2004 BMW 325XI
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2004 BMW 325XI. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2004 BMW 325XI. Newest first.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase…
Risk and remedy
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 passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000 323i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sports Wagons; 2000 328i sedans and coupes; 2001-2005 325i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sport Wagons; 2001-2005 325xi sedans and Sports Wagons; 2006 325i coupes and convertibles; 2001-2006 330i sedans, coupes, and convertibles; 2001-2005 330xi…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure could cause rupturing of the inflator resulting in metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side frontal air bag, free of charge. An interim notice was mailed to owners in September 2014. A second notice was mailed when an adequate supply of parts became available, on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi Sedans, and 325xi and 325i Sportswagons, 2002-2006 330Ci, 325Ci, and M3 Convertibles and 325i, 330i, and M3 Coupes, 2002-2003 M5, 540i, 525i Sedan, and 530i Sedans, and 540i and 525i Sportswagons, and 2003 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity Vehicles. Please…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with 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 vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began Aug 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-348 in its entirety. Additionally, vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Note: On December 17, 2015 BMW removed the model year 2004 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity vehicle from this recall. Those vehicles were mistakenly identified as including the air bags that are subject to this recall.
BMW IS recalling certain model year 2002-2005 325I, 325xi, 330I, and 330xi vehicles manufactured from september 1, 2001, through march 1, 2005. over time, resistance in the electrical contacts may cause one or more rear lamp functions (tail light, brake light, and/or turn-signal), within the vehicle's body panel, to stop working.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Intermittent light operation reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions. this could cause a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. the safety recall began on february 15, 2012. owners may contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.
Owner complaints
55 complaints7 involved a crash1 involved a fire6 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Structure › Body
Window rolled down, but never went back up. Happened on multiple windows of my vehicle. Has been a common problem among these cars, caused me to fail inspection.
- Air bags · Electrical system
The contact’s girlfriend owns a 2004 BMW 325XI. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20V018000 (Air Bags). The contact’s girlfriend took the vehicle to the local dealer for the recall repair. After the vehicle was repaired and the vehicle was retrieved, the air bag warning…
The contact’s girlfriend owns a 2004 BMW 325XI. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20V018000 (Air Bags). The contact’s girlfriend took the vehicle to the local dealer for the recall repair. After the vehicle was repaired and the vehicle was retrieved, the air bag warning light was illuminated. The driver took the vehicle back to the local dealer for the warning light. The mechanic inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that the battery cable needed to be replaced. The contact was concerned that the failure was related to the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 89,000.
- Air bags
The contact owned a 2004 BMW 325XI. The contact stated while driving 45 mph, the vehicle was struck by another vehicle on the passenger’s side causing the passenger’s side mirror to detach from the vehicle. The contact loss control of the vehicle and crashed into the median. The vehicle rolled and…
The contact owned a 2004 BMW 325XI. The contact stated while driving 45 mph, the vehicle was struck by another vehicle on the passenger’s side causing the passenger’s side mirror to detach from the vehicle. The contact loss control of the vehicle and crashed into the median. The vehicle rolled and then came to a complete stop. The contact stated that the air bags failed to deploy. Additionally, the dashboard collapsed and the rear-view mirror detached from the windshield. The vehicle was towed from the scene of the crash. The contact received injuries to the chest, ribs, neck, and breast for which medical assistance was sought. A police report was filed. The contact stated that the driver's frontal air bag was previously replaced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V318000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not contacted or notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
- Air bags
Ok. This car was brought in on 2/12/19 to the BMW dealer in appleton, wi. After that BMW has called me 3 times claiming he wasn't fixed. They were going to call the dealer. Now I have rec'd a letter from the dmv stating it wasn't fixed. I faxed the invoice dates 2/12/19 to BMW today. I give up. The contact IS pete kempen 1-877-983-7473. Someone needs to figure out what IS wrong.
- Air bags · Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc)
Nhtsa does not recognize the recalls on my 2004 BMW 325xi 4DR sedan. There were 2 recalls that are related to air bags. The nhtsa campaign numbers are #15v318000 and #14v428000. I would like to receive official confirmation that these recalls are valid so I can get the manufacturer to fix this.…
Nhtsa does not recognize the recalls on my 2004 BMW 325xi 4DR sedan. There were 2 recalls that are related to air bags. The nhtsa campaign numbers are #15v318000 and #14v428000. I would like to receive official confirmation that these recalls are valid so I can get the manufacturer to fix this. Please see the supporting docs attached. Also, I have been having weird electrical issues happening to the point the car wont shut off at times, headlights go out after a day, turn signal goes out, car dies, stereo wont work etc. I was wondering if other recalls were placed on this car as well?
