2018 BMW 330E

Recalls

2 recalls name the 2018 BMW 330E. Newest first.

• Equipment › Electrical

  Sep 20, 2018NHTSA 18V6520003,501 vehicles

  BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 330e iPerformance, i3 Rex, i3 Sport Rex, X5 xDrive40e, i3 BEV, i3 Sport BEV and 2019 i8 and i8 Roadster vehicles and 2018-2019 530e iPerformance, 530e xDrive iPerformance and 740Le xDrive iPerformance vehicles. Capacitors within the TurboCord Portable Chargers may fail, possibly resulting in a…

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  An electrical shock or a fire can increase the risk of injury or death.

  Remedy

  BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the charging cable, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 22, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

  Full recall details →

• Engine and engine cooling › Engine

  Jul 11, 2018NHTSA 18V4650005,309 vehicles

  BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 540d xDrive vehicles. The crankshaft sensor may be equipped with incorrect firmware, preventing the sensor from properly processing input from the crankshaft reluctor ring, possibly resulting in a vehicle stall. On September 12, 2018, BMW expanded the recall to a total of 5,309 vehicles…

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.

  Remedy

  BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the crankshaft sensor, free of charge. The recall began September 6, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

  Full recall details →

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Electrical system4
2. Engine3
3. Engine and engine cooling1
4. Fuel/propulsion system1
5. Power train1
6. Service brakes1
7. Steering1
8. Unknown or other1

Latest complaints

• Oct 14, 2026CA
  Electrical system · Engine · Power train
  In October 2024, a "Drivetrain Malfunction" warning appeared on the dashboard (first noticed around October 8, 2024). The vehicle switched into hybrid mode and would no longer return to electric mode. Shortly after, the engine would not start at all. Mileage was approximately 46,400 miles. An…

  In October 2024, a "Drivetrain Malfunction" warning appeared on the dashboard (first noticed around October 8, 2024). The vehicle switched into hybrid mode and would no longer return to electric mode. Shortly after, the engine would not start at all. Mileage was approximately 46,400 miles. An authorized BMW dealer inspected the vehicle and found fault codes for the engine starter motor. After several inspections, the dealer confirmed the starter motor was faulty and replaced it with a new BMW genuine part. During the starter diagnosis, the dealer tested the auxiliary 12V battery and it passed the test. The dealer then documented on the repair order that the faulty starter drained the auxiliary battery. A rescue charge was attempted, but the battery could not be recovered and had to be replaced as well. This failure matches the defect described in Safety Recall 26V-441 (engine starter relay corrosion that can cause a short circuit and overheating of the starter). Our vehicle is covered by this recall. Safety risk: the vehicle became unable to start and was immobilized, and the drivetrain warning appeared while driving. According to the recall notice, this defect can also lead to a thermal event while driving or while parked with the ignition off. The failed parts were replaced in October 2024. Whether they are still available for inspection is UNKNOWN. After the recall was announced, the manufacturer reimbursed the starter motor replacement but refused to reimburse the auxiliary battery replacement, even though its own authorized dealer documented that the starter defect caused the battery failure. No written reason was given for the refusal.

• Aug 12, 2026TX99,436 mi
  Electrical system
  The contact owns a 2018 BMW 330E. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated, and the vehicle became inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The message "Drivetrain - Check Soon" was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was…

  The contact owns a 2018 BMW 330E. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated, and the vehicle became inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The message "Drivetrain - Check Soon" was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with engine failure, melted cooling hoses, and starter failure. The vehicle was repaired by the dealer under warranty and was then towed to an independent mechanic where cooling hoses were replaced. The starter failure was not addressed. The dealer was contacted about the repair of the starter failure based on NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V441000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 99,436.

• Mar 13, 2025NJ55,000 mi
  Engine
  The contact owns a 2018 BMW 330E. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal squealing sound coming from the engine compartment, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The…

  The contact owns a 2018 BMW 330E. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal squealing sound coming from the engine compartment, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.

