2001 BMW 3 SERIES

1 recalls — 49 complaints — 84 TSBs

21V401000 May 27, 2021
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect Description
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2001 BMW 3 Series (323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci and 330Ci), 1999-2001 323i, 328i, 330i, 330xi, and 2000 323i, 328i stationwagon vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These vehicles are equipped with ... Read more
Consequence
The inflator could explode during air bag deployment, resulting in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
4,511 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC

Complaint Statistics

49 total complaints 1 crashes

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
EXTERIOR LIGHTING8
AIR BAGS7
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM5
SUSPENSION3
WHEELS3
POWER TRAIN3
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE3
TIRES2
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM2
SERVICE BRAKES2
TIRES Oct 17, 2018
Incident date: Oct 17, 2018
COMPLETE DISINTEGRATION OF OF A HANOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE WHILE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. TIRE DID NOT HIT ANY OBSTACLES, NOR WAS THE TIRE. UNDER OR OVER INFLATED. DRIVEN 17,000 MILES BEFORE FAILURE
STEERING Aug 26, 2018
Incident date: Aug 26, 2018
WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 70 MPH IN A STRAIGHT LINE ON THE HIGHWAY, THE DYNAMIC STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT TURNED ON AND THE CAR JERKED AND STUTTERED ALMOST AS IF IT WAS BRAKING ON ITS OWN OR LOCKING UP. THIS OCCURRED TWICE TODAY AND IS A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE AS IT WAS UNEXPECTED AND COULD HAVE LED TO A ... Read more
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) Aug 26, 2018
Incident date: Aug 26, 2018
WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 70 MPH IN A STRAIGHT LINE ON THE HIGHWAY, THE DYNAMIC STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT TURNED ON AND THE CAR JERKED AND STUTTERED ALMOST AS IF IT WAS BRAKING ON ITS OWN OR LOCKING UP. THIS OCCURRED TWICE TODAY AND IS A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE AS IT WAS UNEXPECTED AND COULD HAVE LED TO A ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Dec 15, 2017
Incident date: Dec 4, 2017
OUR 2001 E46 HAS ELECTRONIC DOOR LOCKS WHICH ARE FAILING. MY WIFE HAS FOUND HERSELF LOCKED INSIDE THE CAR, UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR. THE LOCKS FREEZE, AND CANNOT BE MANUALLY UNLOCKED, TRAPPING THE OCCUPANT IN THE CAR. THERE IS NO MECHANICAL OVERRIDE TO THE SYSTEM. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN SHE TURNE... Read more
AIR BAGS Mar 27, 2017
Incident date: May 1, 2015
I TOOK IT TO BMW DEALER TO FIX THE RECALL PART--AIR BAG MODULE ON MAY 01,2015, NEXT DAY I WENT TO PICKUP THE CAR, THEY TOLD ME IT IS DONE. I HAD NOT LOOK AT THE PAPER WORK. AFTER THE DAY BEFORE, I RECEIVED FINAL RECALL AGAIN, AND THEN I LOOK UP THE DOCUMENT, THEN I FOUND OUT DEALER HAD NOT CHANGE T... Read more
WHEELS Jan 10, 2016
Incident date: Jan 6, 2016
WAS DRIVING ON HWY 99 GETTING READY TO EXIT ON JENSEN AVE WHEN I FELT A BUMP THEN MY DRIVER CURTAIN/ DOOR AIRBAG DEPLOYED. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION I FOUND DAMAGED TO THE DIVER'S RIM AND TIRE, BRAKES HAVE BEEN CLICKING EVER SINCE AND SUSPENSION SEEMS TO BE AFFECTED AS WELL SINCE CAR IS BEEN SHAKING ... Read more
SUSPENSION Jan 10, 2016
Incident date: Jan 6, 2016
WAS DRIVING ON HWY 99 GETTING READY TO EXIT ON JENSEN AVE WHEN I FELT A BUMP THEN MY DRIVER CURTAIN/ DOOR AIRBAG DEPLOYED. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION I FOUND DAMAGED TO THE DIVER'S RIM AND TIRE, BRAKES HAVE BEEN CLICKING EVER SINCE AND SUSPENSION SEEMS TO BE AFFECTED AS WELL SINCE CAR IS BEEN SHAKING ... Read more
AIR BAGS Jan 10, 2016
Incident date: Jan 6, 2016
WAS DRIVING ON HWY 99 GETTING READY TO EXIT ON JENSEN AVE WHEN I FELT A BUMP THEN MY DRIVER CURTAIN/ DOOR AIRBAG DEPLOYED. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION I FOUND DAMAGED TO THE DIVER'S RIM AND TIRE, BRAKES HAVE BEEN CLICKING EVER SINCE AND SUSPENSION SEEMS TO BE AFFECTED AS WELL SINCE CAR IS BEEN SHAKING ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Nov 20, 2015
Incident date: Aug 1, 2015
THE REAR PARKING LIGHT WENT OUT IN MY CAR, SO I PURCHASED MORE BULBS, BUT THE BULB NEVER WORKED. I TOOK MY CAR TO MY BMW DEALERSHIP FOR THE TAKATA RECALL, THEY CHECKED THE LIGHT TOO AND SAID THAT A PART IN THE HOUSING HAD BURNED ALL THE WAY DOWN . I RECENTLY CHECKED ON RECALLS, AND FOUND THAT T... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Jun 22, 2015
Incident date: May 15, 2015
A RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THIS PROBLEM FOR CARS PRODUCED FROM 9/1/01 TO 02/01/05. [RECALL CAMPAIGN 11V-438: REPAIR GROUND CABLE FOR REAR LIGHT LAMPS (SIDE PANEL)]. ...UPDATED 09/22/15 *BF I HAVE THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM ALTHOUGH MY CAR WAS PRODUCED APPROXIMATELY 14 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE VEHICL... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jun 22, 2015
Incident date: May 15, 2015
A RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THIS PROBLEM FOR CARS PRODUCED FROM 9/1/01 TO 02/01/05. [RECALL CAMPAIGN 11V-438: REPAIR GROUND CABLE FOR REAR LIGHT LAMPS (SIDE PANEL)]. ...UPDATED 09/22/15 *BF I HAVE THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM ALTHOUGH MY CAR WAS PRODUCED APPROXIMATELY 14 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE VEHICL... Read more
