Owners have filed 66 complaints
about the 2021 BMW X7 with NHTSA between 2022 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 7 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 — 49
Against the median year of the BMW X7. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 47
9.1% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — not reported
Too few complaints recorded a mileage to measure this.
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.
Jan 2022peak 10Aug 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2021 BMW X7
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 2021 BMW X7
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
22V670000
SEATS
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2022 BMW X7 xDrive40i, X7 Drive50i, X7 M50i vehicles with third-row seats. One or more of the compression springs that lock the backrest may not have been installed properly, and could dislodge or detach.
Risk: In a crash, the seat backrest may not fully lock, increasing the risk of injury.
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.
21V156000
SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5 xDrive45e, 2021 X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i, and XB7 vehicles. The head restraints on the second-row outer seats may be the incorrect type for the vehicle.
Risk: In the event of a crash, the head restraints could detach, and increase the risk of injury.
21V096000
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the missing or reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
21V062000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 8 Series Coupe, Grand Coupe and convertible 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8 and 740 Li, 740 Li xDrive, 750 Li xDrive, M760 Li xDrive, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xdrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, and 2019-2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, and 2021 M3, M3 Competition, M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, X5 xDrive45e, 745 Le xDrive. The rotor and shaft within the integrated brake system may not have been welded properly and could separate during a hard braking event, possibly resulting in a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and braking assistance.
Risk: A loss of ABS and a reduction in braking assistance can increase the risk of a crash.
21V031000
STEERING:COLUMN
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5M, X5 xDrive45e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i vehicles. The steering column shaft's universal joint connection may not have been tightened to specifications, and can become loose.
Risk: A loose steering column shaft universal joint connection can affect vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash.
20V761000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 M340i xDrive, M440i xDrive Coupe, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator may not have been assembled properly, which can cause increased electrical resistance at the connections.
Risk: Increased electrical resistance can increase the risk of a fire.
20V528000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X6 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M, X7 M50i and 2021 X5 xDrive45e vehicles. The headlamps may allow a blue light to illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: Oncoming drivers may be confused by the blue light of approaching vehicles, which could potentially increase 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 202628525,552 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: Under certain conditions, the windshield wiping system may not meet certain requirements of Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: This small error does not affect safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. BMW has made changes to ensure that all new vehicles meet Canadian regulations.
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.
Recall 20210782,263 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the rearview camera image not to appear correctly in the central display. Canadian regulations require the rearview image to display when the transmission is shifted into reverse gear. Safety Risk: A rearview camera image that does not display correctly could reduce a driver's ability to see behind the vehicle while backing up. This 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 update the rearview camera software, if necessary.
Recall 202106145 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain vehicles, an internal part in the integrated brake system could fail during hard braking. If this happens, there would be a reduction in brake boost and the antilock brake system (ABS) would turn off. This can cause an increase in brake pedal effort that is required to stop the vehicle. Safety Risk: A sudden increase in brake pedal force and a loss of ABS braking could lead to an increase in stopping distance. This 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 replace the integrated brake system (hydraulic unit and master cylinder).
Recall 2020605130 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: On certain vehicles, the bolts that connect the 48-V battery cables to the starter-generator may not have been installed correctly. As a result, the electrical connections could overheat. Safety Risk: Electrical connections that overheat could increase the risk of a fire. Corrective Actions: BMW will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to inspect the bolts connecting the 48-V battery cables to the starter-generator and replace them, if necessary.
Recall 2020409160 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain vehicles, the wrong headlight lenses may have been installed. This could cause the headlights to produce blue light. Canadian regulations do not allow headlights to emit a blue light. Safety Risk: Headlights that produce blue light may confuse other road users. This 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 inspect the headlights. They will be replaced, if necessary.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 25,320 milesKildeer, ILFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X7. The contact stated that while the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's wife noticed a smoky fume in the interior of the vehicle. The contact's wife continued to drive the vehicle to the intended destination. The contact stated that when the wife returned to the vehicle, the contact's wife noticed that the smoky fume was still in the interior of the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to the contact's residence. The contact stated that upon removing items from the vehicle, the contact noticed that a cardboard box that was seated on the driver's rear seat was on fire. The contact extinguished the fire. No fire report was filed. No injuries were sustained. The contact then contacted BMW and requested the vehicle to be picked up. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact stated that the vehicle had been at the dealer for two weeks. The contact was informed that the failure was due to no fault of the manufacturer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 25,320.
