2017 BMW 540I
1 recalls, 33 complaints - 632 TSBs
20V243000 Apr 29, 2020
AIR BAGS
Defect Description
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i and 540i xDrive and 2017-2018 530e xDrive vehicles. Prior exposure to excessive levels of humidity within the driver and passenger head air bag inflators may affect the proper deployment of the head air bags.
Consequence
In the event of a crash of sufficient severity, deployment of the head air bag may be impaired and/or the igniter could separate from the inflator, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left or right head air bag, free of charge. The recall began June 24, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Complaint Statistics
33 total complaints
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 5 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 4 |
| SEAT BELTS | 3 |
| SERVICE BRAKES | 3 |
| AIR BAGS | 3 |
| POWER TRAIN | 2 |
| SEATS | 2 |
| ENGINE | 2 |
| SUSPENSION | 2 |
| AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER | 1 |
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Feb 25, 2026
Incident date: Feb 20, 2026
The contact owns a 2015 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle started losing motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted, but was sputtering and making abnormal sounds. The contact stated... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 24, 2025
Incident date: Jan 31, 2022
After stopping the vehicle to run an errand, the vehicle locked up. The steering wheel would not turn. The vehicle would not shift into any gear. The vehicle was inoperable and I found myself stranded 25 miles from home. The vehicle was towed to our local Ford dealership where it has been for the pa... Read more
ENGINE
Nov 24, 2025
Incident date: Jan 31, 2022
My Kia engine has failed and Kia is refusing to submit or honor my engine replacement claim under the known engine defect class action/recall. The dealer told me that the claim cannot be submitted because a prior owner did not receive the KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System) software update. Kia the... Read more
SUSPENSION
Aug 10, 2025
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
The vehicle has ongoing acceleration delay and jerking under normal driving, along with repeated premature rear brake wear and a major coolant leak that required head gasket replacement. The most recent incident occurred on August 8, 2025, immediately after picking up the vehicle from a service visi... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Aug 10, 2025
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
The vehicle has ongoing acceleration delay and jerking under normal driving, along with repeated premature rear brake wear and a major coolant leak that required head gasket replacement. The most recent incident occurred on August 8, 2025, immediately after picking up the vehicle from a service visi... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Aug 10, 2025
Incident date: Jul 10, 2025
The vehicle has ongoing acceleration delay and jerking under normal driving, along with repeated premature rear brake wear and a major coolant leak that required head gasket replacement. The most recent incident occurred on August 8, 2025, immediately after picking up the vehicle from a service visi... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 16, 2024
Incident date: Dec 7, 2024
Horn just stopped working! Fuses are intact. I see this is a consistent complaint for this model. Cannot pass safety inspection and I’ve only had the car for a year
SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 15, 2024
Incident date: Dec 15, 2024
After about 10,000 miles, we started getting a loud squeal noise in the front brake area when taking off from a stop. We have taken the vehicle to the dealership and also spoke to the service department several times. We keep getting told that it is a common noise with the Taos and there is nothing ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 18, 2024
Incident date: Jul 8, 2024
The key gets stuck and I can't remove the key; I can't take the key out and then the battery drains and car is dead.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Feb 6, 2024
Incident date: Jun 1, 2021
UNKNOWN. I was driving from Alabama to Atlanta [XXX]. Pouring rain but no hail, no thunder nor lighting. I was not around nor under an overpass and my sunroof spontaneously shatters. I just bought this vehicle 2 weeks ago at Carmax. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FO... Read more
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Oct 3, 2023
Incident date: Aug 22, 2023
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 1500. The contact stated when the vehicle was shifted into reverse(R), the image from the rear-view camera was blurry or blank. The contact stated that the failure had been occurring for over 2 years. The contact stated that he researched online and related the failure to... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 3, 2023
Incident date: Aug 22, 2023
Four times while driving, the STOP ENGINE light came on causing the vehicle to slow to 5 MPH--twice while I was on the freeway in busy traffic--very hazardous. Two different error codes showed after the check engine light came on and then after I stopped and restarted the engine a few hours later, ... Read more
ENGINE
Apr 12, 2023
Incident date: Apr 12, 2023
Engine lost compression with around 8K miles on it.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Feb 21, 2023
Incident date: Aug 16, 2022
The rear subframe / axle carrier on vehicle failed. Rear subframe / axle carrier had significant corrosion / rot and large rust holes present. Also, the rear suspension parts & air shocks were seized / corroded to the rear subframe. Dealer advised vehicle was unsafe to drive.