- Air bags
My vehicle has a recall on the air bags
- Air bags
My daughter got into an accident where the front fender and bumper hit the side section of another car going approx 20 mph on a city street and the air bags never deployed. Luckily no one was hurt.
- Air bags · Exterior lighting
Three recalls. Front drivers air bag, front passenger airbag, both rear quarter panel lamps carrier connector wires heated and melted. Contacted BMW of kingsport several times for assistance. Said would help but has not. need schematic of rear taillight assemblies and repair of airbags.
- Air bags
"Takata recall" I received notice of the recall by mail on 8/24/16 stating that I needed the driver and passenger side airbags replaced. I then proceeded to make an appointment on august 29TH with global imports BMW located at 500 interstate n pkwy, atlanta, ga 30339. The service representative…
"Takata recall" I received notice of the recall by mail on 8/24/16 stating that I needed the driver and passenger side airbags replaced. I then proceeded to make an appointment on august 29TH with global imports BMW located at 500 interstate n pkwy, atlanta, ga 30339. The service representative informed me that the parts were not in stock and would need to be ordered. However the recall notice did state that the parts were in stock and ready to be installed. I waited 2 weeks and never received a follow up phone call on the status of the air bags. I then called global BMW again, and they had no record of me calling, and claimed that they needed to order the airbags. This same exact issue re-occurred on my follow up phone calls on september 12TH and 23RD. Then finally on october 3RD I placed another follow up phone call where once again they did not have my information, but did have a driver side airbag in stock. The customer service representative informed me that she would be checking on the status of the passenger air bag and give me a call. I called back the next day to check, and was told that they were not sure when they could obtain a passenger airbag. over a month of phone calls and still nothing done. I am less than pleased and very concerned for the safety of me and my family while driving our vehicle. It has become obvious that BMW doesn't care about fixing the issue.
- Air bags
Takata recall - recall announced may 2015. BMW na claims replacement parts still not available. BMW na claims next communication to affected owners will be in january 2017. IS BMW na complying with the timeline for completing this recall?
- Air bags · Engine · Unknown or other
BMW jointly owned vehicle, was not returned to customers on demand, nor swapped as IS customary business practice (i.e. BMW repair/recalled for BMW loaner car), and held for unreasonable amount of time. BMW recalled the vehicle, in part, defective airbags, and was to send a consent form to the…
BMW jointly owned vehicle, was not returned to customers on demand, nor swapped as IS customary business practice (i.e. BMW repair/recalled for BMW loaner car), and held for unreasonable amount of time. BMW recalled the vehicle, in part, defective airbags, and was to send a consent form to the customers prior to ordering parts/repairs. The customers never received the consent form as assured and expressed concerns about the BMW who damaged the vehicle in their possession or disabled state. July 15, 2016 BMW flatbed delivered with unidentified chemicals/toxins that resulted in front end physical damages and/or toxins in BMW that resulted in "poison exposure", toxology tests pending. The toxins maybe airbag chemicals, sodium azide, hydrazoic acid, or others, and need BMW tested. Please inform on who specifically performs these tests or agency that does quickly due to the toxic nature. BMW had a duty to disclose these facts to customers, insurance, government, and others. 49 usc safety act 30101. dot states 'loaner vehicle' IS customary practice in airbag recall, an obligation oem dealership, thus request the process in securing the loaner vehicle or reinstatement. BMW by affiliates, unilaterally took BMW loaner without providing a repaired BMW, unfair exchange, and was returned in a disabled status. 'But for' wrecked/recalled defective BMW, a loaner would not have been required, safety act, 49 usc 30101. Please respond in writing, the process to (1) secure chemical tests; (2) vehicle safety review or decontamination, and (3) loaner car approval process for insurance. nhtsa safety act, 49 usc 30101 delegated by secretary of transportation, 49 cfr 1.95, inspect/investigate 30166(b)(1); civil penalties 30165(b); ensure recalled 30118-119; adequacy of recalls 49 usc 30120(c)(1), accelerate remedy programs 30120(c)(3); and other 49 usc 30166(g): BMW loaner
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign numbers: 14v428000 (air bags) and 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign numbers: 14v428000 (air bags) and 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer 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. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Air bags · Structure › Body · Unknown or other
BMW 325xi 2004, after substantial or unreasonable delay in the BMW return, was perceived to be rendered unsafe/unsatisfactory/incomplete, with airbag defects/spillover effects, or released with known defects to the vehicle that put the driver and unsuspecting occupants at risk of serious bodily…
