2008 BMW X6
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2008 BMW X6. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
8 recalls name the 2008 BMW X6. Newest first.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2012 X5 xDrive35d, 2008-2012 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2007-2012 X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles equipped with non-desiccated, passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium…
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
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until this remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i…
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 driver air bag. On X5 and X6 vehicles, only the inflator will be replaced. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M vehicles, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger…
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
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2012 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator or air bag module, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed March 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The loose wires may cause the connector to melt, resulting in a fuel leak. Additionally, the fuel pump may stop working, possibly causing an engine stall and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. The recall began February 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5M vehicles, 2009-2011 X5 xDrive35d vehicles, 2008-2011 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or air bag module, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW IS recalling certain model year 2011 5-series, model year 2010-2011 5-series gran turismo, model year 2009-2011 7-series, model year 2010-2011 X5 sav, and model year 2008-2011 X6 sav vehicles equipped with 8- or 12-cylinder, turbocharged, engines because the circuit board for the electric auxiliary water pump can overheat.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could lead to a smoldering of the pump or an engine compartment or vehicle fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the auxiliary water pump free of charge. the safety recall began on december 19, 2011. owners may contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.
Owner complaints
4 complaints
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2008 BMW X6. The contact stated that vehicle failed to start after multiple attempts. The contact also stated that several electric features failed to function as designed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with an intelligent battery sensor cable…
TL* the contact owns a 2008 BMW X6. The contact stated that vehicle failed to start after multiple attempts. The contact also stated that several electric features failed to function as designed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with an intelligent battery sensor cable malfunction. the contact called BMW of honolulu (777 kapiolani blvd, honolulu, hi 96813) where he was informed of an unknown manufacturer's recall that was initiated on similar vehicles however, the vin was not included. The contact was referred to the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the vin was not included. No further assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage 58,000.
- Air bags
Defected air back has been recalled since march. So far, I do not know what happen to the replacement part. Can you put a lot of pressure to the company for this problem. I have been driving this SUV since I received the recalled letter. Every time we get out with this SUV, we put our life on the line. How can we do to get it replace sooner. Please help.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Engine and engine cooling
I was trying to pass a car on the interstate when the power to my engine was cut by the car's computer. the car following me almost ran into the back of me. This happened three times over 4 months. in numerous written letters to BMW and to the dealer, they responded by saying it was my fault…
I was trying to pass a car on the interstate when the power to my engine was cut by the car's computer. the car following me almost ran into the back of me. This happened three times over 4 months. in numerous written letters to BMW and to the dealer, they responded by saying it was my fault, because I had not installed the "proper" tires on the car when the original ones wore out. or course, they sold and installed the replacements, and never warned me about anything. the original 20" tires, and the only "approved" ones, are run-flat high performance tires that ride terribly, and are not recommended for winter driving. so I wanted to install all-season tires - BMW doesn't approve any all-season tires for this car- not in the 20" size required. So I picked a model tire that michelin sales for summer and winter use, and the dealer obtained them installed them - saying nothing about any problems. to make a long story short - the BMW stability control system was programmed for only this one tire, and now with different tires the computer thinks the car IS sliding when it IS not, and cuts fuel to the engine. this happens if I try to pass a car on a curve. so now I have a choice - I can drive on all season tires that are reasonably effective in the snow - and hope I don't have to accelerate in a curve on interstate - or I can use the recommended tires - that are not suitable for winter driving in ky. frankly, this IS a disaster waiting to happen. *Tr
- Seats
I bought a brand new 2008 BMW X6 in april 08 and various problems keep re-occurring with it. The main problem now IS the back covers of the driver and passenger front seat keep coming out of place. It has occurred 3 times in the past 12 months. This IS a major safety concern for me if the car IS in…
I bought a brand new 2008 BMW X6 in april 08 and various problems keep re-occurring with it. The main problem now IS the back covers of the driver and passenger front seat keep coming out of place. It has occurred 3 times in the past 12 months. This IS a major safety concern for me if the car IS in an accident, the back cover would loose and detach from the seat during impact and cause serious injury to my 20 months child. The BMW dealers refused to repair the issue and claiming that they are only cosmetic problems. But the vehicle should be retested by nhtsa for the seat issues and recall the vehicles for such problem due to childrens' safety concerns. *Tr
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.
- 10247578When using the Key Reader to retrieve CBS information from the customer key, no current vehicle data is available, or the data does not match the maintenance schedule.
- 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.
- 10245377When using the Key Reader to retrieve CBS information from the customer key, no current vehicle data is available, or the data does not match the maintenance schedule.
