2003 BMW 3 SERIES
0 recalls — 67 complaints — 93 TSBs
No recalls found for this vehicle.
Complaint Statistics
67 total complaints
1 crashes 5 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| AIR BAGS | 18 |
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | 14 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 10 |
| LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES | 4 |
| SUSPENSION | 4 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY | 3 |
| TIRES | 2 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 2 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 1 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | 1 |
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Jun 16, 2019
Incident date: Jun 10, 2013
BRAKE LIGHTS ON BOTH SIDES GETS STUCK ON ONCE THE PEDAL IS PRESSED. THIS PRODUCES NO ERROR CODES. I WAS TOLD IT COULD BE THE BRAKE PEDAL PRESSURE SENSOR SWITCH. I CHANGED THIS AND IT DID NOTHING. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS TO OTHER DRIVERS BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT SURE IF THE CAR IS BRAKING AS THE LIGHT IS ... Read more
ENGINE
Feb 24, 2018
Incident date: Feb 24, 2018
2003 BMW 325I LOW FUEL STALL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Feb 24, 2018
Incident date: Feb 24, 2018
2003 BMW 325I LOW FUEL STALL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 31, 2017
Incident date: Jul 31, 2017
TRANSMISSION WILL DROP OUT OF GEAR AND SHUT CAR DOWN, WHILE VEHICLE IN MOTION DURING NORMAL USE. VEHICLE WILL ONLY WORK WHEN COLD, MANUFACTURER IS AWARE OF BADLY DESIGNED SMG TEMP SENSOR AND NEGLIGENTLY DESIGNED COMPUTER LOGIC THAT SHIFTS TRANSMISSION TO NEUTRAL AND SHUTS CAR DOWN.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Nov 27, 2016
Incident date: Apr 1, 2016
THE ZKW XENON HEADLIGHTS HAVE A FLAW IN THE PLASTIC PROJECTOR HOUSING. THE HOUSING GETS TOO HOT AND MELTS AND THE LIGHT OUTPUT IS SEVERELY RESTRICTED. THIS HAPPENS TO 100% OF THE HEADLIGHTS MADE BY THIS MANUFACTURER AND IS A SAFETY ISSUE. THE REFLECTIVE COATING ON THE HEADLIGHTS MELTS AND THE LIGH... Read more
AIR BAGS
Oct 10, 2016
Incident date: Oct 10, 2016
TAKATA RECALL. AFTER WAITING 9 MONTHS FOR REPLACEMENT OF PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG I RECEIVED ANOTHER RECALL NOTICE FOR THE DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG. IT HAS NOW BEEN NEARLY 15 MONTHS AND NO REMEDY IN SIGHT . RECEIVED A " FINAL REMEDY AVAILABLE " LETTER DATED SEPT. 2016 ASKING THAT I CALL DEALER FOR REPAIR. ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Sep 26, 2016
Incident date: Jul 1, 2015
TAKATA INFLATORS. MANUFACTURER HAS NOT PURSUED THE EXISTING RECALL IN EVEN A REMOTELY TIMELY MANNER. I WAS NOTIFIED BY LETTER DATED JULY 2015 OF THE RECALL. THAT WAS OVER 14 MONTHS AGO! I CALLED MY LOCAL BMW SERVICE CENTER WHO INFORMED ME THE REQUIRED PARTS WERE STILL NOT AVAILABLE. THE REPRESEN... Read more
AIR BAGS
Aug 18, 2016
Incident date: Aug 10, 2016
I SENT YOU MY FIRST COMPLAINT ON OR AROUND AUGUST 10, 2016, AND ONLY RECEIVED A 'THANK YOU' RETURN NOTE, AND THAT YOU WOULD GET BACK TO ME. YOU HAVE NOT! TO RECAPITULATE THE EARLIER COMPLAINT, I RECEIVED RECALL CAMPAIGN NO. 15V-318 IN JULY 2015, AND HAVE SINCE NOT RECEIVED ANYTHING FROM BMW. I ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Aug 10, 2016
Incident date: Aug 2, 2016
DEAR SIRS: I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE (15V-318) IN JULY 2015, FOR THE FRONT, DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG RECALL FOR MY 2003 BMW 330I. SINCE THAT TIME I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY ADDITIONAL CORRESPONDENCE FROM BMW OR ANYONE, TO PROVIDE STATUS. I CALLED BMWUSA, CUSTOMER SERVICE ON AUGUST 2, 2016 - I FIRST TALKE... Read more
AIR BAGS
Aug 2, 2016
Incident date: Aug 2, 2013
THIS IS A CALIFORNIA CAR PARKED OUTSIDE FROM 2003-2014. FROM 2014-2016 IS HAS BEEN PARKED OUTSIDE IN NORTH CAROLINA. I WOULD THINK A 13 YEAR OLD CAR WITH THIS HISTORY WOULD BE IN THE PRIORITY A GROUP. IT IS BEEN HOT AND HUMID ITS ENTIRE LIFE. IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED NOW. IT'S JUST A MATTER OF TIME.