BMW 325xi 2004, after substantial or unreasonable delay in the BMW return, was perceived to be rendered unsafe/unsatisfactory/incomplete, with airbag defects/spillover effects, or released with known defects to the vehicle that put the driver and unsuspecting occupants at risk of serious bodily injury up to death. BMW was to send a 'consent form', then vehicle owner was to review/sign/return, BMW would then order 'interim airbag' parts, and repair. The consent form was not received or signed, june 2016, BMW enter/repair without authorization, or signed consent forms, and made unknown changes to the airbag/systems. The toxins remain has corroded it or released toxins/odor. The vehicle was on a 'cease & desist' airbag repair pending the receipt and execution of the consent form as agreed. BMW failed to make the repairs per quote and airbag [i.e. Explosive device; sodium azide azium; shrapnel, etc.] was left in an unsafe state. The vehicle needs an inspection by nhtsa, as it IS believed to be contaminated or corroded, by unknown toxins (i.e sodium azide or azium?). Persons exposed have contacted cdc/poison center who stated that persons not have further contact with BMW till inspected? See claim 10881628 for same/similar background. The owners were subjected to foreseeable toxins, from the airbag defects/recalls/ unauthorized repairs to the BMW, pending a "consent form", and has resulted in injury or medical care or poison control center consultations. The toxins had a 'sharp odor', overwhelming as reported, and exposure resulted in damages to persons or property, awaiting estimates to be completed. Importantly, exposure to sodium azide can be fatal and the vehicle needs an inspection by nhtsa or dot. If you do not inspect unsafe vehicles, with perceived safety concerns, please provide a referral or preferred source due to the serious public health and safety issues.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part needed to perform the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part needed to perform the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available. .....Updated 08/11/16 *bf updated 08/17/16. *Jb
- Engine · Power train · Vehicle speed control
The vehicle (1.6 turbo) has a hesitancy to engage in acceleration relative to pressing the accelerator pedal. Once engaged, it immediately jumps out to a quick, jolting and what feels like an uncontrollable start. This typically happens at stop/start intersections where the car comes to a full and…
The vehicle (1.6 turbo) has a hesitancy to engage in acceleration relative to pressing the accelerator pedal. Once engaged, it immediately jumps out to a quick, jolting and what feels like an uncontrollable start. This typically happens at stop/start intersections where the car comes to a full and complete stop. Yesterday, (07.20.16) the vehicle choked and sputtered and almost stalled on a small rise when traffic started moving through a just-turned green light at a very busy intersection during rush hour. The tachometer winds out in a manner disproportionate to the speedometer reading. This does not mimic the effects of a turbo lag. Rather, it feels like the vehicle isn't getting a timely delivery of gas to the engine firing mechanisms (we would liken it to a dirty fuel line or a clogged carburetor on older cars), or the dual clutch system IS debating whether or not to get in gear when demanded, or whatever device that interprets driver commands (pedal pushing) to engine performance isn't responding efficiently. The car has had one shop visit for this issue and the dealer (werner hyundai, tallahassee) stated they 'reset the software." I will be taking the car back to the dealer the week of july 25, 2016. Unfortunately, I anticipate this issue will lead to a wreck, most likely from 1) being hit from behind as the car tries to figure out whether or not to accelerate, or 2) being t-boned at an intersection because the car won't accelerate through a rush-hour yellow light, or 3) being t-boned because my car launched (literally) out into oncoming traffic (that initially was at a safe distance away) once it got past the choke/sputter/stall point....updated 08/01/16 *bf *tr
- Air bags · Engine · Unknown or other
Vehicle defects reported or recalled, BMW, oem, or other, yet with known defects was requested to drive an unsafe vehicle that IS 'imminent danger' that can cause serious injury or death: airbags. BMW replaced driver side airbag in 9/ 2014 then passenger side. Yet in 2015 accident, the airbags…
Vehicle defects reported or recalled, BMW, oem, or other, yet with known defects was requested to drive an unsafe vehicle that IS 'imminent danger' that can cause serious injury or death: airbags. BMW replaced driver side airbag in 9/ 2014 then passenger side. Yet in 2015 accident, the airbags failed to detonate, and injury to persons/property occurred. BMW recalled driver's side airbag (2ND repair/3rd airbag) in 2015 and parts are on back order. BMW has the 'defective vehicle' (i.e. Other issues engine, seat belts, etc. Remain) and provided a BMW loaner car through their affiliated partner (toyota's jv alliance) enterprise in good faith pending repair. In june 2016, a 'cease & desist' was placed on the BMW, in part, due to a federal investigation or injury (i.e. Defective airbag- explosive device~shooting shrapnel) that leaves 'driver in harm's way'. One could infer 'attempted murder' if the driver IS placed behind the wheel of a defective vehicle or airbag: millions of recalls. I am a material witness and am reporting intimidation, threats, hostility, and bullying over the BMW or defective airbags. This has resulted in professional defamation, personal injury, financial distress, and sabotage in various instances (to be reported in separate package to be sent to investigator due to confidentiality). The most recent occurred around june 23, 2016 when bmw/enterprise rental car stating "grand theft" of the vehicle in their possession or awaiting a swap? Simple fact that BMW stated that an 'interim fix' was approved by dots but needed signed consent forms-- was sending them to me. BMW did not follow procedures, 'unauthorized entry, removal, destruction' of airbag with a 'cease & desist'. On 6/24/16 going to enterprise/alamo-orlando was no issue/no unpaid bill. This did not stop continuation of harassment or retaliation (e.g. Asef) unconstitutional or uncivil conduct.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall- the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact stated that the recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags) was received in june of 2015. After contacting the dealer and the manufacturer on multiple occasions, the contact was informed that the parts needed to…
