FaultScore

BMW 328I headlight problems

89 of the 3,777 complaints filed about the BMW 328I are about the lighting — 2% of everything owners reported. The worst model year for it is 2011.

89

Complaints

2%

Share of all complaints

3

Crashes

3

Fires

Lights complaints by model year

1996 328I 3 3.4%
1998 328I 1 1.1%

Median failure at 165,000 miles

1999 328I 2 2.2%

Median failure at 25,000 miles

2000 328I 2 2.2%

Median failure at 55,000 miles

2007 328I 13 14.6%

Median failure at 132,000 miles

2008 328I 8 9.0%

Median failure at 110,000 miles

2009 328I 8 9.0%

Median failure at 65,000 miles

2010 328I 6 6.7%

Median failure at 85,000 miles

2011 328I 18 20.2%

Median failure at 120,346 miles

2012 328I 4 4.5%

Median failure at 60,000 miles

2013 328I 6 6.7%

Median failure at 75,456 miles

2014 328I 11 12.4%

Median failure at 68,000 miles

2015 328I 7 7.9%

Median failure at 50,000 miles

What owners said

2015 BMW 328I Saint Cloud, FL

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i went online because i was having troubles with my vehicle battery alternator and other electronics , i found out other bmws with the same symptoms as my car led to having a bad footwell module , currently interior lights work when they want to if any constant battery dying from lights not turning off none of the parking sesnors work no back up camera the rear windows do not work some times the power mirrors work , i have had the vehicle tested with a new alternator and battery each window motor works its the footwell module but i noticed that the extended warranty is for 2014 and older models sadly it also effects the 2015 models as well

NHTSA complaint #11740338 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2015 BMW 328I Mount Vernon, NY Fire

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

I Was In My Vehicle Parked Up On January 1st 2026 And The Vehicle Caught On Fire While I Was Inside Of It,The Fire Started From The Right Side Of The Car And Flamed Up Everything,The Car Had A Check Engine Light On And A Lightning System Issue Was Popping Up On The Dash Right Before This Situation Accord I Did Research And Found That The Cause Of The Fire Is Related To NHTSA Recall 24V-608 (Water Pump/Connector Fire Risk).

NHTSA complaint #11737824 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I American Falls, ID

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Footwell module (FRM) module went out after negative battery disconnect to change fuse. Module being inoperable is causing windows to not operate,interior lighting not working, headlights stay dim (not good for nightime driving), blinkers inoperable (not good for driving with windows not working- no arm signals), dash light also inoperable.

NHTSA complaint #11699451 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2015 BMW 328I at 90,000 miles Stamford, CT

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

The contact owns a 2015 BMW 328I. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver’s side taillight became inoperable. The taillight intermittently illuminated, creating an inconsistent lighting condition. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the wiring harness and bulb socket in the driver’s side taillight had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact expressed concerns that the failure posed a significant safety hazard, as a non-functioning taillight increased the risk of a crash. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

NHTSA complaint #11687277 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2014 BMW 328I Union, NJ

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Safety Concern Regarding Left Rear Brake and Turn Light Malfunction in a BMW 328i I want to outline a significant safety concern related to the electrical system. specifically involving the left rear brake and turn signal lights. For several months, intermittent warnings indicated a malfunction in these lights. On New Years, the warnings ceased to be intermittent, and the lights failed completely. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the ground pin within the wiring harness had melted off the tail light connector and fused into the harness itself. The melting of a wiring pin is a critical issue that indicates an electrical fault, likely due to excessive current or resistance, and presents a serious safety risk. The fact that a core safety feature of the vehicle—the brake and turn lights—failed completely due to this issue is a significant concern. This type of malfunction can lead to a rear-end collision, as drivers behind the vehicle would not be properly alerted to braking or turning maneuvers. This situation is not merely an inconvenience but a potential public health and safety hazard. The failure of vehicle safety components, particularly those responsible for signaling, directly increases the risk of motor vehicle accidents, which are a leading cause of injury and death. NHTSA is responsible for ensuring vehicle safety, and the failure of vehicle lighting systems due to a manufacturing or design defect is a violation of these standards and a common factor in accidents (FHA, 2025). this specific issue with my BMW 328i is not an isolated incident. Research into technical service bulletins and consumer complaints reveals that melted wiring harnesses and bulb carriers in the rear taillight assemblies are a known, recurring problem. The prevalence of this issue strongly suggests a systemic design or manufacturing flaw that puts drivers and the public at risk. As a known defect, the failure to address it could lead to significant legal and financial consequence

NHTSA complaint #11684163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Mount Kisco, NY