NHTSA complaint #11569561 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cypress, TX1 injured
SEATS
Sunroof exploded, just driving down the road, and BOOM! Most of the glass exploded outward, but it was definitely a hazard. The sunroof cover was open about 8-10 inches to let light in, but the glass sunroof was closed.
NHTSA complaint #11494188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cypress, TX1 injured
SEAT BELTS
Sunroof exploded, just driving down the road, and BOOM! Most of the glass exploded outward, but it was definitely a hazard. The sunroof cover was open about 8-10 inches to let light in, but the glass sunroof was closed.
NHTSA complaint #11494188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cypress, TX1 injured
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Sunroof exploded, just driving down the road, and BOOM! Most of the glass exploded outward, but it was definitely a hazard. The sunroof cover was open about 8-10 inches to let light in, but the glass sunroof was closed.
NHTSA complaint #11494188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newhyde Park, NYFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was driving a car with family and all of a sudden we all started smelling a burning smell but we thought it must be from outside. However, in just few seconds the vents started throwing vapors so I stopped the car hoping it may stop if some minor damage. However, the hood started throwing oranges color fumes and by the time we all left the vehicle the entire front hood/engine area started burning. There were no indications of any faults in the car. This was the most shocking incident we had to face with my family where there were two kids of 4 and 9 along with my wife and her parents who are senior citizens.
NHTSA complaint #11447812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newhyde Park, NYFire
ENGINE
I was driving a car with family and all of a sudden we all started smelling a burning smell but we thought it must be from outside. However, in just few seconds the vents started throwing vapors so I stopped the car hoping it may stop if some minor damage. However, the hood started throwing oranges color fumes and by the time we all left the vehicle the entire front hood/engine area started burning. There were no indications of any faults in the car. This was the most shocking incident we had to face with my family where there were two kids of 4 and 9 along with my wife and her parents who are senior citizens.
NHTSA complaint #11447812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Hillsborough, NJ
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Under FMVSS 101, if a screen experiences a momentary "black screen" or reset cycle while driving, it is considered non-compliant because the driver loses immediate access to the speedometer, safety and ADAS functions of the vehicle. The OEM (BMW North America) does not acknowledge this issue in their vehicles and ignores repairs violating NHTSA standards.
NHTSA complaint #11758150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hillsborough, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Under FMVSS 101, if a screen experiences a momentary "black screen" or reset cycle while driving, it is considered non-compliant because the driver loses immediate access to the speedometer, safety and ADAS functions of the vehicle. The OEM (BMW North America) does not acknowledge this issue in their vehicles and ignores repairs violating NHTSA standards.
NHTSA complaint #11758150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hillsborough, NJ
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
Under FMVSS 101, if a screen experiences a momentary "black screen" or reset cycle while driving, it is considered non-compliant because the driver loses immediate access to the speedometer, safety and ADAS functions of the vehicle. The OEM (BMW North America) does not acknowledge this issue in their vehicles and ignores repairs violating NHTSA standards.
NHTSA complaint #11758150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stoneham, MA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The entire car shut down while on the highway with no prior notifications on/from the system. The entire safety of myself and family was put at risk because there where several cars behind us on the highway that could have hit us. I am not sure the dealer has been able to reproduce the issue - Unknown. There was no warning lamps, messages or symptoms of the problem prior to the failure or the car shutting off on the highway.
NHTSA complaint #11756734 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stoneham, MA
ENGINE
The entire car shut down while on the highway with no prior notifications on/from the system. The entire safety of myself and family was put at risk because there where several cars behind us on the highway that could have hit us. I am not sure the dealer has been able to reproduce the issue - Unknown. There was no warning lamps, messages or symptoms of the problem prior to the failure or the car shutting off on the highway.
NHTSA complaint #11756734 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Worth, TX
SEATS
ERROR MESSAGE ON SCREEN STATING RIGHT 3RD ROW SEAT NOT LATCHED. THE SEAT WORKS PROPERLY BUT IT POPS UP EVERY TIME YOU START THE CAR. THE DEALER SAID THIS IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE APPARENT RECALL FOR OTHER LIKE VEHICLES. SEE (NHTSA Recall 22V670000) for 2019–2022 models). THIS IS REALLY SAD.
NHTSA complaint #11756182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Franklin, TN
POWER TRAIN
Just over 50k miles and barely out of warranty, the pinion bearing in the front differential failed. This is a known issue with many people on BMW forums reporting the same failure in 8 cylinder X7's. Some failures occurred in vehicles with less than 30k miles, but most seem to happen in the 40-50k mile range. This is a $10k repair and BMW does not offer an upgraded replacement part, they just replace it with the same part so the issue will reoccur. BMW should be made to replace the failing part with an upgraded part or do the repairs under warranty.