AIR BAGS Jun 2, 2015
Incident date: Jun 1, 2015
RECALLED PASSENGER AIR BAG WAS REPLACED BY DEALER LAST WEEK, BUT THE DASHBOARD LIGHT INDICATES THE PASSENGER AIR BAG IS TURNED OFF. THE DEALER SAYS THIS WAS AN EXISTING PROBLEM AND REFUSES TO FIX WITHOUT CHARGING SEVERAL HUNDRED DOLLARS TO "DIAGNOSE." I MAINTAIN THIS IS DIRECTLY ELATED TO THE RECALL... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jun 2, 2015
Incident date: Jun 1, 2015
RECALLED PASSENGER AIR BAG WAS REPLACED BY DEALER LAST WEEK, BUT THE DASHBOARD LIGHT INDICATES THE PASSENGER AIR BAG IS TURNED OFF. THE DEALER SAYS THIS WAS AN EXISTING PROBLEM AND REFUSES TO FIX WITHOUT CHARGING SEVERAL HUNDRED DOLLARS TO "DIAGNOSE." I MAINTAIN THIS IS DIRECTLY ELATED TO THE RECALL... Read more
AIR BAGS May 17, 2015
Incident date: May 17, 2015
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND OUT OF NO WHERE THE AIR BAGS GO OFF. ENGINE IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF AND WON'T START AGAIN.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) Apr 8, 2015
Incident date: Apr 30, 2013
THE "YAW SENSOR" FAILS IN THESE CARS, FREQUENTLY CAUSING A SUDDEN BRAKING ON ONE SIDE OF THE CAR AND PULLING THE CAR IN THAT DIRECTION. THIS IS A REAL HAZARD: THE CAR SUDDENLY BRAKES BY ITSELF WITHOUT WARNING. THE PROBLEM IS WELL DESCRIBED IN THESE DISCUSSION FORUMS: HTTP://WWW.M3FORUM.NET/M3FOR... Read more
AIR BAGS Nov 11, 2014
Incident date: Nov 10, 2014
DEALER REFUSES TO FIX DEFECT IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG RECALL NOTICE. THE DEALER IS WEATHERFORD BMW IN BERKELEY CALIFORNIA, 735 ASHBY AVE, BERKELEY, CA 94710. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES Nov 6, 2014
Incident date: Oct 16, 2004
BMW 330XI 2001 55,000 MILES LATEST PROBLEM OCTOBER 2014 LATELY WHEN I START THE CAR, PRESS ON THE BRAKE AND PUT IT IN DRIVE THE ENGINE REVS ALL THE WAY UP AND THE CAR GETS AWAY FROM ME. I HAVE TO STOMP ON THE BRAKE WITH BOTH FEET AND POP THE GEAR TO PARK IN ORDER TO STOP THE CAR... CLEARLY YOU CA... Read more
AIR BAGS Oct 24, 2014
Incident date: Oct 24, 2014
I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL LETTER AUG-SEP 2014. THE LETTER STATED THAT I WOULD BE NOTIFIED WHEN THE AIR-BAG REPLACEMENT WOULD BE AVAILABLE. IT IS OCTOBER 24TH. I CALLED THE BMW INFORMATION NUMBER 1-800-525-7417 TODAY. A RECORDING REPEATED THE INFORMATION IN THE LETTER: THAT I WOULD BE NOTIFIED ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Aug 19, 2014
Incident date: Aug 15, 2014
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, THE PASSENGER-SIDE FUEL TANK RETAINING STRAP BRACKET BROKE FROM THE FLOOR PAN OF THE CAR. IT WAS NOT ENTIRELY CLEAR TO ME IF IT WAS STRUCK BY SOMETHING ON THE ROAD OR IF THE WELDS JUST FAILED, HOWEVER I DO KNOW THAT I DIDN'T HIT A POTHOLE OR OTHER ROAD IRREGULARITY. ... Read more
POWER TRAIN May 24, 2014
Incident date: May 24, 2014
VEHICLE OPERATED WITHOUT ISSUE AND THEN THE REVERSE GEAR CEASED FUNCTIONING WHEN ATTEMPTING TO REVERSE FROM A PARKING SPOT AND THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE PUSHED AS THE REVERSE GEAR IN THE TRANSMISSION NO LONGER ENGAGED. REPEATED ATTEMPTS WITH THE VEHICLE AT OPERATING TEMPERATURE AND WHEN ALLOWED TO COOL ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Apr 14, 2014
Incident date: Apr 4, 2014
MY BMW IS HAVING THE SAME ISSUES THAT THE 2002 BMW 3 SERIES HAS A RECALL ON. THE REAR TAILLIGHTS ARE BURNING THE NEUTRAL WIRE AND CONNECTOR OFF IN THE LAMP ASSEMBLIES. CAUSING THE LIGHTS TO BECOME IN OPERABLE. *JS
POWER TRAIN Apr 9, 2014
Incident date: Apr 7, 2014
2001 BMW 330I. NO REVERSE. IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH THIS TRANSMISSION, YET THERE HAS BEEN NO RECALL. IT WAS A ONE OWNER CAR WITH METICULOUS MAINTENANCE RECORDS. DESPITE THE HIGH MILES, THERE WERE NO WARNING SIGNS PRIOR TO THE REVERSE GEAR FAILING. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM May 14, 2013
Incident date: May 14, 2013
ELECTRICAL GROUND CONTACT RESISTANCE IN REAR TAIL LAMP HAS RENDERED TAIL LAMP NON FUNCTIONAL AND CAUSED WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATION. PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE IDENTICAL TO CAMPAIGN 11V438000. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING May 14, 2013
Incident date: May 14, 2013
ELECTRICAL GROUND CONTACT RESISTANCE IN REAR TAIL LAMP HAS RENDERED TAIL LAMP NON FUNCTIONAL AND CAUSED WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATION. PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE IDENTICAL TO CAMPAIGN 11V438000. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES May 14, 2013
Incident date: May 14, 2013
ELECTRICAL GROUND CONTACT RESISTANCE IN REAR TAIL LAMP HAS RENDERED TAIL LAMP NON FUNCTIONAL AND CAUSED WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATION. PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE IDENTICAL TO CAMPAIGN 11V438000. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Mar 31, 2013
Incident date: Mar 29, 2013
THE WELDS ON THE FRONT (PASSENGER SIDE) FUEL TANK SUPPORT STRAP FITTING (WELDED TO THE UNDER SIDE OF THE BODY) BROKE AWAY ALLOWING THE SUPPORT STRAP TO FALL, CONTACT, BEND BACKWARD AND SCRAPE ALONG THE ROAD SURFACE CAUSING SPARKS. THE TANK WAS FULL OF FUEL, AND THE WEIGHT OF THE TANK CAUSED IT TO SA... Read more
WHEELS Mar 12, 2013
Incident date: Mar 10, 2013
WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE, I HIT A POTHOLE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. MY DRIVER SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED: THE SIDE, AND CURTAIN. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE ON THE OUTSIDE. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WAS FLAT. *TR