SUSPENSION
Feb 21, 2023
Incident date: Aug 16, 2022
The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that his son mentioned to him that an abnormal squeaking noise was coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. Upon inspection, the contact noticed that a rubber piece was sitting underneath the rear driver’s side ti... Read more
TIRES:SIDEWALL
Feb 21, 2023
Incident date: Oct 4, 2022
Brand new trailer. Picked up in October and put it in storage. Visited trailer for spring prep and noticed sidewall of tire split from rim to the treads. Only highway miles from dealer to storage lot. No deformations on any tire when we parked the trailer for the winter. Castle Rock st235/80/16... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jan 12, 2023
Incident date: Oct 1, 2021
Many Jeep vehicles have gas blow back during refueling. This problem has existed for a number of years and Jeep has issued recalls. Please read the following: If each Jeep user spills .1 gallon during refueling and they refuel the Jeep 12 times per year they spill 1.2 gallons per year. This is a ve... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Jan 12, 2023
Incident date: Oct 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz R350. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH, the vehicle made a squishing an abnormal knocking sound. The contact stated that as the speed increased to 15-20 MPH, the issue ceased. The contact stated that upon driving for an extended period, the brake pedal bec... Read more
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Oct 2, 2022
Incident date: Sep 25, 2022
The passanger seat on this car’s seatbelt and airbags have malfioned numerous times. 3/2021 seat belt warning, seat matpad replaced 9/2022 air bag malfunction while driving with a passenger on highway. Once again seat matpad replaced. Car no longer in warranty $2500. It is extremely dangerous... Read more
SEAT BELTS
Oct 2, 2022
Incident date: Sep 25, 2022
The passanger seat on this car’s seatbelt and airbags have malfioned numerous times. 3/2021 seat belt warning, seat matpad replaced 9/2022 air bag malfunction while driving with a passenger on highway. Once again seat matpad replaced. Car no longer in warranty $2500. It is extremely dangerous... Read more
AIR BAGS
Oct 2, 2022
Incident date: Sep 25, 2022
The passanger seat on this car’s seatbelt and airbags have malfioned numerous times. 3/2021 seat belt warning, seat matpad replaced 9/2022 air bag malfunction while driving with a passenger on highway. Once again seat matpad replaced. Car no longer in warranty $2500. It is extremely dangerous... Read more
SEATS
Sep 24, 2022
Incident date: Sep 24, 2022
Passenger seat in 2017 BMW 5 series cars have a well known and not covered fault where in a loud chiming will go off requiring the passenger seatbelt to be buckled. This chime does not stop and continues until the seat belt is buckled. There is nothing in the passengers seat. The noise is ve... Read more
SEAT BELTS
Sep 24, 2022
Incident date: Sep 24, 2022
Passenger seat in 2017 BMW 5 series cars have a well known and not covered fault where in a loud chiming will go off requiring the passenger seatbelt to be buckled. This chime does not stop and continues until the seat belt is buckled. There is nothing in the passengers seat. The noise is ve... Read more
AIR BAGS
Sep 24, 2022
Incident date: Sep 24, 2022
Passenger seat in 2017 BMW 5 series cars have a well known and not covered fault where in a loud chiming will go off requiring the passenger seatbelt to be buckled. This chime does not stop and continues until the seat belt is buckled. There is nothing in the passengers seat. The noise is ve... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mar 18, 2022
Incident date: Mar 1, 2022
The Instrument Cluster Display Shakes and goes completely black unable to know haw fast Your driving with all the system down You never know when its going to happen
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
Jan 25, 2022
Incident date: Dec 1, 2021
Front Passenger Seat Malfunction - Intermittent on and off warning No risk yet but BMW road aside assist confirmed that air bag might not deploy on passenger side Vehicle inspected by Irvine BMW and warning or concerns shown, just tried to bill me without root causing the issue. Yes the warning ... Read more
SEATS
Jan 25, 2022
Incident date: Dec 1, 2021
Front Passenger Seat Malfunction - Intermittent on and off warning No risk yet but BMW road aside assist confirmed that air bag might not deploy on passenger side Vehicle inspected by Irvine BMW and warning or concerns shown, just tried to bill me without root causing the issue. Yes the warning ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 25, 2022
Incident date: Dec 1, 2021
Front Passenger Seat Malfunction - Intermittent on and off warning No risk yet but BMW road aside assist confirmed that air bag might not deploy on passenger side Vehicle inspected by Irvine BMW and warning or concerns shown, just tried to bill me without root causing the issue. Yes the warning ... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 18, 2021
Incident date: Mar 17, 2021
BACKUP CAMERA IS BLACKING OUT. VERY DANGEROUS. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 2018-19 BMW'S BUT NOT FOR 2017 BMWS. FORUMS ALSO REPORT A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THIS REVERSE CAMERA.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mar 18, 2021
Incident date: Mar 17, 2021
BACKUP CAMERA IS BLACKING OUT. VERY DANGEROUS. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 2018-19 BMW'S BUT NOT FOR 2017 BMWS. FORUMS ALSO REPORT A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THIS REVERSE CAMERA.
