2004 BMW 3 SERIES
0 recalls — 93 complaints — 101 TSBs
No recalls found for this vehicle.
Complaint Statistics
93 total complaints
1 crashes 4 fires 3 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | 41 |
| AIR BAGS | 15 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 12 |
| VISIBILITY/WIPER | 3 |
| LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES | 3 |
| SEATS | 2 |
| POWER TRAIN | 2 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP | 1 |
| STEERING | 1 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT | 1 |
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Mar 22, 2019
Incident date: Jan 1, 2010
HEADLAMP BULB OUT AND UPON REPLACEMENT IT WAS NOTED THE COATED WIRING TO THE XENON SYSTEM TO RIGHT AND LEFT HEADLIGHT IS BRITTLE (THE WIRES PLASTIC COATING IS FALLING OFF)AND IN SOME PLACES EXPOSED WIRING WAS FOUND. ELECTRICAL TAPE NEED TO WRAP THE WIRING TO AVOID POTENTIAL FIRE. LATE NOTICE TO THIS... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Aug 9, 2018
Incident date: Aug 9, 2018
NEW DEFECTIVE BRAKE PADS CAUSED A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT WITH TOTAL LOSS OF THE VEHICLES INVOLVED. BRAKE PADS ARE CONTAMINATED AND EMBEDDED WITH A SLIPPERY SUBSTANCE. PADS ARE FROM PRIME CHOICE AUTO PARTS 42832 STATE ROUTE 12, ALEXANDRIA BAY, NY, 13607-2216 CAN YOU INVESTIGATE AND ANALYZE THE BR... Read more
Crash
2 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 18, 2017
Incident date: Sep 8, 2016
VEHICLE ADAPTIVE XENON HEADLIGHT WIRING IS FAULTY . WIRE INSULATION IS CRACKING/DETERIORATING AND ENTIRE WIRES ARE BREAKING APART. SYMPTOMS START WITH FLICKERING XENON HEADLIGHT EVENTUALLY (ABOUT A WEEK LATER) STOPS WORKING AT ALL. VEHICLE IS MOVING OR STATIONARY, ENGINE ON. THE FAULTY WIRES AR... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 8, 2017
Incident date: May 24, 2017
MY VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY STARTED ON FIRE AS MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING TO SCHOOL. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL FIRE, AND RESULTED IN THE CAR BEING TOTALED. THE 2004 MODELS NEED TO BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL (NOT THAT IT WILL HELP WITH THE LOSS OF MY CAR).
Fire
1 injured
AIR BAGS
Jan 13, 2017
Incident date: Jul 15, 2014
TAKATA RECALL NHTSA RECALL NUMBER:15V318 NHTSA RECALL NUMBER: 14V428
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Jan 2, 2017
Incident date: Jan 2, 2017
HEADLIGHTS PROJECT ALMOST NO LIGHT. JUST PAID $130 TO HAVE LENSES CLEANED, NO IMPROVMENT. I THOUGHT IT WAS MY EYES AND COMPLAINED TO OPTHAMOLOGIST TWICE BUT MY EYES ARE OK. I'VE READ THT THE REFLECTOR BOWLS IN THIS MODEL MELT FROM THE HEAT OF THE BULB. I NEED TO REMEDY THIS SITUATION ASAP SO I WI... Read more
AIR BAGS
Dec 12, 2016
Incident date: Jul 1, 2015
TAKATA RECALL I RECEIVED A LETTER DATED JULY 2015 CONCERNING THE RECALL OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG. I CALLED MY LOCAL BMW ON 11/24/15 AND THEY SAID THEY PUT MY NAME ON THE LIST AND WOULD CALL ME WHEN THE REPLACEMENT CAME IN. I CALLED AGAIN ON 4/14/16 AND [XXX] SAID SHE WOULD CHECK TO MAKE SURE ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Oct 13, 2016
Incident date: Oct 13, 2016
TAKATA RECALL I RECEIVED A AIR BAG RECALL NOTICE FROM BMW IN JUNE 2015 AND ANOTHER RECALL NOTICE IN SEPTEMBER 2016.OVER A YEAR + I HAVE BEEN CALLING SOUTH BAY BMW IN TORRANCE CA. AND THEY KEEP ON TELLING ME THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PARTS YET. CAN YOU PLEASE HELP ME..