- 10244258Second seat row blocking access to third seat row, program seat modules. Visible stitching on first row sport seat. Third seat row backrest Bowden cable routing and length change.
- 10244242Various functions of the camera-based driver assistance systems (ADCAM system) can lead to customer complaints.
- 10244239This situation can result in two customer complaints: 1. Wind noise 2. Excess water entry
- 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.
- 10225114The front sunroof glass seal has shrunk, creating a gap which can cause wind noise or excess water entry.
- 10225107Coolant is leaking from under the car which is equipped with the S63 engine. A low coolant warning might also be displayed (CC Message ID166).
- 10218384Vehicle 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. Note: Opening, closing and starting via the BMW Digital Key or the Digital Key Card are not affected.
- 10218382A check control message for the restraint system appears. In the Instrument cluster, the red air bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, driver: short circuit to negative terminal; 93094F - Knee airbag, front passenger: short circuit to negative terminal.
- 10218379The air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a stand still. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38 F to 60 F +) without changing any climate control settings. In some cases the air conditioning may have stopped blowing cold air altogether.
- 10218372The following LIN faults for electric door sunshade may be present in the BDC fault memory. D90D81-Sunblind rear driver (LIN): Missing LIN-slave D90D84-Sunblind rear passenger (LIN): Missing LIN-slave 8049B2-Sunblind rear driver (LIN): Line interruption 8049B6-Sunblind rear passenger (LIN): Line interruption 8049B3-Sunblind rear driver (LIN): Button jammed 8049B7-Sunblind rear passenger (LIN): Button jammed Possible misuse of the electric door sunshade(s).
- 10218366Coolant is leaking from under the car which is equipped with the N63 engine. A low coolant warning might also be displayed (CC Message ID166).
- 10211851This bulletin outlines the procedure for checking the engine timing chains for wear, and should be completed in conjunction with SI B11 06 14, "N63 Customer Care Package." The N63CCP and N63 Engine Check the Timing Chain are NOT mandatory Technical Campaigns or Recalls. They should be completed only based on parts availability, workshop capacity, and the customer's schedule.
- 10200481SURFACE RUST ON NEW AIR BAG INFLATORS: The technician finds that the new air bag inflator (aka: gas generator) may have surface rust on the metalhousing .
- 10200224While engine oil consumption may create a customer inconvenience, in the short term it should not cause any drivability problems that would prevent normal day-to-day operational use of the vehicle
- 10199287CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT: N54/N54T/N55 ELECTRIC ENGINE COOLANT PUMP . With the court's FINAL approval, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has entered a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Oliver, et al v. BMW NA, et al
- 10198894CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT: N54/N54T/N55 ELECTRIC ENGINE COOLANT PUMP . With the court's FINAL approval, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has entered a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Oliver, et al v. BMW NA, et al
- 10186215INCORRECT TORQUE SPECIFICATION FOR THE HIGH-PRESSURE PUMP IN ISTA: The current version of ISTA states the incorrect tightening torque for the High-Pressure pump M6 mounting bolts to the cylinder head cover. The correct tightening torque is only 12 Nm for the M6 bolts.
- 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.
- 10181214Power Reduction, FC2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC2A87 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 theignition is cycled, the engine then usually performs normally.
- 10179812CRACKING NOISES FROM THE FRONTAXLE AREA WHILE TURNING THE WHEELS, WHEN STATION: Cracking noises are heard from the front axle area while maneuvering at low speeds (e.g., parking lot maneuvers) or when turning the steering wheel while stationary.
- 10178991N63 CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT - BATTERY SERVICE BENEFIT - RETROFITS/ REPLACEMENTS: This Service Information bulletin applies to: Class vehicles in operation on the road (Applicable N63 engine model vehicles); by Class members (Class Vehicle owners on the date this settlement became effective), And it provides diagnostic/repairs instructions, as well as, Warranty Information for performed remedies.
- 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.
- 10167978N63 ENGINE VEHICLES: CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT FOR ENGINE OILCONSUMPTION/BATTER. What's New: The short-term extension window of one (1) year/12,000 miles from date of the settlement has expired.
- 10167977N63: OIL CONSUMPTION CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT DIAGNOSIS/REPAIRS (VERSION 12.0). What's New: Engine Timing Chain Guide Pre-Inspection (with Valve Stem Seal Repair) instruction added Updated N63 Replacement Engine Assembly/Part statement added Warranty Information section updated, including the current coverage and attachments.