POWER TRAIN
Dec 10, 2020
Incident date: Dec 7, 2020
"REFILL COOLANT" INDICATOR DISPLAYS EVEN WITH FULL RESERVOIRS. TWO TRIPS TO THE DEALER SO FAR, FOR REPAIRS. COMES ON WHEN DRIVING OR WHEN PARKED, AFTER DRIVING; AFTER OPENING DRIVER DOOR. FOR EXAMPLE, DRIVE ONE DAY. PARKED OVER NIGHT. MESSAGE DISPLAYS NEXT DAY WHEN DRIVER DOOR IS OPENED. GOES ... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Sep 3, 2019
Incident date: Jul 10, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 BMW 540I. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO JERK WITHOUT WARNING. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER, TURNED OFF, AND RESTARTED, IT RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. ALSO, WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS ON ANY INCLINED HILL OR ROAD, TH... Read more
SEAT BELTS
Feb 27, 2018
Incident date: Feb 23, 2018
I HAD DROPPED OFF THE VEHICLE FOR SWAPPING OUT MY WINTER TIRES FOR ALL SEASON TIRES. THEIR TECHNICIANS REMOVED THE REAR SEAT BELT LATCHES AND INSTALLED THEM INCORRECTLY. THIS WORK WAS NEITHER APPROVED BY ME OR MENTIONED ON THE WORK ORDER. I WAS ALSO NOT VERBALLY INFORMED OF THIS WORK BEING PERFORMED... Read more
EPA Fuel Economy, 2017 BMW 540I
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic (S8) (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 20.0 | 30.0 | 24.0 | Premium | $3,200 |
CO2 Emissions: 374.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 2017 BMW 540I
632 manufacturer communications from 295 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 121 |
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 88 |
| 060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 39 |
| 118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE | 32 |
| 060000 ENGINE (PWS) | 30 |
| 356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY | 26 |
| 353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL | 26 |
| 010000 STEERING | 20 |
B630418
Mar 14, 2024
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
One or more of the LED daytime running lights are dim or discolored.
B120721
Mar 4, 2024
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Check Control message (CCM) indicates: (ID 213): Stop, exercising due care. Voltage supply The Service Engine Soon light is on with the following DME Fault Code: 21B209 - Starter alternator / belt for 48V system (OSA_RIEMEN_RISS): Belt b
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.
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
B360121
Jan 8, 2024
010000 STEERING
At low outside temperatures (below 40 degrees F) and slow driving speeds (i.e. when parking, maneuvering)with a large steering angle, the front end can be slightly axially misaligned. This can be felt (jerking)/ heard via an acoustic ackno
B610524
Jan 5, 2024
353600 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT
The Central Information Display goes black intermittently due to resets of the Head Unit (HU-H3). FaultB7F8F9 ??A???A???A???A???A???A? ??A???A???A???A???A???A?HU-H: Reset??A???A???A???A???A???A? will be stored in the HU-H3.