CHILD SEAT:LATCH CONNECTOR/CLIP
Jul 14, 2016
Incident date: Jul 12, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BABY TREND EXPEDITION TRAVEL SYSTEM (NA), MODEL NUMBER: TJ94773. THE SEAT WAS MANUFACTURED ON MARCH 10, 2012. THE SAFETY SEAT WAS BEING UTILIZED IN A 2003 BMW 3 SERIES. AFTER BOTH REAR LATCHES WERE CONNECTED, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE LATCH FRACTURED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED I... Read more
AIR BAGS
Apr 4, 2016
Incident date: Feb 10, 2015
"TAKATA RECALL" THE DRIVERS DOOR AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON AND WOULD NOT GO OFF . SO WE TOOK THE CAR TO BMW DEALER AND WAS TOLD THE AIR BAG WAS DEFECTIVE. WE WERE GIVEN A RECALL # 15V318 , ITS OVER A YEAR WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR CAR TO BE REPAIRED AND WHEN WE CALL BMW AT 1-800-831-1117 TO CHECK WE... Read more
AIR BAGS
Mar 8, 2016
Incident date: Nov 18, 2015
PURCHASE A 2003 BMW 325I ON 11-18-2016 . UNABLE TO TAKE POSSESSION OF THE VEHICLE FROM THE DEALER DUE TO THE OUTSTANDING TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL. THE DEALER IS NOT A BMW STORE AND I DON'T BLAME THEM FOR LETTING A CUSTOMER GET INTO A UNSAFE VEHICLE. BMW IS DRAGGING THEIR FEET ON THE REPAIR OF THESE DEF... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 15, 2016
Incident date: Sep 1, 2014
I HAVE BEEN ON HOLD SINCE THE FALL OF 2014 ON A DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG. THE DEALER HAS NO INVENTORY AND NO ETA. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. DODGE CHANGED MY AIRBAG (ALSO TAKATA) WITHIN 10 DAYS OF MY RECALL NOTICE. IT'S BEEN OVER A YEAR AND A HALF WITH BMW. PENALIZE THEM LIKE YOU DID FCA
AIR BAGS
Sep 24, 2015
Incident date: May 28, 2015
BMW OF NORTH AMERICA HAS FAILED TO NOTIFY ABOUT TWO AIR BAG RECALLS, ONE FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE AND ONE FOR THE DRIVER SIDE, AFFECTING MY CAR, EVEN THOUGH THEY HAVE VERIFIED THAT THEY HAVE MY CORRECT ADDRESS. I HAVE CONTACTED THEM FOR EACH INCIDENT, TWICE IN 2014 FOR THE FIRST RECALL AND ONCE ON 9/2... Read more
AIR BAGS
Mar 8, 2015
Incident date: Oct 1, 2014
ALMOST 6 MONTHS AGO, I WAS NOTIFIED BY BMW ABOUT A RECALL BECAUSE OF AIR BAG(S) AND WAS ADVISED THAT I WOULD BE CALLED SHORTLY FOR REPAIR/ REPLACEMENT. CONTACTED BMW NUMEROUS TIMES BY PHONE AND MAIL AND EVERY TIME WAS ADVISED THAT PARTS SHOULD BE IN SHORTLY. IF THEY CANNOT FIND THE PARTS FOR SO LO... Read more
AIR BAGS
Feb 20, 2015
Incident date: Feb 20, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 3 SERIES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACT... Read more
AIR BAGS
Feb 6, 2015
Incident date: Feb 3, 2015
LAST YEAR WE WERE NOTIFIED BY BMW US THAT OUR CAR WAS BEING RECALLED FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG MALFUNCTION AND BMW DEALERS WERE RESPONSIBLE TO FIX THE PROBLEM. SINCE THEN WE HAVE CONTACTED BMW US NUMEROUS TIMES AND OUR LOCAL SAN FRANCISCO BMW DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT. UNFORTUNATELY, WE ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jan 20, 2015