SUSPENSION Mar 12, 2013
Incident date: Mar 10, 2013
WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE, I HIT A POTHOLE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. MY DRIVER SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED: THE SIDE, AND CURTAIN. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE ON THE OUTSIDE. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WAS FLAT. *TR
AIR BAGS Mar 12, 2013
Incident date: Mar 10, 2013
WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE, I HIT A POTHOLE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. MY DRIVER SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED: THE SIDE, AND CURTAIN. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE ON THE OUTSIDE. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WAS FLAT. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Feb 16, 2013
Incident date: Jan 2, 2012
1) CAR WOULD NOT START, FUSE BLOWN ON FUEL PUMP. (NO. 1 ORIGINAL) TOWED TO MECHANIC. 2) MECHANIC REPLACES FUEL PUMP. (NO.2) 3) RETURN CAR TO DRIVEWAY WHERE IT SITS OVER NIGHT. CAR WON'T START. TOWED IT TO MECHANIC. REPLACED FUEL PUMP, AND HE ALLOWS IT TO SIT IN HIS GARAGE OVER NIGHT. (NO.3) ... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES Nov 26, 2012
Incident date: Oct 31, 2012
THE DOORS WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH THE REMOTE KEY. THE DRIVER'S DOOR WILL UNLOCK WITH THE KEY INSERTED, BUT ONCE INSIDE THE CAR, THE PASSENGER DOORS WILL STILL NOT UNLOCK WITH THE INSIDE BUTTON OR BY PULLING THE UNLOCK LEVER ON EACH DOOR. THE LEVERS DO NOT WORK BY PULLING TWICE EITHER. VERY DANGEROUS... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Jul 26, 2012
Incident date: Jul 2, 2012
RECENTLY MY REAR TAILLIGHTS WERE NOTICEABLY DARKER AND LESS RESPONSIVE. TAKING MY BMW TO MY AUTHORIZED BMW DEALERSHIP/SERVICE CENTER, RESULTED IN A DIAGNOSIS THAT THE REAR WIRE HARNESS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF ~$300. FOLLOWING THE VISIT TO THE DEALERSHIP/SERVICE CENTER, RESULTED IN THE REA... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jul 26, 2012
Incident date: Jul 2, 2012
RECENTLY MY REAR TAILLIGHTS WERE NOTICEABLY DARKER AND LESS RESPONSIVE. TAKING MY BMW TO MY AUTHORIZED BMW DEALERSHIP/SERVICE CENTER, RESULTED IN A DIAGNOSIS THAT THE REAR WIRE HARNESS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF ~$300. FOLLOWING THE VISIT TO THE DEALERSHIP/SERVICE CENTER, RESULTED IN THE REA... Read more
WHEELS Apr 2, 2012
Incident date: Oct 19, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I . THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT THEN PULLED OVER AND NOTICED THAT THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL CAME APART. WHEN REMOVING THE WHEEL THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A HUGE CRACK IN ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Mar 12, 2012
Incident date: Jan 9, 2012
THE LEFT REAR BRAKE LIGHT STARTED TO DIM AND TRIGGERED A WARNING INDICATOR BUT WENT AWAY. AFTER A MONTH OR TWO, ALL THE LIGHTS ON REAR LEFT HAS FAILED. NO BRAKE LIGHTS, TURN SIGNAL, OR REVERSE LIGHT ON THE LEFT SIDE. AFTER RESEARCHING THIS LOOKS LIKES NHTSA ACTION NUMBER : EA09019. I CURRENTLY ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 22, 2012
Incident date: Feb 22, 2012
DROVE THROUGH A PARKING LOT EARLIER TODAY WHEN I HEARD SOMETHING THAT SOUNDED LIKE SCRAPING METAL COMING FROM THE REAR OF MY CAR. PULLED OVER AND FOUND THE PASSENGER SIDE GAS TANK STRAP HANGING DOWN TOUCHING THE GROUND. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Jan 17, 2012
Incident date: Dec 1, 2011
FOR BMW E46 2001, REAR TURN SIGNAL LIGHT BROWN GROUNDING WIRE ARCHES AND DAMAGES THE SOCKET CAUSING THE LIGHT TO FLICKER ON OCCASION. THIS PROBLEM IS ALSO EVIDENT IN LATER MODELS OF BMW E46 AND AN RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED ON E46 2002-2006 MODELS. IT'S PROBLEMATIC THAT THEY ALSO DIDN'T ADDRESS THIS... Read more
POWER TRAIN Nov 15, 2011
Incident date: Nov 14, 2011
I WAS TRYING TO PARK AND WHEN I PUT THE CAR INTO REVERSE, THE CAR DID NOT MOVE BACKWARDS. MY CAR ROLLED FORWARD AS IF IT WAS IN NEUTRAL. AFTER RESEARCHING THE ISSUE, THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE 3 SERIES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Sep 22, 2011
Incident date: Sep 20, 2011
FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT BEHIND DRIVER'S SEAT LEAKING FUEL IN A STREAM ONLY WHEN TANK IS FULL. WHEN VIEWED FROM THE TOP, THERE IS AN ENCLOSED PLASTIC COLUMN, APPROXIMATELY 3/4 OF AN INCH IN DIAMETER THAT IS LEAKING AT A "SEAM" THROUGH PINHOLES. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Sep 3, 2011
Incident date: Aug 15, 2011
EXTERIOR LIGHTING: TAIL LIGHT. LEFT REAR TAIL LIGHT EIGHT-PIN CONNECTOR HAS MELTED AT PIN NUMBER 5 AND HAS CAUSED FAILURE OF THE TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT AND TURN INDICATOR. *TR
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Jun 5, 2011
Incident date: May 30, 2011
BMW E46 MODEL 3-SERIES HAVE A KNOWN SUBFRAME WEAKNESS CAUSING THE REAR AXLE TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE. A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT SUPPOSEDLY RESOLVED THIS, BUT THE TERMS OF THE SUIT ENDED IN 2010 LEAVING ANYONE THAT EXPERIENCES THE PROBLEM AFTER THE TERM OF THE SUITE TO FIX THE BMW ADMITTED ENGINE... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Oct 27, 2010
