2005 BMW 545I

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Air bags37
2. Power train15
3. Electrical system14
4. Seat belts9
5. Service brakes, hydraulic7
6. Steering5
7. Seats4
8. Wheels4
9. Exterior lighting3
10. Engine and engine cooling3

Latest complaints

• Mar 8, 2024FL122,195 mi
  Engine
  The contact owns a 2005 BMW 545I. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the contact became aware of a ball of white smoke coming from the exhaust. The contact stated that whenever the accelerator pedal was depressed, there was white smoke…

  The contact owns a 2005 BMW 545I. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the contact became aware of a ball of white smoke coming from the exhaust. The contact stated that whenever the accelerator pedal was depressed, there was white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed crank casting and the protective crank casting valve. The contact was informed that the failure was similar to an undisclosed manufacturer's recall, however the contact's VIN was not associated with the recall. The independent mechanic informed the contact that the smoke was excessive. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 122,195.

• Nov 30, 2021CA
  Electrical system · Exterior lighting
  The wiring inside of the headlights has dried up and fallen off, leaving bare electrical wire. The resulting was both of the headlights became non operational at night. To replace the headlights in the car with all the factory features is about 3200.00 for parts alone. I know of others who have had…

  The wiring inside of the headlights has dried up and fallen off, leaving bare electrical wire. The resulting was both of the headlights became non operational at night. To replace the headlights in the car with all the factory features is about 3200.00 for parts alone. I know of others who have had this happen, and everyone i know who owns one, has the same exact problem. The vehicle in question barely has 125,000 miles on it. I feel the manufacturer should repair these vehicles at no cost to the owners.

• Jul 15, 2021NJFire
  Electrical system
  At approxamitately 1:20pm on July 13, after being parked for a little over an hour I was told that my car was burning. 911 was called immediately and the owner of the establishment went outside and called to the firemen at the station on the other side of the street. Their response was immediate.…

  At approxamitately 1:20pm on July 13, after being parked for a little over an hour I was told that my car was burning. 911 was called immediately and the owner of the establishment went outside and called to the firemen at the station on the other side of the street. Their response was immediate. Response was so quick that damage was limited to the right rear. Which seems that the fire started in the area directly foreward and above the battery

• Sep 14, 2020WA127,000 mi
  Electrical system
  While driving to work during morning rush hour in a busy highway the car just stopped running. No odd sounds no shutting no clunking. It was like some just turned the key off. I made it to the side of the highway and had to wait two hours for a tow truck to show up. most of the week previous to…

  While driving to work during morning rush hour in a busy highway the car just stopped running. No odd sounds no shutting no clunking. It was like some just turned the key off. I made it to the side of the highway and had to wait two hours for a tow truck to show up. most of the week previous to this my car would not start at random times even though my battery was good and I had gas. The problem was the dme had water ingress from a poor location where the dme and metronic computer and the intergraded power module are located and stored. They are in a sealed plastic box under the cabin fresh air inlets and cabin filters and the front hood cowl. I'm the box there IS a fan at the bottom to expell moister. If the intergtated power module starts to go then the fan stops working or the fan it self goes bad. At that point there IS almost always water ingress into the dme and or the metronic computer causing the car to not to run or even crank and with water corrosion on the the dme it causes phantom problems in other areas of the car. the dme IS also not easily replaced. The car had to be taken to the dealership and they have to order a new dme and align it with the be cas module for the immobilizer to work correctly and for your car to start. This usally cost in excess of $2,000 just for the new dme. the worst part of this whole thing IS I lost my job because I was 4 hours late to work after waiting for the tow and getting a ride to work

• May 25, 2020FL150,000 miCrash
  Air bags · Structure › Body

  Driving approximately 50 mph an accident occurred where there was oil in road. My car lost control and veered into a guard rail on the highway. My car was subsequently totaled and none of my air bags deployed in the crash.

• Oct 8, 2018MA172,000 mi
  Air bags · Seat belts
  As I understand a vehicle for passenger side airbag in passenger side free stream has been dealt with already I just received this vehicle several months ago so it IS new to me and I have the same errors as which a recall has been issued for my car 2005 545 I BMW. As I have read after x amount of…

  As I understand a vehicle for passenger side airbag in passenger side free stream has been dealt with already I just received this vehicle several months ago so it IS new to me and I have the same errors as which a recall has been issued for my car 2005 545 I BMW. As I have read after x amount of years a recall IS finalized I just received this vehicle several months ago so I feel I am still able to succeed from this safety recall from the manufacture

• Aug 5, 2018CA182,282 mi
  Electrical system
  Good evening all, since 2011 I have had issues with the I drive system. Just recently, the system stopped working. After attempting to resolve the issue with BMW of ontario, they declined to cover the vehicle's I drive computer module. Finally, the computer stopped working and I could not see my…

  Good evening all, since 2011 I have had issues with the I drive system. Just recently, the system stopped working. After attempting to resolve the issue with BMW of ontario, they declined to cover the vehicle's I drive computer module. Finally, the computer stopped working and I could not see my computer display or listen to music. I could not re-set the air pressure on the tires. I drove the vehicle that way for months. Finally, I went to the junk yard and found a vehicle similar to mine and replaced it. Even though I replaced the computer, I was not able to gain certain functions on my vehicle that came standard with that particular vehicle such as the satellite radio or speak to call function. I'm pretty sure many vehicle owners can relate to this issue and the difficulty it has created to try and mitigate with the dealer. take care,