• Jan 9, 2025CA103,000 mi
  Electrical system · Engine and engine cooling
  The contact owns a 2018 BMW 330E. The contact stated while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle hesitated, stalled, and restarted independently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the starter needed to be replaced.  The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not…

  The contact owns a 2018 BMW 330E. The contact stated while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle hesitated, stalled, and restarted independently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the starter needed to be replaced.  The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING), however the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 103,000.

• Jun 22, 2022SC
  Engine

  Unknown - I returned from a work related trip out of the country, started my vehicle and coolant was pouring everywhere. BMW stated there's a recall coming out but have not seen one since the repair in April which was over a thousand USD.

• Jan 25, 2022CA
  Electrical system · Service brakes · Steering
  In May 2021 I purchased a 2018 Certified Pre-owned BMW 330e Plug-in Hybrid with 20K miles from the BMW dealership at Glendale, CA. My car is under original manufacture warranty to this day but I also have paid for an extra warranty and maintenance program. On December 26th, 2021, as I was driving…

  In May 2021 I purchased a 2018 Certified Pre-owned BMW 330e Plug-in Hybrid with 20K miles from the BMW dealership at Glendale, CA. My car is under original manufacture warranty to this day but I also have paid for an extra warranty and maintenance program. On December 26th, 2021, as I was driving back from Las Vegas on highway 15, about 40 miles into the trip, my car dash displayed an error message "Charging Malfunction" immediately after this error, the entire car systems INCLUDING BREAKS AND STEERING WHEEL! stopped working. I lost control of my car and my car went towards the right side of the road where there's no asphalt and it's all dirt and pebbles. car was finally stopped with the help of manual handbrake but I was terrified and I felt lucky to survive the incident. BMW roadside assistance towed my car to the BMW dealership in Las Vegas since it's the closes dealer. they said they don't have any loaner car and I should get rentals and they will pay for it at the end since it's part of my warranty is to provide "Transportation" while the car is at the shop. they also said once my car is fixed, they will "reunite" my car in Los Angeles. 2 days after, the dealership declined any repair due to a leak on the radiator and I was told my car was "Overheated". Although my car had no indication of overheating ever or at the time of the incident. The picture I took from the error also shows the temperature of my car which is normal. See picture. I can't wrap my head around losing break and steering wheel without any prior error or indication of overheated car. BMW is can't explain why and neither can my insurance after reviewing my car's computer logs, how could I trust driving this car again if break and steering wheel could fail without any prior indication of overheating or low coolant or ANY error? A car that is still under manufacturer warranty with only 31K miles! who will be responsible if I crash and get injured or die if this happens next time?

• Jan 11, 2020CA1,328 mi
  Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
  Car making a explosive, cranking mechanical noise upon unlocking the car before you even open the door. There seems to be a fuel pump making noise from inside a gas tank. BMW authorized dealers acknowledged the noise IS associated with a "high pressure fuel pump" and refer to this as "normal" I…

  Car making a explosive, cranking mechanical noise upon unlocking the car before you even open the door. There seems to be a fuel pump making noise from inside a gas tank. BMW authorized dealers acknowledged the noise IS associated with a "high pressure fuel pump" and refer to this as "normal" I believe the fuel delivery system in this car and other similar models are the result of defective component(s) and/or a result of a flawed engineering. This noise however continues on with a humming/buzzing sounds for several minutes which also effects the car's overall performance which seems to be causing the car to perform at a diminished level overall which may or may not affect vehicle's overall safety components such as brakes and other control apparatus. At times, upon unlocking the car, it feels and very well sounds like the vehicle IS about to explode?! And this by itself causing a grave concern and I feel that it must be investigated, especially that BMW has been reluctant/unable to repair despite repeated 8 attempts with car being in service for over 30 days. this car IS still under manufacturer's warranty. All repair orders have been done at BMW authorized dealership. All repair order documents as well as a short 15 seconds video clip are available upon request.

Defect investigations

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.

• Pedestrian alert sounds

  DP22005Opened Jan 27, 2023Closed Aug 7, 2023Recall 22V063000
  NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for…

  NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021.On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject matter described in the petition. On June 24, 2023 and as supplemented on June 25, 2023, the petitioner notified NHTSA he was withdrawing his petition. The petitioner indicated that, based on his review of data, there is no justification for asserting potential benefits that could be derived from actions sought by my petition. Based on the petitioner's withdrawal, DP22-005 is closed. Closure of this DP does not represent a determination by NHTSA regarding the subject matter of the petition.

• Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

  EA21002Opened Sep 17, 2021Open
  From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant…

  From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

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.

• 11012073the High-Voltage (HV) Battery Assembly Cell Modules Temperature Sensors (Internal NTC repair kit-specific) limited warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years/150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service/first delivery date.
• 11010767BMW of North America, LLC(BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty forthe vehicles Brake Servo Units ElectricVacuum Pump assembly to: 15 years/150,000 miles as determined bythe vehicles original in-service date.
• 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.
• 10245367Check Control message (CCM) indicates: (ID 213): Stop, exercising due care. Voltage supply The Service Engine Soon light is on with the following DME Fault Code: 21B209 - Starter alternator / belt for 48V system (OSA_RIEMEN_RISS): Belt betweenCombustion engine and starter generator torn And/or one or more of the following other issues are also occurring: Noise in the area of the belt drive. Odor from the engine compartment. Smoke formation in the area of the belt drive. Drive belt damaged or prematurely worn. Torn drive belt.
• 10245365Pressure control valve (pcv) extended ltd wty 15 years/150,000 miles
• 10245364Diesel fuel injectors: ltd wty extension to 10 years/120,000 miles
• 10238090After programming the head unit (HU-H2), activating the FSC (German word Freischaltcode) Enabling Codes repeatedly fails.
• 10235205The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via the Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an IMS registration in the mobile communication network. Due to a production error, the telematics control units were delivered without an IMS configuration. The Connected Drive voice services (Concierge Call, BMW Assistance, and emergency call voice) can no longer be used regionally in the US in vehicle with telematics control units ATM-1 and TCB-4G. Voice control of the vehicle and all other telephone (paired mobile devices) functions are not affected. Emergency call location data is unaffected.
• 10235202Exterior rear lights do not work.
• 10230722After an automatic engine start (MSA start), the transmission intermittently goes into the Park "P" or Neutral "N" position without any customer influence.
• 10230717For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Fuel Injectors to 10 years/120,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date.
• 10225128Due to a production error, the telematics control units were delivered without an IMS configuration.
• 10225126Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.
• 10225115Customer is unable to power up or charge accessories through a plug adapter inserted in the front 12-volt power socket plug. Alternatively, it will only operate when constant downward hand pressure is maintained.
• 10218380On these Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), the air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a standstill. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38 F to 60 F+; 3 to 15+ Celsius) without changing any climate control settings. A difference may be felt in cooling power compared from left to right. In some cases, the air conditioning may have stopped blowing cold air altogether. A rattling noise may also be heard coming from the electrical coolant condenser (EKMV).
• 10218369Whistling noise is heard coming from the front bumper while driving at highway speeds.
• 10215746Component specific limited warranty extension. For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Sensor(s) to: 10 years/120,000 miles as determined by the vehicle original in-service date.
• 10214990The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called NBT-EVO, superseded the NBT HU and was introduced in 3/2014. This uses map North America EVO. The Headunit High 4 (HU-H4, also called MGU21) superseded the MGU starting with certain MY2021 vehicles with option code 6U3 Live Cockpit Professional. This uses map North America JOY. The ENTRY Media/Navigation (HU-B) is the low line business version of the navigation system and was introduced in 3/2014. This uses map North America ROUTE. The ENTRY NAV EVO (HU-B2) replaced Entry Media/Navigation as the low-line business version and was introduced in certain MY2018 vehicles. This uses map North America WAY.
• 10214256The quick disconnect coupling on the cylinder head coolant vent line could break at the cylinder head. This would lead to loss of coolant from the engine.
• 10212788The quick disconnect coupling on the cylinder head coolant vent line could break at the cylinder head. This would lead to loss of coolant from the engine.
