Owners have filed 118 complaints
about the 2022 BMW X5 with NHTSA between 2021 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 5 of 27 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 — 35
Against the median year of the BMW X5. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 96
18.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
60% 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.
Automatic Emergency Braking
630.0%
Adaptive Cruise Control
420.0%
Warnings
315.0%
Warnings
210.0%
Blind Spot Detection
210.0%
Autonomous/Self Driving
15.0%
Rearview System Braking
15.0%
Assist
15.0%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
220.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
440.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
220.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
220.0%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2022 BMW X5 SUV AWD
15.9% risk
2022 BMW X5 SUV RWD
—
—
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 2021peak 13Sep 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2022 BMW X5
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.
DP22005Opened 27 Jan 2023Closed 7 Aug 2023ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM
Pedestrian alert sounds
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after Marc...
Recalls on the 2022 BMW X5
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
22V267000
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2022 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive); 2019-2022 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M; 2021-2022 X5 xdrive45e; 2020-2022 X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6M and 2019-2023 X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, X7 xDrive60i, X7 M60i, X7M, Alpina XB7 vehicles. The roof function control unit may be programmed incorrectly, allowing the sunroof to close without the key fob present inside the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
Risk: A sunroof that closes without the key fob present inside the vehicle can increase the risk of injury.
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 20222026,235 units in Canada
Structure
Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could allow you to close the sunroof remotely without the key fob inside the vehicle. Canadian regulations require the key fob to be in or near the vehicle when closing the sunroof. Safety Risk: A sunroof that can be closed without the key fob in or near the vehicle could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealership to reprogram the roof function control unit. Alternatively, you can download an over-the-air update to fix this problem.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Forest Hills, NYCrash
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
I am writing to you as a loyal BMW owner to formally lodge a serious complaint regarding a technical safety failure in my BMW X5 and the subsequent dismissive treatment I received at an authorized service center in New York. The Incident Recently, while reversing, the Driving Assistance and Parking Assistant systems failed without warning. As a result, the vehicle collided with an object, causing damage to the rear bumper. This was not a result of driver negligence, but a direct failure of the safety technology that I trusted to protect my family. Service Center Negligence Upon visiting the service center to address this life-threatening defect, I was met with unacceptable indifference. The service advisor flatly refused to investigate the system failure, stating they would only perform a standard NYC Inspection. I was given a follow-up appointment for May 5th—forcing me to wait weeks to address a critical safety defect. Safety Concerns & Demand for Replacement As a father [XXX], I no longer feel safe operating this vehicle. The integrity of the safety modules has been compromised, and my confidence in this specific car is completely shattered. Repairing a bumper does not fix a failed safety system that could have caused a much more serious accident.And when I provide all of this evidence to BMW North America they Lay to me and asked me to take my vehicle without resolving the problem and the doesn’t care about my family safety INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11742057 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am writing to you as a loyal BMW owner to formally lodge a serious complaint regarding a technical safety failure in my BMW X5 and the subsequent dismissive treatment I received at an authorized service center in New York. The Incident Recently, while reversing, the Driving Assistance and Parking Assistant systems failed without warning. As a result, the vehicle collided with an object, causing damage to the rear bumper. This was not a result of driver negligence, but a direct failure of the safety technology that I trusted to protect my family. Service Center Negligence Upon visiting the service center to address this life-threatening defect, I was met with unacceptable indifference. The service advisor flatly refused to investigate the system failure, stating they would only perform a standard NYC Inspection. I was given a follow-up appointment for May 5th—forcing me to wait weeks to address a critical safety defect. Safety Concerns & Demand for Replacement As a father [XXX], I no longer feel safe operating this vehicle. The integrity of the safety modules has been compromised, and my confidence in this specific car is completely shattered. Repairing a bumper does not fix a failed safety system that could have caused a much more serious accident.And when I provide all of this evidence to BMW North America they Lay to me and asked me to take my vehicle without resolving the problem and the doesn’t care about my family safety INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11742057 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Forest Hills, NYCrash
