Owners have filed 158 complaints
about the 2015 BMW X3 with NHTSA between 2014 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 4 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 — 65
Against the median year of the BMW X3. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
19.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 58
34% 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
56.5%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
810.4%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
79.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1316.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2026.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1316.9%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
911.7%
150,000+ miles
22.6%
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.
Dec 2014peak 10Jun 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2015 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.
2
investigations are
still open.
EA23001Opened 17 Mar 2023Still openFUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
High pressure fuel pump failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-021 on October 14, 2021, to investigate incidents alleging a stall/loss of motive power as a result of high-pressure fuel pump failures in certain model year (MY) 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 heavy duty trucks equipped with 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engines. During the investigation, ODI sought to determine if the related defect allegation was limited in scope to the recalled population. After review of information request response materials from both FCA and BMW, NHTSA determined that sufficient information to identify a compreh...
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 2015 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
24V608000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
Risk: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
21V907000
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon, 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV, and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV diesel vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. The EGR cooler may leak internally, causing coolant to mix with diesel engine soot, which could result in smoldering particles and a melting intake manifold.
Risk: A melting intake manifold increases the risk of a fire.
21V586000
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, X5 xDrive35d, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, and 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may fail.
Risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
18V755000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 BMW 328d and 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon and 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d and 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. If the EGR cooler leaks internally, the coolant can mix with diesel engine soot. The high EGR temperatures may result in these particles possibly smoldering and melting the intake manifold.
Risk: The melting intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
16V683000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 BMW X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, X3 xDrive35i, X3 xDrive28d, X4 xDrive28i and X4 xDrive35i vehicles, and model year 2014-2015 X5 xDrive35i, X5 sDrive35i, X5 xDrive50i, and 2014 X5 xDrive35d 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.
14V648000
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 X3 and X4 Sports Activity Vehicles manufactured July 28, 2014 to July 29, 2014. The affected vehicles may have been produced with a driver's side exterior rearview mirror that was designed to meet non-US market requirements. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards No. 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Risk: The driver may not notice that vehicles viewed in the mirror are closer than they appear, increasing the risk 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 202446878,381 units in Canada
Engine
Issue: On certain vehicles, fluid from the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system could leak on the intake air hose. As a result, the fluid could enter the electrical connector for the water pump and cause a short circuit. Safety Risk: A short circuit can create the risk of a fire, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: To reduce the safety risk, BMW advises you to park your vehicle outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs are completed. BMW will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the water pump and electrical connector. The dealer will also install a shield on the connector.
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 202171112,702 units in Canada
Engine
Issue: On certain vehicles, the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler could crack internally and leak. If this happens, you may notice the following symptoms: a warning symbol in the instrument cluster displaying a loss of coolant, reduced engine power, an unpleasant exhaust odour, an unusual noise from the engine and/or smoke from the engine compartment. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada Recall no. 2018-587. Safety Risk: A cracked EGR cooler could create the risk of an engine fire. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the EGR cooler. The dealer will also inspect the intake manifold, and replace it, if necessary.
Recall 20214693,486 units in Canada
Fuel System
Issue: On certain vehicles equipped with a diesel engine, the high-pressure fuel pump may wear prematurely. This can cause reduced engine performance and could lead to a sudden engine stall. Note: A warning lamp on the instrument cluster will turn on if the fuel pressure drops. Safety Risk: A loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
Recall 201858710,368 units in Canada
Engine
This recall was replaced by Transport Canada Recall No. 2021-711. On certain vehicles, the cooler for Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module may develop an internal leak and coolant could mix with diesel engine soot/sediment. In rare circumstances, this condition could result in smouldering particles and lead to the melting of the intake manifold, increasing the risk of a fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect the EGR cooler, and if necessary, replace it. If it is determined that the EGR cooler has leaked internally, the intake manifold will also be replaced. The EGR pipe connecting the cooler to the manifold will be cleaned. Note: An operator may be alerted to this condition by one or more of the following symptoms: A warning symbol in the instrument cluster displaying a loss of engine coolant, a reduction in engine power, an unpleasant odour (exhaust gas), an unusual noise from the engine compartment, and/or smoke from the engine compartment.