NHTSA complaint #11756173 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hillsborough, NJ
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The IP cluster (gauges that display speedometer, fuel levels and other ADAS features) was blanking intermittently, BMW service center suggested software update as they believed it to be a software bug. Later, when the software update did not work, they suggested we replace the battery even though we tested it months ago and it was fine. After the battery replacement when the IP cluster was still inoperable, BMW recommended i pay another $3k for the IP replacement. I am seeing Hyundai have a similar issue but they have shared a proper recall and repair notice to consumers at NO COST. Many BMW X7 owners have faced a similar issue to mine. I am hoping to gather the complaints and pursue a national recall bulletin as the IP cluster blanking out mid drive can lead to a catastrophic scenario
NHTSA complaint #11754501 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hillsborough, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The IP cluster (gauges that display speedometer, fuel levels and other ADAS features) was blanking intermittently, BMW service center suggested software update as they believed it to be a software bug. Later, when the software update did not work, they suggested we replace the battery even though we tested it months ago and it was fine. After the battery replacement when the IP cluster was still inoperable, BMW recommended i pay another $3k for the IP replacement. I am seeing Hyundai have a similar issue but they have shared a proper recall and repair notice to consumers at NO COST. Many BMW X7 owners have faced a similar issue to mine. I am hoping to gather the complaints and pursue a national recall bulletin as the IP cluster blanking out mid drive can lead to a catastrophic scenario
NHTSA complaint #11754501 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hillsborough, NJ
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
The IP cluster (gauges that display speedometer, fuel levels and other ADAS features) was blanking intermittently, BMW service center suggested software update as they believed it to be a software bug. Later, when the software update did not work, they suggested we replace the battery even though we tested it months ago and it was fine. After the battery replacement when the IP cluster was still inoperable, BMW recommended i pay another $3k for the IP replacement. I am seeing Hyundai have a similar issue but they have shared a proper recall and repair notice to consumers at NO COST. Many BMW X7 owners have faced a similar issue to mine. I am hoping to gather the complaints and pursue a national recall bulletin as the IP cluster blanking out mid drive can lead to a catastrophic scenario
NHTSA complaint #11754501 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,400 milesApex, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X7. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start after several attempts, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who was initially unable to determine the cause of the issue. The contact reached out to a BMW-certified technician who inspected the vehicle and confirmed a starter failure. The manufacturer was notified of the issue and denied a request for Goodwill assistance. The contact to paid for the repair out of pocket. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,400.
NHTSA complaint #11753021 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Minneapolis, MN
POWER TRAIN
On [XXX], while traveling at highway speeds on a public roadway, the vehicle suffered a sudden, violent, and catastrophic mechanical explosion in the front drivetrain. Without any prior warning lights, dashboard messages, or operational symptoms, the front differential and driveshaft structurally shattered. The physical violence of the drivetrain components exploding at high speed sent metallic shrapnel directly into the engine compartment. This flying shrapnel pierced the structural engine block, completely destroying the engine and causing immediate, total power loss while surrounded by highway traffic. This sudden loss of propulsion and mechanical locking created an extreme, life-threatening hazard to myself and surrounding motorists. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership (Motorwerks BMW, Bloomington, MN). The service department confirmed the mechanical sequence: the front differential structurally failed first, and its catastrophic disintegration directly caused the secondary destruction of the engine block. The formal repair estimate is $66,124.76. BMW of North America Executive Care has formally reviewed the case and issued a written admission of fault regarding the drivetrain components, offering to cover the differential and driveshaft repairs. However, they are refusing to remedy the catastrophic engine destruction caused directly by their failed safety component. This component failure represents a severe, systemic structural safety risk that warrants an immediate federal safety investigation into 2019–2022 BMW X7/X5 front differential assemblies before an explosion results in a fatal highway collision. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11752922 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Minneapolis, MN
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On [XXX], while traveling at highway speeds on a public roadway, the vehicle suffered a sudden, violent, and catastrophic mechanical explosion in the front drivetrain. Without any prior warning lights, dashboard messages, or operational symptoms, the front differential and driveshaft structurally shattered. The physical violence of the drivetrain components exploding at high speed sent metallic shrapnel directly into the engine compartment. This flying shrapnel pierced the structural engine block, completely destroying the engine and causing immediate, total power loss while surrounded by highway traffic. This sudden loss of propulsion and mechanical locking created an extreme, life-threatening hazard to myself and surrounding motorists. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership (Motorwerks BMW, Bloomington, MN). The service department confirmed the mechanical sequence: the front differential structurally failed first, and its catastrophic disintegration directly caused the secondary destruction of the engine block. The formal repair estimate is $66,124.76. BMW of North America Executive Care has formally reviewed the case and issued a written admission of fault regarding the drivetrain components, offering to cover the differential and driveshaft repairs. However, they are refusing to remedy the catastrophic engine destruction caused directly by their failed safety component. This component failure represents a severe, systemic structural safety risk that warrants an immediate federal safety investigation into 2019–2022 BMW X7/X5 front differential assemblies before an explosion results in a fatal highway collision. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11752922 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Minneapolis, MN