B610524
Jan 5, 2024
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The Central Information Display goes black intermittently due to resets of the Head Unit (HU-H3). FaultB7F8F9 ??A???A???A???A???A???A? ??A???A???A???A???A???A?HU-H: Reset??A???A???A???A???A???A? will be stored in the HU-H3.
B320223
Jan 4, 2024
010000 STEERING
SITUATION Unusual noises occur only when operating the steering column in the axial direction. 1. A one-time thump sound at the start of movement Shortly after the steering column starts moving, retracting, or extending, a one-time thump
B160623
Dec 20, 2023
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Engine will crank but not start. There is no communication with the integrated fuel module (TFE) whendiagnosing with ISTA. The following two fault codes will be stored in the DME: 032B43 - Low fuel pressure system, electric fuel pump: pre
B160623
Dec 20, 2023
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Engine will crank but not start. There is no communication with the integrated fuel module (TFE) whendiagnosing with ISTA. The following two fault codes will be stored in the DME: 032B43 - Low fuel pressure system, electric fuel pump: pre
B653423
Nov 22, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
Customers may state that the alarm system (DWA) is not active after locking their unoccupied vehicle. Depending on the vehicle??A?A?s equipment and settings, no acoustic or optical confirmation (folding the mirrors/blinking confirmation) i
B653423
Nov 22, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Customers may state that the alarm system (DWA) is not active after locking their unoccupied vehicle. Depending on the vehicle??A?A?s equipment and settings, no acoustic or optical confirmation (folding the mirrors/blinking confirmation) i
B010919
Nov 16, 2023
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
DIESEL FUEL INJECTORS: LTD WTY EXTENSION TO 10 YEARS/120,000 MILES
B011423
Nov 13, 2023
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PRESSURE CONTROL VALVE (PCV) EXTENDED LTD WTY 15 YEARS/150,000 MILES
B120721
Nov 9, 2023
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Check Control message (CCM) indicates: (ID 213): Stop, exercising due care. Voltage supply The Service Engine Soon light is on with the following DME Fault Code: 21B209 - Starter alternator / belt for 48V system (OSA_RIEMEN_RISS): Belt b
B520121
Aug 1, 2023
220000 SEATS
?The front seat will not calibrate/initialize, and the stored faults cannot be deleted.
B320223
Aug 1, 2023
010000 STEERING
?Unusual noises occur only when operating the steering column in the axial direction.
B540521
Aug 1, 2023
162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
?The sunroof will not operate in either direction.
B540521
Aug 1, 2023
134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
?The sunroof will not operate in either direction.
B090221
Jun 1, 2023
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
With the introduction of the BMW Remote Software Upgrade, all Service Pack 18 vehicles and partial Service Pack 15 vehicles may receive new functionality or modifications in their features.
B011219
Jun 1, 2023
062100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
Radiator Grille Upper and Lower Active Air Flaps limited warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years/150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service date.
B640821
Jun 1, 2023
138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
The air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a stand still. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38 F to 60 F +) without changing any climate control settings.
B630821
Jun 1, 2023
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Headlight check control (CC) message 128 "High beam headlight failure" is displayed. The following fault codes are stored during a vehicle test: 80419A - Left high-beam headlight: Short circuit and/or 8041A5 - light outputs: Number of permi
B630821
Jun 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Headlight check control (CC) message 128 "High beam headlight failure" is displayed. The following fault codes are stored during a vehicle test: 80419A - Left high-beam headlight: Short circuit and/or 8041A5 - light outputs: Number of permi
B320420
Jun 1, 2023
010000 STEERING
A groaning type noise is heard during the height adjustment.
B160123
Jun 1, 2023
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
A vehicle arrives at your center to be diagnosed for a micro-leak in the fuel evaporative (EVAP) system (NVLD natural vacuum leak detection). For this condition, the following fault is stored in the DME: 190302 - fuel tank ventilation and s
B120323
Jun 1, 2023
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop effective June 6, 2023 on certain Model Year 2023 - 2024 BMW vehicles that were produced between October 26, 2022 and May 8, 2023.
B651523
May 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
After programming the head unit (HU-H2), activating the FSC (German word Freischaltcode) Enabling Codes repeatedly fails.