Recall 201657925 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) control unit may be missing a weld holding a contact pin due to a manufacturing error. A missing weld could lead to a gradual increase in pin contact resistance, which could result in a fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Also, a loss of power steering assist could increase steering effort and increase the risk of a crash resulting in injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the EPS control unit.
Recall 2016461395 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.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Bergenfield, NJFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle was idle in the driveway next to my home and had not been driven since the night before. That morning, I started to smell what I thought was an electronic overheat of some sort in the house. When I inspected outside, the entire front end of the vehicle was on fire and the fire department needed to respond. The fire spread rapidly along the side of my home causing significant damage to my property as well as my neighbor's property. Our safety was put at risk because this fire could have occurred overnight while my wife, children and I were sleeping since the vehicle was not being operated at the time the fire happened. Representatives from my insurance company removed the vehicle and had it inspected at their facility, where they determined the vehicle to be a total loss as the entire front half of the car burned. Further, I did not receive notice of the known recall on my vehicle (with no know remedy as yet) which could be the cause of the fire, until a week after the incident occurred in October.
NHTSA complaint #11656361 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bergenfield, NJFire
ENGINE
Vehicle was idle in the driveway next to my home and had not been driven since the night before. That morning, I started to smell what I thought was an electronic overheat of some sort in the house. When I inspected outside, the entire front end of the vehicle was on fire and the fire department needed to respond. The fire spread rapidly along the side of my home causing significant damage to my property as well as my neighbor's property. Our safety was put at risk because this fire could have occurred overnight while my wife, children and I were sleeping since the vehicle was not being operated at the time the fire happened. Representatives from my insurance company removed the vehicle and had it inspected at their facility, where they determined the vehicle to be a total loss as the entire front half of the car burned. Further, I did not receive notice of the known recall on my vehicle (with no know remedy as yet) which could be the cause of the fire, until a week after the incident occurred in October.
NHTSA complaint #11656361 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Woodstock, GAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The vehicle was driven 30 miles and parked at 9am weather was in the 30s-40s F. There were no check engine light, warning lights or abnormal readings on the gauges during the commute. At approximately noon, the vehicles was started and idled for approximately 20 min, it was not driven or moved from the parking spot, the car did not reach full operating temp. Smoke with a burnt plastic and electrical odor was noted emanating from under the hood while parked idling. The car was immediately shut off and exited. The driver went inside to get help. After returning to the vehicle in approximately 5minutes it was fully engulfed in flames. The fire department came to put out the fire. The vehicle is a total loss. The fire damaged adjoining vehicles and the property where it was parked. The vehicle was towed back to my residence where it remains for evidence. Upon review of BMW recall 24v-608 i performed an inspection of the water pump electrical connection plug and identified there is evidence of an electrical short on the plug which appears to have burnt through the connector prior to the major engine compartment fire. I have contacted BMW to file a complain and have followed up multiple times with the point of contact identified to me by BMW, but have been unsuccessful to date to establish communications with the BMW representative.
NHTSA complaint #11636209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Woodstock, GAFire
ENGINE
The vehicle was driven 30 miles and parked at 9am weather was in the 30s-40s F. There were no check engine light, warning lights or abnormal readings on the gauges during the commute. At approximately noon, the vehicles was started and idled for approximately 20 min, it was not driven or moved from the parking spot, the car did not reach full operating temp. Smoke with a burnt plastic and electrical odor was noted emanating from under the hood while parked idling. The car was immediately shut off and exited. The driver went inside to get help. After returning to the vehicle in approximately 5minutes it was fully engulfed in flames. The fire department came to put out the fire. The vehicle is a total loss. The fire damaged adjoining vehicles and the property where it was parked. The vehicle was towed back to my residence where it remains for evidence. Upon review of BMW recall 24v-608 i performed an inspection of the water pump electrical connection plug and identified there is evidence of an electrical short on the plug which appears to have burnt through the connector prior to the major engine compartment fire. I have contacted BMW to file a complain and have followed up multiple times with the point of contact identified to me by BMW, but have been unsuccessful to date to establish communications with the BMW representative.
