2019 BMW X7 problems

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

This happened on my vehicle. Oil pump is supposed to last life of the vehicle per BMW. This left me stranded on the side of the road for hours and now is costing $9k to replace oil pump. My car has less than 100k miles. I'm reporting a safety issue with BMW vehicles equipped with the B58TU engine, primarily 2019-2021 models. These vehicles have an oil pump with an internal plastic component that regulates oil pressure, and this part is fracturing in the field, causing sudden loss of oil pressure. The failure typically occurs during cold starts in low temperatures. When it fails, oil pressure becomes erratic or is lost entirely, often with little to no warning before engine damage or vehicle disablement. Warning signs, when present, include inability to measure oil level electronically, abnormal oil pressure, or sudden drivetrain malfunction warnings. These can rapidly progress to engine shutdown or severe damage from oil starvation. This creates a dangerous situation because the vehicle can become disabled without warning while driving or after startup. This is especially hazardous when cars become immobilized in traffic or during winter conditions when failures occur most frequently, leaving occupants exposed to freezing temperatures while awaiting assistance. Pump replacement requires extensive disassembly and commonly costs $6,000-$8,000, assuming no engine damage. A critical concern: owners cannot determine if their vehicle has the original plastic pump or the later metal revision. BMW's VIN-based parts lookup now shows updated components even when original plastic parts remain installed, and BMW has removed the original plastic part number from dealer networks entirely. Failures are reported across multiple production years, and the scope of affected vehicles remains unclear. Because this condition causes sudden vehicle disablement without adequate warning, especially in cold weather, I believe this warrants investigation as a potential safety-related defect.

NHTSA complaint #11757092 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

I am reporting a safety concern involving BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine, commonly found in model years 2019–2021. These vehicles utilize a variable-displacement engine oil pump containing an internal thermoplastic adjusting component responsible for regulating oil pressure. Field failures are increasingly being reported in which this internal component fractures, resulting in sudden loss or instability of engine oil pressure/lubrication. Loss of lubrication can cause the vehicle to become disabled without warning while driving or shortly after startup. This creates a safety hazard, particularly when vehicles become immobilized in active traffic or during winter conditions the cold is when they fail the most, where occupants may be exposed to freezing temperatures while awaiting assistance. Owners are currently unable to determine whether their vehicles contain the original thermoplastic oil pump design or a later revised version utilizing metal internal components, as VIN-based parts information now identifies updated components in the car even when no replacement has occurred and the old components are actually in the car. Also, BMW has actively removed the plastic part number out of all dealer networks, demonstrating knowledge of the defective component.

NHTSA complaint #11755865 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2019 BMW X7. The contact stated that the Auto START/STOP feature failed to function as intended. There was a fire message displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed; however, the dealer was unable to update the control unit. The control unit was not communicating as intended. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine, and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.

NHTSA complaint #11753481 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2019 BMW X7. The contact stated that the Auto START/STOP feature failed to function as intended. There was a fire message displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed; however, the dealer was unable to update the control unit. The control unit was not communicating as intended. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine, and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.