ENGINE
On [XXX], while traveling at highway speeds on a public roadway, the vehicle suffered a sudden, violent, and catastrophic mechanical explosion in the front drivetrain. Without any prior warning lights, dashboard messages, or operational symptoms, the front differential and driveshaft structurally shattered. The physical violence of the drivetrain components exploding at high speed sent metallic shrapnel directly into the engine compartment. This flying shrapnel pierced the structural engine block, completely destroying the engine and causing immediate, total power loss while surrounded by highway traffic. This sudden loss of propulsion and mechanical locking created an extreme, life-threatening hazard to myself and surrounding motorists. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership (Motorwerks BMW, Bloomington, MN). The service department confirmed the mechanical sequence: the front differential structurally failed first, and its catastrophic disintegration directly caused the secondary destruction of the engine block. The formal repair estimate is $66,124.76. BMW of North America Executive Care has formally reviewed the case and issued a written admission of fault regarding the drivetrain components, offering to cover the differential and driveshaft repairs. However, they are refusing to remedy the catastrophic engine destruction caused directly by their failed safety component. This component failure represents a severe, systemic structural safety risk that warrants an immediate federal safety investigation into 2019–2022 BMW X7/X5 front differential assemblies before an explosion results in a fatal highway collision. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11752922 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrenceville, GA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My vehicle only have 60k miles my starter is acting up. I’m getting a repeat start message at some start ups. 2017-2020 has a starter recall. I feel like this may be the same recall but not recognized yet
NHTSA complaint #11752799 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
King of Prussia, PA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am writing to report a critical safety concern regarding BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine, specifically including my 2021 BMW X7. While my vehicle has not yet experienced a failure, I am filing this report due to the severe safety hazard and widespread nature of the variable-displacement engine oil pump defect. This pump contains an internal thermoplastic adjusting component that is prone to sudden fracture, resulting in an erratic or complete loss of engine oil pressure. According to widespread field reports, when this component fails—often during cold starts in low ambient temperatures—drivers receive little to no actionable warning before engine damage or complete vehicle disablement occurs. This sudden loss of lubrication can cause the vehicle to stall in active traffic or leave occupants stranded in freezing conditions, creating a serious and potentially life-threatening safety risk. Out of deep concern for my family's safety, I recently inquired with my local BMW dealership about preemptively replacing this pump and was quoted a staggering $21,000. It is unacceptable to place this massive financial and safety burden on consumers, especially since BMW has actively removed the plastic part number from dealer networks, making it impossible for owners to verify whether their vehicle contains the defective plastic component or the updated metal design. Given the sudden nature of these failures and the extreme safety risks involved, I strongly urge the NHTSA to open an investigation into this defect and compel BMW to issue a formal recall. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent safety matter.
NHTSA complaint #11746028 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Las Vegas, NV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dear NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline Team, I am writing to formally report a serious safety concern regarding my 2021 BMW X7. My vehicle is exhibiting a dangerous condition where it fails to start on the initial attempt, displays a "Repeat Start Attempt" warning message on the dashboard, and then heavily strains to turn over on the second attempt.While I am aware that BMW issued a safety recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-576) regarding starter motor overheating and engine fire risks for certain 2019–2021 models, I believe the current remediation or scope may not fully protect consumers from the immediate hazards of this failure.When the vehicle demands a second start attempt, it forces a high electrical draw that risks severely overheating the starter mechanism. This creates an immediate risk of electrical thermal overload and potential engine compartment fires while trying to get the vehicle moving.Below are the specific details of my vehicle and the safety incident:Vehicle Make and Model: 2021 BMW X7 Vehicle Identification Number: [XXX] Current Mileage: 57226 Incident Description: The vehicle consistently fails its initial ignition sequence. It prompts a "Repeat Start Attempt" notification, forcing a high-stress second startup sequence that poses an immediate electrical fire hazard.I request that the NHTSA review this ongoing issue, ensure that BMW's remedy effectively eliminates the fire risk during these secondary start cycles, and hold the manufacturer accountable for immediate component replacement.Thank you for your prompt attention to this safety matter. I look forward to your investigation. Sincerely, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11745413 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Farmington Hills, MI
POWER TRAIN
Front Differential Fail at 42K Miles.