NHTSA complaint #11636209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Washington, DCCrash
POWER TRAIN
Driver drove approx. 3.5 to passenger’s home. While sitting & talking to the passenger for several minutes, the car suddenly, rapidly lurched forward, crashing into neighbor’s property. Substantial damage was done to the neighbor’s deck and brick wall at rear of the house. At least one piece of heavy lumber speared through the windshield between the driver and passenger. Vehicle is auto-shut off capable, however, the driver doesn’t recall if they shut the engine off manually, but believes it may have auto-shut off, while stopped before parking the vehicle. Driver recalls pressing the “P” button to put the vehicle in park. Driver said they were just sitting and talking to the Passenger (ie Driver was in a relaxed seating position, hands were not on the steering wheel, and feet not on the pedals). Driver said they attempted to hit the brakes after the vehicle lurched forward, but feels that they may have partially froze due to the shock of the unexpected acceleration. The passenger who also witnessed the event says the car seemed to go slowly for a split second then suddenly took off at extremely high acceleration. Passenger said prior to the car moving, the driver was pressing or had pressed the park button on the gear shift, when the car started to move, slowly at first (for a split second) and then suddenly the car took off at rapid acceleration. Driver said they recalled checking to see if the car was in park, which they noted is indicated by a red light (which they recall seeing). Passenger doesn’t recall seeing light on, but recalls Driver pressing the P button at least twice. Vehicle owned since 2017, purchased with 24k miles, 1 prior owner (previously leased). Vehicle had about 50k miles at time of incident. Vehicle was always serviced at BMW of Fairfax. No prior issues with the vehicle. The car was equipped with BMW OEM rubber floor mats. No Airbag deployment. The event occurred on or about May 25th, 2021 at 9 pm. Vehicle deemed total loss.
NHTSA complaint #11515345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Washington, DCCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Driver drove approx. 3.5 to passenger’s home. While sitting & talking to the passenger for several minutes, the car suddenly, rapidly lurched forward, crashing into neighbor’s property. Substantial damage was done to the neighbor’s deck and brick wall at rear of the house. At least one piece of heavy lumber speared through the windshield between the driver and passenger. Vehicle is auto-shut off capable, however, the driver doesn’t recall if they shut the engine off manually, but believes it may have auto-shut off, while stopped before parking the vehicle. Driver recalls pressing the “P” button to put the vehicle in park. Driver said they were just sitting and talking to the Passenger (ie Driver was in a relaxed seating position, hands were not on the steering wheel, and feet not on the pedals). Driver said they attempted to hit the brakes after the vehicle lurched forward, but feels that they may have partially froze due to the shock of the unexpected acceleration. The passenger who also witnessed the event says the car seemed to go slowly for a split second then suddenly took off at extremely high acceleration. Passenger said prior to the car moving, the driver was pressing or had pressed the park button on the gear shift, when the car started to move, slowly at first (for a split second) and then suddenly the car took off at rapid acceleration. Driver said they recalled checking to see if the car was in park, which they noted is indicated by a red light (which they recall seeing). Passenger doesn’t recall seeing light on, but recalls Driver pressing the P button at least twice. Vehicle owned since 2017, purchased with 24k miles, 1 prior owner (previously leased). Vehicle had about 50k miles at time of incident. Vehicle was always serviced at BMW of Fairfax. No prior issues with the vehicle. The car was equipped with BMW OEM rubber floor mats. No Airbag deployment. The event occurred on or about May 25th, 2021 at 9 pm. Vehicle deemed total loss.
NHTSA complaint #11515345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Christiansburg, VA
ENGINE
While driving under medium acceleration, vehicle made a loud popping noise and engine power was severely reduced. Drivetrain warning light immediately appeared and said vehicle could be driven but at reduced power and needed to be serviced soon as possible. At highway speeds on a major interstate, this created several close calls being struck by traffic while trying to reach a safe area on shoulder. On site inspection revealed the plastic turbo charge pipe had blown away from the throttle body. Pieces of plastic and metal were found in engine bay and under vehicle. Vehicle was driven to nearby residence and towed to closest suitable garage for more detailed assessment and repair. Facility confirmed the Air Duct, BMW part number 13717604033 had failed. Repair made costing approximately $825 US dollars.
