Owners have filed 67 complaints
about the 2012 BMW X3 with NHTSA between 2011 and 2026.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 17 of 23 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 — 28
Against the median year of the BMW X3. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 77
14.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 52
30% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
24.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
36.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
510.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
510.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1021.7%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
715.2%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1328.3%
150,000+ miles
12.2%
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.
Oct 2011peak 5Mar 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2012 BMW X3
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.
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.C...
Recalls on the 2012 BMW X3
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
17V495000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2013 BMW X3 xDrive28i, X3 xDrive35i, and M6 Convertible vehicles and 2013 M6 Coupe vehicles. The affected vehicles have a driver's frontal air bag inflator that may have been improperly welded.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator housing could separate from the base plate and result in metal striking the vehicle occupants, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
16V333000
CHILD SEAT:LATCH STRAP
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011-2017, X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i and X3 xDrive35i, vehicles manufactured July 2, 2010 to April 14, 2016, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014 to March 31, 2016, and 2015-2017 x4 xDrive28i, X4 xDrive35i and X4 xDriveM40i vehicles manufactured March3, 2014 to April 15, 2016. The affected vehicles have lower anchor bars for securing child restraint seats that may become damaged when using the European-ISOFIX-type, rigid-style connector, child restraint system.
Risk: Damaged lower anchor bars may increase the child's risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2024544587,250 units in Canada
Label
Issue: On certain vehicles, the tire and loading information label does not list that there is no spare tire in both official languages. The label reads as "NONE" when it should read as "NONE / AUCUN". Canadian regulations require the information to be listed on the label in both English and French. Safety Risk: This error does not affect vehicle safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. The company has corrected the tire and loading information label for all new vehicles.
Recall 202439244,131 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: This recall applies to vehicles that may be equipped with a replacement sport or M-sport steering wheel that has a Takata airbag. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the driver-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the driver-front airbag module. To learn if your vehicle is affected by this recall, owners may: • Visit <a href= https://www.bmw.ca/en/ssl/VehicleRecall.html> https://www.bmw.ca/en/ssl/VehicleRecall.html</a> • Contact your preferred or local BMW Retailer • Call BMW Customer Relations Recall Services at 1-855-217-3002
Recall 2017388886 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the housing of the driver's frontal airbag inflator may have been incorrectly welded during manufacturing and could separate from the base plate during an airbag deployment. If the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, metal fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, which could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the driver's frontal airbag. Note: This is an expansion of recall 2016-461. Additional Note: For 6-Series vehicles, only 2012-2013 model year M6 Cabriolet's and 2013 model year M6 Coupe's are involved in this campaign.
Recall 201624230,023 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain vehicles, the lower anchor bars that are used for installing child seats using the European-ISOFIX-type rigid-style connector may become damaged during vehicle operation. If the lower anchorage bar(s) were to become damaged, this would increase the risk of injury to a child seated in a child seat using this style of connector if involved in a crash. Correction: Dealers will weld a reinforcing bracket to the lower anchor bars and the vehicle body. Note: Child restraint systems using LATCH-type flexible style connectors, which reflect the vast majority of child restraint systems used in Canada, do not cause this issue.
Recall 201412720,022 units in Canada
Engine
On certain vehicles, housing bolts for the variable camshaft timing system could break, allowing camshaft timing to deviate. If this occurs, the engine would revert to "limp home mode", limiting available engine power. This could increase the risk of a collision causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace affected bolts.