Incident date: May 11, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 325I. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 35 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND BEGAN TO LOSE POWER. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF YET IT WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE AT THE FUEL PUMP. THE FU... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION Feb 3, 2010
Incident date: Jan 4, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW SERIES 3. WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE THE VEHICLE IDLES VERY HARD. THE CONTACT STATES THAT THE IGNITION COIL IS THE REASON FOR THE HARD IDLING. THE CONTACT STATES HE HAD HIS VEHICLE INSPECTED BY A BMW EMPLOYEE AND WAS ADVISED THAT THE COIL WAS FAULTY. THE CONTACT SAYS ... Read more
SUSPENSION Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Mar 15, 2003
THE ENGINE OF MY CAR SHUT OFF, AND UPON BEING TOWED TO THE DEALER, THEY GOT BACK TO ME TO SAY THAT THE ENGINE FAILED AS A RESULT OF DRIVERS ERROR FROM A DOWNSHIFT FROM 4TH TO 2ND. THE DEALER SAID THAT THIS WAS IDENTIFIED BY THE CAR'S COMPUTER SYSTEM. HOWEVER, AFTER TALKING TO MANY MECHANICS, I HAV... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Mar 15, 2003
THE ENGINE OF MY CAR SHUT OFF, AND UPON BEING TOWED TO THE DEALER, THEY GOT BACK TO ME TO SAY THAT THE ENGINE FAILED AS A RESULT OF DRIVERS ERROR FROM A DOWNSHIFT FROM 4TH TO 2ND. THE DEALER SAID THAT THIS WAS IDENTIFIED BY THE CAR'S COMPUTER SYSTEM. HOWEVER, AFTER TALKING TO MANY MECHANICS, I HAV... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Mar 15, 2003
THE ENGINE OF MY CAR SHUT OFF, AND UPON BEING TOWED TO THE DEALER, THEY GOT BACK TO ME TO SAY THAT THE ENGINE FAILED AS A RESULT OF DRIVERS ERROR FROM A DOWNSHIFT FROM 4TH TO 2ND. THE DEALER SAID THAT THIS WAS IDENTIFIED BY THE CAR'S COMPUTER SYSTEM. HOWEVER, AFTER TALKING TO MANY MECHANICS, I HAV... Read more
STRUCTURE Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Mar 15, 2003
THE ENGINE OF MY CAR SHUT OFF, AND UPON BEING TOWED TO THE DEALER, THEY GOT BACK TO ME TO SAY THAT THE ENGINE FAILED AS A RESULT OF DRIVERS ERROR FROM A DOWNSHIFT FROM 4TH TO 2ND. THE DEALER SAID THAT THIS WAS IDENTIFIED BY THE CAR'S COMPUTER SYSTEM. HOWEVER, AFTER TALKING TO MANY MECHANICS, I HAV... Read more
TIRES Sep 14, 2001
Incident date: Jan 10, 2001
I PREVIOUSLY REPORTED THIS. SEE FILE # 748060- I HAVE NEVER REC'D ANY RESPONSE OR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT. I EXPERIENCED 2 FLAT TIRES SIMUTANEOUSLY AT HIGH SPEED WITH NO PREVIOUS WARNING OR INDICATION OF ANYTHING IMPROPER, ETC. I ONLY HAD 4400 MILES ON THIS VEHICLE AND FIND HARD TO BELIEVE THAT THIS COULD O... Read more
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW Jun 29, 2001
CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 55MPH ON HIGHWAY AND ANOTHER VEHICLE VEERED INTO HIS LANE, AND DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
Crash

Technical Service Bulletins — 2001 BMW 3 SERIES

84 manufacturer communications from 49 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE14
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE5
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS4
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM4
061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL4
150000 SEAT BELTS3
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE2
061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER2
B510819 Jan 16, 2024
133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
B510819 Jan 16, 2024
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
SIB-12-21-10 Oct 1, 2014
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ON. THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND THE ENGINE CRANKS WITH NO START. *RM UPDATED 5/19/15. *PE
SIB-12-21-10 Oct 1, 2014
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ON. THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND THE ENGINE CRANKS WITH NO START. *RM UPDATED 5/19/15. *PE
SIB-65-14-14 Jun 1, 2014
141000 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
BMW: SOME AIRBAGS, DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER, ARE IMPROPERLY DEPLOYING DUE TO A POSSIBLE INFLATOR NOT PRODUCED TO SPECIFICATIONS. MODEL 2001-2006 E46 (3 SERIES). *PE UPDATED 9/4/14. *PE
SIB-61-37-12 Dec 1, 2012
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
BMW: THE HIGH-VOLTAGE (HV) BATTERY CELLS COULD BE DAMAGED IF THE VEHICLE IS PREVENTED FROM ENTERING SLEEP MODE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME. UPDATED 03/11/2013 *JS
SIB270212 Dec 1, 2012
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
BMW: DSC WARNING LIGHT IS ON. THE WARNING LAMPS FOR DSC, ABS AND BRAKE WARNING ILLUMINATED. THERE MAY ALSO BE A WARNING IN THE CONTROL DISPLAY FOR CHASSIS CONTROL SYSTEM FAILURE. *JS
SIB122512 Dec 1, 2012
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
BMW: VEHICLE DOES NOT START: LOOSE GROUND Z6000 *4B. COVERED UNDER THE TERMS OF THE BMW NEW VEHICLE/SAV LIMITED WARRANTY. *JS
SIB-11-02-08 Nov 1, 2012
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW VEHICLE: THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON (MIL) LAMP IS ILLUMINATED AND A POWER REDUCTION IS CLEARLY PERCEPTIBLE. THIS SITUATION MAY OCCUR AFTER DRIVING FOR SOME TIME WITH THE ENGINE ALREADY AT FULL OPERATING TEMPERATURE. IF THE IGNITION IS C
SIB-11-02-08 Nov 1, 2012
061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
BMW VEHICLE: THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON (MIL) LAMP IS ILLUMINATED AND A POWER REDUCTION IS CLEARLY PERCEPTIBLE. THIS SITUATION MAY OCCUR AFTER DRIVING FOR SOME TIME WITH THE ENGINE ALREADY AT FULL OPERATING TEMPERATURE. IF THE IGNITION IS C