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Oct 12, 2016
Incident date: Jul 1, 2015
MY HEADLIGHTS ARE SO DIM AT NIGHT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE WITHOUT HIGH BEAMS ON AT ALL TIMES. THE FOG LIGHTS ARE BRIGHTER THAN MY NEW HEADLIGHT BULBS. ONLY SOLUTION SEEMS TO REPLACE THE WHOLE ASSEMBLY BUT AFTER RESEARCHING THIS SEEMS TO BE AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH BMW SO WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO SPEND OVER... Read more
AIR BAGS
Sep 29, 2016
Incident date: Sep 29, 2016
TAKATA RECALL. THIS COMPLAINT IS DUE TO THE SLOW RESPONSE OF NALLEY BMW IN DECATUR GEORGIA TO REPLACE MY AIRBAG. I RECEIVED MY RECALL LETTER AND IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE BMW DEALER ON SEPT 7TH. I WAS TOLD THAT PARTS WERE ORDERED AND I WOULD BE CALLED WHEN THEY ARRIVED. BY SEPT 16TH I HAD HEARD NO... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jul 19, 2016
Incident date: Jul 1, 2015
TAKATA RECALL - NOTIFIED JULY 2015 - A YEAR AGO - ABOUT DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG, STILL NO PARTS AVAILABLE AND I LIVE IN ONE OF THE MOST HUMID STATES IN THE SOUTH. IT IS IRRESPONSIBLE AND RIDICULOUS THAT WE HAVE TO WAIT OVER A YEAR FOR PART REPLACEMENTS THAT IF RUPTURED, COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jul 1, 2016
Incident date: Jul 1, 2015
TAKATA RECALL: IN JULY, 2015 I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM BMW (RECALL NOTICE 15V-318) STATING THAT MY DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG SHOULD BE REPLACED, BUT THAT THERE WAS NO REMEDY AVAILABLE AND I WOULD BE CONTACTED WHEN ONE IS. I'VE HAD A COUPLE OF SERVICE APPOINTMENTS AT MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP (PERILLO BMW IN CH... Read more
AIR BAGS
Apr 25, 2016
Incident date: Apr 25, 2016
TAKATA RECALL. THE AIRBAG REPLACEMENT HAS NOT BEEN PERFORMED AS OF 04-25-16
AIR BAGS
Apr 19, 2016
Incident date: Jul 1, 2015
IN JULY 2015 I RECEIVED A NOTICE OF RECALL CAMPAIGN NO. 15V-381: DRIVER SIDE FRONT AIR BAG MODULE. IT SAID IF DEPLOYED METAL FRAGMENTS COULD STRIKE THE DRIVER OR OTHER PASSENGERS CAUSING DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY. IT SAID I'D GET A 2ND LETTER WHEN THE PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. I'VE NEVER GOTTEN THE SECO... Read more
AIR BAGS
Mar 24, 2016
Incident date: May 11, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW 3 SERIES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NO... Read more
AIR BAGS
Dec 24, 2015
Incident date: Jul 27, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW 3 SERIES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V318000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPE... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 6, 2015
Incident date: Oct 4, 2015
THE POWER DOOR LOCK ON PASSENGER SIDE CANNOT BE UNLOCKED EITHER VIA REMOTE OR INSIDE BUTTON. WORSE, OFTEN WHEN THIS HAPPENS, THE DOOR CANNOT BE OPENED EVEN BY PULLING ON THE HANDLE FROM THE INSIDE! A PASSENGER CANNOT GET OUT OF THE CAR VIA THE DOOR. FURTHERMORE, REPEATEDLY ATTEMPTS TO HAVE THIS FIXE... Read more
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Jul 9, 2015
Incident date: Jul 9, 2015