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Previously reported on February 20, 2024. NHTSA #1157301 RDC failure caused complete loss of all dashboard functions except the radio - loss of lights/turn signals/ speedometer/ tachometer/ HVAC etc. Received a call from BMW customer service today February 26,2024 at 4:38 EST duration 17 minutes. BMW informed me the conversation was recorded. I request that NHTSA obtain the transcript for that telephone call. This note will be sent to BMW with request to send a transcript of the call to NHTSA. BMW Custom Relations representative was polite. Her purpose for the call - "to inform me that BMW is cooperating with NHTSA".The person assigned had no useful information nor could she obtain any information to answer questions. Though BMW documents all reported parts failures and complications, she had no ability to provide information relevant to the RDC module problems.The call was useless from an owners viewpoint. It did not improve Customer Relations. The VANOS recall was also discussed.NHTSA: #23V-707 Recall notification October 2023 BMW has not provided a date when the repair will be available. Vanos Bolt problems were identified for my vehicle in 2014!!! A 10 year warranty without mileage limitation was created but BMW owners were not notified - unless engine failure occurred and the car presented to a BMW dealership. I am more than frustrated that repairs have not been initiated. The local BMW dealership would like to repair the car but cannot proceed without corporate approval. Parts are indeed available locally. BMW has been aware of the problems for a DECADE. Furthermore, the valve cover gasket has been replaced twice since 2014. The VANOS bolts were never inspected. The valve cover was replaced last at 149,000 miles. A mechanic advised replacing the VANOS bolts but did not inspect them. Cost of repair $1500. I declined. Abysmal customer service!

NHTSA complaint #11574109 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Mount Kisco, NY

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Tire pressure yellow warning light on. RDC module ordered but repair not completed. After starting the car at a gas station, multiple warning lights appeared in red including "car on a raised lift in red" which signifies car is to be taken directly for service. Drove to local mechanic one mile away. While observing the car with engine running at idle, ALL dashboard lights and functions stopped: No speedometer, No tachometer, No warning lights, No turn signals, No headlights, RDC module subsequently replaced with resolution of the problem. Opening the old RDC module demonstrated significant green corrosion - likely occurred over a long period of time. IF the loss of all dashboard function had occurred while driving, it would have presented very dangerous safety issues. Situation reviewed with local BMW dealership and BMW corporate customer relations. No recalls or warnings have been issued. Expressed my concerns in detail. This is a potentially dangerous problem for the BMW E90 models. The RDC module is located in the passenger rear wheel well and repeatedly exposed to wet/ snow/ slush conditions. This is a dangerous location outside the vehicle for the RDC module. The Tire pressure monitor system is a non-critical function. Repair of the RDC module is considered optional - yellow warning light. This event demonstrates that there is a serious risk when the RDC module is not functioning properly. BMW should make owners aware and offer replacement before dangerous events occur.

NHTSA complaint #11573011 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2007 BMW 328I Saybrook, IL

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

HEADLIGHTS. FIRE HAZARD BECAUSE OF BRITTLE AND BARE WIRING INSIDE OF HEADLIGHT HOUSING. Confirmation is as simple as looking inside of headlight to change a bulb. The vehicle does not set any codes to make you aware of wiring issue.

NHTSA complaint #11566759 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Flint, TX

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

The electrical keeps shutting off and own after hitting speed bumps. It shuts off all power on hvac windows seats and the odometer. I have heard this same issue with many owners

NHTSA complaint #11563996 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Orange, CA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

While driving at city speed limit the headlights started flicking on-off very difficult to see in the dark. I pulled over to the side of the road for safety but now realized the turn signals not working and also the hazard lights are not working either. I was in a very dangerous situation sitting on the side of the road without any warning light on. Not only for mine safety but also dangerous for other drivers passing by without seen my car in the dark. Its due to well known BMW FOOTWELL MODULE that has high failure incidents rate but BMW refused not to do a recall. Since this a safety issue NHTSA should request BMW to do a recall instead of just extended the warranty to 10/150K miles which my car is not qualify for. I've contacted BMW customer care but they refused to offer any assistance. I feel that BMW has deserted their customer and leaving a high cost burden on their customers although failure/flaw was directly from BMW.

NHTSA complaint #11557086 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2008 BMW 328I Acworth, GA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

I have had continuous issues with the electrical system in the front drivers side headlight with burnt plastic housing to the main headlight and the plug for the blinker system. Sometimes it will work and most of the time it won't. I cant tell you the amount of times it has stopped working in the middle of using the blinker. Every time I attempt to change it out, the bulb ends up still in good shape after looking it over. I have always inserted a new one but the issue remains. I have had to replace the whole headlight unit because of the melted plastic not holding the plug any longer and the issue remains. The passenger side seatbelt light has been on for the past several years and will not go off. It shows a light stating the airbag is off. Every time I use the AC unit, I end up with a whole lot of AC condensation pouring out each side of my console soaking the floor of the vehicle and smelling horrible the next day. I don't understand how such a supposedly high quality car can have such stupid problems that cant seem to be fixed. I have had this car since 2013 and barely drive it as I have only put approx 9000 miles over the last 9 years.

NHTSA complaint #11484359 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Edgewater, FL

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Unable to unlock/lock doors on car (obviously very worrisome), unable to use turn signals, no interior lighting controls or functionality. Unable to control headlights, they still do turn on but I cannot control them. Cannot adjust any mirrors electronically. Some speedometer lighting affect or but the dials do still work, cannot see all buttons inside interior due to electrical issue. Problem: Footwell Control Module (FRM) needs replacement costing around $1300 to do minimum from dealer. This module controls all of the functions above and has gone bad. This FRM module is hidden and not easily gotten to tells me something like a fuse needs to be installed just in case a power surge from the car happens so the car does not break this very expensive equipment. Looked into it online and apparently this happens very often and one guy had to have his replaced twice. This is an obvious issue that will require a remedy.