TL* takata recall- the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact stated that the recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags) was received in june of 2015. After contacting the dealer and the manufacturer on multiple occasions, the contact was informed that the parts needed to repair the vehicle were still not available and no estimated time for receiving the parts could be given. The contact had not experienced a failure. The vin was not available.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags). The part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags). The part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available. updated 06/14/16*lj updated 06/16/16.*jb
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received a recall notice for the air bags in july of 2015. After contacting the dealer and the manufacturer on multiple occasions, the contact was informed that the parts needed to repair the vehicle were still not available and no estimated time…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received a recall notice for the air bags in july of 2015. After contacting the dealer and the manufacturer on multiple occasions, the contact was informed that the parts needed to repair the vehicle were still not available and no estimated time for receiving the parts could be given. The vin and nhtsa campaign number were unknown. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- Air bags
Takata air bag recall - on may 27TH, 2015 a recall to fix my make and model of BMW was issued. To date the manufacturer has not provided the repair parts necessary. it has been 9 months since the recall was issued. Why hasn't more pressure been put on takata and BMW to complete these repairs?
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v313000 (air bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Air bags
Takata recall: TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part needed to perform the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall…
Takata recall: TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part needed to perform the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 BMW 325xi. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v318000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The dealer stated that BMW had only been shipping parts to two states. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016 four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016 four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The investigation now includes all manufacturers and vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with consistently high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly, ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016, four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016, four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The PE is now closed/upgraded to an Engineering Evaluation (EA15-001) to include all manufacturersand vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's EA investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The recalls related to this PE are: 14V343, 14V344, 14V348, 14V351, 14V353, 14V655, 14V700, 14V701, 14V752, 14V763, 14V770, 14V773, 14V787, 14V802 and 14V817.The number of vehicles affected are an estimate since some vehicles may have both the driver and passenger side inflators recalled. The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Rear Lamp Illumination
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August25, 2011, BMWindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and…
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August25, 2011, BMWindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.This can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.The recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.An 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.BMW will complete dealer notification in September 2011 and will begin owner notification in October 2011.All 3 series sedans (except for the M3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between September 1, 2001 and March 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.The action taken by BMW is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
- Rear lamp illumination
Odi has received complaints from consumers stating that their tail light assembly IS not properly illuminating.the tail light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.the complainants have indicated that the issue IS with an 8 pin connector and associated ground wiring.these components are…
Odi has received complaints from consumers stating that their tail light assembly IS not properly illuminating.the tail light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.the complainants have indicated that the issue IS with an 8 pin connector and associated ground wiring.these components are allegedly overheating and melting due to excessive electrical current that runs through the system.bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 on february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.odi IS upgrading to an ea to further investigate the issue.