Incident date: Jan 19, 2012
ORIGINAR REQUEST CAR GONE FOR REPAIR: MAIN ISSUE; LEAK OF ANTI-FREE, PUMP ISSUE. HOSE REPLACEMENT. 2012 - PACKAGE RESULTS NO INCLUDED IN OUR ORIGINAL REQUESTS. SUSPENSION PROBLEM: TECH FOUND BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKEN. NOTE BY CAR'S OWNER: WE WHEN AHEAD AND REPLACED BOTH, ALTHOUGH AROUN... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jan 20, 2015
Incident date: Jan 19, 2012
ORIGINAR REQUEST CAR GONE FOR REPAIR: MAIN ISSUE; LEAK OF ANTI-FREE, PUMP ISSUE. HOSE REPLACEMENT. 2012 - PACKAGE RESULTS NO INCLUDED IN OUR ORIGINAL REQUESTS. SUSPENSION PROBLEM: TECH FOUND BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKEN. NOTE BY CAR'S OWNER: WE WHEN AHEAD AND REPLACED BOTH, ALTHOUGH AROUN... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 2, 2015
Incident date: Sep 1, 2014
IN SEPTEMBER 2014 I RECEIVED A NOTICE RE: RECALL CAMPAIGN NO. 14V-428 FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH NECESSITATING DEPLOYMENT OF THE FRONT PASSENGER'S AIR BAG, EXCESSIVE INTERNAL PRESSURE COULD CAUSE RUPTURE OF THE AIR BAG INFLATOR, RESULTING IN METAL FRAGMENTS STRIKING AND POTENTI... Read more
AIR BAGS
Dec 23, 2014
Incident date: Dec 1, 2014
RE: CAMPAIGN # 14V-428 I RECEIVED AN 'IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL' REGARDING A DEFECTIVE PASSENGER AIRBAG. I HAVE BEEN IN TOUCH VIA EMAIL AND PHONE CALLS WITH BMW OF NORTH AMERICA TO NO AVAIL. THEY ADVISE THEY DO NOT HAVE PARTS YET. MY DEALER, HABBERSTAD, HUNTINGTON, NY ALSO ADVISES THEY DO NOT HAVE... Read more
AIR BAGS
Nov 20, 2014
Incident date: Aug 1, 2014
I HAVE CONTACTED A BMW DEALER AND BMW USA REGARDING THE TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL. THE DEALER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO SECURE THE PART AND HAS CONTACTED OTHER DEALERS TO SECURE AN AIRBAG. NONE HAVE BEEN AVAILABLE. THIS RECALL BEGAN IN AUGUST. I WAS NOT NOTIFIED BY BMW USA REGARDING THE RECALL AND SEARCHED ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Nov 19, 2014
Incident date: Oct 15, 2014
RE: BMW AIRBAG RECALL CAMPAIGN 14V428 UPON RECEIVING THE RECALL NOTICE I IMMEDIATELY CALLED MY LOCAL DEALER. BMW'S AUTHORIZED AND FRANCHISED DEALERSHIP (CENTURY BMW IN GRENVILLE, SC ) INFORMED ME THAT BMW USA WOULD CONTACT US AS PARTS BECAME AVAILABLE. A MONTH PASSED SINCE RECEIVING THE INIT... Read more
AIR BAGS
Oct 24, 2014
Incident date: Oct 9, 2014
I WAS TRAVELING N/B ON ROUTE 1 IN ELKRIDGE MARYLAND @ INTERSECTION DUCKETTS LANE ON 10/9/14 @ 4:47 PM. I WAS INVOLVED IN A 4 CAR PILE UP CRASH, I WAS STOPPED - THE VEHICLE BEHIND ME WAS STRUCK BY A SPEEDING MOTORIST WHICH CAUSED A CHAIN REACTION & STRUCK MY BMW AND KNOCKING ME INTO THE VEHICLE IN FR... Read more
Crash
1 injured
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Jul 20, 2014
Incident date: Jul 18, 2014
