Owners have filed 303 complaints
about the 2006 BMW 330I with NHTSA between 2010 and 2025.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 11 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the BMW 330I. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 36
6.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 11
7% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Frontal
1760.7%
Occupant Classification
310.7%
Body
27.1%
Column
27.1%
Rear Passenger
13.6%
Front Passenger
13.6%
AIR Bag/Restraint Control Module
13.6%
Crankcase (Pcv)
13.6%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
52.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
62.5%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
249.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
5723.4%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
6325.8%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
6827.9%
150,000+ miles
218.6%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Nov 2010peak 9Aug 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2006 BMW 330I
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
1
investigation is
still open.
EA15001Opened 24 Feb 2015Still openAIR BAGS
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
PE14016Opened 11 Jun 2014Closed 2 Mar 2015AIR BAGS
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
Recalls on the 2006 BMW 330I
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
24V513000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (324i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi), 2006-2012 3 Series Sportswagon (325xi, 328i, 328xi), and 2009-2011 3 Series Sedan (335d) vehicles. The original steering wheel may have been replaced with a sport or M-sport steering wheel equipped with an inflator that can explode during deployment.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
20V017000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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 xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V273000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 530xi Sports Wagon, 325i, 325xi, 325xi Sports Wagon, 330i, 330xi, Z4 3.0i and Z4 3.0si vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
Risk: An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use.
14V428000
AIR BAGS
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000 323i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sports Wagons; 2000 328i sedans and coupes; 2001-2005 325i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sport Wagons; 2001-2005 325xi sedans and Sports Wagons; 2006 325i coupes and convertibles; 2001-2006 330i sedans, coupes, and convertibles; 2001-2005 330xi sedans; and 2001-2006 M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure that could cause the air bag inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure could cause rupturing of the inflator resulting in metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
17V676000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi and M3, 2007-2011 328i xDrive, 335i xDrive and 335is and 2009-2011 335d vehicles. The wiring and electrical connectors for the system that controls air flow for the heating and air conditioning system may overheat.
Risk: Wiring that overheats could cause the electrical connectors to melt, and increase the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is unattended.
17V428000
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
BMW of North America, Inc. (BMW) is recalling certain 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, and 550i vehicles equipped with the Sport Seat option and certain 2006 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i vehicles with standard seats. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if, and how, the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
Risk: Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
13V564000
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans and 325xi sports wagons, model year 2007 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi sedans and 328i and 328xi sports wagons, model year 2006-2007 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i sedans and 530xi sports wagons, model year 2006 760i sedans, model year 2006-2007 750i, 750Li, and 760Li sedans, and model year 2006 X5 sports activity vehicles, equipped with certain seat types. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if and how the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
Risk: Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 101,000 milesEvansville, INFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 33I. The contact stated that while driving at 75 MPH, the contact noticed smoke coming into the interior of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact noticed fire coming from underneath the hood. The contact exited the vehicle. The contact stated he had to leave the vehicle abandoned for about a month. The contact stated the vehicle had been towed to an impound lot. The vehicle was then towed to the contact’s residence. The contact stated that a certified independent mechanic diagnosed the failure as thermal damage due to the NHTSA recalls. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an oil leak that caused the fire. The contact was informed of a recall NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V683000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) and NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to have the vehicle towed to the dealer for further investigation. The contact stated that the manufacturer initiated an investigation, and after the investigation was performed, the case was closed. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
NHTSA complaint #11681317 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesMobile, ALFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 MPH, the air conditioning unit suddenly shut off and smoke began to come out of the air conditioning vents. After the contact exited the vehicle flames were present coming from under the passenger side dashboard. The fire and police departments were called to the scene and the flames were extinguished. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed. A fire and a police report were taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed away. The local dealer was notified of the incident. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 190,000.