- Rear lamp illumination
In march 2009, the office of defects investigation (odi) received a petition from mr. Mark peters requesting an investigation of rear lamp failure in model year 2002-2005 BMW 3-series vehicles.an information request letter was sent to BMW in april 2009, and odi received bmw's response in june 2009.the tail lamp…
In march 2009, the office of defects investigation (odi) received a petition from mr. Mark peters requesting an investigation of rear lamp failure in model year 2002-2005 BMW 3-series vehicles.an information request letter was sent to BMW in april 2009, and odi received bmw's response in june 2009.the tail lamp assembly contains lighting for the brake lamps, tail lamps, and turn signals.a technical service bulletin (tsb) was issued by BMW in january of 2007 instructing service technicians to examine an 8 pin electrical connector for heat-related damage and to incorporate additional ground wiring to the connector.complainants have alleged that significant thermal damage to the connector and associated ground wiring has occurred.this condition can result in intermittent or total loss of all lighting (brake, tail, and turn signal) for the effected rear lamp assembly.odi will open a preliminary evaluation to further examine this issue including further evaluating BMW complaints and related warranty data.
- Delayed transmission engagement
Ms. Claire m. Tieder of reston, va, submitted a defect petition to the national highway traffic safety administration (nhtsa) by letter dated january 11, 2004, requesting a defect investigation be conducted into delayed transmission engagement on model year 2004 BMW xi vehicles.bmw's response to nhtsa's information…
Ms. Claire m. Tieder of reston, va, submitted a defect petition to the national highway traffic safety administration (nhtsa) by letter dated january 11, 2004, requesting a defect investigation be conducted into delayed transmission engagement on model year 2004 BMW xi vehicles.bmw's response to nhtsa's information request indicated that certain BMW 3-series vehicles equipped with the GM5 transmission may exhibited a forward 'park' to 'drive' engagement delay from2 to 30 seconds.however, the condition can occur only during a vehicle cold start, after the vehicle has been at rest for more than eight hours.drivers experiencing the delay have learned to take precautionary and compensatory measures.bwm will replace affected transmissions exhibiting the delay, after the condition has been verified, with an improved unit.no alleged crashes, injuries, or fatalities have been reported to either BMW or nhtsa relating to this issue.based on analysis of nhtsa's consumer complaints and bmw's data, the petition IS denied.for details, see federal register, vol. 69, no. 91 (may 11, 2004).
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10249437The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
- 10249027The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle discharged battery complaints.
- 10194296Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases the likelihood of cracks to form.
- 10184591SERVICE ACTION - HEAD AIR BAG HOLDER RETROFIT: A rattle noise may develop from the head air bag (ITS) gas generator contacting adjacent component. This noise can be heard while driving on an uneven roadway.
- 10182619Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle "discharged battery" complaints. In order to properly repair the vehicle the first time in the workshop, it is very important that the diagnostic test plans are performed to completion, with all results taken into consideration. Without performing the energy diagnosis test plan, the root cause of the discharged battery cannot be identified. This increases the chances of a repeat repair.
- 10160287TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL-RELATED SHORT-TERM ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION AND CONSEQUENTIAL REPAIRS This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 31 18 dated October 2018.
- 10160244TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL-RELATED SHORT-TERM ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION AND CONSEQUENTIAL REPAIRS This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 31 18 dated October 2018.
- 10154816In an effort to improve the completion rate on Takata air bag recall affected vehicles; BMW NA has expanded the BMW Ultimate Rewards platform to include a new Recall Support page. This page will allow IRFs to check their customers VINs for open Takata recalls; and get rewarded for helping us with completing repairs.
- 10153726Takata class action settlement. Customer support program. Front driver side airbag modules.
- 10150160State Inspection and Emission (I/M) Test Fails Due To an Invalid VIN Number. The customer of an affected vehicle may fail to pass an I/M test due to a non-compliant 17digit vehicle identification number (VIN) stored in the DME (Digital Motor Electronic). The VIN read out and displayed on the state test printout does not match the actual VIN of the vehicle. If the DME was reprogrammed using the previously available BMW service equipment (e.g., Progman, GT1), it is possible that only the last 7 digits of the VIN were entered into the DME, and positions 4 through10 may only contain default characters. For example: The state I/M tester or OBD scan tool may read out WBAAA00000A123456 instead of the correct full 17-digit VIN, WBAZZ03492A123456.
- 10149558For the above-referenced vehicles with passenger?s side airbag modules, BMW of North America, LLC (?BMW NA?) will provide a Customer Support Program as outlined in the Takata Settlement Customer Support Program Overview attachment. This ?component-specific? customer support program applies only if there is a defect in materials or workmanship of the Takata passenger?s side airbag module in a listed vehicle.