• Aug 5, 2018CA182,252 mi
  Fuel/propulsion system
  Good evening all, every time I fill up the gas in the vehicle, there IS a strong smell inside the cab. This began occurring about 4 years ago but has continued thought my time with the vehicle. Currently, I cannot fill the tank at more than . If I do fill up the vehicle to more than I face having…

  Good evening all, every time I fill up the gas in the vehicle, there IS a strong smell inside the cab. This began occurring about 4 years ago but has continued thought my time with the vehicle. Currently, I cannot fill the tank at more than . If I do fill up the vehicle to more than I face having to smell the fumes of the fuel inside the cab of the vehicle. This IS a safety issue and should be recalled. Many people have a similar complaint with these vehicles.

• Aug 5, 2018CA
  Electrical system

  Good evening sir, I am writing to you because my vehicle had bare wires on the headlight. The hot wire and ground wires were touching. I did not have the headlight working. There IS a problem with the wires of the vehicle peeling off after a certain amount of time.

• Aug 13, 2017CA160,000 mi
  Engine
  Certain BMW models including E60 2005 545I almost all require valve seal replacement due to faulty manufacturing defects. This results in oil leaking into the engine and secondary air injector causing smoke to emit out of the tailpipes. Although my car passed al computerized smog checks, it did not…

  Certain BMW models including E60 2005 545I almost all require valve seal replacement due to faulty manufacturing defects. This results in oil leaking into the engine and secondary air injector causing smoke to emit out of the tailpipes. Although my car passed al computerized smog checks, it did not pass the new visual test because of these faulty valve stem seals. this occurs afte idling the engine for 10 minutes. The repair costs for this are about equal to the retail value of the car. every mechanic I've spoken to believes this should be recalled.

• Jul 28, 2017NY123,000 mi
  Electrical system · Seats › Front assembly › Seat heater/cooler
  TL* the contact owns a 2005 BMW 545I. While the seat heater was activated, the front driver's seat became extremely hot. Smoke was seen coming from the seat and the right side of the steering wheel. The seat heater was turned off and there were no warning indicators illuminated. The contact was…

  TL* the contact owns a 2005 BMW 545I. While the seat heater was activated, the front driver's seat became extremely hot. Smoke was seen coming from the seat and the right side of the steering wheel. The seat heater was turned off and there were no warning indicators illuminated. The contact was concerned that this could cause a fire. The vehicle was taken to habberstad BMW new and pre-owned (945 e jericho turnpike, huntington station, ny 11746 (800) 997-9313) where it was diagnosed that the faulty heater wiring, the seat, and the steering wheel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and stated that the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The contact was advised not to activate the seat heater. The failure mileage was 123,000. updated 08/30/17*lj *tr

• Mar 26, 2017CO84,474 mi
  Air bags · Seat belts
  I am writing to you to address a current national highway traffic administration (nhtsa) safety recall affecting my vehicle (and presumably many similar vehicles). I currently own a 2005 BMW 545I 4-door sedan (vin: [xxx] with 84,474 miles and have recently experienced a front passenger seat…

  I am writing to you to address a current national highway traffic administration (nhtsa) safety recall affecting my vehicle (and presumably many similar vehicles). I currently own a 2005 BMW 545I 4-door sedan (vin: [xxx] with 84,474 miles and have recently experienced a front passenger seat occupant detection mat malfunction. This sensor malfunction affects the deployment of the front passenger seat airbag in the event of a collision. The error codes my vehicle IS displaying are the same as those addressed in the nhtsa safety recall (nhtsa campaign number 08v384000, dated 5 aug 2008) indicating a passenger airbag has malfunctioned, "off", and will not deploy in the event of an emergency. The nhtsa recall indicated BMW IS recalling 2004-06 5-series models (including the 545I) equipped with seat types that may produce similar errors due to cracking that develops with age. Frankly, I find it ridiculous that other vehicles with the same year, make, and model are experiencing the same malfunctions and errors as my vehicle, however, those vehicles are being covered under a current BMW safety recall while my vehicle IS not. In the end, my passenger airbag will not deploy in the event of a collision for the same malfunctioning seat sensor, yet, BMW has turned a blind eye to myself and I presume a large number of owners with this same problem. Can the nhtsa address this issue with BMW na? Thank you in advance for your time and consideration regarding this matter. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have questions regarding this issue. Have a great day. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *Tr

• Mar 15, 2017MD
  Air bags
  Hello sir or ma'am; I am writing to you to address a current national highway traffic administration (nhtsa) safety recall affecting my vehicle (and presumably many similar vehicles). I currently own a 2005 BMW 545I 4-door sedan (vin: [xxx]) and have recently experienced a front passenger seat…