NHTSA complaint #11477117 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,000 milesModesto, CAFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled inadvertently and the engine exploded. The automatic transmission gearbox warning light illuminated. The contact immediately exited the vehicle. The contact stated that there was a significant amount of dark smoke and there was fire underneath the hood of the vehicle. The fire was extinguished independently. The contact did not sustain any injuries. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where the engine, the valves and the engine compartment were replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine And Engine Cooling), which she associated with the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
NHTSA complaint #11462662 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,000 milesModesto, CAFire
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled inadvertently and the engine exploded. The automatic transmission gearbox warning light illuminated. The contact immediately exited the vehicle. The contact stated that there was a significant amount of dark smoke and there was fire underneath the hood of the vehicle. The fire was extinguished independently. The contact did not sustain any injuries. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where the engine, the valves and the engine compartment were replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine And Engine Cooling), which she associated with the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
NHTSA complaint #11462662 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cloverdale, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My car was just sitting in my driveway and my roommate noticed she said is there is your car supposed to be on fire and we went out there had to break the windows and it was already on fire and totally ruined from any repair. I didn't receive a recall until a year after it had already caught on fire. The car is totaled in my backyard. And is beyond repair because of the fire
NHTSA complaint #11462242 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesNederland, TXFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owned a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated while her boyfriend was driving 65 mph, he heard an abnormal noise coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver was able to park on the side of the road and exit before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The driver saw the fire starting under the transmission. The driver stated no one was injured nor sought medical attention. The driver stated the fire department extinguished the fire. A fire report was filed. The driver stated the police did arrive at the location and filed a police report. The vehicle was not drivable. The insurance company deemed the vehicle a total loss. The contact towed the vehicle to the record yard. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 ( Engine and Engine Cooling) on 4/25/2022. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. Consumer stated her vehicle hit a donkey head on but none of the airbags went off.
NHTSA complaint #11462176 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 101,000 milesEvansville, INFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 33I. The contact stated that while driving at 75 MPH, the contact noticed smoke coming into the interior of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact noticed fire coming from underneath the hood. The contact exited the vehicle. The contact stated he had to leave the vehicle abandoned for about a month. The contact stated the vehicle had been towed to an impound lot. The vehicle was then towed to the contact’s residence. The contact stated that a certified independent mechanic diagnosed the failure as thermal damage due to the NHTSA recalls. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an oil leak that caused the fire. The contact was informed of a recall NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V683000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) and NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to have the vehicle towed to the dealer for further investigation. The contact stated that the manufacturer initiated an investigation, and after the investigation was performed, the case was closed. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
NHTSA complaint #11681317 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oceanside, CA
AIR BAGS
I was getting ready to leave my home and both front airbags deployed on me, which also resulted in my windshield breaking. I did not hit anything with the vehicle. I then looked up the VIN and noticed the 2 open recalls one is for the airbags, I contacted BMW left the service manager numerous voicemails he never returned any of my calls. Then I contacted BMW North America, I got the vehicle towed to BMW of Carslbad just before Thanksgiving 2024 I just picked up my vehicle on January 6 2025 and they did not fix the recalls on the vehicle. I have been without a vehicle since before Thanksgiving!! I have health issues and I am missing appointments. I am on a fixed income my husband just passed away. I need someone to help me I keep getting the run around. If there are open recalls they need to be fixed I don't understand.
NHTSA complaint #11634735 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Morgan Hill, CA
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Rolled down back window it broke and didn’t go back up
NHTSA complaint #11622727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fresno, TX
AIR BAGS
My airbag light is on. I checked the website, and realize that there is a recall for Takata airbags, however, when I input my VIN#, my vehicle does not show the active recall. There is an alert on the website that says "DO NOT DRIVE"....I cannot get any assistance from Takata when I call; they keep telling me that my car is not included. I don't believe it is safe to drive my car, and can't get any help.