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
I am writing to you as a loyal BMW owner to formally lodge a serious complaint regarding a technical safety failure in my BMW X5 and the subsequent dismissive treatment I received at an authorized service center in New York. The Incident Recently, while reversing, the Driving Assistance and Parking Assistant systems failed without warning. As a result, the vehicle collided with an object, causing damage to the rear bumper. This was not a result of driver negligence, but a direct failure of the safety technology that I trusted to protect my family. Service Center Negligence Upon visiting the service center to address this life-threatening defect, I was met with unacceptable indifference. The service advisor flatly refused to investigate the system failure, stating they would only perform a standard NYC Inspection. I was given a follow-up appointment for May 5th—forcing me to wait weeks to address a critical safety defect. Safety Concerns & Demand for Replacement As a father [XXX], I no longer feel safe operating this vehicle. The integrity of the safety modules has been compromised, and my confidence in this specific car is completely shattered. Repairing a bumper does not fix a failed safety system that could have caused a much more serious accident.And when I provide all of this evidence to BMW North America they Lay to me and asked me to take my vehicle without resolving the problem and the doesn’t care about my family safety INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11742057 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baltimore, MDCrash
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was turning right into a parking space when the vehicle suddenly accelerated and did not stop when I removed my foot from the accelerator and tried to brake. The car continued to accelerate through a low cinder block wall and did not stop until it dropped 3-4 feet off the side of the parking lot into the sidewalk/street. Fortunately I was not hurt and there were no pedestrians or vehicles in the roadway, but my car was deemed a total loss. The collision warning didn’t come in, and airbags did not deploy. I reported the incident to BMW NAmerica, who sent an inspection team to the collision center. After 7 weeks I was told that the vehicle data recorder captured ‘an incident” but did not record any information to verify that I attempted to brake, or to otherwise provide details of the incident. I was told the inspection found no mechanical issues and the all weather floor mat (installed by the BMW dealer) was installed incorrectly and must have gotten stuck on the accelerator. Furthermore, I was told that although the mat was a BMW product, it was installed by the dealer so the manufacturer was not responsible. BMW offered me a small goodwill settlement provided I sign a non disclosure agreement, which I declined to do. I’m reporting this to ensure you have a record should you receive similar reports from others. I received no written communication from BMW detailing the safety investigation.
NHTSA complaint #11611265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fridley, MNCrash1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On 06-02-2024, at approximately 1430 hours, I was stopped in Traffic, because of a Red Traffic light and I was the last Vehicle in line. In less than a minute later, I was hit by another Vehicle. The other Vehicle left approximately 183' of Skid Marks on the Road and I determined that Vehicle was traveling at approximately 60 MPH, before it hit me, when I was stopped in Traffic. The damage was moderate. I have the Executive Package on my BMW X5, which has a 4 way Camera system, that records an incident, when an impact occurs. After the impact, the Camera system is to record 20 seconds before the impact, as well as 20 seconds after the impact. I was not sure how to retrieve the Video, so I had to call BMW Genius and the Employee had to walk me thru the steps to retrieve the Video. The Camera system was set up for Automatic Recording, as well as Manual Recording, but no Video of the accident was ever recorded. The only Video that was Recorded and saved, was from January 13, 2024, when I was showing my Wife, how to manually record something. According to the person who hit me, he said "I could not stop, because I had a bad Wheel" and that person also included that Statement in the Accident Report. Since the Accident, I sustained lower left Back pain, left Hip pain and upper left Leg pain in the Muscles. According to my X-Ray Images of my left Hip, the Head of the Femur Bone is flattened, due to the impact sustained following the collision. According to my Doctor, I have Bone Spurs, which causes me pain when standing, walking, sitting and Complete Hip Replacement is now required, to eliminate my pain. My Lawyer suggested that I file a complaint with the NHTSA, because the Camera system should have recorded the collision and that would have given us a clear view and understanding, on what the other Driver was doing before the collision. BMW is at fault for the Camera system, which did not record the accident, when it was set up for Automatic and Manual.