B63-03-12 Apr 1, 2012
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
BMW: THE LEFT OR RIGHT REAR LIGHT IN THE SIDE PANEL HAS CONDENSATION CONCERNING VEHICLES PRODUCED UP TO FEBRUARY 27,2012. *JS
SIB-65-75-06 Aug 1, 2011
140000 AIR BAGS
BMW SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. THE AIRBAG WARNING LAMP (AWL) IS ILLUMINATED, TOGETHER WITH THE PASSENGER AIRBAG STATUS LAMP (POL). THE PROBLEM MAY BE INTERMITTENT. MICROCRACKS IN THE OC3 SEAT MAT. *PE
SIB-63-03-11 Aug 1, 2011
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
BMW: WIRING ON THE HEADLIGHTS MAY HAVE DETERIORATED DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND THE COVER NOT BEING SECURED PROPERLY. E60/E92. *RM UPDATED 9/30/11. *PE
SIB-72-01-11 Aug 1, 2011
150000 SEAT BELTS
BMW: E92. THE SEAT BELT EXTENDER ON THE FRONT DRIVER?S OR PASSENGER SIDE FAILED TO DELIVER THE BELT. THE SAFETY BELT EXTENDER EXTENDS BUT THE BELT SLIPS OFF. THE ?HAND? ON THE EXTENDER FAILS. THE SAFETY BELT IS TWISTED. THE EXTENDER WILL NO
SIB-72-01-11 Aug 1, 2011
151000 SEAT BELTS:FRONT
BMW: E92. THE SEAT BELT EXTENDER ON THE FRONT DRIVER?S OR PASSENGER SIDE FAILED TO DELIVER THE BELT. THE SAFETY BELT EXTENDER EXTENDS BUT THE BELT SLIPS OFF. THE ?HAND? ON THE EXTENDER FAILS. THE SAFETY BELT IS TWISTED. THE EXTENDER WILL NO
SIB-61-01-11 Jul 1, 2011
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
BMW: VARIOUS FUNCTIONS IN THE VEHICLE ARE NOT WORKING INCLUDING: INSTRUMENTS, DOOR LOCKS, WIPERS, AND OTHER ELECTRICAL FUNCTIONS. THERE MAY ALSO BE WARNING LIGHTS ON. K-CAN WIRING IN THE VEHICLE SHORTED. *RM UPDATED 10/5/11. *PE
SIB-61-01-11 Jul 1, 2011
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW: VARIOUS FUNCTIONS IN THE VEHICLE ARE NOT WORKING INCLUDING: INSTRUMENTS, DOOR LOCKS, WIPERS, AND OTHER ELECTRICAL FUNCTIONS. THERE MAY ALSO BE WARNING LIGHTS ON. K-CAN WIRING IN THE VEHICLE SHORTED. *RM UPDATED 10/5/11. *PE
SIB-12-15-11 Jul 1, 2011
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ON. THERE ARE TROUBLE CODES STORED FOR THE CRANKSHAFT SENSOR. NO DRIVEABILITY ISSUES. *RM
SIB-72-28-06 Apr 1, 2011
150000 SEAT BELTS
BMW: THE END OF THE SEATBELT ASSISTANT BREAKS/FALLS OFF WHEN RETRACTING. THE RETAINING TAB IS NOT ROBUST ENOUGH. E92. *RM
SIB-72-05-07 Apr 1, 2011
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
BMW: A SOFTWARE PROBLEM IS CAUSING ONE OR BOTH OF THE SEAT BELT ASSISTANTS TO NOT EXTEND FULLY OR MAY NOT EXTEND AT ALL. THE POSITION AT WHICH THE ASSISTANT COMES TO REST VARIES. E92. *RM
SIB-72-05-07 Apr 1, 2011
150000 SEAT BELTS
BMW: A SOFTWARE PROBLEM IS CAUSING ONE OR BOTH OF THE SEAT BELT ASSISTANTS TO NOT EXTEND FULLY OR MAY NOT EXTEND AT ALL. THE POSITION AT WHICH THE ASSISTANT COMES TO REST VARIES. E92. *RM
SIB-12-16-07 Mar 1, 2011
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
BMW: A SOFTWARE ERROR IS CAUSING THE THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT TO COME ON. THERE WILL BE STORED TROUBLE CODES. *RM
SIB-12-16-07 Mar 1, 2011
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
BMW: A SOFTWARE ERROR IS CAUSING THE THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT TO COME ON. THERE WILL BE STORED TROUBLE CODES. *RM
SIB-72-01-10 Oct 1, 2010
151000 SEAT BELTS:FRONT
BMW VEHICLE: FRONT SAFETY BELT DOES NOT RETRACT SMOOTHLY OR JAMS. THE UPPER PART OF THE DRIVER'S OR PASSENGER'S FRONT SAFETY BELT DOES NOT ROLL UP FULLY OR ROLLS UP SLOWLY. THE ADJUSTMENT OF THE INERTIA REEL IS INCORRECT AT THE FASTENIN
SIB-63-02-08 Oct 1, 2010
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
BMW VEHICLE: REAR BULB FAILURE. THE BULB OUT WARNING SHOWS IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. DIAGNOSIS SHOWS A FAULT FOR THE REAR LAMP. THE BULB OUT CAN BE DISPLAYED FOR 2 POSSIBLE CAUSES: POOR FIT BETWEEN THE BULB AND BULB HOLDER; BULB FAILUR
SIB-72-01-10 Oct 1, 2010
151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
BMW VEHICLE: FRONT SAFETY BELT DOES NOT RETRACT SMOOTHLY OR JAMS. THE UPPER PART OF THE DRIVER'S OR PASSENGER'S FRONT SAFETY BELT DOES NOT ROLL UP FULLY OR ROLLS UP SLOWLY. THE ADJUSTMENT OF THE INERTIA REEL IS INCORRECT AT THE FASTENIN
SIB-65-36-09 Sep 1, 2010
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
BMW: THE AIRBAG WARNING LAMP IS ILLUMINATED DUE TO A SOFTWARE ERROR. *RM
SIB-65-36-09 Sep 1, 2010
140000 AIR BAGS
BMW: THE AIRBAG WARNING LAMP IS ILLUMINATED DUE TO A SOFTWARE ERROR. *RM
SIB-65-36-09 Sep 1, 2010
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
BMW: THE AIRBAG WARNING LAMP IS ILLUMINATED DUE TO A SOFTWARE ERROR. *RM
SIB-63-02-01 Aug 1, 2010
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
BMW: PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING AND REPLACING INCANDESCENT AND HALOGEN LIGHT BULBS UNDER WARRANTY. *RM
SIB-11-08-03 Jul 1, 2010
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: SIX DIFFERENT MODELS EQUIPPED WITH THE M54 ENGINE COULD HAVE VALVE COVERS BREAK IN COLD WEATHER AND RUIN THE ENGINE. THIS IS DUE TO MOISTURE ACCUMULATION. *RM
SIB-11-02-10 Jun 1, 2010
061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ON WITH DIESEL ENGINES. *RM
SIB-32-04-07 Jun 1, 2010
015000 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
BMW: A NEW TECHNICAL PROCESS HAS BEEN CREATED FOR BMW TO IDENTIFY CAUSES OF STEERING COMPLAINTS WITH A WIDE RANGE OF MODELS. *RM
SIB-32-04-07 Jun 1, 2010
016000 STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
BMW: A NEW TECHNICAL PROCESS HAS BEEN CREATED FOR BMW TO IDENTIFY CAUSES OF STEERING COMPLAINTS WITH A WIDE RANGE OF MODELS. *RM