- 10165276While engine oil consumption may create a customer inconvenience in the short term it should not cause any drivability problems that would prevent normal day-to-day operational use of the vehicle.
- 10163992N63 CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT FOR OIL CONSUMPTION AND BATTERY DRAIN - OVERVIEW This Service Information Bulletin replaces SI B01 29 18 dated October 2018.
- 10163026N63 ENGINE: OIL CONSUMPTION CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR PROCEDURES. While engine oil consumption may create a customer inconvenience in the short term it should not cause any drivability problems that would prevent normal day-to-day operational use of the vehicle.
- 10162434Service Action: CIC - Install Navigation Road Map Database 2013. Before delivering affected vehicles to the customer, the Car Information Computer (CIC) road map database 2013 must be installed onto the CIC internal Hard Disc Drive (HDD).
- 10162431"Erroneous CC Message "Remote control! Do not switch off the engine" is Displayed. An erroneous CC message, "Remote control!" " Do not switch off the engine" is displayed in the Central Information Display (CID). The engine can still be started, even with the CC message displayed. CAUSE: Car Access System (CAS) software error"
- 10162417N63 Engine: Oil Consumption and/or Rough Running Complaints. The vehicle may consume engine oil above the permissible specification, and may run rough at times. White or blue smoke may also be seen exiting the exhaust system. CAUSE The construction material of the crankcase ventilation connection lines and vent pipes may become brittle from engine compartment temperatures.
- 10162416"Power Reduction, FC 2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC 2A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Faults are Stored in DME. 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. The following faults are stored in the DME: * 2A82 VANOS intake - stiff; jammed mechanically * 2A87 VANOS exhaust - stiff; jammed mechanically * 130108 VANOS intake: control fault, position not reached * 130308 VANOS exhaust: control fault, position not reached For the N54 engine, the following secondary faults may also be stored: * 120408 Charge-air pressure control, cut-out: Boost pressure accumulation blocked * 3100 Boost-pressure control, deactivation - boost-pressure buildup prohibited CAUSE The VANOS faults can be caused by an insufficient oil pressure supply to the inlet VANOS adjustment unit. To effectively move the camshafts to the target positions in the specified time and under all engine conditions, sufficient oil pressure supply to the VANOS control pistons must always be available. If engine operation requires the VANOS system to quickly advance or retard the intake or exhaust camshaft, faults may be stored if the camshaft is ""late"", or does not reach the target position. In this situation, engine power may be reduced and a check control message is displayed. The consequential fault 3100 or 120408 can also be set in the DME fault memory as well."
- 10162404"Outside Door Mirror Moves when Locking or Unlocking the Vehicle. The door mirror tilts immediately after unlocking or locking. The mirror position does not correspond to the memory position preset by the customer. Pressing the seat memory button typically will return the mirror to the stored position. Poor electrical contacts of the mirror drive in the mirror housing INFORMATION The problem has been integrated into ISTA diagnostics. Follow the diagnosis test plan using the latest ISTA version. In Information Search, select the "Function Structure"" tab. Select Body, Mirror, Door mirror, Driver's or passenger side, Exterior Mirror Malfunction, and then press "Start Search". Select test plan ""AM5102_00010".
- 10162395N55 Engine: Various Faults Stored in DME Related to VANOS and Camshaft Position. A rattling noise can be heard from the engine compartment; the engine has a loss of power; and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. One or more of the following faults may be stored. E70, E71, E82, E88, E90, E92 and E93: 2D5A - VANOS, intake: control fault, camshaft sticking 2D5B - VANOS, intake: control fault, position not reached 2D60 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, camshaft sticking 2D61 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, position not reached 2D9F - camshaft input sensor: signal implausible 2DA1 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal implausible 300C - Camshaft input sensor: signal high 300D - Camshaft input sensor: signal low 300E - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal high 300F - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal low F07, F10, F12, F13 and F25: 130104 - VANOS, intake: control fault, camshaft sticking 130108 - VANOS, intake: control fault, position not reached 130304 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, camshaft sticking 130308 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, position not reached 130E11 - Camshaft input sensor: signal implausible 130F11 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal implausible 164020 - Camshaft input sensor: signal high 164021 - Camshaft input sensor: signal low 164030 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal high 164031 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal low CAUSE One or both (intake and/or exhaust) of the VANOS gear assemblies have failed; the attaching bolts may have also loosened and/or broken.
- 10160287TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL-RELATED SHORT-TERM ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION AND CONSEQUENTIAL REPAIRS This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 31 18 dated October 2018.
Every BMW X6 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.