PASSENGER DOORS WOULD NOT UNLOCK. ALL PASSENGERS COULD NOT GET OUT OF THE CAR. PULLING ON THE DOOR HANDLES DID NOT OPEN OR UNLOCK THE DOORS. INTERIOR UNLOCK BUTTONS DID NOT WORK. UNLOCK BUTTON ON THE KEY FOB DID NOT WORK. THIS IS VERY COMMON ISSUE AND CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS. 4 PASSENGERS HAD TO CRAWL... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 20, 2014
Incident date: Jul 18, 2014
PASSENGER DOORS WOULD NOT UNLOCK. ALL PASSENGERS COULD NOT GET OUT OF THE CAR. PULLING ON THE DOOR HANDLES DID NOT OPEN OR UNLOCK THE DOORS. INTERIOR UNLOCK BUTTONS DID NOT WORK. UNLOCK BUTTON ON THE KEY FOB DID NOT WORK. THIS IS VERY COMMON ISSUE AND CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS. 4 PASSENGERS HAD TO CRAWL... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
May 21, 2014
Incident date: May 20, 2014
THERE IS LIMITED LIGHT OUTPUT FROM THE XENON/HID HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES DUE TO "MELTED" PROJECTOR BOWLS FROM BMW. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY DEFECT THAT PREVENTS END USERS FROM BEING ABLE TO SEE THE ROAD AND OBJECTS AHEAD OF THEM. *TR
AIR BAGS
May 20, 2014
Incident date: May 10, 2014
TRAVELING SOUTH ON 75,DRIVER DOOR BAG DEPLOYED FOR NO REASON. APPLIED BRAKES AND RAN OFF SIDE OFF ROAD TO KEEP FROM HAVING A CAR REAR END ME AND THEN RIGHT TIRE BLEW OUT DUE TO DROP OFF. CAR SHUT DOWN BY ITSELF. AIR BAGS DID NOT COMPLETELY DEPLOY. OVER HEAD STRAP HIT HEAD AND NECK AREA CAUSING SOREN... Read more
1 injured
WHEELS
May 20, 2014
Incident date: May 10, 2014
TRAVELING SOUTH ON 75,DRIVER DOOR BAG DEPLOYED FOR NO REASON. APPLIED BRAKES AND RAN OFF SIDE OFF ROAD TO KEEP FROM HAVING A CAR REAR END ME AND THEN RIGHT TIRE BLEW OUT DUE TO DROP OFF. CAR SHUT DOWN BY ITSELF. AIR BAGS DID NOT COMPLETELY DEPLOY. OVER HEAD STRAP HIT HEAD AND NECK AREA CAUSING SOREN... Read more
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
May 20, 2014
Incident date: May 10, 2014
TRAVELING SOUTH ON 75,DRIVER DOOR BAG DEPLOYED FOR NO REASON. APPLIED BRAKES AND RAN OFF SIDE OFF ROAD TO KEEP FROM HAVING A CAR REAR END ME AND THEN RIGHT TIRE BLEW OUT DUE TO DROP OFF. CAR SHUT DOWN BY ITSELF. AIR BAGS DID NOT COMPLETELY DEPLOY. OVER HEAD STRAP HIT HEAD AND NECK AREA CAUSING SOREN... Read more
1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
Apr 7, 2014
Incident date: Aug 27, 2003
BMW DID NOT PROPERLY DESIGN THE REAR FLOOR OF THE CAR BODY WHERE IT SUPPORTS THE REAR SUBFRAME. AS A RESULT UNDER NORMAL DRIVING, MANY OF THE BMW E46 3-SERIES CARS (325, 323, 330, IN THE I, CI, OR CIC TRIMS, EXAMPLE 325CI OR 330I) SUFFER FROM TORN SHEET METAL WHERE THE REAR SUBFRAME ATTACHES TO THE ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Apr 7, 2014
Incident date: Aug 27, 2003
BMW DID NOT PROPERLY DESIGN THE REAR FLOOR OF THE CAR BODY WHERE IT SUPPORTS THE REAR SUBFRAME. AS A RESULT UNDER NORMAL DRIVING, MANY OF THE BMW E46 3-SERIES CARS (325, 323, 330, IN THE I, CI, OR CIC TRIMS, EXAMPLE 325CI OR 330I) SUFFER FROM TORN SHEET METAL WHERE THE REAR SUBFRAME ATTACHES TO THE ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 31, 2013