SIB-28-02-08 Jun 1, 2010
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
BMW: A NEW TECHNICAL PROCESS IS BEING USED ON MANY MODELS TO DETERMINE THE ROOT CAUSE OF DOUBLE-CLUTCH TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. *RM
SIB-16-03-10 Jun 1, 2010
061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
BMW: WARNING MESSAGE ON ABOUT LOW DIESEL EXHAUST FUEL LEVEL AND THAT THE ENGINE WILL NOT RESTART WITHIN 999 MILES. THE LIGHT COMES ON A FEW THOUSAND MILES EARLIER THAN A RECOMMENDED OIL CHANGE. *RM
SIB-16-03-10 Jun 1, 2010
080000 FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
BMW: WARNING MESSAGE ON ABOUT LOW DIESEL EXHAUST FUEL LEVEL AND THAT THE ENGINE WILL NOT RESTART WITHIN 999 MILES. THE LIGHT COMES ON A FEW THOUSAND MILES EARLIER THAN A RECOMMENDED OIL CHANGE. *RM
SIB-13-07-10 Jun 1, 2010
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: THERE IS A ROUGH ENGINE IDLE AND "SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT" WHEN DRIVING DOWNHILL IN HIGH ALTITUDES DURING COLD WEATHER. THERE MAY BE SIX DIFFERENT FAULT CODES. *RM
SIB-13-02-10 Jun 1, 2010
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
BMW: IT IS NOW POSSIBLE TO PERFORM A FUEL QUALITY DETECTION TEST ON VEHICLES WITH AN N54 ENGINE. *RM
SIB-13-02-10 Jun 1, 2010
080000 FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
BMW: IT IS NOW POSSIBLE TO PERFORM A FUEL QUALITY DETECTION TEST ON VEHICLES WITH AN N54 ENGINE. *RM
SIB-13-06-10 Jun 1, 2010
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: A SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT COMES ON. THE ENGINE WILL ONLY OPERATE TO 1500 RPMS AND LACKS POWER. THERE IS A SOFTWARE APPLICATION ERROR. *RM
SIB-13-06-10 Jun 1, 2010
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
BMW: A SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT COMES ON. THE ENGINE WILL ONLY OPERATE TO 1500 RPMS AND LACKS POWER. THERE IS A SOFTWARE APPLICATION ERROR. *RM
SIB-16-02-09 Dec 1, 2009
072100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
BMW VEHICLES: FUEL LEVEL SENSOR REPAIRS. WHERE IT IS NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE RIGHT OR THE LEFT SIDE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR DUE TO A FAILURE, THE ENTIRE PUMP AND HOUSING OR DELIVERY UNIT (SUCTION JET ASSEMBLY) DO NOT NEED TO BE REPLACED AS WEL
SIB-51-19-07 Oct 2, 2009
171100 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
BMW VEHICLES: DOORS WILL NOT UNLOCK USING THE KEY FOB OR CENTRAL LOCKING BUTTON. *PE UPDATED1/4/10. *PE UPDATED 5/24/10. *PE
SIB-51-19-07 Oct 2, 2009
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
BMW VEHICLES: DOORS WILL NOT UNLOCK USING THE KEY FOB OR CENTRAL LOCKING BUTTON. *PE UPDATED1/4/10. *PE UPDATED 5/24/10. *PE
SIB-51-19-07 Oct 2, 2009
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW VEHICLES: DOORS WILL NOT UNLOCK USING THE KEY FOB OR CENTRAL LOCKING BUTTON. *PE UPDATED1/4/10. *PE UPDATED 5/24/10. *PE
SIB-41-02-09 Oct 1, 2009
022520 SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
BMW VEHICLES: REAR AXLE CARRIER (SUB FRAME) SUPPORT PROPOSED CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT. UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, A FRACTURE IN THE STEEL BODY STRUCTURE COULD FORM IN THE AREA AROUND ONE OF THE REAR AXLE CARRIER MOUNTING POINTS. AS A RE
SIB-41-02-09 Oct 1, 2009
160000 STRUCTURE
BMW VEHICLES: REAR AXLE CARRIER (SUB FRAME) SUPPORT PROPOSED CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT. UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, A FRACTURE IN THE STEEL BODY STRUCTURE COULD FORM IN THE AREA AROUND ONE OF THE REAR AXLE CARRIER MOUNTING POINTS. AS A RE
SIB-12-07-06 Oct 1, 2009
061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP ILLUMINATED-FC 23F4 MAP THERMOSTAT. IN SOME VEHICLES HAVE INSUFFICIENT HEAT. E90, E91 (3 SERIES), E60, E61 (5 SERIES) 3/06 AND E83 (X3 SERIES) 9/08. *PE
SIB-12-07-06 Oct 1, 2009
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP ILLUMINATED-FC 23F4 MAP THERMOSTAT. IN SOME VEHICLES HAVE INSUFFICIENT HEAT. E90, E91 (3 SERIES), E60, E61 (5 SERIES) 3/06 AND E83 (X3 SERIES) 9/08. *PE
SIB-41-02-09 Oct 1, 2009
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
BMW VEHICLES: REAR AXLE CARRIER (SUB FRAME) SUPPORT PROPOSED CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT. UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, A FRACTURE IN THE STEEL BODY STRUCTURE COULD FORM IN THE AREA AROUND ONE OF THE REAR AXLE CARRIER MOUNTING POINTS. AS A RE
SIB-12-07-06 Oct 1, 2009
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP ILLUMINATED-FC 23F4 MAP THERMOSTAT. IN SOME VEHICLES HAVE INSUFFICIENT HEAT. E90, E91 (3 SERIES), E60, E61 (5 SERIES) 3/06 AND E83 (X3 SERIES) 9/08. *PE
SIB-16-08-06 Oct 1, 2009
091200 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM
BMW VEHICLES: ENGINE CRANKS BUT DOES NOT START; FUEL LEVEL GAUGE DISPLAYS A SUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF FUEL, ALTHOUGH THE FUEL TANK IS EMPTY; FAULT CODE 2A1C (FUEL LEVEL PLAUSIBILITY) IS STORED IN MSV80. RIGHT SIDE FUEL SENDING UNIT IS DISLODGE
SI-B-34-11-08 Aug 1, 2009
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
BMW VEHICLES: TEILECLEARING FOR DYNAMIC STABILITY CONTROL (DSC). A PART REPLACEMENT AUTHORIZATION MUST BE OBTAINED BY SUBMITTING A TC CASE IN PUMA BEFORE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING DSC COMPONENTS ARE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY FOR THE VEHICLES LIS
SI-B-34-11-08 Aug 1, 2009
040000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
