2004 BMW M3
3 recalls, 38 complaints - 37 TSBs
20V018000 Jan 15, 2020
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect Description
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PS... Read more
Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
14V428000 Jun 11, 2018
AIR BAGS
Defect Description
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000 323i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sports Wagons; 2000 328i sedans and coupes; 2001-2005 325i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sport Wagons; 2001-2005 325xi sedans and Sports Wagons; 2006 325i coupes and convertibles; 2001-200... Read more
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure could cause rupturing of the inflator resulting in metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side frontal air bag, free of charge. An interim notice was mailed to owners in September 2014. A second notice was mailed when an adequate supply of parts b... Read more
15V318000 May 28, 2015
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect Description
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi Sedans, and 325xi and 325i Sportswagons, 2002-2006 330Ci, 325Ci, and M3 Convertibles and 325i, 330i, and M3 Coupes, 2002-2003 M5, 540i, 525i Sedan, and 530i Sedans, and 540i and 525i Sportswagons, ... Read more
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began Aug 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall supersedes... Read more
Complaint Statistics
38 total complaints
3 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| AIR BAGS | 9 |
| VISIBILITY | 4 |
| POWER TRAIN | 4 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY | 2 |
| ENGINE | 2 |
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | 2 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | 1 |
| VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR | 1 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 1 |
| POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION | 1 |
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 22, 2026
Incident date: Nov 14, 2024
Below is a partial email to a BMW Dealer that replaced an airbag 2 1/2 years ago per a recall. The airbag light, convertible top light were both illuminated when I left the dealer. I have sent emails and contacted BMW USA. A friend scanned the car with a Snap-On scanner that showed that the light ha... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jun 22, 2026
Incident date: Nov 14, 2024
Below is a partial email to a BMW Dealer that replaced an airbag 2 1/2 years ago per a recall. The airbag light, convertible top light were both illuminated when I left the dealer. I have sent emails and contacted BMW USA. A friend scanned the car with a Snap-On scanner that showed that the light ha... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Mar 23, 2022
Incident date: Mar 22, 2022
Passenger side rear sub-frame crack observed . Vehicle has never been in any accident or collision. It's a commonly know problem about BMW 3 series made between 1999 to 2006 that happens naturally without cause due to manufacture issue, so I decided to look under my car to look for any cracks as des... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 19, 2019
Incident date: Apr 12, 2017
WIRING PROBLEM WITH FACTORY HEADLIGHTS. THIS ISSUE CAUSES HEADLIGHTS TO FLICKER AND EVENTUALLY TURN OFF. IT HAPPENS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND SITTING STILL.
AIR BAGS
Sep 9, 2016
Incident date: May 27, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW M3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V318000 (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 MADE AWA... Read more
AIR BAGS
Aug 29, 2016
Incident date: Jul 15, 2014
TAKATA RECALL -- IT'S BEEN 2 YEARS SINCE THE RECALL WAS ISSUED, BUT THE MANUFACTURER / DEALERSHIP DO NOT SEEM TO BE ABLE TO GET THE PARTS TO REPAIR MY CAR. THIS ESSENTIALLY RENDERS MY CAR UNSAFE, AND IN MANY WAYS, UNUSABLE. I STILL HAVE NOT HEARD ABOUT A DATE BY WHEN THE PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE / RE... Read more
AIR BAGS
May 13, 2016
Incident date: Jul 1, 2015
TAKADA RECALL: NOTIFIED BY BMW JULY 2015 DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE DEFECTIVE. IN MAY 2016, BMW ADVISED THEY DID NOT KNOW WHEN AIR BAG WOULD BEFIXED. SINCE THEN ANOTHER PERSON HAS DIED. CONCERNED ABOUT SAFETY AND LENGTH OF TIME WAITING FOR FIX.