NHTSA complaint #11753481 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

I was told today that my BMW engine oil pump is failing because of plastic internal components which will cause irreversible catastrophic engine damage during operation which is extremely dangerous and that I was informed by the dealer that BMW quietly changed them 2 years after due to the failure rate. If the oil pump shatters, debris can permanently damage the engine during operation jeopardizing my safety and those driving around me, making replacement with the upgraded, all-metal oil pump, that BMW quietly changed due to this failure, nearly $6k -$8k to fix and is not covered though they admit it is a known failure/safety issue. As of XXX, BMW Korea is running a free repair campaign (recall) to address oil pump failures affecting the B58TU engine in that country. Affected vehicles include models manufactured between XXX and XXX. BMW Korea replaces the non-safe original plastic oil pump with BMW's upgraded metal design, and even covers prior out-of-pocket replacements. NHTSA needs to hold BMW accountable and force BMW USA to complete the same safety recall for the exact same issue of faulty engine oil pumps they installed to save money as BMW Korea for the United States. Safety recalls should NOT be optional in USA and especially so if BMW is already doing the recall in another country for same issue identified in their cars sold here in the [XXX] too. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11749887 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The shark fin antenna seal on my BMW failed, allowing water to enter the Telematics Control Unit (TCU). This caused a complete failure of the vehicle’s Emergency SOS / BMW Assist crash notification system. The failure occurred without any warning messages or prior indications that the system was compromised. Because the TCU controls the vehicle’s automatic crash notification and emergency call functions, this failure disabled a critical safety system. This defect placed me and my family at risk, as the vehicle would not be able to automatically contact emergency services in the event of a collision or other serious incident. The failure first occurred in April 2026. I immediately contacted my BMW dealership’s service center, where the service advisor acknowledged that the shark fin seal had issues causing this to happen (water intrusion). However, instead of treating this as a safety defect, I was told to file an insurance claim. I also contacted BMW Customer Service, but both the dealership and BMW declined responsibility and refused to cover the repair. The shark fin antenna seal is a manufacturer‑installed, non‑serviceable component. Its failure directly disabled a federally regulated safety system without warning. BMW’s refusal to address this issue leaves the safety defect unresolved and exposes other owners to the same risk.

NHTSA complaint #11745382 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2019 BMW X7. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated and the engine seized. The check engine warning light was illuminated. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle restarted with the power train warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed, and the failure reoccurred. The failure was a persistent failure. The contact stated that there was thick white smoke coming from the exhaust. The contact noticed a fuel odor on the interior and exterior of the vehicle. In addition, the RPM was elevated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact stated that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall or warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.

NHTSA complaint #11733949 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2019 BMW X7. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated and the engine seized. The check engine warning light was illuminated. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle restarted with the power train warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed, and the failure reoccurred. The failure was a persistent failure. The contact stated that there was thick white smoke coming from the exhaust. The contact noticed a fuel odor on the interior and exterior of the vehicle. In addition, the RPM was elevated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact stated that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall or warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.

NHTSA complaint #11733949 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

I am reporting a safety concern involving BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine, commonly found in model years 2019–2021. These vehicles use a variable-displacement oil pump with an internal thermoplastic component that regulates oil pressure. This component is increasingly failing in the field, often fracturing and causing sudden loss or instability of oil pressure. Failures commonly occur during cold starts in low temperatures. When the component breaks, oil pressure may become erratic or drop entirely, often with little or no warning before engine damage or vehicle shutdown. Early warning signs can include inability to measure oil level, abnormal oil pressure behavior, or drivetrain malfunction alerts. In many cases, failures quickly lead to engine shutdown or severe damage due to oil starvation. This can leave vehicles suddenly disabled while driving or shortly after startup, creating a safety risk—especially in traffic or in cold weather, where occupants may be exposed to freezing conditions while waiting for assistance. Repair requires extensive disassembly, with oil pump replacement alone typically costing $6,000–$8,000, excluding additional engine damage. Owners also cannot reliably determine whether their vehicle has the original thermoplastic component or an updated metal version, as parts databases now default to the revised design regardless of what is actually installed. Failures have been reported across multiple model years, and the full scope of affected vehicles remains unclear. Because this issue can cause sudden vehicle disablement without adequate warning—particularly in cold conditions—it may represent a safety-related defect warranting investigation.

NHTSA complaint #11731339 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

BMW has a known issue that the fin antenna on the roof leaks and sets off a cascade of dangerous issues with the Emergency Call function and disabling the heads up dash so that you cannot see your navigation. On April 2, 2026 in Austin, TX it rained and our car started sending an Emergency Call request repeatedly to BMW. BMW operators called repeatedly even though they knew there was no emergency and that they were actively interrupting our driving. The heads up dash would not allow us to see our maps to navigate, but only displayed a notification that an Emergency Call had been initiated. BMW needs to address and recall this antenna seal so that owners can use their cars safely (with all functions) while not paying out of pocket for BMW's failure.