• 10212780Component and Issue Specific Limited Emission Warranty Extension. This bulletin is notice of a limited emission warranty extension. This is NOT a notice of a Recall or Service Action. There is no immediate repair required unless the BMW vehicle is currently experiencing this problem. Customer Notification Letter Even though this is NOT a Recall, BMW NA is sending VIN-specific customer notification letters. The plastic fuel tank has two openings, one at the top right and the other at the top left. The top right opening (passenger's side, serviceable) provides a mounting point and repair access to the intake fuel pump/level sensor assembly. The top left opening (driver's side, non-serviceable) serves as an access point for the installation of the suction jet pump/level sensor assembly during the fuel tank manufacturing process. After these components are installed, the top left side opening is then permanently closed and sealed with the installation of a circular Coex biopolymer plastic cover plate which is welded into place. Over time, the left side opening plastic cover plate weld may become damaged. Should this occur, there is the possibility of fuel leakage. Additionally, your vehicle will store the corresponding fault codes that may also be generated, and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) will illuminate.
• 10212779Component and Issue Specific Limited Emission Warranty Extension. This component-specific limited emission warranty extension applies to defects in materials or workmanship.
• 10205068Customer may complain of reduced air flow when the air conditioning system is operated for an extended time, usually longer than 30 minutes.
• 10203340Groaning, scraping, or squeaking noise coming from the steering wheel area in the interior of the vehicle,when turning the steering wheel.
• 10203338The trunk lid/hatch does not open fully when unlatched with remote or hands-free operation.
• 10200489TELEMATICS UNIT RETROFIT TO 4G CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY: The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting February 2022.
• 10200487TELEMATICS UNIT DEACTIVATION DUE TO 3G CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY DISCONTINUATION: The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting February 2022.
• 10200249The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting February 2022. The decision to phase out 3G network technology was made at the discretion of the respective cellular carriers and lies beyond the control of BMW. Due to the phase-out, BMW Assist and ConnectedDrive services will no longer be supported after this date.
• 10200238Groaning, scraping, or squeaking noise coming from the steering wheel area in the interior of the vehicle, when turning the steering wheel.
• 10200228On rare occasions during an engine oil service, the BMW Original (Genuine) engine oil filter insert is either difficult to remove or breaks apart in the oil filter housing.
• 10199292B58 ENGINE: ENGINE OIL FILTER REMOVAL PROCEDURE AND TOOLS . A. For the B58 engines, a BMW Oil Catch special tool for use in conjunction with removing the engine oilfilter insert is now available.
• 10198899B58 ENGINE: ENGINE OIL FILTER REMOVAL PROCEDURE AND TOOLS . A. For the B58 engines, a BMW Oil Catch special tool for use in conjunction with removing the engine oilfilter insert is now available.
• 10188938COMBUSTION CONTROL VALVE LIFT AT IDLE: The vehicle will run rough or hesitate when accelerating from a stationary position.
• 10186889?A/C COOLING INTERMITTENT REDUCTION OF AIR FLOW: Customer may complain of reduced air flow when the air conditioning system is operated for an extended time, usually longer than 30 minutes. The evaporator starts to freeze up.
• 10186227?A/C COOLING INTERMITTENT REDUCTION OF AIR FLOW: Customer may complain of reduced air flow when the air conditioning system is operated for an extended time, usually longer than 30 minutes. The evaporator starts to freeze up.
• 10184584Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full: Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full.There are no faults stored in the system for the washer fluid level switch.
• 10181231BMW TURBOCORD PORTABLE EV 120 V/240 V CHARGER: The BMW-approved accessory TurboCord electric vehicle (EV) charger will not charge the vehicle.
• 10179811EME GROUND CONNECTION MONITORING FAULTS: Check Control message (CCM ID 794): "Drive. Check as soon as possible" illuminates. Increased ground cable contact resistance at Electrical Machine Electronics (EME) due to corrosion/oxidation.
• 10179009NAVIGATION SYSTEM - REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROADMAP DATA: Do not replace parts and do not program the vehicle. Roads can change by up to 15% every year. To ensure the best navigation experience, we do everything in our power to create the best maps. Your reports help us to detect changes in your area and keep future versions of our maps as accurate as possible. Therefore, a road map error or missing data must be reported directly to the map supplier.

Every BMW 330E model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.