B610123
May 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Due to a software error, the vehicle sporadically does not achieve sleep mode. As a result, the 12-volt battery becomes discharged and may cause a no-start condition.
B514616
May 1, 2023
162500 STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE
Upon opening and closing the tailgate, a creaking/groaning sound can be heard from tailgate actuator.
SIB660823
Apr 1, 2023
118620 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:HUD:CAMERA/SENSOR
Issues with the various functions of the camera-based driver assistance systems (KAFAS system) can possibly lead to following customer complaints: KAFAS camera system deactivates itself, due to system restrictions that are not clear to the
SIB660823
Apr 1, 2023
118320 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:DRIVER MONITORING:CAMERA/SENSOR
Issues with the various functions of the camera-based driver assistance systems (KAFAS system) can possibly lead to following customer complaints: KAFAS camera system deactivates itself, due to system restrictions that are not clear to the
B841422
Mar 1, 2023
274300 LANE DEPARTURE:LANE KEEP:NAVIGATION SYSTEM/SOFTWARE
Customer is shown an incorrect GPS location in the vehicle (i.e., Nav Map, coordinates).
B841422
Mar 1, 2023
353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
Customer is shown an incorrect GPS location in the vehicle (i.e., Nav Map, coordinates).
B840822
Mar 1, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via the Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an I
B840822
Mar 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via the Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an I
B630418
Mar 1, 2023
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
One or more of the LED daytime running lights are dim or discolored.
B651623
Mar 1, 2023
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
Customer states there is no audio playback (telephony, navigation, radio) and system sounds (PDC, turn indicators, acoustic signals) may also have failed.
B610123
Mar 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Due to a software error, the vehicle sporadically does not achieve sleep mode. As a result, the 12-volt battery becomes discharged and may cause a no-start condition.
B320420
Mar 1, 2023
010000 STEERING
A groaning type noise is heard during the height adjustment.
B260422
Mar 1, 2023
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32 F (0 C) or lower.
B240223
Mar 1, 2023
100000 POWER TRAIN
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop: Due to a software failure, there is the possibility that the transmission does not go into "sleep mode" if the car is turned off.
B260422
Feb 1, 2023
100000 POWER TRAIN
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32 F (0 C) or lower. The noise goes away as the vehicle/driveline reaches operating te
B260422
Feb 1, 2023
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32 F (0 C) or lower. The noise goes away as the vehicle/driveline reaches operating te
B841422
Dec 1, 2022
353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
Customer is shown an incorrect GPS location in the vehicle (i.e., Nav Map, coordinates).
B613322
Dec 1, 2022
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Due to a software error, Remote Software Upgrade (RSU) and Remote Support are currently not possible. Additionally, the Integrated Owner's Handbook cannot be displayed.
B612922
Dec 1, 2022
010000 STEERING
The saved steering column positions, vertical and horizontal, are not stored long term.
B260422
Dec 1, 2022
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32F (0C) or lower.
B240222
Dec 1, 2022
160000 STRUCTURE
A cracking, metallic noise from under the center of the vehicle.
B170617
Dec 1, 2022
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Coolant leaking from the engine compartment. Traces of coolant leaking from the expansion tank of the low temperature cooling system.
B540521
Nov 1, 2022
134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
The sunroof will not operate in either direction. There are NO faults stored related to the sunroof. If the vehicle has any faults stored related to the sunroof, this bulletin does not apply.
B620322
Oct 1, 2022
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
After programming, the customer may complain that the Sport Mode display is not fully displayed in the instrument cluster. Instead of a red background in sport mode, the background is displayed in blue (like ECO PRO mode).
B620322
Oct 1, 2022
117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
After programming, the customer may complain that the Sport Mode display is not fully displayed in the instrument cluster. Instead of a red background in sport mode, the background is displayed in blue (like ECO PRO mode).
B620322
Oct 1, 2022
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
After programming, the customer may complain that the Sport Mode display is not fully displayed in the instrument cluster. Instead of a red background in sport mode, the background is displayed in blue (like ECO PRO mode).
B611222
Oct 1, 2022
130000 VISIBILITY
After opening the vehicle with the radio remote control and changing the profile, the exterior mirror settings are lost.