Recall 201212967,771 units in Canada
Label
Certain vehicles fail to conform to Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Specifically, the compliance label does not indicate the wheel rim size, as required by the Standard. Correction: Due to the inconsequential nature of this non-compliance, no action will be taken.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 115,000 milesCement City, MICrash
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2012 BMW X3. The contact stated that after his wife parked the vehicle, she shifted the gear into the park (p) position however, after his wife exit the vehicle, the vehicle inadvertently rolled and crashed into a post without warning. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention was required. No police report was filed. The contact notified AAA and upon inspection, the contact was informed that the was shifted to the park (p) position. The vehicle had not yet been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
NHTSA complaint #11536328 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 48,130 milesSanta Barbara, CAFire
ENGINE
SPONTANEOUS ENGINE FIRE WHILE PARKED ON A CITY STREET. COOLANT PUMP REPLACED THE MORNING OF NOV 8TH 2017. ONE HOUR AFTER PICKING UP THE VEHICLE FROM THE DEALER AND A FEW SHORT TRIPS, VEHICLE WAS PARKED, SHUT OFF AND LOCKED. IT DROVE NORMALLY AND THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS. 15-20 MIN LATER ENGINE WAS ON FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #11045098 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 699 milesOxford, PACrash
SERVICE BRAKES
WHILE I WAS DRIVING MY 2012 X3, I APPROACHED A STOP LIGHT. AS I APPLIED THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN BUT WOULD NOT STOP. THE ENGINE STARTED TO ACCELERATE IN ADDITION TO THE BRAKES FAILING CAUSING ME TO HIT THE REAR END OF THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I CONTINUED TO APPLY THE BRAKES BUT THEY WOULD NOT RESPOND. MY 2012 X3 KEPT ROLLING AND FINALLY STOPPED ONLY AFTER I HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME APPROXIMATELY THREE TIMES. I IMMEDIATELY HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE BMW DEALER WHERE IT SAT FOR APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS. BMW STATED THAT THERE WERE NO PROBLEMS WITH CAR.
NHTSA complaint #10627444 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 34,000 milesRaleigh, NCCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 BMW X3. WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS REVERSED INTO BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. ALL OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED ABRUPTLY CAUSING THE DRIVER TO SUSTAIN INJURIES TO THE FACE, INCLUDING SWELLING AND NERVE DAMAGE. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT THE DIAGNOSTIC REPORT WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 34,000.
NHTSA complaint #10618998 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 6,000 milesHuntington Beach, CACrash
POWER TRAIN
2012 BMW X3. AT A STOP WITH FOOT ON BRAKE, CAR UNCONTROLLABLY SUDDENLY SURGES FORWARD AT FULL THROTTLE CAUSING CRASH. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE RESULTING IN ACCIDENTS BOTH TIMES AND CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO FRONT END OF CAR. FORTUNATELY NOBODY WAS IN FRONT OF CAR OR THE UNTHINKABLE WOULD HAPPEN. I HAVE CALLED THE DEALER AND THEY CLAIM NO OTHER INCIDENTS LIKE THIS HAVE HAPPENED. THE LEAD TECHNICIAN ALSO SAID THERE WERE NO TSB'S RELATING TO THIS ISSUE. I HAVE CALLED BMW NORTH AMERICA AND THEY ARE LOOKING INTO THIS ISSUE AND WILL ADVISE WITHIN 1-3 DAYS.
NHTSA complaint #10545478 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 6,000 milesHuntington Beach, CACrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2012 BMW X3. AT A STOP WITH FOOT ON BRAKE, CAR UNCONTROLLABLY SUDDENLY SURGES FORWARD AT FULL THROTTLE CAUSING CRASH. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE RESULTING IN ACCIDENTS BOTH TIMES AND CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO FRONT END OF CAR. FORTUNATELY NOBODY WAS IN FRONT OF CAR OR THE UNTHINKABLE WOULD HAPPEN. I HAVE CALLED THE DEALER AND THEY CLAIM NO OTHER INCIDENTS LIKE THIS HAVE HAPPENED. THE LEAD TECHNICIAN ALSO SAID THERE WERE NO TSB'S RELATING TO THIS ISSUE. I HAVE CALLED BMW NORTH AMERICA AND THEY ARE LOOKING INTO THIS ISSUE AND WILL ADVISE WITHIN 1-3 DAYS.