  Hello sir or ma'am; I am writing to you to address a current national highway traffic administration (nhtsa) safety recall affecting my vehicle (and presumably many similar vehicles). I currently own a 2005 BMW 545I 4-door sedan (vin: [xxx]) and have recently experienced a front passenger seat occupant detection mat malfunction. this sensor malfunction affects the deployment of the front passenger seat airbag in the event of a collision. the error codes my vehicle IS displaying are the same as those addressed in the nhtsa safety recall (nhtsa campaign number 08v384000, dated 5 aug 2008) indicating a passenger airbag has malfunctioned, "off", and will not deploy in the event of an emergency. the nhtsa recall indicated BMW IS recalling 2004-06 5-series models (including the 545I) equipped with seat types that may produce similar errors due to cracking that develops with age. frankly, I find it ridiculous that other vehicles with the same year, make, and model are experiencing the same malfunctions and errors as my vehicle, however, those vehicles are being covered under a current BMW safety recall while my vehicle IS not. in the end, my passenger airbag will not deploy in the event of a collision for the same malfunctioning seat sensor, yet, BMW has turned a blind eye to myself and I presume a large number of owners with this same problem. can the nhtsa address this issue with BMW na? thank you in advance for your time and consideration regarding this matter. please feel free to contact me at any time if you have questions regarding this issue. have a great day. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr

• Mar 11, 2017IN
  Air bags · Service brakes

  My passenger side air bag light and seat belt light are both on at all times. The on board computer says fault in passenger side seat belt or seat belt tensioner. also the back brakes don't work at all but the front ones do. was wondering if this was a recall matter before I spend thousands to fix the problem

• Feb 7, 2017NY108,000 mi
  Air bags
  TL* the contact owns a 2005 BMW 545I. While driving approximately 30 mph, the passenger side air bag indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed and replaced the sensor, but the failure recurred after two weeks. The vehicle was taken back to an independent…

  TL* the contact owns a 2005 BMW 545I. While driving approximately 30 mph, the passenger side air bag indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed and replaced the sensor, but the failure recurred after two weeks. The vehicle was taken back to an independent mechanic who informed the contact about an air bag recall and referred the contact to nhtsa. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure was not remedied. The recall details were not provided. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.

• Jan 28, 2017LA125,000 mi
  Air bags

  Passenger airbag restrain system, stationary city street

• Mar 15, 2016OH140,000 mi
  Air bags

  The front airbag sensor has malfunctioned, this IS a huge safety hazard that had a recall and shame on BMW for not covering this for the life of their vehicles. god forbid someone gets hurt because they could not afford to pony up the $1300 to fix this shoddy part

• Mar 9, 2016NC
  Electrical system · Exterior lighting

  Headlight wires are almost bare, and could possibly spark and cause a fire.

• Oct 18, 2015NV93,168 mi
  Air bags · Seat belts

  When the vehicle IS turned on and while driving, it says passenger air bag malfunction because of seat belt tensioner or something else. And won't turn off

• Oct 15, 2015NY69,000 mi
  Air bags · Seat belts · Seats

  My car has the light on for airbag and seat belt do to malfunction of seat pad sensor in passenger seat.called BMW of america, and was told that my car IS not covered under the recall.would appreciate you looking into the matter .thanks in advance.

• Oct 2, 2015TX105,000 mi
  Air bags · Seat belts · Seats
  2005 BMW 545I E60 fault in passenger restraint system: this model BMW has experienced a fault in the passenger restraint system and IS not listed in the past recall which can lead to dangerous situations if an accident occurs and the restraint system malfunctions. The problem IS in the mat of…

  2005 BMW 545I E60 fault in passenger restraint system: this model BMW has experienced a fault in the passenger restraint system and IS not listed in the past recall which can lead to dangerous situations if an accident occurs and the restraint system malfunctions. The problem IS in the mat of the passenger seat and upon a passenger getting into my car about a year ago, I received the error message. I spoke with varying BMW dealerships (in different states) and received mixed information from the recall wasn't approved yet to the current version of no recall and I would have to pay the full repair costs. Speaking with BMW of USA, there was apparently an extended warranty issued for this problem, but the dealership never mentioned this possibility to me when speaking with them. As of now, the extended warranty IS expired so should this issue occur on your car today - you are responsible for the full cost of the repair which IS in excess of $1000 and additional diagnostic fees. there IS a vast amount of information on the poor quality of the passenger seat mat used by BMW in these models leading to this malfunction. Can someone please explain why the E60 BMW models were not covered in the recall when they are experiencing the same exact issue as other models that were covered? This can get someone seriously hurt and BMW IS placing this responsibility back on the consumer when they are at fault. this issue clearly spans many more BMW models that were listed in the recall and consumers are being forced to pay the bill for poor decisions on bmw's part. It would be nice to see more action and attention placed on this issue by the nhtsa. related instances of the same issue: nhtsa campaign number: 15v205000 nhtsa campaign number: 13v564000

• Sep 30, 2015IN147,950 mi
  Air bags

  Front occupancy seat sensor mat. This IS under campaign ID 08v384000. My make and model plus year IS included in this. A call to BMW states that my car IS not in this recall.

• Sep 25, 2015TX96,000 mi
  Tires

  Bought my tire in february of 2015. Had issue immediately with it deflating on its own with no noticeable leaks. Took to tire store I bought from they found no issues. Put inflate a tire in it and seemed to help for 2 months. Driving down the road the other day my tire shredded and the tread almost came off the wheel. Got the same tire on opposite back wheel, have no issues at all with it.