AIR BAGS
Mar 8, 2016
Incident date: Jul 11, 2015
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW M3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V318000 (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 MANUFACTUR... Read more
AIR BAGS
Mar 7, 2016
Incident date: Jul 30, 2015
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW M3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V318000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO PERFORM THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT WAS PLACED ON A WAITING LIST. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABL... Read more
AIR BAGS
Dec 8, 2015
Incident date: Dec 8, 2015
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW M3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V318000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Apr 6, 2015
Incident date: Sep 1, 2014
NO ACCIDENT. JUST WAITING SINCE SEPTEMBER 2014 TO HAVE MY PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG REPLACED. I CAN'T DRIVE THE CAR WITH A PASSENGER BECAUSE THE AIRBAG IS AFFECTED BY A RECALL AND THE BMW DEALERS DON'T HAVE THE PARTS TO REPLACE IT. *TR
AIR BAGS
Nov 5, 2014
Incident date: Sep 1, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW M3 CONVERTIBLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS). HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE ... Read more
WHEELS:RIM
Jun 25, 2014
Incident date: Jun 25, 2014
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR ON LAKE SHORE DRIVE AND I HIT A POT HOLE NEAR LAWRENCE AVE. I ENDED UP GETTING FLAT ON BOTH OF MY RIGHT TIRES. IT POSSIBLY BENT MY RIM, SUSPENSION ISSUES, AND TIRE HAVE BEEN FLAT. *TR
1 injured
TIRES
Jun 25, 2014
Incident date: Jun 25, 2014
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR ON LAKE SHORE DRIVE AND I HIT A POT HOLE NEAR LAWRENCE AVE. I ENDED UP GETTING FLAT ON BOTH OF MY RIGHT TIRES. IT POSSIBLY BENT MY RIM, SUSPENSION ISSUES, AND TIRE HAVE BEEN FLAT. *TR
1 injured
POWER TRAIN
Apr 20, 2014
Incident date: Apr 16, 2014
FAULTY SMG PUMP POSSIBLY CAUSED BY A CULMINATION OF OTHER FAILING PARTS IN SMG SYSTEM. CAR IS RENDERED INOPERABLE IN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS DRIVING SITUATIONS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE BE CIRCUMVENTED BY A SYSTEM MORE CAPABLE OF WARNING THE OWNER OF AN IMPENDING FAILURE. THE REMEDY THE MAJORITY OF DEALERS... Read more
ENGINE
Apr 11, 2014
Incident date: Mar 8, 2014
ONE OF THE VANOS EXHAUST HUB TAB BROKE AND DAMAGED THE OIL PUMP DISC. I HAD TO REPLACE THE VANOS EXHAUST HUB AND OIL PUMP DISC. *JS
POWER TRAIN
Sep 6, 2013
Incident date: Jun 3, 2013
VEHICLE DROPS OUT OF GEAR RANDOMLY. AS I WAS TAKING A LEFT TURN, THE VEHICLE DROPPED INTO 0 GEAR AND ON COMING TRAFFIC ALMOST RAN INTO ME HEAD ON. I HAD NO WAY OF MOVING THE CAR DUE TO TRANSMISSION BEING SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL. THIS IS DUE TO A DEFECTIVE TEMPERATURE SENSOR ON THE SMG PUMP. BMW IGNORE... Read more
ENGINE
Sep 6, 2013
Incident date: Jun 3, 2013
VEHICLE DROPS OUT OF GEAR RANDOMLY. AS I WAS TAKING A LEFT TURN, THE VEHICLE DROPPED INTO 0 GEAR AND ON COMING TRAFFIC ALMOST RAN INTO ME HEAD ON. I HAD NO WAY OF MOVING THE CAR DUE TO TRANSMISSION BEING SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL. THIS IS DUE TO A DEFECTIVE TEMPERATURE SENSOR ON THE SMG PUMP. BMW IGNORE... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Sep 6, 2013
Incident date: Jun 3, 2013