- 10149557For the above-referenced vehicles with driver?s side airbag modules, BMW of North America, LLC (?BMW NA?) will provide a Customer Support Program as outlined in the Takata Settlement Customer Support Program Overview attachment. This ?component-specific? customer support program applies only if there is a defect in materials or workmanship of the Takata driver?s side airbag module in a listed vehicle.
- 10148179Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles. INFORMATION 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases the likelihood of cracks to form. These surface hairline cracks are usually spread over the entire brake disc friction area, and have no negative influence on the durability or braking performance. The rotors should not be replaced only for their appearance reasons. When performing routine service on the brake system (pad replacement due to wear), the brake discs should be replaced if surface cracks are found to be greater than 13 mm, or if the brake disc thickness is below the minimum thickness. Always replace brake discs in pairs (per axle). Install new brake pads when replacing discs. By doing this, the service life of the friction pad surface is increased, and an even material loss is ensured. 2. Vibrations and/or steering wheel torsional vibrations during braking are caused by applying the brakes on discs with minimal to heavy corrosion. These vibrations are most noticeable when braking from high speeds with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F), and will diminish with normal everyday operation. Parts replacement is not required. 3. After high brake loads, running noises can be heard when applying the brakes, and may also be heard to a limited extent after the brakes are released. (See the note in the Owner's Manual). These noises are reduced during normal everyday operation, due to further erosion of the brake pad friction lining. Visible surface cracks or craterlike recesses on the brake pad surface are caused by a minor difference in the material of the pad lining, which will decrease with further operation and should not be replaced due to their appearance.
- 10148100Special Technical Campaign. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has urged vehicle manufacturers to conduct an investigation into air bags which may not deploy correctly. BMW is cooperating with this request. Takata is a supplier of air bags to several automotive manufacturers. They have informed NHTSA of a small number of cases of improperly deploying air bags in a few specific areas of the US. None of the reported cases involve any BMW vehicles. No determination has been made by BMW and Takata that a safety issue exists.This program involves the driver and front passenger air bag system. Specifically, the air bag system may have been manufactured with an inflator that was not produced to specification. After long-term exposure in high absolute humidity environments, in a crash in which air bag system deployment occurs, the air bag system housing may rupture. To assist Takata with their determination, BMW will be collecting air bags from a limited number of customer vehicles. Once the affected vehicle population has been determined, owners of affected vehicles will be notified by letter to visit their authorized BMW center to have their air bag(s) replaced. Additional information will be provided at that time. A press release from NHTSA on this topic is expected to be issued on Monday, June 23, 2014.
- 10147242Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI 34 04 14 dated December 2014. Designates changes to the bulletin. INFORMATION 1.Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases the likelihood of cracks to form. These surface hairline cracks are usually spread over the entire brake disc friction area, and have no negative influence on the durability or braking performance. The rotors should not be replaced only for their appearance reasons.When performing routine service on the brake system (pad replacement due to wear), the brake discs should be replaced if surface cracks are found to be greater than 13 mm, or if the brake disc thickness is below the minimum thickness. Always replace brake discs in pairs (per axle). Install new brake pads when replacing discs. By doing this, the service life of the friction pad surface is increased, and an even material loss is ensured. 2. Vibrations and/or steering wheel torsional vibrations during braking are caused by applying the brakes on discs with minimal to heavy corrosion. These vibrations are most noticeable when braking from high speeds with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F), and will diminish with normal everyday operation. Parts replacement is not required. 3.After high brake loads, running noises can be heard when applying the brakes, and may also be heard to a limited extent after the brakes are released. (See the note in the Owner's Manual). These noises are reduced during normal everyday operation, due to further erosion of the brake pad friction lining. Visible surface cracks or craterlike recesses on the brake pad surface are caused by a minor difference in the material of the pad lining, which will decrease with further operation and should not be replaced due to their appearance.
- 10037025BMW: procedure for determining and replacing incandescent and halogen light bulbs under warranty.
- 10036979BMW: a new technical process has been created for BMW to identify causes of steering complaints with a wide range of models.
- 10033130BMW vehicles: fuel level sensor repairs. Where it IS necessary to replace the right or the left side fuel level sensor due to a failure, the entire pump and housing or delivery unit (suction jet assembly) do not need to be replaced as well. In some cases, epc does not show that the repair kit IS available separately in the illustration, but it IS available in the parts description. All models. No model years listed.
Every BMW 325XI model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.