NHTSA complaint #11743975 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesOlympia, WA
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and the "Service Engine Soon" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
NHTSA complaint #11721744 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Deland, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW illegally stopped updating my car which relies totally on it’s OS system in its iDrive. You used to be able to download them to a usb stick. 1 year newer cars can remotely still download the updates. This is dangerous and needs to be addressed. It is also biased and runs my entire car. The download should still be available for free. There was a technical report but BMW doesn’t honor that.
NHTSA complaint #11718593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
La Marque, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am writing to formally report a serious and dangerous safety defect affecting my 2015 BMW X3, which I believe warrants immediate investigation and a recall. Description of the Defect: On multiple occasions, while driving in rainy or wet road conditions, my BMW X3 has suddenly and forcefully reduced speed without any brake pedal input from the driver. The vehicle appears to apply braking on its own, causing abrupt deceleration. This behavior occurs: On wet roads only, while driving straight at steady speed without warning lights or alerts, without driver input and at speeds that pose a high risk of rear-end collision. The sudden and unexpected braking has created an imminent danger to myself, my passengers, and surrounding vehicles, particularly on highways where traffic flow is fast and close. Uncommanded braking under normal driving conditions is a critical safety failure. A driver has no reasonable opportunity to anticipate or correct this behavior, and it places the vehicle at significant risk of being struck from behind. Given the seriousness of this issue, I have requested that BMW: Formally investigate this defect across 2015 BMW X3 (F25) vehicles Determine whether a systemic fault exists involving DSC, ABS, wheel speed sensors, or collision mitigation systems in wet conditions. Issue a recall or safety service action to permanently correct this behavior in order to provide affected owners with a reliable and documented fix. Reason for which I wanted to bring this situation to the NHTSA.GOV attention.
NHTSA complaint #11711227 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Georgetown, OH
ENGINE
Our vehicle alerted us to over heating and to pull over immediately. Our car then stopped running. We had it towed and was told there was an issue with the water pump sensor and corrosion issues. They alerted us that there was a recall for these issues on our vehicle. We researched and found this to be true. When I contacted BMW they stated our vin number was not part of the recall but our vehicle match the exact models listed in the recall. We took it to the dealership and they repaired it for $2500 and the reason for the repair was the exact reason for the recall. Spoke with BMW again regarding this and they said if our vin was not on the recall list there was nothing they could do. I would think when your vehicle make and model matches the recall and the issues are the same you would be part of the recall no matter the vin number. I would like for this to be reviewed and see if we can get a reimbursement from bmw for the charges we paid out of pocket for an issue that should have been covered by the recall. The recall form attached is one my friend received who has the exact same car we have. The other documents are the service invoice and verification of our payment. Thank you!
NHTSA complaint #11706812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Georgetown, OH
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Our vehicle alerted us to over heating and to pull over immediately. Our car then stopped running. We had it towed and was told there was an issue with the water pump sensor and corrosion issues. They alerted us that there was a recall for these issues on our vehicle. We researched and found this to be true. When I contacted BMW they stated our vin number was not part of the recall but our vehicle match the exact models listed in the recall. We took it to the dealership and they repaired it for $2500 and the reason for the repair was the exact reason for the recall. Spoke with BMW again regarding this and they said if our vin was not on the recall list there was nothing they could do. I would think when your vehicle make and model matches the recall and the issues are the same you would be part of the recall no matter the vin number. I would like for this to be reviewed and see if we can get a reimbursement from bmw for the charges we paid out of pocket for an issue that should have been covered by the recall. The recall form attached is one my friend received who has the exact same car we have. The other documents are the service invoice and verification of our payment. Thank you!