NHTSA complaint #11604532 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fridley, MNCrash1 injured
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
On 06-02-2024, at approximately 1430 hours, I was stopped in Traffic, because of a Red Traffic light and I was the last Vehicle in line. In less than a minute later, I was hit by another Vehicle. The other Vehicle left approximately 183' of Skid Marks on the Road and I determined that Vehicle was traveling at approximately 60 MPH, before it hit me, when I was stopped in Traffic. The damage was moderate. I have the Executive Package on my BMW X5, which has a 4 way Camera system, that records an incident, when an impact occurs. After the impact, the Camera system is to record 20 seconds before the impact, as well as 20 seconds after the impact. I was not sure how to retrieve the Video, so I had to call BMW Genius and the Employee had to walk me thru the steps to retrieve the Video. The Camera system was set up for Automatic Recording, as well as Manual Recording, but no Video of the accident was ever recorded. The only Video that was Recorded and saved, was from January 13, 2024, when I was showing my Wife, how to manually record something. According to the person who hit me, he said "I could not stop, because I had a bad Wheel" and that person also included that Statement in the Accident Report. Since the Accident, I sustained lower left Back pain, left Hip pain and upper left Leg pain in the Muscles. According to my X-Ray Images of my left Hip, the Head of the Femur Bone is flattened, due to the impact sustained following the collision. According to my Doctor, I have Bone Spurs, which causes me pain when standing, walking, sitting and Complete Hip Replacement is now required, to eliminate my pain. My Lawyer suggested that I file a complaint with the NHTSA, because the Camera system should have recorded the collision and that would have given us a clear view and understanding, on what the other Driver was doing before the collision. BMW is at fault for the Camera system, which did not record the accident, when it was set up for Automatic and Manual.
NHTSA complaint #11604532 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Laguna Woods, CA
POWER TRAIN
xDrive all-wheel-drive has made the car slow down unexpectedly and produce a shudder, especially in slow corners and under gentle acceleration. The vehicle has also rapidly accelerated upon entering or exiting a freeway on ramp.
NHTSA complaint #11763265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Laguna Woods, CA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
xDrive all-wheel-drive has made the car slow down unexpectedly and produce a shudder, especially in slow corners and under gentle acceleration. The vehicle has also rapidly accelerated upon entering or exiting a freeway on ramp.
NHTSA complaint #11763265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Laguna Woods, CA
ENGINE
xDrive all-wheel-drive has made the car slow down unexpectedly and produce a shudder, especially in slow corners and under gentle acceleration. The vehicle has also rapidly accelerated upon entering or exiting a freeway on ramp.
NHTSA complaint #11763265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Upper Darby, PA
POWER TRAIN
Front differentials failed at 31k miles. Potential for the car to lock up or break down in highway. Problem was confirmed by independent shop.