HEADLIGHT REFLECTORS ON HID BEING BURNT THEREFORE NOT GIVING ENOUGH LIGHT WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH OWNERS OF THIS MODEL THAT HAS THE ZKW BRAND.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 6, 2015
Incident date: Apr 6, 2009
HEAD LIGHTS ARE VERY DIM. REFLECTORS ARE BURNED. HEADLIGHTS DO NOT PROJECT ON THE ROAD. CANNOT SEE AT NIGHT. *TR
AIR BAGS
Mar 17, 2015
Incident date: Mar 12, 2015
I DROVE MY CAR OVER A VERY MINUSCULE CRACK IN THE ROAD AT AN EXTREMELY LOW SPEED AS I WAS MAKING A TURN AND THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. THE CAR DID NOT HAVE A PASSENGER AT THE TIME BUT THE EXPLOSION OF THE AIRBAG SIMULTANEOUSLY BLOCKED MY VIEW OF THE RIGHT SIDE WINDOW WHILE I WAS MAKING A T... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 27, 2015
Incident date: Jul 3, 2013
ZKW HID XENON LOW BEAM REFLECTORS BURNT OR CORRODED CAUSING A SIGNIFICANT DECREASE IN LIGHT OUTPUT THAT BMW WANTS ~$3000 TO FIX. LIGHTS WERE A PREMIUM OPTION AND CANNOT BE CORRECTED BY XENON BULB REPLACEMENT. THE OUTPUT HAS DIMMED AS TO BE UNSAFE. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 1, 2015
Incident date: Jan 13, 2013
THE VERY FIRST TIME I TRIED TO DRIVE THE CAR AT NIGHTTIME TO GO BACK HOME, MY WIFE AND KIDS WERE ON BOARD, AND WE WERE MORE THAN 200 MILES FROM HOME. AFTER I TURNED ON THE LOW-BEAM HEAD LAMPS AND STARTED ROLLING, I COULD BARELY SEE THE ROAD BECAUSE THE HEADLAMPS WERE NOT PROPERLY ILLUMINATING. I FL... Read more
SEAT BELTS
Jan 9, 2015
Incident date: Oct 28, 2014
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE DATED SEPTEMBER 2014 FROM BMW REGARDING A DEFECT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG. I CALLED MY LOCAL DEALER IN FT MYERS FL ON 10/28/14 TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT TO GET THE REPAIR DONE. I WAS TOLD THE PART WAS OUT OF STOCK AND ASKED TO LEAVE MY NAME AND PHONE NUMBER AND I WOU... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 9, 2015
Incident date: Oct 28, 2014
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE DATED SEPTEMBER 2014 FROM BMW REGARDING A DEFECT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG. I CALLED MY LOCAL DEALER IN FT MYERS FL ON 10/28/14 TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT TO GET THE REPAIR DONE. I WAS TOLD THE PART WAS OUT OF STOCK AND ASKED TO LEAVE MY NAME AND PHONE NUMBER AND I WOU... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jan 9, 2015
Incident date: Jan 9, 2015
I WAS NOT ABLE TO UNLOCK MY CAR WITH MY CAR KEY. I WAS ABLE TO HEAR THE CLICK SOUND ON PRESSING THE UNLOCK BUTTON ON THE KEY BUT NOTHING WAS HAPPENING. AFTER NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS FOR ABOUT 10 MINUTES CAR GOT UNLOCKED. NOW I'M HAVING THIS PROBLEM ON/OFF BASIS. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE LOCAL BMW DEALER. AFT... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 8, 2015
Incident date: Jan 8, 2015
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE MONTHS AGO AND BMW HAS YET TO BE ABLE TO REPLACE AIRBAG!! I DRIVE ACROSS COUNTRY TWICE A YEAR AND HAVE ALREADY MADE THE TRIP ONCE SINCE THE RECALL NOTICE. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO GET BMW TO TAKE ACTION?? I CAN'T BELIEVE THEY STILL HAVE "NO PARTS AND A LONG BACKLOG OF PEOPLE... Read more