• Sep 18, 2015AL
  Power train
  I started having problems several months ago that has progressively gotten worse. When I accelerate from a stop, it appears that the automatic transmission IS struggling to get to the next gear. The rpms will fluctuate up and down and sometimes rev way up before the car kicks like I have been hit.…

  I started having problems several months ago that has progressively gotten worse. When I accelerate from a stop, it appears that the automatic transmission IS struggling to get to the next gear. The rpms will fluctuate up and down and sometimes rev way up before the car kicks like I have been hit. If I try to accelerate fast from a stop, the engine will rev up to about 5K rpm and stop responding until I let off the gas and let the rpms drop down and then it will kick into gear. If I slow down to almost a stop and then accelerate it will most certainly kick, so I have to be very cautious. I have to make sure I have plenty of room when pulling out of an intersection because I never know when it will act up (which IS most of the time) and hinder my acceleration. Once I get up to cruising speed (above 45 mph) it runs smoothly, but it has gotten to the point that I dread every time I have to stop at an intersection or slow way down. I talked to the dealer and said if it was the transmission then the service light would come on. He asked me what kind of gas I use and I said shell high octane and he said that IS good. Other than that, he didn't tell me much more. I want to sell the car next spring but who will buy it with it performing this way?

• Feb 2, 2015TX86,400 mi
  Air bags

  I turned on my car and a notification appeared on the idrive that there was a passenger restraint system failure. I read that there was a recall on this and called my local BMW dealership to give them my vin to see if my vehicle would be on the recall. I found out that it was not. I don't know what fits the criteria for the recall and if this would be considered normal wear and maintenance of the vehicle. *tr

Defect investigations

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

• BMW airbag light illumination

  EA08001Opened Jan 4, 2008Closed Dec 31, 2008Recall 08V384000
  BMW IS conducting a safety recall campaign on approximately 200,000 MY04 through MY06 subject vehicles built through 11/30/05 to correct the front passenger seat air bag occupant detection mat. The specific vehicles included in the recall aremy04- 06/ 5-series with standard and sport seats, my04-06/ x3-series and…

  BMW IS conducting a safety recall campaign on approximately 200,000 MY04 through MY06 subject vehicles built through 11/30/05 to correct the front passenger seat air bag occupant detection mat. The specific vehicles included in the recall aremy04- 06/ 5-series with standard and sport seats, my04-06/ x3-series and MY06/ 3-series with sport seats. In addition, BMW will extend the warranty coverage of the passenger seat air bag occupant detection mat to 10-year/unlimited mileage on approximately 120,000 remaining my04-06 subject vehicles built through 11/30/05. The specific vehicles included in the extended warranty are my 06/ 6 series, my 06/ 3-series with standard seats, my04-05/ Z4, my04-06/ 7 series, my 06/ X5, and my04-06/ 5-series with comfort seats.the average frequency of failures among the extended warranty groups was less than 1/7TH of the recall vehicle groups.please see bmw's 08v-384 recall notification for further detailsdepending on seat configuration and vehicle geometry, the occupant detection mat can fatigue during use depending on the manner and frequency of the front passenger's entry and exit.specifically, over time, micro-cracks could develop in the side flanks of the mat causing a broken circuit.a brokencircuit can lead to the deactivation of the passenger air bag and the illumination of both the air bag warning light and the passenger air bag light.

• BMW airbag light illumination

  PE07045Opened Sep 4, 2007Closed Jan 4, 2008
  In certain my 2005 through my 2006 BMW vehicles, the occupant classification system (ocs) for the passenger frontal airbag may malfunction and render the passenger airbag inoperative.in june 2006, BMW issued a technical service bulletin (si b 72 02 06) regarding the illumination of the airbag warning light and the…

  In certain my 2005 through my 2006 BMW vehicles, the occupant classification system (ocs) for the passenger frontal airbag may malfunction and render the passenger airbag inoperative.in june 2006, BMW issued a technical service bulletin (si b 72 02 06) regarding the illumination of the airbag warning light and the passenger airbag status lamp.illumination of these lights warn that an open electrical circuit may be present within the passenger seat mat sensor.when both of the lights are illuminated, the passenger frontal air bag will not deploy in a frontal crash.certain BMW vehicles in addition to the subject vehicles contain the same seat mat sensor.these are the my 2004 5-series, 7-series and X3, the my 2004 through 2006z-4 series and my 2006 3-series, 6-series and X5 vehicles.an improved seat mat sensor was introduced in december 2005 for the mid-my 2006 production.in response to odi's information request letter, BMW provided 1,172 owner reports and 28,238 warranty claims.initial review of the data indicate that 280 non-duplicating owner reports and 13,051 non-duplicating warranty claims may be related the subject defect issue on the subject vehiclesthis preliminary evaluation IS being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea08-001).