NHTSA complaint #11761720 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Johns Creek, GA
POWER TRAIN
Description of the Complaint: I own a 2022 BMW X5 (VIN: [XXX], current mileage: approximately 39,500 miles as of 08/24/2026) equipped with the B58TU engine, which uses a plastic oil pump (part number 11418646454) rather than a metal one. I have not yet experienced an actual failure, but I am reporting this as a precautionary safety concern based on the following: 1. On BMW's official parts reference site (RealOEM.com), the oil pump for my specific vehicle is flagged with an "Attention! Observe PuMA measure 65494813" notice, indicating BMW's own internal system has identified a known issue requiring special observation for this part. 2. I have learned that BMW Korea has acknowledged this plastic oil pump issue following a government investigation, and has committed to a full free repair program for affected vehicles in Korea. 3. I am aware of multiple reports and complaints from other B58TU engine owners in the United States regarding this same plastic oil pump issue. 4. Given that the oil pump is a critical component for engine lubrication, a failure of this part while driving — particularly during highway or long-distance travel — could pose a serious safety risk, including sudden loss of engine oil pressure and potential engine seizure at speed. I am filing this report to bring this issue to NHTSA's attention before an actual failure occurs, and to request that this be considered as part of any pattern analysis regarding B58TU engine oil pump defects in the United States. - **Year:** 2022 - **Make:** BMW - **Model:** X5 - **VIN:** [XXX] - **Mileage:** 39,500 - **Component:** Engine and Engine Cooling (or "Engine Oil System" if listed separately) - **Attachments:** RealOEM.com INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11758988 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Johns Creek, GA
STEERING
Description of the Complaint: I own a 2022 BMW X5 (VIN: [XXX], current mileage: approximately 39,500 miles as of 08/24/2026) equipped with the B58TU engine, which uses a plastic oil pump (part number 11418646454) rather than a metal one. I have not yet experienced an actual failure, but I am reporting this as a precautionary safety concern based on the following: 1. On BMW's official parts reference site (RealOEM.com), the oil pump for my specific vehicle is flagged with an "Attention! Observe PuMA measure 65494813" notice, indicating BMW's own internal system has identified a known issue requiring special observation for this part. 2. I have learned that BMW Korea has acknowledged this plastic oil pump issue following a government investigation, and has committed to a full free repair program for affected vehicles in Korea. 3. I am aware of multiple reports and complaints from other B58TU engine owners in the United States regarding this same plastic oil pump issue. 4. Given that the oil pump is a critical component for engine lubrication, a failure of this part while driving — particularly during highway or long-distance travel — could pose a serious safety risk, including sudden loss of engine oil pressure and potential engine seizure at speed. I am filing this report to bring this issue to NHTSA's attention before an actual failure occurs, and to request that this be considered as part of any pattern analysis regarding B58TU engine oil pump defects in the United States. - **Year:** 2022 - **Make:** BMW - **Model:** X5 - **VIN:** [XXX] - **Mileage:** 39,500 - **Component:** Engine and Engine Cooling (or "Engine Oil System" if listed separately) - **Attachments:** RealOEM.com INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11758988 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Johns Creek, GA
ENGINE
Description of the Complaint: I own a 2022 BMW X5 (VIN: [XXX], current mileage: approximately 39,500 miles as of 08/24/2026) equipped with the B58TU engine, which uses a plastic oil pump (part number 11418646454) rather than a metal one. I have not yet experienced an actual failure, but I am reporting this as a precautionary safety concern based on the following: 1. On BMW's official parts reference site (RealOEM.com), the oil pump for my specific vehicle is flagged with an "Attention! Observe PuMA measure 65494813" notice, indicating BMW's own internal system has identified a known issue requiring special observation for this part. 2. I have learned that BMW Korea has acknowledged this plastic oil pump issue following a government investigation, and has committed to a full free repair program for affected vehicles in Korea. 3. I am aware of multiple reports and complaints from other B58TU engine owners in the United States regarding this same plastic oil pump issue. 4. Given that the oil pump is a critical component for engine lubrication, a failure of this part while driving — particularly during highway or long-distance travel — could pose a serious safety risk, including sudden loss of engine oil pressure and potential engine seizure at speed. I am filing this report to bring this issue to NHTSA's attention before an actual failure occurs, and to request that this be considered as part of any pattern analysis regarding B58TU engine oil pump defects in the United States. - **Year:** 2022 - **Make:** BMW - **Model:** X5 - **VIN:** [XXX] - **Mileage:** 39,500 - **Component:** Engine and Engine Cooling (or "Engine Oil System" if listed separately) - **Attachments:** RealOEM.com INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11758988 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bowie, MD
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