VEHICLE DROPS OUT OF GEAR RANDOMLY. AS I WAS TAKING A LEFT TURN, THE VEHICLE DROPPED INTO 0 GEAR AND ON COMING TRAFFIC ALMOST RAN INTO ME HEAD ON. I HAD NO WAY OF MOVING THE CAR DUE TO TRANSMISSION BEING SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL. THIS IS DUE TO A DEFECTIVE TEMPERATURE SENSOR ON THE SMG PUMP. BMW IGNORE... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Aug 14, 2013
Incident date: Aug 10, 2012
THE REAR LAMPS IN MY BODY PANEL THAT HOUSE THE BRAKE LAMP, TURN SIGNAL, AND TAIL LAMP STOPPED WORKING AND NEEDED TO BE FULLY REPLACED. MY CAR IS A LOW MILEAGE VEHICLE. THIS SAME ISSUE WAS THE SUBJECT OF NHTSA #11V438000. HOWEVER, THIS RECALL DID NOT INCLUDE THE M3, JUST ALL OF THE OTHER 3 SERIES B... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Jul 2, 2013
Incident date: Jul 1, 2013
THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAPPENED TO MY CAR THE SMG (SEQUENTIAL MANUAL GEAR) LIGHT COMES ON AND THEN MY SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AS WELL EVERY TIME IN THAT ORDER , ALSO MY CAR SHIFTS ITSELF INTO NEUTRAL ALL ON ITS OWN AND I CAN,T CONTROL THE ACCELERATION ON THE HIGHWAY OR ANYWHERE ELSE SO T... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Jul 2, 2013
Incident date: Jul 1, 2013
THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAPPENED TO MY CAR THE SMG (SEQUENTIAL MANUAL GEAR) LIGHT COMES ON AND THEN MY SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AS WELL EVERY TIME IN THAT ORDER , ALSO MY CAR SHIFTS ITSELF INTO NEUTRAL ALL ON ITS OWN AND I CAN,T CONTROL THE ACCELERATION ON THE HIGHWAY OR ANYWHERE ELSE SO T... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
Jun 25, 2013
Incident date: Jun 18, 2013
I INSPECTED THE TRUNK FLOORPAN AND NOTICED BUCKLING, CRACKING OF THE TRUNK FLOOR AND WELDED SEAMS COMING APART. THE REAR SUBFRAME MOUNTS WERE CRACKED ON BOTH SIDES. THE REAR SUBFRAME IS RIPPING ITSELF OUT OF THE CAR AND I'M VERY LUCKY I FOUND THIS WHILE THE CAR WAS AT REST AND NOT DRIVING AT SPEED... Read more
STRUCTURE
Jun 25, 2013
Incident date: Jun 18, 2013
I INSPECTED THE TRUNK FLOORPAN AND NOTICED BUCKLING, CRACKING OF THE TRUNK FLOOR AND WELDED SEAMS COMING APART. THE REAR SUBFRAME MOUNTS WERE CRACKED ON BOTH SIDES. THE REAR SUBFRAME IS RIPPING ITSELF OUT OF THE CAR AND I'M VERY LUCKY I FOUND THIS WHILE THE CAR WAS AT REST AND NOT DRIVING AT SPEED... Read more
VISIBILITY/WIPER
May 21, 2013
Incident date: May 20, 2013
GOT INTO MY CAR IN THE AFTERNOON AND NOTICED THE REAR VIEW MIRROR WAS DISTORTED. AFTER INSPECTING, REALIZED THAT THE LIQUID HAD SEPARATED BEHIND MIRROR. HAD TO RUN AN ERRAND. STARTED DRIVING AND THEN HEARD A LOUD "POP" NOISE. LOOKED AT MIRROR AND THE LIQUID WAS VERY VISIBLE MOVING BEHIND GLASS. ... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Nov 15, 2012
Incident date: Nov 8, 2012
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SMG HYDRAULIC PUMP FAILED. *TR
STRUCTURE:BODY
Sep 18, 2012
Incident date: Aug 1, 2011
HAD MY CAR INSPECTED BY A MECHANIC AND HE NOTICED A TEAR IN THE SUBFRAME NEAR THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE. TUNES OUT THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM FOR E46 BMWS. BMW WILL ONLY COVER 50% OF THE REPAIRS AND HAS ADMITTED THAT THIS IS A DEFECT IN THEIR DESIGN. IT'S NOW A SAFETY ISSUE AS THE CAR IS OUT OF ALIGNM... Read more
SUSPENSION
Sep 18, 2012
Incident date: Aug 1, 2011