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.
• 10247567Engine will crank but not start. There is no communication with the integrated fuel module (TFE) whendiagnosing with ISTA. The following two fault codes will be stored in the DME: 032B43 - Low fuel pressure system, electric fuel pump: pressure value too low CDA594 - Message (- 0x33E) missing, receiver DME, transmitter TFE
• 10245422Customers may state that the alarm system (DWA) is not active after locking their unoccupied vehicle. Depending on the vehicles equipment and settings, no acoustic or optical confirmation (folding the mirrors/blinking confirmation) is noticeable. Additionally, the red anti-theft alarm LED in the interior mirror does not briefly flash every 2 seconds, indicating the alarm is armed.
• 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.
• 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.
• 10175267Power Reduction FC2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC2 A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Fault: The "Service Engine Soon" (MIL) lamp is illuminated and engine power reduction is perceived. This situation can occur after driving for some time with the engine at full operating temperature. If the ignition is cycled the engine then usually performs normally.
• 10162428Various Electrical Problems Caused by Water Ingress. Water ingress into the luggage compartment may cause various electrical problems or faults associated with the MPM (Micro Power Module); PDC (Park Distance Control); M-ASK (Multi-Audio System Controller); CCC (Car Communication Computer); CID (Control Information Display); TCU (Telematics Control Unit); LOGIC-7 (Top Hi-Fi); RDC (Tire Pressure Monitor) or SDARS (Satellite Radio Receiver) control modules. In most cases, the water collects in the spare wheel recess. CAUSE: Insufficient sealing may allow water to enter the luggage compartment due to the vacuum generated while driving.
• 10151335Bluetooth Connection Failures. There are various connectivity failures with the following devices: Apple iPhones Samsung S6 and the S6 Edge. Connectivity failure examples are: Call disconnection - Call is transferred back to the handset. In some instances the call is then transferred back to the vehicle. Contact List incomplete General connection failures Apple iOS software (issue started with iOS 8.3 continues with iOS 9.x and its variants) Samsung S6 and S6 Edge device firmware.
• 10151323ELV Does Not Release. The customer complains of a no-crank, no-start situation. The condition may be intermittent. The ELV (Electric Steering Lock) warning is shown in the Instrument Cluster.
• 10151119SI B84 03 14 February 2016 Communication Systems Technical Service This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B84 03 14 dated October 2014. SUBJECT Bluetooth Connection Failures. There are various connectivity failures with the following devices: Apple iPhones Samsung S6 and the S6 Edge. Connectivity failure examples are: Call disconnection - Call is transferred back to the handset. In some instances the call is then transferred back to the vehicle. Contact List incomplete General connection failures CAUSE Apple iOS software (issue started with iOS 8.3 continues with iOS 9.x and its variants) Samsung S6 and S6 Edge device firmware CORRECTOPM None available at this time. We are currently working with the device manufacturer on a solution.
• 10151115SUBJECT Audio System Speaker Testing. For audio system speaker testing there is a NED (Non Electrical Diagnosis) Test Plan available. CAUSE We previously recommended use of the Audio Test CD (ATC) from BMW. This CD has been discontinued.
• 10151068This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B07 03 14 dated October 2015. Diagnosing Stored Fault Codes to Help Avoid Repeat Repair Visits. Fault codes stored in vehicles being serviced are not being diagnosed, leading to repeat repair visits (source- Analysis of FASTA data and repeat repair visit reports). INFORMATION Where diagnosis (vehicle or short test) with ISTA has already started, it is important to diagnose the fault code(s) listed below (when they are stored in the vehicle) to find their root cause during the current workshop visit. This will help lead to a reduction in workshop repeat repair visits and higher customer satisfaction.
• 10151023Whistling Noise Coming from the Center Vent - A/C is Off . A very high pitched whistling or beeping noise is heard coming from the center vents. The flow of refrigerant through the expansion valve at certain temperature differentials.
• 10150385"CCC - ""Please Insert Navigation DVD"" Appears on CID. The navigation map DVD cannot be read or detected. The message ""Please insert navigation DVD"" appears in the CID (Central Information Display). The navigation system is inoperative. This situation may also occur when upgrading to a new navigation map. The old map is recognized but the new one is not. CAUSE Faulty DVD drive; read error due to hardening of the anti-vibration gel on the read head"
• 10150330"Discharged 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. A discharged battery can have various causes, most of which do not concern the battery itself. A failed battery is often the symptom and not the cause. A fully serviceable battery fails when an electrical component causes the battery to discharge; the battery becomes internally damaged and must be replaced. For more information, refer to www.batteryuniversity.com/parttwo-42B.htm For this reason, replacing the battery is not usually a permanent repair. The cause of the discharged battery must be analyzed in order to guarantee a proper repair. 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 to consideration. The procedure as outlined below contains information that will guide the technician into properly repairing the vehicle and getting paid for a warranty claim. CAUSE Refer to the ""Procedure"" section of this Service Information for details."
• 10150130The vehicle position is missing or incorrect on the navigation map. The navigation system integrated in the Car Information Computer (CIC) is not calibrated correctly.
• 10150099N54 Engine: Fuel Pressure Control Test Plan Error. INFORMATION Not applicable.