-The component that is failing is the Transfer case which is shuddering and jerking. Yes, available for inspection. -UNKNOWN because I take the vehicle to the dealership service immediately when the issue presents due to concern, and to avoid further damage to the vehicle or delay and risk issue to the safety of myself and others -Yes, the problem has been reproduced and confirmed by dealerships multiple documented occasions. -Yes, by the manufacturer. This is a documented issue per SIB for BMW North America -Symptoms of the problem has shown prior to the failure each time in the presentation of the Shudder and Jerking. *Will be able to upload/provide service invoice images/documentation once I request and receive from dealership
NHTSA complaint #11757920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bowie, MD
SUSPENSION
-The component that is failing is the Transfer case which is shuddering and jerking. Yes, available for inspection. -UNKNOWN because I take the vehicle to the dealership service immediately when the issue presents due to concern, and to avoid further damage to the vehicle or delay and risk issue to the safety of myself and others -Yes, the problem has been reproduced and confirmed by dealerships multiple documented occasions. -Yes, by the manufacturer. This is a documented issue per SIB for BMW North America -Symptoms of the problem has shown prior to the failure each time in the presentation of the Shudder and Jerking. *Will be able to upload/provide service invoice images/documentation once I request and receive from dealership
NHTSA complaint #11757920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Annapolis, MD
POWER TRAIN
My 2022 BMW X5 is having the transfer case star to fail. Where the symptoms currently are at is the car has a shudder in certain situations. I can feel it when maneuvering at slow speeds and I can feel it at times at speed or when on a steep hill. I bought the extended warranty for the car and the maintenance package for the vehicle. I'm at 68k miles and the shudder started before that but I am still covered under extended warranty. I have had all maintenance done on the vehicle at the local BMW dealership including all tire needs and have always replaced tires as necessary and number of tires at a time they suggest. When I took it in as the vehicle is reporting needing brakes 2 weeks ago, I mentioned the shudder and asked about tire tread on the 2 front tires. They came back with that the tires were fine in spec with the back 2 but that shudder is the transfer case. The dealer also then mentioned a couple things: - They now recommend changing the fluid in the transfer case by 60k miles due to amount of failures they are seeing (my X5 was in the dealership multiple times before an after 60k and it was never recommended). - that since it is not in the recommended maintenance for the xdrive4.0i that the car would not alert to have it changed and therefore BMW would not cover changing the fluid under the UltimateCare (service maintenance plan they sold me). That the transfer case was meant to be a for life fluid. - I asked what happens next if the fluid is not changed, that it will continue to degrade and once it fully gives out the vehicle will become inoperable - I asked does the fluid change save the transfercase and they said it seems to help many vehicles and the shudder disappears but for some it does not. - I then asked would the BMW Extended Warranty purchased cover it if it fully failed or the fluid change did not solve the shudder and I was told maybe fully, partially or not at all. Ext Warranty brochure says it is covered at platinum level I hav
NHTSA complaint #11756717 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Annapolis, MD
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My 2022 BMW X5 is having the transfer case star to fail. Where the symptoms currently are at is the car has a shudder in certain situations. I can feel it when maneuvering at slow speeds and I can feel it at times at speed or when on a steep hill. I bought the extended warranty for the car and the maintenance package for the vehicle. I'm at 68k miles and the shudder started before that but I am still covered under extended warranty. I have had all maintenance done on the vehicle at the local BMW dealership including all tire needs and have always replaced tires as necessary and number of tires at a time they suggest. When I took it in as the vehicle is reporting needing brakes 2 weeks ago, I mentioned the shudder and asked about tire tread on the 2 front tires. They came back with that the tires were fine in spec with the back 2 but that shudder is the transfer case. The dealer also then mentioned a couple things: - They now recommend changing the fluid in the transfer case by 60k miles due to amount of failures they are seeing (my X5 was in the dealership multiple times before an after 60k and it was never recommended). - that since it is not in the recommended maintenance for the xdrive4.0i that the car would not alert to have it changed and therefore BMW would not cover changing the fluid under the UltimateCare (service maintenance plan they sold me). That the transfer case was meant to be a for life fluid. - I asked what happens next if the fluid is not changed, that it will continue to degrade and once it fully gives out the vehicle will become inoperable - I asked does the fluid change save the transfercase and they said it seems to help many vehicles and the shudder disappears but for some it does not. - I then asked would the BMW Extended Warranty purchased cover it if it fully failed or the fluid change did not solve the shudder and I was told maybe fully, partially or not at all. Ext Warranty brochure says it is covered at platinum level I hav
NHTSA complaint #11756717 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 38,000 milesBriarcliff Manor, NY
POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
The contact owns a 2022 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transfer case fluid needed to be replaced three separate times. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed again and determined that the transfer case fluid needed to be replaced. The transfer case fluid was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.