NHTSA complaint #11706812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Aliso Viejo, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
High pressure fuel pump Stalling almost caused an accident Yes the problem has been confirmed by BMW BMW has inspected the component Check engine light and drivetrain errors BMW replaced a high pressure fuel pump and fuel system in 2019, see attachment. I was not notifies of the 2021 BMW recall for the high pressure fuel pump. The high pressure fuel pump fail in 2025, see attachment at around 60,000 on the replaced high pressure fuel pump in 2019, less than the original fuel pump. BMW now says they are not going to repair this because of the age and mileage on the car. My position is the mileage on the car is irrelevant. It’s the mileage on the fuel system replaced in 2019. In addition, I was not notified of the recall in 2021and now the question is “ is the high pressure fuel pump replaced in 2019 the same fuel pump replacement part that came with the car when new? Obliviously the 2021 recall may have upgraded the fuel pump to satisfy the recall. If so, that should have been put into my car in 2021. BMW has been very deceiving on answering my questions.
NHTSA complaint #11696948 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Elk River, MN
SEAT BELTS
My from passenger seatbelt will always beep even when no one is sitting in it and the back middle seat has the wrong seatbelt installed and isn’t correct for use, so I am not able to ever use it, I don’t even know how that’s even possible that it’s an incorrect one installed but it won’t click into place at al!!!!! It’s jot safe of I have three passengers in the back. It was on recall for certain models and mine was not included but it’s clearly a safety issue!!!
NHTSA complaint #11696709 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 71,245 milesChicago, IL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for maintenance, and the contact was informed that the water pump had failed. The contact showed the independent mechanic the receipt for when the vehicle was repaired under the recall for the water pump. The contact was informed that the water pump was not replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 71,245.
NHTSA complaint #11695924 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 71,245 milesChicago, IL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for maintenance, and the contact was informed that the water pump had failed. The contact showed the independent mechanic the receipt for when the vehicle was repaired under the recall for the water pump. The contact was informed that the water pump was not replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 71,245.
NHTSA complaint #11695924 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Georgetown, OH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Engine over heating alert issued and to pull over immediately. We had car towed to bmw dealership who stated it is water pump issue. This is a known issue for this make and model but recall not in effect for our vin. We are having the same issues as stated in recall for water pumps and temperature control issues. Just because our vin number is not associated with this recall they will not repair this issue unless we pay out of pocket. This is a known issue for our make and model of car and should be a covered expense by bmw. I have attached a link to the recall issues. Please review and respond accordingly. Thank you!
NHTSA complaint #11692085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Georgetown, OH
ENGINE
Engine over heating alert issued and to pull over immediately. We had car towed to bmw dealership who stated it is water pump issue. This is a known issue for this make and model but recall not in effect for our vin. We are having the same issues as stated in recall for water pumps and temperature control issues. Just because our vin number is not associated with this recall they will not repair this issue unless we pay out of pocket. This is a known issue for our make and model of car and should be a covered expense by bmw. I have attached a link to the recall issues. Please review and respond accordingly. Thank you!
NHTSA complaint #11692085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Frederick, MD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced the failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11672429 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lincoln, RI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I received a recall notice from BMW in October 2024 for Recall 24V-608 involving a water pump electrical connector defect in my vehicle. According to the notice, this defect may cause liquid to drip onto the water pump’s electrical connector, potentially leading to a short circuit and, in rare cases, a fire. As of June 2025, nearly eight months later, there is still no remedy available. I have contacted BMW, and although they acknowledge the risk, they have not offered a loaner vehicle or any alternative despite the known fire hazard. I am concerned for my safety and do not feel comfortable continuing to drive a vehicle with a known, unresolved safety defect. I am submitting this complaint because I believe this delay is unreasonable and puts drivers at risk. The vehicle is currently operational, but the issue has not been fixed or properly addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11669515 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lincoln, RI
ENGINE
I received a recall notice from BMW in October 2024 for Recall 24V-608 involving a water pump electrical connector defect in my vehicle. According to the notice, this defect may cause liquid to drip onto the water pump’s electrical connector, potentially leading to a short circuit and, in rare cases, a fire. As of June 2025, nearly eight months later, there is still no remedy available. I have contacted BMW, and although they acknowledge the risk, they have not offered a loaner vehicle or any alternative despite the known fire hazard. I am concerned for my safety and do not feel comfortable continuing to drive a vehicle with a known, unresolved safety defect. I am submitting this complaint because I believe this delay is unreasonable and puts drivers at risk. The vehicle is currently operational, but the issue has not been fixed or properly addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11669515 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lincoln, RI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I received a recall notice from BMW in October 2024 for Recall 24V-608 involving a water pump electrical connector defect in my vehicle. According to the notice, this defect may cause liquid to drip onto the water pump’s electrical connector, potentially leading to a short circuit and, in rare cases, a fire. As of June 2025, nearly eight months later, there is still no remedy available. I have contacted BMW, and although they acknowledge the risk, they have not offered a loaner vehicle or any alternative despite the known fire hazard. I am concerned for my safety and do not feel comfortable continuing to drive a vehicle with a known, unresolved safety defect. I am submitting this complaint because I believe this delay is unreasonable and puts drivers at risk. The vehicle is currently operational, but the issue has not been fixed or properly addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11669515 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,000 milesShoal Creek, AL