AIR BAGS
Dec 19, 2014
Incident date: Dec 12, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW 3 SERIES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VIN WAS NOT... Read more
SUSPENSION
Dec 18, 2014
Incident date: Dec 18, 2014
REAR SPRING BROKE! COULD NOT BELIEVE THAT A SPRING COULD BRAKE. I LOOKED UP ON THE INTERNET TO SEE IF ANYONE ELSE HAD A SIMILAR PROBLEM AND WAS AMAZED THAT THE INTERNET IS FULL OF COMPLAINTS. A BROKEN SPRING CAUSES HANDLING PROBLEMS AND CAN CAUSE THE CAR TO GO OUT OF CONTROL CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. IT... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Nov 6, 2014
Incident date: Mar 1, 2013
MY ZKW HEADLIGHTS DO NOT REFLECT LIGHT ANYMORE. BMW OFFER NO REPLACEMENT REFLECTOR BOWLS FOR THE HEADLIGHT, SO NO FIX IS AVAILABLE EXCEPT REPLACING THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY WITH THE SAME FAULTY ASSEMBLY FROM THE SAME MANUFACTURER. HEADLIGHTS PRODUCE TOO MUCH HEAT AND MELT THE REFLECTORS DEEMING THEM... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 3, 2014
Incident date: Nov 1, 2014
THE HEATING ELEMENT ON MY 2004 BMW X3 CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I DON'T USE IT OFTEN, BUT HAD NOTICED A HOT SMELL WHEN I DID USE IT AND THAT IT WOULD BE TOO WARM IN THE LUMBAR AND HIP REGION. THE FIRE ACTUALLY BURNED ABOUT A DIME SIZE HOLE IN THE DRIVER SIDE LEFT SEAT PANEL (UNDER THE THIG... Read more
Fire
SEATS
Nov 3, 2014
Incident date: Nov 1, 2014
THE HEATING ELEMENT ON MY 2004 BMW X3 CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I DON'T USE IT OFTEN, BUT HAD NOTICED A HOT SMELL WHEN I DID USE IT AND THAT IT WOULD BE TOO WARM IN THE LUMBAR AND HIP REGION. THE FIRE ACTUALLY BURNED ABOUT A DIME SIZE HOLE IN THE DRIVER SIDE LEFT SEAT PANEL (UNDER THE THIG... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 30, 2014
Incident date: Oct 21, 2014
WIRE LOOSING COATING ON INSIDE OF ADAPTIVE HEADLIGHTS, CAUSING SHORTS OR BROKEN WIRES WHERE THE HEADLIGHTS AND OR TURN SIGNALS WILL FAIL TO WORK. WIRE IS VERY BRITTLE AS THIS IS ALSO ROUGHLY 20 GAUGE WIRE. THIS CAN BE AN EXTREME HAZARD ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT. THIS SEEMS TO BE AFFECTING BMW'S 3/5/6/ S... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Oct 30, 2014
Incident date: Oct 21, 2014
WIRE LOOSING COATING ON INSIDE OF ADAPTIVE HEADLIGHTS, CAUSING SHORTS OR BROKEN WIRES WHERE THE HEADLIGHTS AND OR TURN SIGNALS WILL FAIL TO WORK. WIRE IS VERY BRITTLE AS THIS IS ALSO ROUGHLY 20 GAUGE WIRE. THIS CAN BE AN EXTREME HAZARD ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT. THIS SEEMS TO BE AFFECTING BMW'S 3/5/6/ S... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Oct 2, 2014
Incident date: Oct 1, 2014
REFLECTOR BOWLS IN XENON HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY BURN AND DISCOLOR, MAKING LOW BEAM LIGHTING ALMOST NEGLIGIBLE. DOESN'T EVEN SEEM LIGHTS ARE ON. VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE AT NIGHT WITHOUT HIGH BEAMS ON. *TR
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Aug 25, 2014
Incident date: Aug 1, 2012