NHTSA complaint #11728783 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BMW has a known issue that the fin antenna on the roof leaks and sets off a cascade of dangerous issues with the Emergency Call function and disabling the heads up dash so that you cannot see your navigation. On April 2, 2026 in Austin, TX it rained and our car started sending an Emergency Call request repeatedly to BMW. BMW operators called repeatedly even though they knew there was no emergency and that they were actively interrupting our driving. The heads up dash would not allow us to see our maps to navigate, but only displayed a notification that an Emergency Call had been initiated. BMW needs to address and recall this antenna seal so that owners can use their cars safely (with all functions) while not paying out of pocket for BMW's failure.

NHTSA complaint #11728783 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

Safety Defect Report — Engine Oil Pump Failure (BMW B58TU Engine) Component or System Involved The failure involves the variable-displacement engine oil pump installed in BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine, commonly found in model years 2019–2021. The oil pump contains an internal thermoplastic adjusting component that regulates engine oil pressure. Field reports indicate this internal component can fracture, causing unstable or complete loss of engine oil pressure. The failed component may be available for inspection upon request if retained after repair. Description of Failure and Safety Risk When the internal thermoplastic adjusting component fails, engine oil pressure regulation becomes erratic or is lost entirely. This results in insufficient engine lubrication and may cause sudden engine shutdown or severe mechanical damage due to oil starvation. Loss of engine power or complete engine disablement can occur without adequate warning, creating a safety hazard if the vehicle becomes immobilized while driving or shortly after startup. This risk is heightened when the failure occurs in active traffic or in cold weather conditions, where occupants may be exposed to freezing temperatures while awaiting assistance. Operating Conditions and Failure Pattern The failure most frequently occurs during cold-start operation in low ambient temperatures. Failures appear to progress rapidly once symptoms begin. Warning Lamps, Messages, or Prior Symptoms Reported precursor symptoms may include: Inability to electronically measure engine oil level. Abnormal or unstable oil pressure behavior. Sudden drivetrain malfunction warnings. Minimal or no actionable warning prior to engine damage or shutdown. These symptoms may appear shortly before failure or may not provide sufficient time for corrective action. Inspection or Confirmation of the Problem Field failures have been reported across multiple vehicles and production years. In many cases

NHTSA complaint #11721017 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

Transfer case goes bad on all 2019 models. I'm in awe that there's not a recall on it. A replacement costs around $9k. Somebody should look into this. Thank you

NHTSA complaint #11707157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

My car was not starting up, I sent to my mechanic and we got it fixed. But have to change my starter , I tried to buy the starter from bmw they told me I have a recall and I can’t purchase that part until I send the car to a dealership. The car is been shipped out of the country and it’s in Ghana now. Please I really need your help to make this purchase and clear the recall

NHTSA complaint #11705762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2019 BMW X7. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle started to vibrate, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the message "Timing Chain Failure - Contact Manufacturer" was displayed. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that there was no failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the loss of motive power and vibration was a recurring failure and occurred at 40 MPH or faster. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and was advised that there was no recall related to the failure, and referred the contact to the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

NHTSA complaint #11705867 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

My 2019 BMW X7 is under Safety Recall 25V-644 for an overheating/fire-risk defect, but the recall remedy is unavailable. The vehicle has now experienced multiple safety-related failures that appear to be progressing. BMW diagnosed the following failures: • Emergency Call System Malfunction • GPS and maps not working • Failure of the TCB telematics module • Failure of the antenna and TCB battery due to fluid ingress • Battery voltage in the red zone • All four tire pressure sensors beginning to fail • Collapsed engine mounts attributed to heat • $11,296 in repair estimates related to electrical and heat damage Immediately after picking up the vehicle from BMW service, a new battery/charging system warning light appeared that was NOT present before the visit. This suggests further deterioration of the electrical system. The combination of: • an open fire-risk recall with no fix available, • fluid ingress damaging telematics components, • multiple electrical and safety-system failures, and • new warning lights appearing after service makes this vehicle unsafe to operate, especially for long-distance highway travel. I am requesting that NHTSA document this as a safety-defect case and assist in ensuring BMW provides a safe resolution.