B651922
Oct 1, 2022
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
The customer complains that the radio stations change by themselves.
B650414
Oct 1, 2022
280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION
According to the customer, the airbag warning light was on, but it may not be illuminated when the vehicle arrives in the workshop. 1. ACSM fault code "930A60 - Seat occupancy detection, front passenger; malfunction" is stored. The fault ma
B650414
Oct 1, 2022
270000 LANE DEPARTURE
According to the customer, the airbag warning light was on, but it may not be illuminated when the vehicle arrives in the workshop. 1. ACSM fault code "930A60 - Seat occupancy detection, front passenger; malfunction" is stored. The fault ma
B650414
Oct 1, 2022
220100 SEATS:BARRIERS
According to the customer, the airbag warning light was on, but it may not be illuminated when the vehicle arrives in the workshop. 1. ACSM fault code "930A60 - Seat occupancy detection, front passenger; malfunction" is stored. The fault ma
B650414
Oct 1, 2022
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
According to the customer, the airbag warning light was on, but it may not be illuminated when the vehicle arrives in the workshop. 1. ACSM fault code "930A60 - Seat occupancy detection, front passenger; malfunction" is stored. The fault ma
B650414
Oct 1, 2022
140000 AIR BAGS
According to the customer, the airbag warning light was on, but it may not be illuminated when the vehicle arrives in the workshop. 1. ACSM fault code "930A60 - Seat occupancy detection, front passenger; malfunction" is stored. The fault ma
SIB010119
Aug 1, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Radiator Grille Upper and Lower Active Air Flaps to: 10 years/120,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service
SIB010119
Aug 1, 2022
160000 STRUCTURE
For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Radiator Grille Upper and Lower Active Air Flaps to: 10 years/120,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service
SIB650922
Aug 1, 2022
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
The sound output intermittently drops out entirely. This can be reproduced with all audio sources as well as telephone and voice output.
SIB090121
May 1, 2022
061610 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE
BMW offers a new special ISTA Installation made available for Roadside Assistance / Mobile Service technicians. The new ISTA Version is also able to be used in case of a Remote Software Upgrade (RSU) programming failure to get the customer
SIB090121
May 1, 2022
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
BMW offers a new special ISTA Installation made available for Roadside Assistance / Mobile Service technicians. The new ISTA Version is also able to be used in case of a Remote Software Upgrade (RSU) programming failure to get the customer
SIB010121
May 1, 2022
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Note: Before performing a repair and submitting a claim, first confirm that the vehicle has the above Notice of Limited Warranty Extension in the DCSnet Warranty Inquiry Vehicle Comments section. If you have Extended Limited Warranty (ELW)
SIB660820
May 1, 2022
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS
The functionality of the right rear SRR sensor could be reduced which would display the "Driving Assistance" Check Control Message.
SIB651312
May 1, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called N
SIB610822
May 1, 2022
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
When using the Key Reader to retrieve information from the customer's key, no current vehicle data is available.
SIB610722
May 1, 2022
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Check Control Message (CCM) displays "Vehicle key missing" after engine start.
SIB610222
May 1, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW AG is conducting a Voluntary Service Action on certain Model Year 2019-2020 BMW Plug-In HybridElectric (PHEV) vehicles that were produced between March 25, 2019, and October 17, 2020. Analyses of transmitted teleservice data indicate
B620222
Apr 1, 2022
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Sport mode is not displayed correctly in the instrument cluster. Instead of a red background in sport mode, the background is displayed in blue (like in Eco Pro mode). Software in the instrument cluster (Kombi).
B610722
Apr 1, 2022
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Check Control message (CCM) displays "Vehicle key missing" after engine start.
B610121
Apr 1, 2022
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
48 V battery may become totally discharged, and possible replacement needed.
B121021
Apr 1, 2022
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The customer complains that under moderate throttle application or on deceleration after throttle application, a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is displayed in the instrument cluster.
B110621
Apr 1, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
Information updated about engine oil filter cap drain plug. When performing an engine oil service on vehicles equipped with a N63M, N63B or S63M engines; the ETK states to use "Set oil filter element" P/N 11 42 5 A33 C42 or P/N 11 42 5 A33
B110521
Apr 1, 2022
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The belt pulley on the mechanical coolant pump may fracture allowing the engine drive belt to come off the coolant pump and alternator.