AS REPORTED BY OTHER OWNERS, THE BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS NO LONGER LIGHT UP THE ROAD. IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD AND IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH HEADLIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY ZKW ON 2003-2005 BMW 330 MODELS. THE REFLECTOR BOWLS ON THESE UNITS BURN OUT OVER TIME AND REDUCE THE HEADLIGHTS ABILITY TO REFLECT LIGHT. DRIV... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Aug 25, 2014
Incident date: Aug 1, 2012
AS REPORTED BY OTHER OWNERS, THE BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS NO LONGER LIGHT UP THE ROAD. IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD AND IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH HEADLIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY ZKW ON 2003-2005 BMW 330 MODELS. THE REFLECTOR BOWLS ON THESE UNITS BURN OUT OVER TIME AND REDUCE THE HEADLIGHTS ABILITY TO REFLECT LIGHT. DRIV... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 25, 2014
Incident date: Aug 1, 2012
AS REPORTED BY OTHER OWNERS, THE BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS NO LONGER LIGHT UP THE ROAD. IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD AND IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH HEADLIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY ZKW ON 2003-2005 BMW 330 MODELS. THE REFLECTOR BOWLS ON THESE UNITS BURN OUT OVER TIME AND REDUCE THE HEADLIGHTS ABILITY TO REFLECT LIGHT. DRIV... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 1, 2014
Incident date: Apr 9, 2008
THE REFLECTIVE MATERIAL IN THE XENON HEADLAMPS HAS MELTED AWAY DUE TO THE HEAT OF THE BULBS RESULTING IN DRASTICALLY REDUCED HEADLIGHT EFFECTIVENESS AT NIGHT. THIS CAUSES AN EXTREMELY UNSAFE CONDITION WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT. I HAVE DISCOVERED THIS IS A COMMON OCCURRENCE IN 2003-2005 E46 BMW 3 SERIES ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Jan 29, 2014
Incident date: Jan 26, 2014
MY 2004 BMW 325CI RECENTLY DEVELOPED A PROBLEM WITH THE LEFT REAR TAIL LIGHT (TURN SIGNAL AND BRAKE LIGHT) INTERMITENTLY DOES NOT WORK. A LEFT TAIL LIGHT FAILURE ALSO SHOWS ON THE ON BOARD DIAGNOSTIC DISPLAY. THE PROBLEM IS INTERMITENT AND WITH NO WARNING. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND THERE WAS ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Dec 7, 2013
Incident date: Jun 19, 2013
THOUGHT I HAD A LIGHT PROBLEM FIXED IT FIRST TIME. SIGNAL ON THE DASH DID NOT GO AWAY BUT THE LIGHT WAS ON. WENT TO A DIFFERENT PLACE AND FIXED IT AGAIN. AND THE SIGNAL STILL WOULD NOT GO AWAY. THE LIGHT WORKS BUT STILL SHOW ON THE DASH AS IF IT'S BROKEN. I'M AFRAID BY TIME IT'S TIME TO GET A NEW RE... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Nov 21, 2013
Incident date: Nov 20, 2013
HEADLIGHTS VERY DIM WHEN COMPARED TO ORIGINAL BRIGHTNESS. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Sep 24, 2013
Incident date: Sep 24, 2013
RECENTLY PURCHASED SAID VEHICLE AND IT CAME WITH ZKW HID BI-XENON LIGHTING SYSTEM WHICH APPEARS THE INNER PLASTIC BOWLS ARE BURNT TO A CRISP WITH DETRIMENT LIGHT OUTPUT MAKING IT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO CLEARLY SEE UNLIT ROADS AT NIGHT, THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN AND NEEDS TO BE REVIEWED AND SOLVED ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Aug 12, 2013