• 10150065"BMW NA has agreed to extend the emissions warranties of the turbocharger's wastegate to: ??8 years or 82,000 miles, whichever occurs first, as determined from the vehicle's original in-service date select the ""Vehicle Comment"" button to display the extended coverage information. The terms of the original New Vehicle/SAV Limited Warranty and applicable emissions warranty still apply. BMW NA will not provide warranty coverage to any Settlement Class Member's vehicle containing modifications or alterations to the turbocharger or its wastegates (software, hardware or otherwise), or evidencing other conditions not normally covered under the original New Vehicle/SAV Limited Warranty or applicable emissions warranty. Modifications excluded from warranty coverage include any aftermarket parts that affect the turbocharger system, or if there are other conditions that would normally exclude it from warranty coverage."
• 10149605Battery Replacements. A failed battery in the vehicle is being replaced with a battery of a different size and type, which can lead to additional labor to retrofit the differently sized battery. CAUSE In the past, the 110 AH Lead acid battery was not available. The 90/92 AH AGM battery was installed as an alternative replacement; this required retrofitting.
• 10149589"N54 Engine: Diagnosis of Cold Start Rough Running with Misfire Faults. The customer may complain that during the cold start in the morning, the engine runs very roughly and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. Various misfire fault codes (e.g., 29CC, 29D2, 29D1, 29D0, 29C0, 29CF) may be stored in the DME control module. The engine rough running complaint can be reproduced on a cold start in the workshop. During the course of diagnosis, the spark plugs, removed from the misfiring cylinders after the problem was reproduced, are found to be soaked (""wet"") with fuel, while the injector tips are covered with a layer of carbon deposit. Possible cause: high-pressure injector failure (leakage or incorrect spraying pattern) due to internal wear or unfavorable stock of tolerances IMPORTANT: For comprehensive N54 drivability diagnostics, always refer to the ""N54 Engine Diagnostic Fault Tree"" file (the current version ""02_14_13"" is found as a PDF attachment to SI B12 55 06)."
• 10149382iPhone: Connection Failures with iOS 7. There are various connectivity failures with the iPhone using iOS 7. Some examples are listed below: z Call disconnection z Contact List incomplete z General connection failures Apple software iOS 7 and its variants
• 10149279Diagnosing Stored Fault Codes to Help Avoid Repeat Repair Visits. Analysis of FASTA data and repeat repair visit reports indicates that there are many fault codes that are stored in the above vehicles, but they are not diagnosed to identify their root cause. Fault codes that are not diagnosed to find their root cause can lead to a repeat repair visit to the workshop by the customer. Where diagnosis (vehicle or short test) with ISTA has already started, it is important to diagnose the fault code(s) listed below (when they are stored in the vehicle) during the current workshop visit. This will help lead to a reduction in workshop repeat repair visits and higher customer satisfaction.
• 10148423Check Control Messages Related to Battery Charge During Cold Ambient Temperatures. On cold days with an outside ambient temperature of less than 15F, customers may notice a check control message related to the battery that is displayed on the instrument cluster and the control information display. Under these conditions, the vehicle starts. Various power management faults can be stored: z 213901 - Power management: Reduction or shutdown of individual electrical consumer z 8040BD - Reset or deactivation of Terminal 30F z 8040B9 - De-activation of terminal 30B: Top start capability limit reached z 8020E8 - Reset or deactivation of terminal 30F z 800E89 - FRM: start capability limit reached with lights active during stationary mode z 93076B - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached z 93076A - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer active z 93076C - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer or legal loads active z 930769 - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached Note: When the outside temperatures drop below 46F, the charging system is switch to full charge. CAUSE z The check control message (ID 229) is caused by a heavily discharged battery. z The check control message is triggered when the current state of charge (SoC) of the battery approaches the minimum SoC that is required to start the vehicle (start capability limit). z In low outside ambient temperatures, the start capability limit of the vehicle is higher. Therefore it takes more energy from the battery to start a cold engine. z Without the early warning of the check control message, the current state of charge would drop below the start capability limit and the vehicle would not start. z The vehicle's intelligent power management system actively takes measures to increase the charge of the battery, such as increasing idle speed and reducing or shutting
• 10148376Previously assigned radio channels to the satellite radio "Presets" list have been erased and radio channels selected from the list "All channels" menu cannot be stored in the "Presets" list. The problem occurred after the recently implemented Sirius/XM channel lineup change. The data handling between the satellite radio receiver (SDARS-Exbox) and the Car Communication Computer (CCC head unit) has been corrupted.
• 10148276Traffic Information Is Inoperative. The traffic information is intermittently or permanently inoperative. * Traffic flow is not displayed on the navigation map. * The traffic list is empty. 1. The Offboard Availability (backend) system is unavailable and is not sending traffic information. 2. The traffic information feature is not activated correctly.