HAD MY CAR INSPECTED BY A MECHANIC AND HE NOTICED A TEAR IN THE SUBFRAME NEAR THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE. TUNES OUT THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM FOR E46 BMWS. BMW WILL ONLY COVER 50% OF THE REPAIRS AND HAS ADMITTED THAT THIS IS A DEFECT IN THEIR DESIGN. IT'S NOW A SAFETY ISSUE AS THE CAR IS OUT OF ALIGNM... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Mar 19, 2012
Incident date: Oct 31, 2011
BEFORE I START EXPLAINING, I SHOULD MENTION THAT THE CAR HAS BEEN METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED WITH MAJORITY OF THE PARTS BEING GENUINE BMW. THE CHASSIS HAS 110,XXX MILES AT THE MOMENT, AND THE ENGINE HAS 78,XXX MILES. THE ENGINE HAD A FAILURE IN 2006 DUE TO A ROD BEARING FAILURE (RECALLED FROM BMW), AND... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Aug 31, 2011
Incident date: Aug 25, 2011
THE SMG TRANSMISSION IN A 2004 BMW M3 WILL RANDOMLY SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL DISABLING THE VEHICLE ON HOT DAYS WITHOUT WARNING. OCCURS ON ANY DAY WHERE TEMPERATURES EXCEED 95 DEGREES. *TR
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Mar 2, 2011
Incident date: Feb 24, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW M3 CONVERTIBLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD SLIP OUT OF GEAR WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE HAD A SMG TRANSMISSION, THE FAILURE WOULD NOT ALLOW THE CONTACT TO ACCELERATE AND HE WOULD HAVE TO SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF A... Read more
VISIBILITY
Dec 10, 2010
Incident date: Aug 15, 2010
REARVIEW MIRROR LEAKED ELECTROCHROMIC FLUID ALL OVER CONSOLE AND SEATS, BADLY DAMAGING THEM. WILL NEED TO REPLACE MIRROR AND DAMAGED PARTS. *TR
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
Aug 5, 2010
Incident date: Aug 4, 2010
REARVIEW MIRROR LEAKED ELECTROCHROMIC FLUID ALL OVER CONSOLE AND SEATS, BADLY DAMAGING THEM. WILL NEED TO REPLACE MIRROR AND DAMAGED PARTS. *TR
VISIBILITY
Jul 25, 2010
Incident date: Jul 20, 2010
HADN'T DRIVEN THE CAR IN 2 WEEKS, WAS OUT OF TOWN. DROVE IT TO WORK ON MONDAY AND MONDAY EVENING OR TUESDAY MORNING NOTICED WHAT LOOKED LIKE A BUBBLE AT THE TOP OF MY REAR VIEW MIRROR. BY TUESDAY NOON, THE BUBBLE WAS IN THE CENTER OF THE MIRROR AND WHEN I CAME OUT TO THE CAR AT ABOUT 5:30 THAT AFT... Read more
1 injured
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
Jun 25, 2010
Incident date: Jun 24, 2010
2004 BMW M3 AUTO DIMMING REARVIEW MIRROR, MIRROR LEAKED CAUSTIC/CORROSIVE UNKNOWN LIQUID ONTO PASSENGER SEAT AND CENTER CONSOLE, LIQUID WAS SO CORROSIVE IT DAMAGED LEATHER SEAT AND CENTER CONSOLE, BUBBLING PAINT AND EATING AWAY AT LEATHER SEAT. APPARENTLY THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING TO ALOT OF BMW M3'S... Read more
VISIBILITY
Jun 12, 2010
Incident date: Jun 10, 2010
LIQUID LEAKING FROM REAR VIEW MIRROR, POSSIBLY CORROSIVE AS CENTER DOME AROUND SHIFTER KNOB BEGAN TO PEEL FROM CONTACT WITH LIQUID. REAR VIEW MIRROR NO LONGER FULLY FUNCTIONAL; BLURRY, DISTORTED VIEW. *TR
VISIBILITY
Feb 23, 2009
Incident date: Feb 22, 2009
REAR VIEW MIRROR LEAKS CAUSTIC FLUID, AND TURNS BLACK, UNABLE TO BE USED. DEALERSHIPS WILL NOT REPLACE THE FAULTY UNIT. DOCUMENTATION OF COMMON OCCURRENCE: HTTP://WWW.M3FORUM.NET/M3FORUM/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=167927&HIGHLIGHT=MIRROR+LEAK ACID HAS BEEN REPORTED TO CAUSE SKIN INJURIES. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Oct 23, 2008
Incident date: Oct 19, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW M3. WHILE DRIVING 65-70 MPH, THE CALIPERS LOCKED SUDDENLY. THE CONTACT PULLED OFF THE HIGHWAY AND WAITED FOR THE CALIPERS TO COOL DOWN IN ORDER TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY HAD NEVER HEARD OF THIS TYPE OF FAILURE. CURRENTLY, THE DEALER IS... Read more