Incident date: Aug 1, 2010
HEADLIGHT OUTPUT BEGAN TO DIM. REPLACED BULB AND HAD CLEAR LENS COVER CLEANED. THIS DID NOT HELP. CAR IS NOW UNSAFE TO DRIVE AT NIGHT. DEALERSHIP DISCOVERED THAT THE HEAT FROM THE BULB HAS MELTED AND DISCOLORED THE REFLECTOR FOR THE HEADLIGHT. ONLINE INTERNET SEARCH INDICATES THIS IS A CHRONIC SAFE... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 24, 2013
Incident date: Jun 1, 2011
I OWN A 2004 BMW 3 SERIES SEDAN WITH OPTIONAL BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS. ABOUT 10,000 MILES INTO MY PURCHASE (OR 57,000) I BEGAN TO NOTICE MY HEADLIGHT OUTPUT DETERIORATING SIGNIFICANTLY. MY GIRLFRIEND OWNS A 2004 BMW 3 SERIES COUPE/CONVERTIBLE ALSO WITH THE OPTIONAL BI-ZENON AND 60,000 MILES. I COMPARED ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Feb 18, 2013
Incident date: Feb 18, 2013
MY BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS HAVE BEEN SLOWLY FADING RESULTING IN EXTREMELY POOR VISIBILITY DURING NORMAL NIGHTIME DRIVING. THIS DEGRADATION HAS BEEN OCCURRING WITHOUT MY KNOWLEDGE UNTIL IT BECAME OBVIOUS AFTER DRIVING ANOTHER VEHICLE. AS IT TURNS OUT, MY MECHANIC HAS ADVISED THERE IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 18, 2013
Incident date: Feb 18, 2013
MY BI-XENON HEADLIGHTS HAVE BEEN SLOWLY FADING RESULTING IN EXTREMELY POOR VISIBILITY DURING NORMAL NIGHTIME DRIVING. THIS DEGRADATION HAS BEEN OCCURRING WITHOUT MY KNOWLEDGE UNTIL IT BECAME OBVIOUS AFTER DRIVING ANOTHER VEHICLE. AS IT TURNS OUT, MY MECHANIC HAS ADVISED THERE IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 5, 2013
Incident date: Feb 4, 2013
THE VEHICLE CAME EQUIPPED FROM THE FACTORY WITH BI-XENON AUTO LEVELING HEADLIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY ZKW. THE PAST COUPLE MONTHS, THE LIGHT OUTPUT HAS STEADILY DECREASED. BROWN SCORCH MARKS ARE VISIBLE IN THE PROJECTOR WHEN THE HEADLIGHT IS ON. ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE, THE XENON BULB BURNED OFF ALL THE RE... Read more
AIR BAGS
Feb 1, 2013
Incident date: Nov 7, 2012
NO IN PASSENGER SEAT WHEN STARTING THE CAR AND THE PASSENGER AIR BAG LAMP WAS ILLUMINATED ON DASHBOARD. TURNED CAR OFF AND THEN BACK ON AND THE LIGHT WAS OFF. WENT ABOUT 15 FEET AND THE LIGHT CAME BACK ON. TURNS ON AND OFF WITH OR WITHOUT ANYONE IN THE SEAT. BMW REPRESENTATIVE STATED RECALL ID# 8... Read more
SEATS
Feb 1, 2013
Incident date: Nov 7, 2012
NO IN PASSENGER SEAT WHEN STARTING THE CAR AND THE PASSENGER AIR BAG LAMP WAS ILLUMINATED ON DASHBOARD. TURNED CAR OFF AND THEN BACK ON AND THE LIGHT WAS OFF. WENT ABOUT 15 FEET AND THE LIGHT CAME BACK ON. TURNS ON AND OFF WITH OR WITHOUT ANYONE IN THE SEAT. BMW REPRESENTATIVE STATED RECALL ID# 8... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jan 21, 2013
Incident date: Feb 16, 2008
DOOR LOCKS INTERMITTENTLY WILL NOT UNLOCK WITH SWITCH OR REMOTES. CENTRAL LOCKING DOES NOT WORK EVEN WHEN USING THE KEY FOB. MY KIDS AND I HAVE BEEN TRAPPED IN THE CAR ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS FOR UP TO 10 MINUTES. THIS IS A SERIOUS RISK TO MY LIFE AND THE LIFE OF OTHERS ON THE ROAD. BMW REFUSES TO FIX ... Read more
Showing 50 of 93 complaints.