NHTSA complaint #11742766 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tampa, FL
POWER TRAIN
A failed front differential on my 2021 BMW X7 M50i, which currently has approximately 59,000 miles. BMW of Wesley Chapel has diagnosed the front differential as failed and provided an estimated repair cost of approximately $11,500. The Service Manager Stevon Budhu has also submitted a goodwill request on our behalf to BMW I have two young daughters whom I transport daily, and safety is a key reason we selected the BMW X7 as our family vehicle. This type of drivetrain failure at this mileage is unexpected for a premium BMW SUV and is understandably concerning.
NHTSA complaint #11740484 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Short Hills, NJ
SEATS
The left-side 3rd-row seat on my 2021 BMW X7 is stuck upright and won't fold down to open up cargo space. You can hear the motor trying to work, but the physical latch inside the seat gets completely stuck and won't release. The seat mechanism is available for inspection. This is a major safety hazard because the seat latch is failing. If the seat cannot lock or unlock properly, the structural integrity is compromised. In a crash or under hard braking, the seat back could collapse forward and injure passengers in the back rows. The problem started out as an intermittent glitch a few months ago where it would eventually work after a few tries, but now it is permanently stuck. There were never any warning lights or messages on the dashboard. I called my local BMW dealership about this known, well-documented manufacturing issue, but they refused to offer any warranty coverage or assistance since the standard 4-year factory warranty just expired. It has not been inspected by police or insurance.
NHTSA complaint #11740014 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Roslyn Heights, NY
ENGINE
While driving my 2021 BMW X7 at approximately 32,000 miles, the vehicle suddenly displayed a drivetrain malfunction warning along with a low engine oil pressure warning. At the same time, I noticed excessive heat and a strong burning smell coming from the vehicle. I also heard abnormal mechanical noises coming from the engine, which sounded like knocking or grinding. The engine failure occurred unexpectedly at relatively low mileage and required extensive repairs, with estimated costs of approximately $15,000. A sudden loss of oil pressure and abnormal engine noises while driving creates a serious safety risk because it can lead to engine damage, loss of power, or the vehicle becoming disabled in traffic without warning. Based on the diagnosis and information from the repair facility, the failure may be related to an internal engine or oil pump issue affecting lubrication. I am reporting this incident because similar failures have been reported by other BMW owners, and I believe this condition warrants investigation as a potential safety-related defect.
NHTSA complaint #11732539 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Norwood, NJ
POWER TRAIN
very known issue of catastrophic failure to the oil pump, made in Italy with plastic component, used in my vehicle. The part has been updated to metal components on bmw side without any knowledge to the customers with same part number. Faulty xdrive tranfer case, wheel jerks on low speed turning. Currently in class action lawsuit.
NHTSA complaint #11728211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Norwood, NJ
ENGINE
very known issue of catastrophic failure to the oil pump, made in Italy with plastic component, used in my vehicle. The part has been updated to metal components on bmw side without any knowledge to the customers with same part number. Faulty xdrive tranfer case, wheel jerks on low speed turning. Currently in class action lawsuit.
NHTSA complaint #11728211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Virginia Beach, VA
POWER TRAIN
Front differential complete fail. 56k miles. Replaced with new part, not an improved one but the same as factory at BMW dealership. My vehicle is 2021 x7 m50i. Reading other forums this is common if not standard on same models of this year. Very upset to have had to come out of pocket $9k to replace. Just outside of warranty. Was told will likely happen again in 50k miles. I wanted to keep this car like I have my other cars well into 170k miles. Looking to sell. Don’t understand how BMW doesn’t recall this.
NHTSA complaint #11719575 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 79,000 milesCedar Falls, IA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X7. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The message "Pull Over and Turn Off Your Car - You Have Lost All the Water In the Radiator" was displayed. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was able to restart, but was towed to Hawkeye Motorsports LLC, where it was diagnosed that the water pump pulley had shattered. The mechanic replaced the coolant pump, coolant lines, and belts. Additionally, the coolant lines were tested. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed that reimbursement assistance could only be provided if the VIN was included in a related recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.
NHTSA complaint #11717086 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.