NHTSA complaint #11478189 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2014 BMW 328I Menifee, CA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

The left rear turn signal stopped working. Along with the left brake light. Currently getting the part fixed that is causing the issue. Part is being melted by something. Yes there has been warning lamps and messages.

NHTSA complaint #11478281 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Hawthorne, CA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Prior to this incident with my car i was having alot of power issues,the car was giving me alot of issues starting up or after being parked it sometimes wouldnt want to turn on i took my battery to get checked and battery had no issues and i continued to start to have electrical issues with my turning signals my lightning and windows stopped working until January 7 as i was driving my car just began to slowly slow down and completely stopped working that not even a jump start would help it turn on and it lost complete power and function and 2 months after i was contacted about its most recent recall and prior to that i also remember that my coolant wasnt lasting me as usual After being affected by the pandemic and loosing my job while being pregnant and finding out about my cars recall i was afraid of my safety and my kids safety that i havent felt safe to take to a mechanic out of fear that our lifes can be danger if the vehicle catches on fire the way the recall stated that it could happen and its brought major stress and trouble since nothing has been done because i havent had a vechile since

NHTSA complaint #11477610 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2014 BMW 328I Mendota Heights, MN

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Left rear brake and turn lights malfunctioning -issue not fixed after changing light bulbs. Noticed that metal pins in the connector was melted and stuck into the wiring harness. Problem affects brake light and turn signal. Melting of the the metal pin in the connector housing clearly is not a wear and tear situation but a defect in manufacturing that needs to be repaired and corrected by BMW.

NHTSA complaint #11477527 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Baltimore, MD

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Footwell module. Computer system that controls turn signals, headlights, highbeams, windows, door locks etc. Yes it is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? I can't use my turn signals, highbeams, headlights, Windows. I can't signal my cars lane changes or see clearly at night. I can't roll the windows down or up which creates a unsafe hazard. My child is able to climb out of the window in the back seat while I'm driving. I have zero control over the windows. I can't determine if my child's door is open or closed when the car is in motion. My car doors no longer lock at all. My child can open up the door at any moment that the car is in motion. I'm unable to see at night without my highbeams. I'm now forced to drive with reduced visibility. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Both by a dealership and independent shop. There have been reconcurring warrantee coverages offered but no recalls despite the clear determinant to safety. Common usage of the vehicle at this point in time is a safety concern of all surrounding users and transportation vehicles. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The manufacturer has inspected this module concern. I'm very sure that there have been accidents associated with this module malfunction. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There are zero signs of this issue prior to it's failure. The failure had no warning.

NHTSA complaint #11459157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2011 BMW 328I Quincy, MA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

The FRM module has failed for a 3rd time in my 328xi. This module distributes power to many components and since it has failed I have no headlights, no turn signals, no interior lights, no dashboard lights, and cannot roll my windows up or down. This is a known flaw with these cars and if you look on eBay there are bootleg repair services than can temporarily reset it however they often fail again. There are dozens of these sellers on Ebay and all list +1000 sales for their repair services so clearly this is widespread and affects many BMW owners. BMW denies there is an issue but has placed a 10 year warranty on the part, however all 3 series affected by this part are over 10 years old and not eligible for this warranty. Digging around on BMW forums this seems extremely common and almost anything can cause the FRM to fail. Headlights burning out, weak batteries, replacing interior dome lights, and even BMW connecting to the OBDII port to read the ecu are common causes of the FRM failing. I don't understand how they can get away with putting a limited warranty on this and not a full recall when it's clearly a safety concern as I can't safely or legally drive my car with no working lights, and in the event of an emergency cannot roll down my windows to get out of the car.

NHTSA complaint #11456994 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2012 BMW 328I at 46,000 miles Tamaqua, PA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:BULBS

The contact owns a 2012 BMW 328i. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH and making a right turn into a parking lot, the turn signals, interior lights, and instrument panel lights became inoperable. Additionally, the side-view mirrors no longer operated as needed. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle to the dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and found that the footwell module needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under warranty and also not covered under a recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.

NHTSA complaint #11455741 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2008 BMW 328I Irvine, CA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Recently had to replace a failed bulb in my 2008 BMW 328i, during the replacement i noticed crumbling insulation within the plastic headlight compartment - basically all i had to do was touch the headlight wires lightly and insulation would crumble and flake off - this insulation is badly degraded, probably made out of improper materials and could potentially pose a hazard if the wires inside were to short out due to lack of insulation. I was able to carefully slip some insulative sleeves around the failed insulation wire to effect a temporary fix (which i don't really trust) BMW should recall and replace this dangerous wiring.

NHTSA complaint #11435573 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2007 BMW 328I Lancaster, CA Crash

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

I was driving just my 3rd day of having my car and i come outside and its wrecked someone hit the driver side front panel and bumper

NHTSA complaint #11428705 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Other BMW 328I problems