• 10148273Check Control Messages Related to Battery Charge During Cold Ambient Temperatures. On cold days with an outside ambient temperature of less than 15F, customers may notice a check control message related to the battery that is displayed on the instrument cluster and the control information display. Under these conditions, the vehicle starts. Various power management faults can be stored: * 213901 - Power management: Reduction or shutdown of individual electrical consumer * 8040BD - Reset or deactivation of Terminal 30F * 8040B9 - De-activation of terminal 30B: Top start capability limit reached * 8020E8 - Reset or deactivation of terminal 30F * 800E89 - FRM: start capability limit reached with lights active during stationary mode * 93076B - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached * 93076A - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer active * 93076C - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer or legal loads active * 930769 - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached Note: When the outside temperatures drop below 46F, the charging system is switch to full charge. CAUSE * The check control message (ID 229) is caused by a heavily discharged battery. * The check control message is triggered when the current state of charge (SoC) of the battery approaches the minimum SoC that is required to start the vehicle (start capability limit). * In low outside ambient temperatures, the start capability limit of the vehicle is higher. Therefore it takes more energy from the battery to start a cold engine. * Without the early warning of the check control message, the current state of charge would drop below the start capability limit and the vehicle would not start. * The vehicle's intelligent power management system actively takes measures to increase the charge of the battery, such as increasing idle speed and reducing or shutting
• 10148194iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 5, 5S, 5C, 4S, 4, and 3GS with iOS 8.x Information. INFORMATION There is one major difference in functionality since iOS 8.0 was released. Scenario: z The customer leaves the vehicle and turns his or her phone off. z He or she turns the phone back on. z He or she enters the vehicle, but does not unlock the phone and start driving. Result: z The phone reconnects to the Bluetooth system (normal). z However, it does not transfer the contact list (not normal). z The contact list in the iDrive will be empty. z The call list in the Kombi will display only phone numbers, but no names. z The hands-free system works for accepting calls and conversing on calls started on the phone. Solution: z Prior to the customer entering the vehicle they must unlock the phone (passkey) With the release of Apple's new iPhone 6, 6 Plus and iOS 8.x software, there have been many questions regarding the new phone and software. The information in the attachment to this Service Information will help answer these questions. A printed copy can be given to the customer if needed. The attachment provides information on the differences between the new iPhone 6, 6 Plus and the previous versions, along with Apple software improvements in the following areas: 1. Visual comparison 2. Connectivity 3. Functionality Refer to the PDF file in the "Attachment" section of this bulletin for complete details. Information on the iPhone 6 is also available via the following: z www.bmwusa.com/bluetooth website NOTE: This SI will be updated as new information is received.
• 10148166N62TU: EDK Throttle Potentiometer Faults - Diagnostic. The "Service Engine Soon" and DSC/DTC warning lights are illuminated. Engine enters the power reduction ("fail-safe") mode. The following intermittent and "currently not present" EDK related faults may be stored in DME fault memory: ? 2CF8 - Throttle valve potentiometer, signal; and /or? 2CF9 - Throttle valve potentiometer 1, signal; and/or ? 2CFA - Throttle valve potentiometer 2; signal. In most cases DSC fault 5F77 (DME invalid data) may also be stored in DSC control module. These faults are sporadic and usually not reproducible. Resistance fluctuation in the EDK harness connector is causing an interruption of the EDK signal.
• 10148135ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist System Diagnosis Information. ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist features are partially or completely inoperative. This Service Information bulletin is being published because vehicles are down for an extended period of time when researching system failures with ConnectedDrive or BMW Assist. This Service Information bulletin will assist you both in identifying the issue and providing technical support. CAUSE Not enough information is available for BMW NA engineers to assist the technician in diagnosing the root cause.
• 10148120Check Control Messages Related to Battery Charge During Cold Ambient Temperatures. On cold days with an outside ambient temperature of less than 15F, customers may notice a check control message related to the battery that is displayed on the instrument cluster and the control information display. Under these conditions, the vehicle starts. Various power management faults can be stored: * 213901 - Power management: Reduction or shutdown of individual electrical consumer * 8040BD - Reset or deactivation of Terminal 30F * 8040B9 - De-activation of terminal 30B: Top start capability limit reached * 8020E8 - Reset or deactivation of terminal 30F * 800E89 - FRM: start capability limit reached with lights active during stationary mode * 93076B - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached * 93076A - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer active * 93076C - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer or legal loads active * 930769 - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached Note: When the outside temperatures drop below 46F, the charging system is switch to full charge. CAUSE * The check control message (ID 229) is caused by a heavily discharged battery. * The check control message is triggered when the current state of charge (SoC) of the battery approaches the minimum SoC that is required to start the vehicle (start capability limit). * In low outside ambient temperatures, the start capability limit of the vehicle is higher. Therefore it takes more energy from the battery to start a cold engine. * Without the early warning of the check control message, the current state of charge would drop below the start capability limit and the vehicle would not start. * The vehicle's intelligent power management system actively takes measures to increase the charge of the battery, such as increasing idle speed and reducing or shut
• 10148101iPhone: Connection Failures with iOS 7. There are various connectivity failures with the iPhone using iOS 7. Some examples are listed below: * Call disconnection * Contact List incomplete * General connection failures CAUSE Apple software iOS 7 and its variants.