NHTSA complaint #10545478 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Grand Prairie, TX
POWER TRAIN
Over about seven years and roughly 70,000 miles of ownership, this 2012 BMW X3 generated repeated “Drivetrain malfunction” warnings and loss of drivability despite extensive repairs by multiple authorized BMW dealers. I paid approximately $15,000–$20,000 out of pocket for dealer repairs, and my third‑party service contract (CarShield) paid an additional roughly $15,000–$20,000 directly to these BMW dealers during this period. In December 2025, an authorized BMW dealer diagnosed a drivetrain malfunction as failure of the fuel pump control module, allegedly caused by a small water spill on the rear seat, charged me $1,690.71 to replace the module, and returned the vehicle as repaired. Shortly afterward, while driving normally, the same “Drivetrain malfunction” warning reappeared, and drivability issues returned, indicating the defect was not corrected and raising serious concerns about the safety and reliability of the drivetrain and related electronic controls. The dealer’s attribution of the failure to minor interior water exposure also caused the service‑contract administrator to void coverage for the fuel system, leaving me with this large repair bill for an unresolved safety‑related condition that ultimately forced me to dispose of the vehicle at a significant loss.
NHTSA complaint #11727392 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairfield, CT
AIR BAGS
Front passenger seat occupancy mat defect causes disabling of passenger airbag. Recalls have been issued for the same issue in other models. Issue confirmed by dealership. Persistent warning lamp alert.
NHTSA complaint #11631946 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Grand Prairie, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I emailed BMW of Arlington on [XXX] detailing the critical safety issue I experienced with my BMW X3 2012 on Sunday [XXX]. I was driving on the tollway northbound from [XXX] in Grand Prairie in the pouring rain with my wipers on, and the car suddenly started braking and decelerating from the 70 mph cruising speed to 40 mph in seconds. The car behind me nearly hit my vehicle, and since it kept doing that, I had to turn on my hazard lights till I exited. The car was doing that irrespective of whether it was on cruise control or my driving speed. I discovered by googling it that this is a known defect in BMWs since their shop foremen and certified technicians who know more than me think I am dreaming this up [XXX] -. Driving this car on the highways in Dallas regularly is extremely dangerous as I could end up in a major multivehicle MVA pileup. Also, the previous time I had this issue before I brought it in on [XXX], it wasn't raining, and it started with the car not even moving when I put it in reverse and pressed the gas. Then it suddenly started decelerating on the road, backfired, and shook violently at normal speeds. The car overheated as the radiator coolant leaked, and I had to replenish it. CarShield, the Auto Warranty company, and I paid approximately $7,000 to BMW Mini of Arlington between June 2023 and today (see attached invoices_receipts_diagnosis reports). The last two times ([XXX] and [XXX]), their multi-point diagnosis on my vehicle identified no issues that need attention. Two of their service advisors who worked on my car in June and October 2023 quit immediately after completing it. The dealership does not respond to the BBB or my calls, emails, faxes, etc. BMW USA advised me to contact NHTSA. On June [XXX], while driving on city streets, the brakes were squealing even without engaging, and the car overheated/ backfired again/ almost caught fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) The dealer finally responded stating their diagnosis did not d
NHTSA complaint #11592023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Grand Prairie, TX
ENGINE
I emailed BMW of Arlington on [XXX] detailing the critical safety issue I experienced with my BMW X3 2012 on Sunday [XXX]. I was driving on the tollway northbound from [XXX] in Grand Prairie in the pouring rain with my wipers on, and the car suddenly started braking and decelerating from the 70 mph cruising speed to 40 mph in seconds. The car behind me nearly hit my vehicle, and since it kept doing that, I had to turn on my hazard lights till I exited. The car was doing that irrespective of whether it was on cruise control or my driving speed. I discovered by googling it that this is a known defect in BMWs since their shop foremen and certified technicians who know more than me think I am dreaming this up [XXX] -. Driving this car on the highways in Dallas regularly is extremely dangerous as I could end up in a major multivehicle MVA pileup. Also, the previous time I had this issue before I brought it in on [XXX], it wasn't raining, and it started with the car not even moving when I put it in reverse and pressed the gas. Then it suddenly started decelerating on the road, backfired, and shook violently at normal speeds. The car overheated as the radiator coolant leaked, and I had to replenish it. CarShield, the Auto Warranty company, and I paid approximately $7,000 to BMW Mini of Arlington between June 2023 and today (see attached invoices_receipts_diagnosis reports). The last two times ([XXX] and [XXX]), their multi-point diagnosis on my vehicle identified no issues that need attention. Two of their service advisors who worked on my car in June and October 2023 quit immediately after completing it. The dealership does not respond to the BBB or my calls, emails, faxes, etc. BMW USA advised me to contact NHTSA. On June [XXX], while driving on city streets, the brakes were squealing even without engaging, and the car overheated/ backfired again/ almost caught fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) The dealer finally responded stating their diagnosis did not d