Incident date: Jul 31, 2013
THE GENERAL MODULE 5 (GM5) IS ELECTRONIC HARDWARE THAT AMONGST OTHER FUNCTIONS PRIMARILY CONTROLS THE LOCKING AND UNLOCKING OF THE BMW E46'S. THIS MODULE HAS DECIDED TO STOP WORKING IN MY VEHICLE MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO UNLOCK THE VEHICLE FROM ANY OF THE POSSIBLE OPTIONS (KEY FOB BUTTON, CENTRAL LOC... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Jul 31, 2013
Incident date: Jul 31, 2013
THE GENERAL MODULE 5 (GM5) IS ELECTRONIC HARDWARE THAT AMONGST OTHER FUNCTIONS PRIMARILY CONTROLS THE LOCKING AND UNLOCKING OF THE BMW E46'S. THIS MODULE HAS DECIDED TO STOP WORKING IN MY VEHICLE MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO UNLOCK THE VEHICLE FROM ANY OF THE POSSIBLE OPTIONS (KEY FOB BUTTON, CENTRAL LOC... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jun 30, 2013
Incident date: Jun 25, 2013
DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN, EITHER WITH THE INSIDE DOOR LATCH OR THE OUTSIDE LATCH. THE LOCK PLUNGER GOES UP AND DOWN NORMALLY WITH EITHER THE KEY, THE KEY REMOTE, OR THE INSIDE DOOR LOCK/UNLOCK BUTTON, BUT IN NO CASE CAN EITHER DOOR LATCH OPEN THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. ALL OTHER DOORS OPERATE N... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 30, 2013
Incident date: Jun 25, 2013
DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN, EITHER WITH THE INSIDE DOOR LATCH OR THE OUTSIDE LATCH. THE LOCK PLUNGER GOES UP AND DOWN NORMALLY WITH EITHER THE KEY, THE KEY REMOTE, OR THE INSIDE DOOR LOCK/UNLOCK BUTTON, BUT IN NO CASE CAN EITHER DOOR LATCH OPEN THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. ALL OTHER DOORS OPERATE N... Read more
SUSPENSION
May 29, 2013
Incident date: Sep 10, 2009
REAR SPRINGS WERE REPORTED AND REPLACED WITH BMW PARTS. AT 112,172 MILES (04/23/2013) THEY WERE REPORTED BROKEN AGAIN, BUT NOT REPLACED YET. REPORTED TO BMW OF NORTH AMERICA,LLC ON 05/14/2013 WHO FILED THE REPORT AND DENIED ANY ASSISTANCE. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 16, 2013
Incident date: Jan 2, 2012
OEM PROJECTOR HEADLIGHTS BURNT BEHIND PROJECTOR CAUSING VERY DIM LIGHTS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jan 29, 2013
Incident date: Jan 26, 2013
I WAS LOCKED IN MY CAR FOR 1 HOUR. MY KEY FOB WOULD NOT UNLOCK MY DOORS, SO I MANUALLY OPENED THE DOOR, STARTED THE CAR, CLOSED THE DOOR, AND TRIED TO WARM UP THE CAR (IT IS WINTER IN CHICAGO AND MY WINDOWS WERE ALSO FROZEN SHUT). I THEN PRESSED THE DOOR LOCK BUTTON TWICE IN AN ATTEMPT TO UNLOCK TH... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Nov 19, 2012
Incident date: Nov 1, 2012
MY TAIL LIGHTS AND TURN SIGNALS WORK FOR A WHILE THEN QUITE WORKING. THE EXACT SAME SYMPTOMS AS RECALL #11V438000 FOR THE SAME TYPE, MODEL AND YEAR AS MY CAR, BUT BMW SAYS MY VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
Nov 19, 2012
Incident date: Nov 1, 2012