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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 manufacturer was made aware of the issue. Additionally, the contact stated that the high-beam headlights failed to operate as needed; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed by the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 18,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11661419 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,000 milesShoal Creek, AL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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 manufacturer was made aware of the issue. Additionally, the contact stated that the high-beam headlights failed to operate as needed; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed by the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 18,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11661419 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,000 milesShoal Creek, AL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); 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 manufacturer was made aware of the issue. Additionally, the contact stated that the high-beam headlights failed to operate as needed; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed by the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 18,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11661419 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 63,000 milesPortland, OR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 40-50 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated and the message "Engine Overheated -Stop Vehicle Immediately" was displayed. The contact parked and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was later restarted, but the message "Engine Overheated Stop - Vehicle Immediately" was displayed again. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the water pump had overheated and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who also determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
NHTSA complaint #11660863 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 63,000 milesPortland, OR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 BMW X3. The contact stated while driving 40-50 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated and the message "Engine Overheated -Stop Vehicle Immediately" was displayed. The contact parked and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was later restarted, but the message "Engine Overheated Stop - Vehicle Immediately" was displayed again. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the water pump had overheated and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who also determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
NHTSA complaint #11660863 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Zanesville, OH
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Vehicle was driving when it stalled while driving. The vehicle would not start after that. After having a mechanic look at the vehicle it was found the high pressure fuel pump failed causing extensive damage to the fuel system and a repair quote of $15,000. Even though vehicles manufacturered in the same model year had a recall for this issue my vin number did not receive the recall. The recall number for the recall I'm referencing is 21V586000. BMW denies any recall for my vehicle and will not cover repairs.
NHTSA complaint #11656912 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bergenfield, NJFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle was idle in the driveway next to my home and had not been driven since the night before. That morning, I started to smell what I thought was an electronic overheat of some sort in the house. When I inspected outside, the entire front end of the vehicle was on fire and the fire department needed to respond. The fire spread rapidly along the side of my home causing significant damage to my property as well as my neighbor's property. Our safety was put at risk because this fire could have occurred overnight while my wife, children and I were sleeping since the vehicle was not being operated at the time the fire happened. Representatives from my insurance company removed the vehicle and had it inspected at their facility, where they determined the vehicle to be a total loss as the entire front half of the car burned. Further, I did not receive notice of the known recall on my vehicle (with no know remedy as yet) which could be the cause of the fire, until a week after the incident occurred in October.
NHTSA complaint #11656361 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bergenfield, NJFire
ENGINE
Vehicle was idle in the driveway next to my home and had not been driven since the night before. That morning, I started to smell what I thought was an electronic overheat of some sort in the house. When I inspected outside, the entire front end of the vehicle was on fire and the fire department needed to respond. The fire spread rapidly along the side of my home causing significant damage to my property as well as my neighbor's property. Our safety was put at risk because this fire could have occurred overnight while my wife, children and I were sleeping since the vehicle was not being operated at the time the fire happened. Representatives from my insurance company removed the vehicle and had it inspected at their facility, where they determined the vehicle to be a total loss as the entire front half of the car burned. Further, I did not receive notice of the known recall on my vehicle (with no know remedy as yet) which could be the cause of the fire, until a week after the incident occurred in October.
NHTSA complaint #11656361 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Portland, OR
ENGINE
A low oil pressure signal flashed after regular service and my engine died as a result. No warning just died after years of regular service
NHTSA complaint #11649418 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.