NHTSA complaint #11592023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Grand Prairie, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
I emailed BMW of Arlington on [XXX] detailing the critical safety issue I experienced with my BMW X3 2012 on Sunday [XXX]. I was driving on the tollway northbound from [XXX] in Grand Prairie in the pouring rain with my wipers on, and the car suddenly started braking and decelerating from the 70 mph cruising speed to 40 mph in seconds. The car behind me nearly hit my vehicle, and since it kept doing that, I had to turn on my hazard lights till I exited. The car was doing that irrespective of whether it was on cruise control or my driving speed. I discovered by googling it that this is a known defect in BMWs since their shop foremen and certified technicians who know more than me think I am dreaming this up [XXX] -. Driving this car on the highways in Dallas regularly is extremely dangerous as I could end up in a major multivehicle MVA pileup. Also, the previous time I had this issue before I brought it in on [XXX], it wasn't raining, and it started with the car not even moving when I put it in reverse and pressed the gas. Then it suddenly started decelerating on the road, backfired, and shook violently at normal speeds. The car overheated as the radiator coolant leaked, and I had to replenish it. CarShield, the Auto Warranty company, and I paid approximately $7,000 to BMW Mini of Arlington between June 2023 and today (see attached invoices_receipts_diagnosis reports). The last two times ([XXX] and [XXX]), their multi-point diagnosis on my vehicle identified no issues that need attention. Two of their service advisors who worked on my car in June and October 2023 quit immediately after completing it. The dealership does not respond to the BBB or my calls, emails, faxes, etc. BMW USA advised me to contact NHTSA. On June [XXX], while driving on city streets, the brakes were squealing even without engaging, and the car overheated/ backfired again/ almost caught fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) The dealer finally responded stating their diagnosis did not d
NHTSA complaint #11592023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 92,669 milesStamford, CT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2012 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle was driving rough before stalling with the drivetrain malfunction warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed with a fault code variable camshaft timing control. The dealer made other repairs to the vehicle, and the fault codes disappeared. However, the contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact took the vehicle back to the dealer and a local mechanic who confirmed a failure with the VANOS system. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) as a possible solution however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,669.
NHTSA complaint #11569246 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 115,000 milesCement City, MICrash
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2012 BMW X3. The contact stated that after his wife parked the vehicle, she shifted the gear into the park (p) position however, after his wife exit the vehicle, the vehicle inadvertently rolled and crashed into a post without warning. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention was required. No police report was filed. The contact notified AAA and upon inspection, the contact was informed that the was shifted to the park (p) position. The vehicle had not yet been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
NHTSA complaint #11536328 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palos Verdes Estatesq, CA
SEATS
A malfunction of the front seat occupancy mat will prevent the passenger air bag from deploying in the event of an accident and displays a malfunction warning. This malfunction has been the subject of several BMW NHTSA recalls but so far none have been issued for this vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11504700 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palos Verdes Estatesq, CA
AIR BAGS
A malfunction of the front seat occupancy mat will prevent the passenger air bag from deploying in the event of an accident and displays a malfunction warning. This malfunction has been the subject of several BMW NHTSA recalls but so far none have been issued for this vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11504700 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 89,000 milesGreenville, SC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2012 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking and hesitating during acceleration. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V176000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.
NHTSA complaint #11467813 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Center Moriches, NY
AIR BAGS
I am reporting a common issue I’ve seen a lot of BMWs have with the seat occupancy sensor. I just wanted to report this to see if it could be a potential recall, since it is a safety concern.