B110521
Apr 1, 2022
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The belt pulley on the mechanical coolant pump may fracture allowing the engine drive belt to come off the coolant pump and alternator.
B640322
Mar 1, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
No heater output in passenger area.
B640322
Mar 1, 2022
353800 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
No heater output in passenger area.
B661519
Mar 1, 2022
010000 STEERING
The steering intervention for Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is too strong (severe), which can create an uncomfortable feeling for the driver. Background: Steering intervention helps keep the vehicle in the lane if the system detects that a
B661519
Mar 1, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
The steering intervention for Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is too strong (severe), which can create an uncomfortable feeling for the driver. Background: Steering intervention helps keep the vehicle in the lane if the system detects that a
B661519
Mar 1, 2022
270000 LANE DEPARTURE
The steering intervention for Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is too strong (severe), which can create an uncomfortable feeling for the driver. Background: Steering intervention helps keep the vehicle in the lane if the system detects that a
B170121
Feb 1, 2022
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The quick disconnect coupling on the cylinder head coolant vent line could break at the cylinder head. This would lead to loss of coolant from the engine.
B651221
Feb 1, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop (effective June 9, 2021) on certain Model Year 2021 BMW vehicles that were produced between May 7, 2021 and May 21, 2021. The Receiver Audio Module (RAM) will need to be added to the affected vehicles.
B090321
Feb 1, 2022
280100 BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
In some rare cases a customer vehicle might be excluded from one or more Remote Software Upgrade(RSU) campaigns. This SIB gives an overview how to identify these vehicles and how to proceed in case of a customer complaint.
B610222
Feb 1, 2022
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
BMW AG is conducting a Voluntary Service Action on certain Model Year 2019-2020 BMW Plug-In Hybrid-Electric (PHEV) vehicles that were produced between March 25, 2019, and October 17, 2020.
B170121
Feb 1, 2022
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The quick disconnect coupling on the cylinder head coolant vent line could break at the cylinder head. This would lead to loss of coolant from the engine.
B620122
Jan 1, 2022
117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Temporary black screen in the instrument cluster.
B620122
Jan 1, 2022
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Temporary black screen in the instrument cluster.
B110521
Jan 1, 2022
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The belt pulley on the mechanical coolant pump may fracture allowing the engine drive belt to come off the coolant pump and alternator.
B110521
Jan 1, 2022
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The belt pulley on the mechanical coolant pump may fracture allowing the engine drive belt to come off the coolant pump and alternator.
B652121
Dec 1, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
SiriusXM satellite radio is not working and does not display a channel list.
B652121
Dec 1, 2021
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
SiriusXM satellite radio is not working and does not display a channel list.
B662419
Dec 1, 2021
010000 STEERING
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.
B662419
Dec 1, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.
B662419
Dec 1, 2021
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.
B840621
Dec 1, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
The SIM card installed in the telematics control unit (ATM2) connects to different mobile providers' networks. However, due to a missing parameter, this does not work and can cause disruption in BMW ConnectedDrive services in areas with ins
Showing 100 of 632 bulletins.
BMW 540I - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the BMW 540I across all model years (1989, 2024).
38
Total Recalls
340
Total Complaints
0
Investigations
11
Reported Crashes
8
Reported Fires
0
Reported Deaths
BMW 540I - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 2024 | 1 | 10 | View |
| 2023 | 0 | 7 | View |
| 2022 | 0 | 7 | View |
| 2021 | 5 | 13 | View |
| 2020 | 5 | 3 | View |
| 2019 | 1 | 14 | View |
| 2018 | 2 | 57 | View |
| 2017 (current) | 1 | 33 | |
| 2003 | 2 | 9 | View |
| 2002 | 2 | 17 | View |
| 2001 | 4 | 18 | View |
| 2000 | 2 | 36 | View |
| 1999 | 1 | 29 | View |
| 1998 | 1 | 28 | View |
| 1997 | 0 | 31 | View |
| 1995 | 2 | 15 | View |
| 1994 | 4 | 12 | View |
| 1993 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1992 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1991 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1990 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1989 | 1 | 0 | View |