NHTSA complaint #11756295 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Westport, CT
POWER TRAIN
The high-voltage battery system (this is a plug-in hybrid) began intermittently displaying a "battery not properly charging" warning approximately 6 months ago; the issue would resolve after plugging in and charging. On July 14, 2026, while driving, the vehicle displayed a "critical battery failure - pull over immediately and drive slowly" warning. The driver pulled over and shut off the vehicle; the warning cleared and the car appeared to drive normally afterward. This warning recurred several times over the following weeks under the same pattern. On August 6, 2026, the same critical battery failure warning appeared while driving; this time steering feel and drivetrain response were abnormal, and the air conditioning and several electronic features stopped working. Our safety, and the safety of other drivers on the road, was put at risk by the sudden loss of full vehicle control while in motion. The vehicle has been at an authorized BMW dealership for inspection since August 7, 2026; a full diagnosis is pending. Dealer service staff independently remarked that two other BMW X-series plug-in hybrids came in that same morning with the identical warning and symptoms, suggesting this may be a widespread component defect rather than an isolated issue.
NHTSA complaint #11755843 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Westport, CT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The high-voltage battery system (this is a plug-in hybrid) began intermittently displaying a "battery not properly charging" warning approximately 6 months ago; the issue would resolve after plugging in and charging. On July 14, 2026, while driving, the vehicle displayed a "critical battery failure - pull over immediately and drive slowly" warning. The driver pulled over and shut off the vehicle; the warning cleared and the car appeared to drive normally afterward. This warning recurred several times over the following weeks under the same pattern. On August 6, 2026, the same critical battery failure warning appeared while driving; this time steering feel and drivetrain response were abnormal, and the air conditioning and several electronic features stopped working. Our safety, and the safety of other drivers on the road, was put at risk by the sudden loss of full vehicle control while in motion. The vehicle has been at an authorized BMW dealership for inspection since August 7, 2026; a full diagnosis is pending. Dealer service staff independently remarked that two other BMW X-series plug-in hybrids came in that same morning with the identical warning and symptoms, suggesting this may be a widespread component defect rather than an isolated issue.
NHTSA complaint #11755843 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Westport, CT
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The high-voltage battery system (this is a plug-in hybrid) began intermittently displaying a "battery not properly charging" warning approximately 6 months ago; the issue would resolve after plugging in and charging. On July 14, 2026, while driving, the vehicle displayed a "critical battery failure - pull over immediately and drive slowly" warning. The driver pulled over and shut off the vehicle; the warning cleared and the car appeared to drive normally afterward. This warning recurred several times over the following weeks under the same pattern. On August 6, 2026, the same critical battery failure warning appeared while driving; this time steering feel and drivetrain response were abnormal, and the air conditioning and several electronic features stopped working. Our safety, and the safety of other drivers on the road, was put at risk by the sudden loss of full vehicle control while in motion. The vehicle has been at an authorized BMW dealership for inspection since August 7, 2026; a full diagnosis is pending. Dealer service staff independently remarked that two other BMW X-series plug-in hybrids came in that same morning with the identical warning and symptoms, suggesting this may be a widespread component defect rather than an isolated issue.
NHTSA complaint #11755843 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brookfield, WI
POWER TRAIN
Over the last approximately 20,000 miles or so I've noticed a studder/shaking of the vehicle when turning and/or accelerating at slow speeds, in particular, while the car is cold (not warmed up). I change the transfer case fluid about 5,000 miles ago and the problem did not resolve. I now see that there is a class action lawsuit against BMW for known failure of the transfer case. I would like my problem noted for the record and hopefully action by BMW.