NHTSA complaint #11595776 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pomona, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
UNKNOWN. I went to do the smog check on my car and I found that I have a recall and the description on the paper is positive crankcase ventilation (pcv) valve heater
NHTSA complaint #11510618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 149,000 milesFresno, CA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a burning odor was detected. The contact parked the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. Prior to the failure, the dealer was made aware of the issue but confirmed that parts were not yet available and scheduled an appointment for April. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 149,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11509887 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Austin, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
All door lock actuators (including the fuel cap door cover) stopped working after driving the vehicle. The passenger and both rear doors were able to open via the inside door handle, but the driver side door could not be unlocked via the key fob, console lock button, or manually pulling the inside door handle. The fuel cap door cover could only be opened via the emergency release pull in the trunk. After inspecting the fuse box, I found that fuse 57a was blown. I replaced the fuse and the locking mechanisms started functioning again. weeks later the same issue occurred, only replacing the fuses remedied the problem for only a day or two. The fact that the driver's side door could not be opened by ANY means from inside or outside the vehicle poses a severe safety risk in situations where the driver of the car needs to exit the vehicle themself or be evacuated carefully in the event of injury. There are NO warnings, messages or warning signs before this occurs. This appears to be a common issue on my model and others, originating from issues with the door lock actuators. BMW even has a service information bulletin about it: "SI B51 19 07". The fact that the driver-side door can spontaneously become unopenable from inside or outside while the driver is in the car is a HUGE safety risk.
NHTSA complaint #11501144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ventura, CA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the vehicle was emitting an abnormal oil burning odor. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11493984 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Montgomery, AL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11487054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 88,000 milesSeattle, WA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that after turning off the vehicle, she noticed that the engine was extremely hot. The dealer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11481208 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kissimmee, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW has issued a recall with no resolution. My engine is making noises from the crankcase and no alternative has been offered at this moment. The dealer does not want to address the issue.
NHTSA complaint #11478483 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kissimmee, FL
ENGINE
BMW has issued a recall with no resolution. My engine is making noises from the crankcase and no alternative has been offered at this moment. The dealer does not want to address the issue.
NHTSA complaint #11478483 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kissimmee, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
BMW has issued a recall with no resolution. My engine is making noises from the crankcase and no alternative has been offered at this moment. The dealer does not want to address the issue.
NHTSA complaint #11478483 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Panorama City, CA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11477666 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesMobile, ALFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 MPH, the air conditioning unit suddenly shut off and smoke began to come out of the air conditioning vents. After the contact exited the vehicle flames were present coming from under the passenger side dashboard. The fire and police departments were called to the scene and the flames were extinguished. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed. A fire and a police report were taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed away. The local dealer was notified of the incident. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 190,000.
NHTSA complaint #11477117 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nacogdoches, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Fuel pump leaking gas due to cracks on top of fuel pump
NHTSA complaint #11476233 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nacogdoches, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel pump leaking gas due to cracks on top of fuel pump
NHTSA complaint #11476233 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,000 milesModesto, CAFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled inadvertently and the engine exploded. The automatic transmission gearbox warning light illuminated. The contact immediately exited the vehicle. The contact stated that there was a significant amount of dark smoke and there was fire underneath the hood of the vehicle. The fire was extinguished independently. The contact did not sustain any injuries. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where the engine, the valves and the engine compartment were replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine And Engine Cooling), which she associated with the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
NHTSA complaint #11462662 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,000 milesModesto, CAFire
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled inadvertently and the engine exploded. The automatic transmission gearbox warning light illuminated. The contact immediately exited the vehicle. The contact stated that there was a significant amount of dark smoke and there was fire underneath the hood of the vehicle. The fire was extinguished independently. The contact did not sustain any injuries. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where the engine, the valves and the engine compartment were replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine And Engine Cooling), which she associated with the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
NHTSA complaint #11462662 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cloverdale, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My car was just sitting in my driveway and my roommate noticed she said is there is your car supposed to be on fire and we went out there had to break the windows and it was already on fire and totally ruined from any repair. I didn't receive a recall until a year after it had already caught on fire. The car is totaled in my backyard. And is beyond repair because of the fire
NHTSA complaint #11462242 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesNederland, TXFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owned a 2006 BMW 330i. The contact stated while her boyfriend was driving 65 mph, he heard an abnormal noise coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver was able to park on the side of the road and exit before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The driver saw the fire starting under the transmission. The driver stated no one was injured nor sought medical attention. The driver stated the fire department extinguished the fire. A fire report was filed. The driver stated the police did arrive at the location and filed a police report. The vehicle was not drivable. The insurance company deemed the vehicle a total loss. The contact towed the vehicle to the record yard. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 ( Engine and Engine Cooling) on 4/25/2022. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. Consumer stated her vehicle hit a donkey head on but none of the airbags went off.