Technical Service Bulletins — 2004 BMW 3 SERIES
101 manufacturer communications from 59 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 16 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 10 |
| 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 |
| 151000 SEAT BELTS:FRONT | 3 |
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 3 |
B510819
Jan 16, 2024
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
B510819
Jan 16, 2024
133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
B611305
Jan 11, 2024
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on ho
B611305
Oct 1, 2020
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This doc
B611305
Oct 1, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This doc
B611305
Oct 1, 2020
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This doc
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-61-13-05
Mar 1, 2013
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
BMW: BATTERY HAS AN INCREASED DEMAND DUE TO DEVELOPEMENTAL PROCESS OF THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THIS IS CAUSING THE BATTER TO NEED TO UNDERGO AN ENERGY DIAGNOSIS. *KB
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
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
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
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
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-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-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
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-72-05-07
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-72-28-06
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
SI-B-12-04-05
Nov 1, 2010
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BMW: CHECK ENGINE LAMP ILLUMINATED AND/OR VEHICLE OVERHEATS. MODELS E83, E85, E86, E70, E90, E91, E92, E93, E60 AND E61. *PE UPDATED 5/24/11. *PE
SI-B-12-04-05
Nov 1, 2010
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW: CHECK ENGINE LAMP ILLUMINATED AND/OR VEHICLE OVERHEATS. MODELS E83, E85, E86, E70, E90, E91, E92, E93, E60 AND E61. *PE UPDATED 5/24/11. *PE
SI-B-12-04-05
Nov 1, 2010
117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
BMW: CHECK ENGINE LAMP ILLUMINATED AND/OR VEHICLE OVERHEATS. MODELS E83, E85, E86, E70, E90, E91, E92, E93, E60 AND E61. *PE UPDATED 5/24/11. *PE
SIB-72-03-10
Nov 1, 2010
151000 SEAT BELTS:FRONT
BMW: ON SOME E92 MODELS THE SAFETY BELT EXTENDER IS NOT EXTENDING THE BELT OR IS NOISY. THIS CAN BE A FAULT OF THE EXTENDER OR THE BELT IS CONTORTED. *RM
SIB-72-03-10
Nov 1, 2010
151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
BMW: ON SOME E92 MODELS THE SAFETY BELT EXTENDER IS NOT EXTENDING THE BELT OR IS NOISY. THIS CAN BE A FAULT OF THE EXTENDER OR THE BELT IS CONTORTED. *RM
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
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-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
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
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
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
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-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-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-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-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-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
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-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
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-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-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-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-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
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
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-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
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
POOR CONNECTION AT REAR LAMP CONNECTOR. BMW. MODEL E46. *KB MODEL E46 (3 SERIES). UPDATE 8/8/2008. *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
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
1220405
Feb 11, 2005
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
CHECK ENGINE LAMP ILLUMINATED INTAKE AND AMBIENT TEMPERATURE FAULTS STORED IN DME. *EH
Showing 100 of 101 bulletins.
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 (current) | 0 | 93 | |
| 2003 | 0 | 67 | View |
| 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 |