN THE WHEEL AND ROLL INTO THE NEARBY GAS STATION. MIRACULOUSLY, NOBODY GET HURT, BUT AFTER THAT INCIDENT MY WIFE AND I DEVELOPED SUBLIMINAL FEAR OF DRIVING, EXPECTING OUR CAR TO BECOME UNCONTROLLABLE AT ANY MOMENT. MY WIFE DEMANDED TO EXCHANGE THE CAR, STATING THE FEAR OF DRIVING, BUT OUR DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO DO SO. THIS TIME IT WAS IN SERVICE FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS. WITHIN THE 3 MONTH OF THAT SERVICE IN AUGUST 2012 THE 'REDUCED POWER' ENGINE MALFUNCTION NOTIFICATION EMERGED ON THE DASHBOARD, AND THE NEXT MORNING THE CAR REFUSED TO START. THIS TIME DEALERSHIP IDENTIFIED THE FAULTY GENERATOR, ALTHOUGH ALL THE SIGNS OF THIS FAILURE WAS VERY SIMILAR TO HIGH FUEL PRESSURE PUMP MALFUNCTION. TODAY - 02/02/2013, WITHOUT ANY WARNING SIGNS, OUR CAR STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY AGAIN. AS IN PREVIOUS SITUATIONS THERE WHERE KIDS IN THE CAR, WHEN IT BECOME ABSOLUTELY UNCONTROLLABLE, WHILE MOVING IN THE LEFT LINE ON BUSY HIGHWAY. *TR

Reported
Feb 2013
Incident date
Feb 2011
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10496170 at NHTSA →
TiresMar 2011 · ODI 10390276Details +

I WAS DRIVING MY BRAND NEW BMW X6 ON I78 HEADED WEST. AT APPROXIMATELY EXIT 4, THE TIRE PRESSURE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM INDICATED LOSS OF PRESSURE ON THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE. I PULLED INTO A GAS STATION TO INSPECT AND NOTED THAT THE TIRE WALL HAD BLOWN OUT OF THE TIRE. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE RIM NOT THE TREAD, ONLY TO THE WALL. THE CAR WAS BRAND NEW AND HAD APPROXIMATELY 550 MILES ON IT AT THE TIME. I HAD THE CAR INSPECTED BY A CAR EXPERT WHO'S OPINION WAS THAT THE TIRE WAS DEFECTIVE. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO BMW WHO TOLD ME THE TIRE WAS FINE AND IT WAS MY FAULT THAT IT BLEW OUT. I ARGUED MY CASE AND BMW THEN AGREED TO REPLACE THE TIRE FOR FREE. I HAVE REQUESTED THAT THEY KEEP THE TIRE FOR A FULL INSPECTION BUT THEY SEEM TO NOT WANT TO DO THIS. I AM EXTREMELY CONCERNED GIVEN THE CAR AND TIRE HAD VIRTUALLY NO DRIVEN MILES ON THEM AND I HAD NOT HIT ANYTHING IN THE ROAD (AS I NOTED BEFORE, THERE WAS NO DAMAGE OTHER THAN TO THE TIRE WALL. *TR

Reported
Mar 2011
Incident date
Mar 2011
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10390276 at NHTSA →

Recalls(11)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Air BagsSep 2018 · 18V030000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, 2009-2010 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2009-2013 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." BMW is also recalling certain 2007-2010 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X5 xDrive35d, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." BMW is also recalling certain 2007-2009 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xdrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X5 xDrive35d, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

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

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag module, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Power TrainFeb 2017 · 17V138000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC, (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2013 X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M and X5 xDrive35d vehicles, 2011-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles, and 2011 x6 ActiveHybrid Vehicles. Water and debris may enter the front driveshaft's universal joint, causing excessive wear and possibly resulting in the joint's failure.