EPA Fuel Economy, 2004 BMW M3
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.2L 6-cyl, Manual 6-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 15.0 | 22.0 | 17.0 | Premium | $4,550 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6) (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 15.0 | 21.0 | 17.0 | Premium | $4,550 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Subcompact Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 2004 BMW M3
37 manufacturer communications from 19 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 140000 AIR BAGS | 7 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 4 |
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 3 |
| 030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | 3 |
| 063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR | 2 |
| 356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY | 2 |
| 030000 BRAKES (PWS) | 2 |
| 353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL | 1 |
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
B340714
Oct 13, 2023
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Functional noises (squealing/honking) when braking shortly before the vehicle comes to a stop. CAUSE Material-
B662419
Sep 1, 2022
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
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.
B340414
Apr 1, 2021
045000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degree
B340414
Apr 1, 2021
011000 STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degree
B651820
Nov 1, 2020
141000 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
SERVICE ACTION - HEAD AIR BAG HOLDER RETROFIT: A rattle noise may develop from the head air bag (ITS) gas generator contacting adjacent component. This noise can be heard while driving on an uneven roadway.
B651820
Nov 1, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
SERVICE ACTION - HEAD AIR BAG HOLDER RETROFIT: A rattle noise may develop from the head air bag (ITS) gas generator contacting adjacent component. This noise can be heard while driving on an uneven roadway.
B651820
Nov 1, 2020
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
SERVICE ACTION - HEAD AIR BAG HOLDER RETROFIT: A rattle noise may develop from the head air bag (ITS) gas generator contacting adjacent component. This noise can be heard while driving on an uneven roadway.
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
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
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
B013118
Apr 1, 2019
140000 AIR BAGS
TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL-RELATED SHORT-TERM ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION AND CONSEQUENTIAL REPAIRS This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 31 18 dated October 2018.
B013118
Apr 1, 2019
140000 AIR BAGS
TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL-RELATED SHORT-TERM ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION AND CONSEQUENTIAL REPAIRS This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 31 18 dated October 2018.
B011618
Jan 1, 2019
140100 AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
TAKATA CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT. CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM. FRONT DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG MODULES.