BMW VEHICLES: TEILECLEARING FOR DYNAMIC STABILITY CONTROL (DSC). A PART REPLACEMENT AUTHORIZATION MUST BE OBTAINED BY SUBMITTING A TC CASE IN PUMA BEFORE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING DSC COMPONENTS ARE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY FOR THE VEHICLES LIS
SIB-12-12-08 Feb 1, 2009
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE LAMP IS ILLUMINATED. DME FC 2A15 MINOR LEAK AND 2A16 SUPERFINE LEAK IN EVAPORATION SYSTEM. TANK VENTILATION CORRUGATED HOSE MAY CONTACT THE LOW SIDE AIR CONDITIONING PRESSURE LINE ALUMINUM FERREL. THIS CONTACT MAY CAUSE
SIB-12-12-08 Feb 1, 2009
062300 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS
BMW: SERVICE ENGINE LAMP IS ILLUMINATED. DME FC 2A15 MINOR LEAK AND 2A16 SUPERFINE LEAK IN EVAPORATION SYSTEM. TANK VENTILATION CORRUGATED HOSE MAY CONTACT THE LOW SIDE AIR CONDITIONING PRESSURE LINE ALUMINUM FERREL. THIS CONTACT MAY CAUSE
SI B52 05 08 Jun 1, 2008
220000 SEATS
BMW: SEAT FRAME DESIGN CHANGED FOR 392 (3 SERIES COUPE) PRODUCED UP TO MAY 2007. ON EARLY PRODUCTION E92S, THE SOCKET WHICH SECURES THE SEAT BACKREST RELEASE CABLE TO THE RELEASE MECHANISM COULD PULL FREE FROM THE RELEASE MECHANISM. *
SI B63-04-08 Jun 1, 2008
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
BMW: HEADLAMP MOISTURE: FAULT DIAGNOSTICS. WATER OR CONDENSATION IN ONE OR BOTH HEADLAMPS. MODELS 5 SERIES, 6 SERIES, 7 SERIES, X5, X6, 1 SERIES, AND 3 SERIES. MODEL YEARS 2000-20008. *PE
SI B63 02 08 May 1, 2008
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
REAR BULB FAILURE. MODEL E92 (3 SERIES COUPE) VEHICLES PRODUCED UP TO JANUARY 21, 2008 ARE AFFECTED. THE BULB OUT WARNING SHOWS IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. *PE
SI B11 13 07 Apr 1, 2008
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
N54 RATTLE NOISE FROM TURBOCHARGER AREA. MODELS E90, E92 AND E93 (3 SERIES) 335I AND 335XI; E60 AND E61 (5 SERIES) 535I AND 535XI, ALL WITH N54 ENGINE FROM THE START OF PRODUCTION TO JANUARY 17, 2008 PRODUCTION. *PE
SI B11 13 07 Apr 1, 2008
061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
N54 RATTLE NOISE FROM TURBOCHARGER AREA. MODELS E90, E92 AND E93 (3 SERIES) 335I AND 335XI; E60 AND E61 (5 SERIES) 535I AND 535XI, ALL WITH N54 ENGINE FROM THE START OF PRODUCTION TO JANUARY 17, 2008 PRODUCTION. *PE
SI B11 13 07 Apr 1, 2008
061320 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OTHER FUEL TYPES:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
N54 RATTLE NOISE FROM TURBOCHARGER AREA. MODELS E90, E92 AND E93 (3 SERIES) 335I AND 335XI; E60 AND E61 (5 SERIES) 535I AND 535XI, ALL WITH N54 ENGINE FROM THE START OF PRODUCTION TO JANUARY 17, 2008 PRODUCTION. *PE
SI B12 01 08 Jan 1, 2008
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
N52 EDK THROTTLE JAMMING FAULTS 2D09, 2CED AND 2CEC. MODEL E90 AND E91 (3 SERIES) AND E60 AND E61 (5 SERIES), ALL MODELS UP TO 11/2005 WITH N52 ENGINE. *PE
SIB-16-01-06 Dec 1, 2007
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
BMW: FUEL LEVEL SENSOR REPAIR PROCEDURE. THE CASE WHERE IT IS NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE RIGHT SIDE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR DUE TO A FAILURE, THE ENTIRE PUMP AND HOUSING DOES NOT NEED TO BE REPLACED. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
SIB-16-01-06 Dec 1, 2007
072100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
BMW: FUEL LEVEL SENSOR REPAIR PROCEDURE. THE CASE WHERE IT IS NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE RIGHT SIDE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR DUE TO A FAILURE, THE ENTIRE PUMP AND HOUSING DOES NOT NEED TO BE REPLACED. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
SIB-16-01-06 Dec 1, 2007
092100 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
BMW: FUEL LEVEL SENSOR REPAIR PROCEDURE. THE CASE WHERE IT IS NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE RIGHT SIDE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR DUE TO A FAILURE, THE ENTIRE PUMP AND HOUSING DOES NOT NEED TO BE REPLACED. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
SIB-11-14-07 Nov 1, 2007
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW VEHICLE: N54 TURBOCHARGER WASTE GATE CONTROL NOISES AND OPERATION. AFTER TURNING OFF ENGINE, A SLIGHT RATTLE NOISE IS HEARD FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THIS NOISE IS SIMILAR TO A MECHANICAL TYPEWRITER. IN ADDITION, THE COMPLAINTS O
SIB-11-14-07 Nov 1, 2007
061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
BMW VEHICLE: N54 TURBOCHARGER WASTE GATE CONTROL NOISES AND OPERATION. AFTER TURNING OFF ENGINE, A SLIGHT RATTLE NOISE IS HEARD FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THIS NOISE IS SIMILAR TO A MECHANICAL TYPEWRITER. IN ADDITION, THE COMPLAINTS O
SIB-11-14-07 Nov 1, 2007
061320 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OTHER FUEL TYPES:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
BMW VEHICLE: N54 TURBOCHARGER WASTE GATE CONTROL NOISES AND OPERATION. AFTER TURNING OFF ENGINE, A SLIGHT RATTLE NOISE IS HEARD FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THIS NOISE IS SIMILAR TO A MECHANICAL TYPEWRITER. IN ADDITION, THE COMPLAINTS O
SIB-12-20-07 Nov 1, 2007
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW VEHICLE: M54/M56-MIXTURE TOO LEAN-FAULT CODES 2882/2883 ARE STORED IN THE DME. COMPLAINTS THAT SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED. THE FAULT CODES 2882/2883-FUEL TRIM, MIXTURE TOO LEAN ARE STORED IN THE DME. POSSIBLE CAUSES MA
SIB-12-20-07 Nov 1, 2007
092300 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:FUEL FILTER