NHTSA complaint #11702931 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My 2019 BMW X7 is under Safety Recall 25V-644 for an overheating/fire-risk defect, but the recall remedy is unavailable. The vehicle has now experienced multiple safety-related failures that appear to be progressing. BMW diagnosed the following failures: • Emergency Call System Malfunction • GPS and maps not working • Failure of the TCB telematics module • Failure of the antenna and TCB battery due to fluid ingress • Battery voltage in the red zone • All four tire pressure sensors beginning to fail • Collapsed engine mounts attributed to heat • $11,296 in repair estimates related to electrical and heat damage Immediately after picking up the vehicle from BMW service, a new battery/charging system warning light appeared that was NOT present before the visit. This suggests further deterioration of the electrical system. The combination of: • an open fire-risk recall with no fix available, • fluid ingress damaging telematics components, • multiple electrical and safety-system failures, and • new warning lights appearing after service makes this vehicle unsafe to operate, especially for long-distance highway travel. I am requesting that NHTSA document this as a safety-defect case and assist in ensuring BMW provides a safe resolution.

NHTSA complaint #11702931 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES

My 2019 BMW X7 is under Safety Recall 25V-644 for an overheating/fire-risk defect, but the recall remedy is unavailable. The vehicle has now experienced multiple safety-related failures that appear to be progressing. BMW diagnosed the following failures: • Emergency Call System Malfunction • GPS and maps not working • Failure of the TCB telematics module • Failure of the antenna and TCB battery due to fluid ingress • Battery voltage in the red zone • All four tire pressure sensors beginning to fail • Collapsed engine mounts attributed to heat • $11,296 in repair estimates related to electrical and heat damage Immediately after picking up the vehicle from BMW service, a new battery/charging system warning light appeared that was NOT present before the visit. This suggests further deterioration of the electrical system. The combination of: • an open fire-risk recall with no fix available, • fluid ingress damaging telematics components, • multiple electrical and safety-system failures, and • new warning lights appearing after service makes this vehicle unsafe to operate, especially for long-distance highway travel. I am requesting that NHTSA document this as a safety-defect case and assist in ensuring BMW provides a safe resolution.

NHTSA complaint #11702931 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

the transfer case for this 2019 is failing, and cannot be repaired without changing the entire case according to the mechanic notes. there is a significant grinding when turning at slow speeds and a locking-up feeling to the steering. dealer will not admit to any issues. car was inspected by an independent certified BMW mechanic no warning or indication given other than the impaired handling of the vehicle.

NHTSA complaint #11701579 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SEATS

My 2019 BMW X7 has developed a recurring headrest defect with the 3rd row passenger side seat that has proven impossible for your authorized dealership to repair. This defect substantially impacts the vehicle's use, safety, and value. Despite multiple repair attempts and at least spanning 5-6 months now in the last year, the issue remains completely unresolved.

NHTSA complaint #11697789 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Explosion when turning on my car.

NHTSA complaint #11691965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2019 BMW X7. The contact stated that after depressing the Push-To-Start button, the vehicle hesitated to start. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling). In addition, the contact was advised that the starter needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired due to the cost not covered under the warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000. The VIN was not available.

NHTSA complaint #11669190 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2019 BMW X7. The contact stated that after depressing the Push-To-Start button, the vehicle hesitated to start. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling). In addition, the contact was advised that the starter needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired due to the cost not covered under the warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000. The VIN was not available.

NHTSA complaint #11669190 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

My vehicle just stopped, in the middle of a busy 95 South Cross Bronx Expressway.

NHTSA complaint #11666662 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My vehicle just stopped, in the middle of a busy 95 South Cross Bronx Expressway.

NHTSA complaint #11666662 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.