NHTSA complaint #11755185 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bremerton, WA
POWER TRAIN
I own a 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e that has developed a drivetrain shudder during slow-speed, tight turns while lightly accelerating, such as when maneuvering in parking lots or making U-turns. The vibration is consistently reproducible under these conditions and is felt through the vehicle during the turn. The vehicle otherwise drives normally at higher speeds. After researching the issue, I found that many other owners have reported substantially similar symptoms involving the transfer case on BMW xDrive vehicles. My independent BMW repair shop has recommended a transfer case fluid service as the first corrective action based on the known nature of this problem. I am having that service performed and will retain all repair documentation. I am submitting this complaint because this appears to be a recurring issue affecting multiple vehicles. If the condition worsens, it could lead to drivetrain binding during low-speed maneuvers and may affect safe vehicle operation. I request that NHTSA investigate whether this is a broader defect requiring manufacturer action. I will update this complaint if the repair does not resolve the condition or if additional diagnosis identifies an internal transfer case failure.
NHTSA complaint #11755151 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orinda, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1. What component/system failed, and is it available for inspection? The HVAC (heating/ventilation/air-conditioning) system — specifically the A/C evaporator and its condensate drainage — in my 2022 BMW X5 (G05). It emits a recurring musty/vinegar-like odor, consistent with microbial contamination on the evaporator. The system remains installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. 2. How was safety put at risk? The odor indicates mold/microbial growth in the cabin air supply, which is a respiratory air-quality concern for the driver and passengers . A strong odor on start-up is also a distraction that draws my attention away from driving . BMW's own bulletin attributes the odor to microbial contamination on the evaporator. 3. Reproduced/confirmed by a dealer or service center? I recently scheduled a service for next Wednesday. 4. Inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance, or others? Not yet escalated to BMW corporate (no PUMA/TSARA technical case opened). Not inspected by police or insurance. 5. Warning lamps/messages/symptoms, and when they first appeared? No warning lamp or dashboard message is associated with this condition [true — odor triggers no telltale]. The symptom is the odor itself: a musty/vinegar smell fro
NHTSA complaint #11752075 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Burlington, MA
POWER TRAIN
On July 8, 2026, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled while I was driving in the middle lane on the I-95 highway, creating a safety concern. There was complete loss of engine power and low power to steering. The vehicle had to be towed to BMW of Peabody, Massachusetts. The vehicle had 30850 miles during the incident. During the inspection at service centre, I was informed that the safety fuse box and 12V auxiliary battery had failed which stalled the vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11749966 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Burlington, MA
STEERING
On July 8, 2026, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled while I was driving in the middle lane on the I-95 highway, creating a safety concern. There was complete loss of engine power and low power to steering. The vehicle had to be towed to BMW of Peabody, Massachusetts. The vehicle had 30850 miles during the incident. During the inspection at service centre, I was informed that the safety fuse box and 12V auxiliary battery had failed which stalled the vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11749966 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Apex, NC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I took my 2022 BMW X5 xDrive 45e for concerns of shuddering at low speeds and tight turns under warranty. No warning messages on dashboard. I asked specifically what was causing the shuddering. BMW of Raleigh would not respond. But they found that the Transfer Case was affected so they flushed the oil and put an oil mixture replacement in. According to the most recent BMW service bulletin, the technician is only to put in DTF oil. The technician not only put in DTF oil but also an over-the-counter non-approved chemical additive. Reading the service bulletin, the Transfer Case is supposed to have a lifetime warranty. We were charged over $500 for this "oil change", but it was under warranty. Transfer Case failures can result in accidents on highways and other roadways and complete mechanical failure of vehicle.. The oil change did not fix the Transfer Case issue but extended out the vehicle so that it now falls out of warranty. A TC replacement will cost $10,000 or more out of pocket. TC issues is a known BMW issue since 2018. Lawsuit has begun w/thousands of plaintiffs all over USA w/ 2019-2025 BMWs because they refuse to acknowledge that they are at fault even though they continue to put out bulletins for this exact issue. BMW has made sure that Transfer Case is not on any warranty they offer.