NHTSA complaint #11462176 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Olympia, WA
AIR BAGS
Passénger seat occupancy seat mat has failed and passenger air bag system does not work. Diagnosed recently- repair scheduled soon for cost of $1588.35 It looks like there may have been a recall in 2017 but I don’t have any record of being notified or having it fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11423452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Olympia, WA
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Passénger seat occupancy seat mat has failed and passenger air bag system does not work. Diagnosed recently- repair scheduled soon for cost of $1588.35 It looks like there may have been a recall in 2017 but I don’t have any record of being notified or having it fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11423452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Olympia, WA
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:REAR PASSENGER
Passénger seat occupancy seat mat has failed and passenger air bag system does not work. Diagnosed recently- repair scheduled soon for cost of $1588.35 It looks like there may have been a recall in 2017 but I don’t have any record of being notified or having it fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11423452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesMclean, VA
AIR BAGS
THE VEHICLE HAS AN UNEXPLAINED AND UNREPAIRABLE DEFECT RELATED TO THE MAIN AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT MODULE, BMW PART NUMBER 65779184432 (CURRENT VERSION); BELIEVE PART 65770394017 APPLIED TO MY VEHICLE AS-BUILT. THE CONTROL MODULE GENERATES INTERNAL CONTROL UNIT FAULT CODE 93D7. BOTH THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT AND SEATBELT LIGHT ARE CONTINUOUSLY ILLUMINATED. ACCORDING TO DEALER TECHNICIAN, THE CODE IS LOCKED IN AND CANNOT BE CLEARED. ADVICE PROVIDED WAS THAT THE UNIT CAN BE REPLACED AND THEN RECODED AT ESTIMATED COST OF APPROXIMATELY $2,000. IF A REPAIR CAN BE EFFECTUATED WITH AN UPDATED PART, THEN IT APPEARS THAT MY CAR AND PERHAPS ALL OTHER SIMILARLY AGED VEHICLES HAVE A DEFECTIVE MAIN AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT MODULE. A FAULTY AIRBAG MODULE WOULD BE A DEFECT IN A CRITICAL DEFECT IN A SAFETY SYSTEM'S PERFORMANCE THAT UNREASONABLY INCREASES RISK OF DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT. THE FAULT THUS POSES A RISK TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY. FURTHER, BASED ON OPENLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION, IT APPEARS THAT NUMEROUS OTHER VEHICLES HAVE SIMILAR, POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE, MAIN AIRBAG CONTROL MODULES. FINALLY, IT APPEARS THAT BMW UPDATED THIS PART APPROXIMATELY 15 TIMES IN A 6-YEAR PERIOD, WHICH IS ABOUT DOUBLE THE UPDATE FREQUENCY FOR COMPARABLE VEHICLE--NOTING THAT THIS IS BASED ONLY ON MY LIMITED REVIEW. REGARDLESS, THAT DATA SUGGEST THAT BMW HAS HAD SOME AWARENESS THAT THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE HAD PERFORMANCE DIFFICULTIES. THANK YOU.
NHTSA complaint #11415443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.