MY TAIL LIGHTS AND TURN SIGNALS WORK FOR A WHILE THEN QUITE WORKING. THE EXACT SAME SYMPTOMS AS RECALL #11V438000 FOR THE SAME TYPE, MODEL AND YEAR AS MY CAR, BUT BMW SAYS MY VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED. *TR
STRUCTURE:BODY
Aug 23, 2012
Incident date: May 1, 2012
THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR LOCK WILL NOT WORK. THE DOOR STAYS LOCKED AND WHEN IT FIRST OCCURED THE PASSENGER HAD TO CRAWL OUT THE WINDOW. NEITHER THE ELECTRONIC KEY LOCK NOR THE PUSHBUTTON LOCK CONTROL ON THE CONSOLE WILL OPEN THE DOOR LOCK ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. ALL OTHER LOCKS WORK FINE, INCLUDING... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Aug 23, 2012
Incident date: May 1, 2012
THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR LOCK WILL NOT WORK. THE DOOR STAYS LOCKED AND WHEN IT FIRST OCCURED THE PASSENGER HAD TO CRAWL OUT THE WINDOW. NEITHER THE ELECTRONIC KEY LOCK NOR THE PUSHBUTTON LOCK CONTROL ON THE CONSOLE WILL OPEN THE DOOR LOCK ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. ALL OTHER LOCKS WORK FINE, INCLUDING... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 23, 2012
Incident date: Jun 23, 2012
THE PROJECTOR BOWLS ON THE ZKW HEADLIGHTS WERE BURNT OUT DUE TO A DESIGN FLAW. I SEE LOT OF COMPLAINTS ONLINE WITH THE SAME ISSUE. DRIVING IN NIGHT IS REALLY DIFFICULT AND DANGEROUS. *TT
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Jun 23, 2012
Incident date: Jun 23, 2012
THE PROJECTOR BOWLS ON THE ZKW HEADLIGHTS WERE BURNT OUT DUE TO A DESIGN FLAW. I SEE LOT OF COMPLAINTS ONLINE WITH THE SAME ISSUE. DRIVING IN NIGHT IS REALLY DIFFICULT AND DANGEROUS. *TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Apr 28, 2012
Incident date: Apr 4, 2011
DOORS FAIL TO UNLOCK, EITHER USING THE KEYFOB, THE INSIDE BUTTON OR MANUALLY BY PULLING THE DOOR HANDLE. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AS OCCUPANTS ARE TRAPPED INSIDE. NO METHOD OF OPENING THE DOOR WORK. THIS APPEARS TO BE INTERMITTENT AND EVENTUALLY THE DOORS UNLOCK MECHANISM STARTS WORKING AG... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Mar 24, 2012
Incident date: Mar 24, 2012
DUE TO THE PLASTIC BOWELS IN THE HEADLIGHT PROJECTORS, WHICH ARE CHROME LIKE LINED, AND THE HIGH HEAT OF THE HID BULBS, THIS CHROME LIKE COATING HAS BURNED OFF MAKING THE LIGHT OUTPUT OF MY HID HEAD LIGHTS VERY DIM. THE OUTSIDE OF THE BOWELS HAVE GONE FROM A CHROME LIKE COATING TO A BRONZE/CARAMEL C... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jan 31, 2012
Incident date: Jan 31, 2012
BOTH REAR SPRINGS OF MY BMW 2003 325I WERE CRACKED & REPLACED FEB. 23, 2009. THEY NOW BOTH ARE BROKEN AGAIN. ANY TYPE WARRANTY ON THE PARTS ? RIDICULOUS !!!! *TT
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Jan 18, 2012
Incident date: Jan 2, 2012
ZKW XENON HEADLIGHT REFLECTOR BOWL IS BURNED RESULTING IN VERY DIM LIGHT OUTPUT. I AM OFTEN AFRAID OF DRIVING AT NIGHT BECAUSE I FEEL IT IS A DANGER TO MY SAFETY.