NHTSA complaint #11746659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Apex, NC
ENGINE
I took my 2022 BMW X5 xDrive 45e for concerns of shuddering at low speeds and tight turns under warranty. No warning messages on dashboard. I asked specifically what was causing the shuddering. BMW of Raleigh would not respond. But they found that the Transfer Case was affected so they flushed the oil and put an oil mixture replacement in. According to the most recent BMW service bulletin, the technician is only to put in DTF oil. The technician not only put in DTF oil but also an over-the-counter non-approved chemical additive. Reading the service bulletin, the Transfer Case is supposed to have a lifetime warranty. We were charged over $500 for this "oil change", but it was under warranty. Transfer Case failures can result in accidents on highways and other roadways and complete mechanical failure of vehicle.. The oil change did not fix the Transfer Case issue but extended out the vehicle so that it now falls out of warranty. A TC replacement will cost $10,000 or more out of pocket. TC issues is a known BMW issue since 2018. Lawsuit has begun w/thousands of plaintiffs all over USA w/ 2019-2025 BMWs because they refuse to acknowledge that they are at fault even though they continue to put out bulletins for this exact issue. BMW has made sure that Transfer Case is not on any warranty they offer.
NHTSA complaint #11746659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Butte, MT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Electronic Shifter goes out when exposed to moisture.. We had the vehicle detailed and it will not move after apparently some moisture got into the shift know that is located next to cup holders.. BMW will not warranty the part and acknowledge it is an issue.. Luckily we have an extended warranty that is covering the 2500.00 part
NHTSA complaint #11742257 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Forest Hills, NYCrash
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
I am writing to you as a loyal BMW owner to formally lodge a serious complaint regarding a technical safety failure in my BMW X5 and the subsequent dismissive treatment I received at an authorized service center in New York. The Incident Recently, while reversing, the Driving Assistance and Parking Assistant systems failed without warning. As a result, the vehicle collided with an object, causing damage to the rear bumper. This was not a result of driver negligence, but a direct failure of the safety technology that I trusted to protect my family. Service Center Negligence Upon visiting the service center to address this life-threatening defect, I was met with unacceptable indifference. The service advisor flatly refused to investigate the system failure, stating they would only perform a standard NYC Inspection. I was given a follow-up appointment for May 5th—forcing me to wait weeks to address a critical safety defect. Safety Concerns & Demand for Replacement As a father [XXX], I no longer feel safe operating this vehicle. The integrity of the safety modules has been compromised, and my confidence in this specific car is completely shattered. Repairing a bumper does not fix a failed safety system that could have caused a much more serious accident.And when I provide all of this evidence to BMW North America they Lay to me and asked me to take my vehicle without resolving the problem and the doesn’t care about my family safety INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11742057 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am writing to you as a loyal BMW owner to formally lodge a serious complaint regarding a technical safety failure in my BMW X5 and the subsequent dismissive treatment I received at an authorized service center in New York. The Incident Recently, while reversing, the Driving Assistance and Parking Assistant systems failed without warning. As a result, the vehicle collided with an object, causing damage to the rear bumper. This was not a result of driver negligence, but a direct failure of the safety technology that I trusted to protect my family. Service Center Negligence Upon visiting the service center to address this life-threatening defect, I was met with unacceptable indifference. The service advisor flatly refused to investigate the system failure, stating they would only perform a standard NYC Inspection. I was given a follow-up appointment for May 5th—forcing me to wait weeks to address a critical safety defect. Safety Concerns & Demand for Replacement As a father [XXX], I no longer feel safe operating this vehicle. The integrity of the safety modules has been compromised, and my confidence in this specific car is completely shattered. Repairing a bumper does not fix a failed safety system that could have caused a much more serious accident.And when I provide all of this evidence to BMW North America they Lay to me and asked me to take my vehicle without resolving the problem and the doesn’t care about my family safety INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11742057 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.