B011618
Jan 1, 2019
140000 AIR BAGS
TAKATA CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT. CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM. FRONT DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG MODULES.
B011718
Oct 1, 2018
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
For the above-referenced vehicles with passenger?s side airbag modules, BMW of North America, LLC (?BMW NA?) will provide a Customer Support Program as outlined in the Takata Settlement Customer Support Program Overview attachment. This ?co
B011718
Oct 1, 2018
140000 AIR BAGS
For the above-referenced vehicles with passenger?s side airbag modules, BMW of North America, LLC (?BMW NA?) will provide a Customer Support Program as outlined in the Takata Settlement Customer Support Program Overview attachment. This ?co
B011618
Oct 1, 2018
140000 AIR BAGS
For the above-referenced vehicles with driver?s side airbag modules, BMW of North America, LLC (?BMW NA?) will provide a Customer Support Program as outlined in the Takata Settlement Customer Support Program Overview attachment. This ?comp
B011618
Oct 1, 2018
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
For the above-referenced vehicles with driver?s side airbag modules, BMW of North America, LLC (?BMW NA?) will provide a Customer Support Program as outlined in the Takata Settlement Customer Support Program Overview attachment. This ?comp
B340414
Jul 1, 2018
030000 BRAKES (PWS)
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles:
B080119
Feb 1, 2018
140000 AIR BAGS
In an effort to improve the completion rate on Takata air bag recall affected vehicles; BMW NA has expanded the BMW Ultimate Rewards platform to include a new Recall Support page. This page will allow IRFs to check their customers VINs for
B340414
Sep 1, 2015
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI 34 04 14 dated December 2014. Designates changes to the bulletin. INFORMATION 1.Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses d
B340414
Sep 1, 2015
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI 34 04 14 dated December 2014. Designates changes to the bulletin. INFORMATION 1.Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses d
340414
Dec 1, 2014
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles. INFORMATION 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less tha
SIB-34-04-14
Dec 1, 2014
030000 BRAKES (PWS)
BMW: RUNNING NOISES HEARD WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED, WITH HIGH BRAKE LOADS; THROUGH WHEEL OPENING, VISIBLE CRACKS CAN BE SEEN IN BRAKE DISCS AND STEERING WHEEL TORSIONAL VIBRATES WHEN APPLYING BRAKES. *PE
651414
Jun 1, 2014
140000 AIR BAGS
Special Technical Campaign. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has urged vehicle manufacturers to conduct an investigation into air bags which may not deploy correctly. BMW is cooperating with this request. Takata is
120913
Nov 1, 2013
350000 EQUIPMENT
State Inspection and Emission (I/M) Test Fails Due To an Invalid VIN Number. The customer of an affected vehicle may fail to pass an I/M test due to a non-compliant 17digit vehicle identification number (VIN) stored in the DME (Digital Moto
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
SIB-33-01-02
Jul 1, 2011
022520 SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
BMW: A GRINDING NOISE IS COMING FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL DURING SLOW CORNERING. WHEN TURNING A SLIP/STICK EFFECT IS CREATED ON THE LINING AND STEEL DISCS INCORPORATED IN THE DIFFERENTIAL CLUTCH CAUSES A GRINDING NOISE. *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-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
SI-B12-22-08
Oct 1, 2009
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