Risk: If the front universal joint fails, the front wheels would not be driven, affecting vehicle traction. Additionally, continued driving of the vehicle with a broken front universal joint may damage other components. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began on April 18, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
EquipmentFeb 2010 · 10V233000Details +

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 X5 SAV AND X6 SAV PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 1 THROUGH MAY 8, 2010. THE TIRE LABEL DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH 20-INCH WHEELS, BUT THE LABEL STATES THAT THE VEHICLES WERE EQUIPPED WITH 19-INCH WHEELS AND THE STATED TIRE PRESSURE IS INCORRECT FOR THE EQUIPPED WHEELS.

Risk: IMPROPER TIRE INFLATION CAN RESULT IN PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE OR REDUCED VEHICLE HANDLING PERFORMANCE, EITHER OF WHICH CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE CORRECT LABELS FREE OF CHARGE. THE OWNER WILL HAVE THE OPTION TO AFFIX THE LABEL THEMSELVES OR THEY MAY TAKE THEIR VEHICLE TO A BMW DEALER WHO WILL AFFIX THE LABEL FOR THEM AT NO COST. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 8, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Engine And Engine Cooling · 11V521000Details +

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 5-SERIES GRAN TURISMO, MODEL YEAR 2009-2011 7-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 X5 SAV, AND MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 X6 SAV VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 8- OR 12-CYLINDER, TURBOCHARGED, ENGINES BECAUSE THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE ELECTRIC AUXILIARY WATER PUMP CAN OVERHEAT.

Risk: THIS COULD LEAD TO A SMOLDERING OF THE PUMP OR AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT OR VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUXILIARY WATER PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 19, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Power Train · 16V311000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011 X5 xDrive 35i, xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles manufactured April 5, 2010, to November 20, 2010, 2011 X5 xDrive35d diesel vehicles manufactured April 7, 2010, to November 20, 2010, and 2011 X6 Active Hybrid vehicles manufactured April 15, 2010, to November 17, 2010. The affected vehicles have a front driveshaft universal joint that may not seal out water and debris from getting in and damaging the joint, which could lead to its failure.

Risk: If the front universal joint fails, the front wheels would not be driven, affecting vehicle traction. Additionally, continued driving of the vehicle with a broken front universal joint may damage other components. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began on July 8, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 16V364000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5M vehicles, 2009-2011 X5 xDrive35d vehicles, 2008-2011 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, BMW is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5M vehicles, and 2008 BMW X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Vehicles of these model years and models that were not originally sold or ever registered in either Zones A or B are not subject to this safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or air bag module, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Fuel System · 16V746000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i and 550i xDrive and 2012 535i ActiveHybrid, 640i Convertible, 650i Convertible, 650i xDrive Convertible, 650i Coupe and 650i Coupe xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles have in-tank fuel pumps that may have insufficiently crimped wire contacts.

Risk: The loose wires may cause the connector to melt, resulting in a fuel leak. Additionally, the fuel pump may stop working, possibly causing an engine stall and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. The recall began February 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Engine And Engine Cooling · 18V248000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.

Risk: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 19V017000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M vehicles, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

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

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 20V016000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2012 X5 xDrive35d, 2008-2012 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2007-2012 X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles equipped with non-desiccated, passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSPI-2) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

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

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until this remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 20V017000Details +

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

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

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver air bag. On X5 and X6 vehicles, only the inflator will be replaced. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

No NHTSA crash test is on record for this year. Some vehicles and model years were not tested or do not have a published NCAP result.

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
X6 xDrive35i3.0L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive162319
X6 xDrive50i4.4L 8-cylAll-Wheel Drive142016
X6 xDriveM4.4L 8-cylAll-Wheel Drive121714

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

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2011 BMW X6: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2011 BMW X6?

Owners filed 32 NHTSA complaints about the 2011 BMW X6. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2011 BMW X6?

The most-reported problem areas are Engine (31% of complaints) and power train (28%).

How many recalls does the 2011 BMW X6 have?

11 recalls have been issued that affect the 2011 BMW X6, covering components such as air bags. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2011 BMW X6 get?

The EPA rates the 2011 BMW X6 between 14 and 19 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.