Showing 50 of 67 complaints.
Technical Service Bulletins — 2003 BMW 3 SERIES
93 manufacturer communications from 56 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 15 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 6 |
| 118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE | 5 |
| 123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS | 4 |
| 061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL | 4 |
| 061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER | 3 |
| 150000 SEAT BELTS | 3 |
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 3 |
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.
B650709
Jun 1, 2018
353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance:
B650709
May 1, 2018
353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance:
B010118
Jan 1, 2018
220000 SEATS
FRONT PASSENGER SEAT OCCUPANCY (OC3) MAT FOR SRS: LIMITED WARRANTY EXTENSION TO 15 YEARS/UNLIMITED MILES
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-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-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
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
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
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
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
SI-B12-28-07
Aug 1, 2011
061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
BMW: COMPLAINTS THAT THE ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM HAS ENTERED THE ENGINE FAILSAFE MODE AND THAT THE TURBOCHARGER BOOST IS REDUCED. E82, E88, E90, E92, E93, E60, E61, AND E71. ALL MODELS WITH NAY ENGINES. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
SI-B12-28-07
Aug 1, 2011
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: COMPLAINTS THAT THE ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM HAS ENTERED THE ENGINE FAILSAFE MODE AND THAT THE TURBOCHARGER BOOST IS REDUCED. E82, E88, E90, E92, E93, E60, E61, AND E71. ALL MODELS WITH NAY ENGINES. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *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-23-01-08
Apr 1, 2011
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
BMW: A NEW TECHNICAL SUPPORT PROCESS HAS BEEN CREATED REGARDING TRANSMISSION CONCERNS. *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-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-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-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-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-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-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
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-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
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-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
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
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-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-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
SI-28-02-09
Sep 1, 2009
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
BMW: COMPLAINT THAT THE N (NEUTRAL) SYMBOL IS BEING DISPLAYED IN THE KOMBI AND THE MESSAGE TRANSMISSION IN N, SHIFT TO P WHEN ENGINE IS TURNED OFF IS DISPLAYED IN THE CC WHEN THE VEHICLE DECELERATES TO A STOP. IN REALTY, THE TRANSMISSION
SI-B61-16-09
Sep 1, 2009
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
BMW: VARIOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS OR INTERMITTENTLY. SYMPTOMS TYPICALLY INCLUDE VARIOUS WARNING LAMPS IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER AND STARTING PROBLEMS. AFFECTED MAY BE THE EKP (ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED FUEL PUMP), AND CONTROL MODULES ON T
SI-B61-16-09
Sep 1, 2009
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW: VARIOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS OR INTERMITTENTLY. SYMPTOMS TYPICALLY INCLUDE VARIOUS WARNING LAMPS IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER AND STARTING PROBLEMS. AFFECTED MAY BE THE EKP (ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED FUEL PUMP), AND CONTROL MODULES ON T
SI-B64-05-09
Sep 1, 2009
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
BMW: WATER LEAKS INTO EITHER THE DRIVER'S SIDE OR PASSENGER'S SIDE FOOTWELL DURING FAST CORNERING. INSUFFICIENT SEALING AT THE POINT OF CONTACT BETWEEN THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM AND THE CONDENSATION DRAIN HOSE. *PE
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
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
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
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
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 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 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
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 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
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 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
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-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-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-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
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-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
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-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-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
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-12-20-07
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-12-20-07
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-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-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
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
SI-B-61-16-08
Nov 1, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW:VARIOUS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILURES WHICH OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING: A/C STOPPED WORKING; FUEL GAUGE DISPLAY IS IMPLAUSIBLE (SHOWS EMPTY); REAR WINDOWS ONE TOUCH FUNCTION IS INOPERATIVE; WINDSHIELD WIPERS ARE WORKING WITH BEING SWITCHED ON;
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
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
INADVERTENT SIDE-IMPACT AIR BAG
PE99017
Opened: Mar 2, 1999 — Closed: May 11, 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 (current) | 0 | 67 | |
| 2002 | 0 | 40 | View |
| 2001 | 1 | 49 | View |
| 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 |