NHTSA complaint #11463165 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairfield, CT
AIR BAGS
OC3 mat in passenger seat malfunctions and disables passenger-side airbag. BMW is aware of this problem with OC3 sensors affecting different models. See, e.g., https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RCRIT-17V428-3205.pdf pertaining to various E Series vehicles that have the same part. BMWNA claims the recall and extended warranties that covered the OC3 part in these other vehicles has not been extended to cover my vehicle (2012 BMW X3). There is a long documented history of problems with the OC3 sensor: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10142910-9999.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RCRIT-17V428-3205.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RCMN-17V605-2124.pdf (X3 OC3 mat from 2006-2010) https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2014/SB-10056703-9690.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2013/MC-10150131-9999.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10179827-9999.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2014/SB-10056096-7046.pdf
NHTSA complaint #11458679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairfield, CT
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
OC3 mat in passenger seat malfunctions and disables passenger-side airbag. BMW is aware of this problem with OC3 sensors affecting different models. See, e.g., https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RCRIT-17V428-3205.pdf pertaining to various E Series vehicles that have the same part. BMWNA claims the recall and extended warranties that covered the OC3 part in these other vehicles has not been extended to cover my vehicle (2012 BMW X3). There is a long documented history of problems with the OC3 sensor: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10142910-9999.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RCRIT-17V428-3205.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RCMN-17V605-2124.pdf (X3 OC3 mat from 2006-2010) https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2014/SB-10056703-9690.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2013/MC-10150131-9999.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10179827-9999.pdf https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2014/SB-10056096-7046.pdf
NHTSA complaint #11458679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ponte Vedra Bch, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
As I drive and stop, my brakes stick, when I try to accelerate it struggles to go. On the highway it began slowing me down. I was scared it was going to get me rear ended because my brake lights do not come on when this happens. I brought it to my garage and they diagnosed it to be the DSC pump. They put in a used pump and fixed the issue. Please take this seriously, it is a dangerous problem.
NHTSA complaint #11426987 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 78,000 milesYpsilanti, MI
STEERING
MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY, AND THE POWER STEERING FAILED CAUSING A LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. LUCKILY SHE WAS NOT INJURED AND THE VEHICLE DRIFTED TO THE RIGHT HAND LANE AND OFF ONTO THE SHOULDER. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT HOME, THE ELECTRONIC STEERING UNIT LATER RESET ITSELF AFTER THE IGNITION HAD BEEN TURNED OFF AND BACK ON AGAIN.
NHTSA complaint #11384352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,000 milesJacksonville, FL
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 BMW X3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG AND CHASSIS WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED ABOUT AN AIR BAG REPLACEMENT AND WAS PROVIDED A PRINT OUT OF RECALLS. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED HOWEVER, NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,000.
NHTSA complaint #11383964 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,155 milesBoston, MA
ENGINE
ENGINE FAILURE AT 70155 MILES. CONNECTING ROD BEARING IS SPUN.
NHTSA complaint #11350252 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 84,100 milesLA Habra, CA
ENGINE
SITUATION WHEN STARTING A COLD ENGINE, A 'PLUME OF BLUE SMOKE' CAN BE SEEN EMITTING FROM THE EXHAUST TAILPIPE FOR APPROXIMATELY 10-20 SECONDS. THERE IS NO ENGINE MALFUNCTION LIGHT ILLUMINATED (NO' TURBOCHARGER BOOST FAULTS ARE STORED) AND NO DRIVABILITY ISSUES ARE DETECTED. CAUSE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PARKED OVERNIGHT THE ENGINE OIL PRESSURE WILL EQUALIZE, THIS MAY CAUSE ENGINE OIL TO LEAK PAST THE TURBOCHARGER 'EXHAUST SIDE' TURBINE SEAL DUE TO CARBONIZATION OF THE TURBOCHARGER SEALING RING. THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE IMPACTING BMW N20 ENGINES THAT BMW HAS ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN AND EXTENDED WARRANTY 10 YEARS/ 100,000 MILES. THE N55 ENGINE (6 CYLINDER, TURBO) HAS NOT BEEN INCLUDED IN THIS EXTENDED WARRANTY ALTHOUGH DEFECT IS THE SAME AND MAY IMPACT EMISSIONS.