• 10148034"Intelligent Battery Sensor Diagnosis Hints. The vehicle enters the workshop with one or more of the following complaints: * Check Control Message related to battery discharge * No-start condition * Consumer power reduction (reduced blower speed, heated seats operation, etc.) * The following fault codes may be stored in the DME a. 2E8B - Intelligent battery sensor, signal b. 2E8C - Intelligent battery sensor, function c. 2E8D - Intelligent battery sensor, signal transmission d. 2E8E - Intelligent battery sensor, communication CAUSE A faulty battery or IBS sensor (not both) The power management system and IBS in the vehicle cannot determine if the battery needs to be replaced. This is normal operation for all E-Series vehicles because they do not have the Advanced IBS sensor that the F-Series vehicles do. An external battery tester (Midtronics EXP-1000) must be used to determine if the battery needs to be replaced. Energy Diagnosis will not prompt for a battery replacement unless the battery is ""aged."" When energy diagnosis identifies the battery as ""aged,"" it means the amount of energy discharge over the course of the life of the battery has reached its maximum (worn out). In most cases, energy diagnosis states that the battery is OK. This is typically an indication of the current State of Charge (SoC), not the State of Health (SoH). The SoC is defined as the current amount of energy left in the battery (displayed as a percentage). The SoH is defined as an evaluation of the condition of the battery over a period of time (displayed as a percentage). For more information about batteries, refer to Training Manual ST051, ""07 Battery Basics."""
• 10148018"?SI B01 09 14 September 2014 WarrantiesWarranties This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 09 14 dated August 2014. Please read this Service Information bulletin in its entirety, the content has been completely updated. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor (OC3) Mat: Limited Warranty Extension to 15 years Without Mileage Limitation. INFORMATION BMW of North America, LLC (""BMW NA"") is extending the limited warranty for the Supplemental Restraint System's (SRS) front passenger air bag seat occupancy sensor (OC3) mat on certain model BMW vehicles to: 15 years without mileage limitation as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date. This ""component-specific"" limited warranty extension applies to defects in materials and workmanship. This bulletin is notice of a ""limited warranty extension."" This is NOT a notice of a Recall or Service Action. No immediate repair is required unless the BMW vehicle is currently experiencing this problem. This extended limited warranty coverage does not apply to vehicles affected by the following Recall Campaign: Recall 13V-564: E90, E91 Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor MatRecall 13V-564: E60, E61,E65, E66 Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor MatSI B65 08 14Recall Campaign 13V-564: Replace Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor (E60, E61, E65, E66)Recall 13V-564: E65,E66 Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor Mat (E65, E66)Recall 13V-564: Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor Mat for Sport Seat (E60, E61, E65, E66)Recall 13V-564: E53 Repair Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor MatThe extended limited warranty coverage also does not apply to: ??Vehicles with other seat options, and ??E60 (M5) vehicles Note: Please refer to SI B65 75 06 for the limited warranty extension information that applies to previous models. Customer Notification Letter - VIN and Component-specific Warranty Extension Even tho
• 10148010ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist System Information and Availability. ConnectedDrive features are partially or completely inoperative. Examples of some of these features are listed below: * BMW Assist Inoperative ? SOS call ? Roadside Assistance call * My BMW Remote App * BMW Online - Google local search * Concierge CAUSE The Electronic Subscriber Agreement (ESA) is inactive. * No active contract for ConnectedDrive features Offboard Availabilty (Backend) system issues * The external network was/is inoperative. * No data is sent to the vehicle.
• 10147953"ConnectedDrive/BMW ASSIST Features Are Inoperative. ConnectedDrive features are partially or completely inoperative. * No traffic information (RTTI / ARTTI) * BMW ASSIST ""My Info"" service doesn't work. CAUSE The Electronic Subscriber Agreement (ESA) is inactive. * No active contract for ConnectedDrive features Offboard Availability (Backend) system issues * The external network was/is inoperative. * No data is sent to the vehicle."
• 10147945Delay in Automatic Driving Light Switching On/Off. When driving out of a tunnel or exiting underground parking, the automatic driving light remains switched on for two minutes, even in daylight. The automatic driving light switching on/off can be shorter or longer when it starts to get dark. CAUSE The software for the switch-on threshold is lowered to protect the xenon light source.
• 10147941ELV Does Not Release. Cause 1: The steering column is held against the steering lock because of torque from the steering gear. In such cases, a yellow check control warning (CC ID# 187) is shown in the instrument cluster, but no faults are stored. Cause 2: Communication fault in the CAS (Car Access System) and ELV system network and/or battery low. The problem may cause the ELV warning to be displayed in yellow or red.
• 10147837"The Disclaimer screen automatically disappears from the CID after 10 seconds. INFORMATION https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/28...12/2/2015 Page 2 of 2 An enhancement was made to the Car Communication Computer (CCC) and MASK (Multi Audio System Controller) in 2006 so the customer does not have to manually accept the ""Disclaimer"" screen each time. Older vehicles prior to the production dates listed above that are programmed with ISTA/P 2.52 or higher will also get this enhancement. WARRANTY INFORMATION Not applicable."
• 10147758This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B07 03 14 dated May 2015. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT Diagnosing Stored Fault Codes to Help Avoid Repeat Repair Visits. Fault codes stored in vehicles being serviced are not being diagnosed, leading to repeat repair visits (source- Analysis of FASTA data and repeat repair visit reports). INFORMATION Where diagnosis (vehicle or short test) with ISTA has already started, it is important to diagnose the fault code(s) listed below (when they are stored in the vehicle) to find their root cause during the current workshop visit. This will help lead to a reduction in workshop repeat repair visits and higher customer satisfaction.

Every BMW 545I model year

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