BMW VEHICLE: M54/M56-MIXTURE TOO LEAN-FAULT CODES 2882/2883 ARE STORED IN THE DME. COMPLAINTS THAT SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED. THE FAULT CODES 2882/2883-FUEL TRIM, MIXTURE TOO LEAN ARE STORED IN THE DME. POSSIBLE CAUSES MA
SIB-12-24-07 Nov 1, 2007
063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
BMW VEHICLE: S54-CATALYST PROTECTION MODE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS LOW ON FUEL. COMPLAINTS THAT THE VEHICLE HAS NO POWER DURING HEAVY ACCELERATION. FUEL RESERVE LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED AND THE FUEL LEVEL, WHEN MEASURED WITH THE SERVICE TESTER,
SIB-12-24-07 Nov 1, 2007
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
BMW VEHICLE: S54-CATALYST PROTECTION MODE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS LOW ON FUEL. COMPLAINTS THAT THE VEHICLE HAS NO POWER DURING HEAVY ACCELERATION. FUEL RESERVE LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED AND THE FUEL LEVEL, WHEN MEASURED WITH THE SERVICE TESTER,
SIB-12-24-07 Nov 1, 2007
071100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
BMW VEHICLE: S54-CATALYST PROTECTION MODE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS LOW ON FUEL. COMPLAINTS THAT THE VEHICLE HAS NO POWER DURING HEAVY ACCELERATION. FUEL RESERVE LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED AND THE FUEL LEVEL, WHEN MEASURED WITH THE SERVICE TESTER,
SIB-22-01-07 Nov 1, 2007
013000 STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
BMW VEHICLE: NOISE FROM FRONT AXLE/RIGHT SIDE. A GRINDING OR SCRAPING NOISE MAY BE HEARD WHILE CORNERING AT VEHICLE SPEEDS UP TO 30 MPH. THE NOISE IS MORE PRONOUNCED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN THE WARM UP PHASE AND MAY CHANGE INTENSITY DURIN
SIB-22-01-07 Nov 1, 2007
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW VEHICLE: NOISE FROM FRONT AXLE/RIGHT SIDE. A GRINDING OR SCRAPING NOISE MAY BE HEARD WHILE CORNERING AT VEHICLE SPEEDS UP TO 30 MPH. THE NOISE IS MORE PRONOUNCED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN THE WARM UP PHASE AND MAY CHANGE INTENSITY DURIN
SIB-22-01-07 Nov 1, 2007
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
BMW VEHICLE: NOISE FROM FRONT AXLE/RIGHT SIDE. A GRINDING OR SCRAPING NOISE MAY BE HEARD WHILE CORNERING AT VEHICLE SPEEDS UP TO 30 MPH. THE NOISE IS MORE PRONOUNCED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN THE WARM UP PHASE AND MAY CHANGE INTENSITY DURIN
SIB-34-078-07 Nov 1, 2007
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
BMW VEHICLES: DSC DISABLING FUNCTION. DSC OFF FUNCTION HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED IN M5 AND M6 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE OPTIONAL 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
630306 Feb 1, 2007
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
POOR CONNECTION AT REAR LAMP CONNECTOR. BMW. MODEL E46. *KB MODEL E46 (3 SERIES). UPDATE 8/8/2008. *PE
630306 Feb 1, 2007
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
POOR CONNECTION AT REAR LAMP CONNECTOR. BMW. MODEL E46. *KB MODEL E46 (3 SERIES). UPDATE 8/8/2008. *PE
120405 Mar 1, 2006
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE LAMP ILLUMINATED AND/OR VEHICLE OVERHEATS. BMW E90 (3 SERIES) ALL E90 (3 SERIES) AND E60 (5 SERIES) MODELS EQUIPPED WITH N52 ENGINE. *TT
000200 Jul 1, 2001
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SUBJECT REGARDING NEW VEHICLE PREPARATION AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS. *TT
000200 Oct 1, 2000
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SUBJECT REGARDING NEW VEHICLE PREPARATION AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS. *TT

NHTSA Safety Investigations — BMW 3 SERIES

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA02012 Opened: Jul 15, 2002 — Closed: Jun 24, 2003
EA — Closed — Model Year: 1999
INADVERTENT SIDE-IMPACT AIR BAG DEPLOYME
THE SUBJECT VEHICLE'S AIR BAG ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE CONTAINS PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC FOR DEPLOYING THE SIDE-IMPACT AIR BAGS.BMW REVISED THE MODULE SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE SPAN OF THE MODEL YEARS 1999 THROUGH 2002 (IDENTIFIED AS MRS2.CA, MRS2.BB, MRS3, MRS3+ AND MRS4).ALTHOUGH MODEL YEAR 1999.5 VEHICLE... Read more
PE02011 Opened: Jan 31, 2002 — Closed: Jul 15, 2002
PE — Closed — Model Year: 2000
INADVERTENT SIDE-IMPACT AIR BAG
PE99017 Opened: Mar 2, 1999 — Closed: May 11, 1999
PE — Closed — Model Year: 1999
INADVERTENT SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENTS
ALLEGED THAT THE DRIVER'S OR FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAGS MAY DEPLOY WITHOUT A VEHICLE CRASH

BMW 3 SERIES — All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the BMW 3 SERIES across all model years (1992–2023).

49 Total Recalls
1,157 Total Complaints
3 Investigations
50 Reported Crashes
32 Reported Fires
0 Reported Deaths

BMW 3 SERIES — Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year Recalls Complaints
2023 1 0 View
2013 0 34 View
2012 3 11 View
2011 3 1 View
2010 3 43 View
2009 2 74 View
2008 3 93 View
2007 2 190 View
2006 4 288 View
2005 0 29 View
2004 0 93 View
2003 0 67 View
2002 0 40 View
2001 (current) 1 49
2000 1 111 View
1999 1 6 View
1998 4 4 View
1997 4 6 View
1996 4 3 View
1995 4 3 View
1994 3 1 View
1993 3 0 View
1992 3 0 View
1986 0 3 View

Other BMW Models

Model Recalls Complaints
X5 223 4,349 View
X3 155 2,661 View
330I 122 1,050 View
X6 110 293 View
328I 108 3,743 View
M3 95 550 View
Z4 83 1,439 View
325I 83 1,809 View