NHTSA complaint #11337907 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 71,000 milesBrunswick, OH
AIR BAGS
RESTRAINT SYSTEM INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION. GETTING MALFUNCTION NOTIFICATION AFTER VEHICLE START MOVING AND SOMETIMES WHEN IT'S STATIONARY. SOME TIME MESSAGE ON DISPLAY SAYS 'PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM' AND SOMETIMES ADDITIONALLY TO PASSENGER, 'DRIVER RESTRAINT SYSTEM' COMES UP. WHEN CHECK WITH DEALER AND AFTER PAYING FOR DIAGNOSTIC, VERDICT WAS THAT MAIN AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE MUST BE REPLACE BECAUSE AT THE TIME WHEN MALFUNCTION MESSAGE IS DISPLACED, ALL AIRBAGS ARE TURN OFF AND IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR DURING ACCIDENT THERE WILL BE NO ACTIVE SAFETY FUTURE (AIRBAGS) WHICH WILL INCREASE THE RISK OF BAD INJURY OR DEATH.
NHTSA complaint #11331274 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesSAN Antonio, TX
SEATS
MY FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG SEAT OCCUPANCY SENSOR MAT WILL INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION. AT TIMES, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG WILL TURN OFF, EVEN WITH A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, DURING AND ACCIDENT, WITH DEACTIVATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG THERE IS INCREASED THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH.
NHTSA complaint #11324919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesSAN Antonio, TX
AIR BAGS
MY FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG SEAT OCCUPANCY SENSOR MAT WILL INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION. AT TIMES, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG WILL TURN OFF, EVEN WITH A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, DURING AND ACCIDENT, WITH DEACTIVATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG THERE IS INCREASED THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH.
NHTSA complaint #11324919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesSAN Antonio, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MY FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG SEAT OCCUPANCY SENSOR MAT WILL INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION. AT TIMES, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG WILL TURN OFF, EVEN WITH A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, DURING AND ACCIDENT, WITH DEACTIVATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG THERE IS INCREASED THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH.
NHTSA complaint #11324919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesSAN Antonio, TX
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
MY FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG SEAT OCCUPANCY SENSOR MAT WILL INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION. AT TIMES, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG WILL TURN OFF, EVEN WITH A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, DURING AND ACCIDENT, WITH DEACTIVATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG THERE IS INCREASED THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH.
NHTSA complaint #11324919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,036 milesTonawanda, NY
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2012 X3 F25 ENGINE - VEHICLE RUNS OUT OF FUEL WHEN GAS GAUGE IS BETWEEN 1/2 AND 3/4. FURTHER INVESTIGATION SHOWS OBC TEST OF LEFT TANK SENSOR WITH A STATIC READING @97 OHMS AND 42.2 L OF FUEL (AKA "TANK = FULL") WHEN IN FACT THE LEFT SIDE TANK IS COMPLETELY VOID OF FUEL. THIS SITUATION IS UNSAFE AND COULD CAUSE AN UNEXPECTED STALLED VEHICLE @ HIGH SPEED ON THE HIGHWAY.
NHTSA complaint #11324004 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 123,467 milesAndover, KS
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
DECEMBER 4TH AT APPROXIMATELY 6:45 AM, TEMP IN THE 30'S, CLEAR DAY. I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING AT 65-70 MPH, NO CARS IN FRONT OF ME OR BEHIND AND I HEAR A LOUD EXPLOSION SOUNDING LIKE A GUNSHOT. I DO NOT SEE ANY DEBRIS IN THE ROAD. I DID NOT PASS UNDER ANY BRIDGES. I EXIT HIGHWAY ASAP AND TAKE A LOOK AT THE CAR TO FIND THE SUNROOF SHATTERED WITH A LARGE AREA OF GLASS MISSING (THE SHADE INSIDE WAS CLOSED SO NO GLASS HAD COME IN THE CAR).
NHTSA complaint #11286963 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.