BMW: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS RECALL 08E-A03; M3 S54-DME REPROGRAMMING FOR CATALYST CONVERSION DIAGNOSIS. THE DME PROGRAMMING, AS ORIGINALLY INSTALLED, MAY CAUSE THE OBD DIAGNOSTIC TO ERRONEOUSLY EVALUATE THE EFFICIENCY OF THE CATALYTIC CONVER
SI-B12-22-08
Oct 1, 2009
063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
BMW: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS RECALL 08E-A03; M3 S54-DME REPROGRAMMING FOR CATALYST CONVERSION DIAGNOSIS. THE DME PROGRAMMING, AS ORIGINALLY INSTALLED, MAY CAUSE THE OBD DIAGNOSTIC TO ERRONEOUSLY EVALUATE THE EFFICIENCY OF THE CATALYTIC CONVER
SI-B11-07-09
Aug 1, 2009
062300 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS
BMW: THERMOSTAT HOUSING INSPECTION. THE RETAINING SPRINGS OF THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING QUICK RELEASE COUPLINGS FOR THE COOLANT HOSES MAY NOT BE LOCKED CORRECTLY. THIS SITUATION MAY RESULT IN A COOLANT LEAK. MODELS AFFECTED ARE M3 SEDAN (E
SI-B11-07-09
Aug 1, 2009
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
BMW: THERMOSTAT HOUSING INSPECTION. THE RETAINING SPRINGS OF THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING QUICK RELEASE COUPLINGS FOR THE COOLANT HOSES MAY NOT BE LOCKED CORRECTLY. THIS SITUATION MAY RESULT IN A COOLANT LEAK. MODELS AFFECTED ARE M3 SEDAN (E
SI-B12-22-08
Apr 1, 2009
063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
BMW: AS ORIGINALLY INSTALLED, THE DME PROGRAMMING MAY CAUSE THE OBD DIAGNOSTIC TO ERRONEOUSLY EVALUATE THE EFFICIENCY OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS. MODEL E46 (M3) COUPE AND CONVERTIBLES. *PE
SI-B12-22-08
Apr 1, 2009
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
BMW: AS ORIGINALLY INSTALLED, THE DME PROGRAMMING MAY CAUSE THE OBD DIAGNOSTIC TO ERRONEOUSLY EVALUATE THE EFFICIENCY OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS. MODEL E46 (M3) COUPE AND CONVERTIBLES. *PE
NHTSA Safety Investigations, BMW M3
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
RQ99018
Opened: Sep 3, 1999
INADVERTANT SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
ON MARCH 26, 1999, BMW OF NORTH AMERICAN, INC. RECALLED 32,500 1999 323I AND 328I MANUFACTURED UP TO APRIL 1999, FOR INADVERTENT DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIRBAG SYSTEM IN CERTAIN NON-CRASH IMPACTS SUCH AS CONTACTING LARGE POT HOLES OR CURBS AT SUBSTANTIAL SPEED.AS A REMEDY, BMW WILL RECODE THE AIR BAG... Read more
BMW M3 - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the BMW M3 across all model years (1988, 2023).
82
Total Recalls
554
Total Complaints
1
Investigations
31
Reported Crashes
6
Reported Fires
0
Reported Deaths
BMW M3 - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 0 | 2 | View |
| 2023 | 1 | 1 | View |
| 2022 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 2021 | 3 | 5 | View |
| 2018 | 0 | 10 | View |
| 2017 | 2 | 3 | View |
| 2016 | 3 | 7 | View |
| 2015 | 3 | 4 | View |
| 2014 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 2013 | 2 | 17 | View |
| 2012 | 3 | 6 | View |
| 2011 | 4 | 41 | View |
| 2010 | 4 | 20 | View |
| 2009 | 5 | 54 | View |
| 2008 | 5 | 102 | View |
| 2007 | 3 | 0 | View |
| 2006 | 5 | 14 | View |
| 2005 | 3 | 12 | View |
| 2004 (current) | 3 | 38 | |
| 2003 | 5 | 69 | View |
| 2002 | 5 | 48 | View |
| 2001 | 4 | 20 | View |
| 2000 | 2 | 0 | View |
| 1999 | 1 | 13 | View |
| 1998 | 1 | 18 | View |
| 1997 | 2 | 28 | View |
| 1996 | 1 | 1 | View |
| 1995 | 4 | 16 | View |
| 1994 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1993 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1992 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1991 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1990 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1989 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1988 | 1 | 2 | View |