NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Exterior Lighting complaints
10 reportsClear category filter40,000 miles · Nov 18, 2016
Exterior Lighting
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 BMW 330I. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE PASSENGER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED RANDOMLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR LIGHT PANEL AND PLUG FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE …
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 BMW 330I. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE PASSENGER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED RANDOMLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR LIGHT PANEL AND PLUG FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,000.
NHTSA ODI #10926962
171,722 miles · May 23, 2016
Exterior Lighting
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS ON THE VEHICLE FAILED TO OPERATE AS INTENDED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BRAKE LIGHTS REMAINED ILLUMINATED WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V43800…
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS ON THE VEHICLE FAILED TO OPERATE AS INTENDED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BRAKE LIGHTS REMAINED ILLUMINATED WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V438000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 171,722.
NHTSA ODI #10870360
75,000 miles · Feb 5, 2015
Exterior Lighting
UNDER RECALL 11V438000 , BMW FOUND THE DEFECTIVE REAR LIGHTS. THEIR REMEDY WAS TO REPLACE A SINGLE GROUND WIRE WITH A LARGER GAUGE WIRE. THIS IS A PREVENTATIVE MEASURE AND NOT A CORRECTIVE MEASURE. THE ULTIMATE CAUSATION OF THE LIGHT ISSUE IS THE TRUNK DOOR PINCHING THE HARNESS LEADING TO THE LIGHT, WHICH CAUSE THE WIRES INSIDE…
Read full complaint
UNDER RECALL 11V438000 , BMW FOUND THE DEFECTIVE REAR LIGHTS. THEIR REMEDY WAS TO REPLACE A SINGLE GROUND WIRE WITH A LARGER GAUGE WIRE. THIS IS A PREVENTATIVE MEASURE AND NOT A CORRECTIVE MEASURE. THE ULTIMATE CAUSATION OF THE LIGHT ISSUE IS THE TRUNK DOOR PINCHING THE HARNESS LEADING TO THE LIGHT, WHICH CAUSE THE WIRES INSIDE THE HARNESS TO BREAK. THIS WAS VERIFIED BY THE MECHANIC WHOM SAID WAS NOT COVERED BY THIS CAMPAIGN. HE SAID THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. I HAD TO ULTIMATELY PAY OUT OF POCKET AND FIX THIS MYSELF. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10681615
65,000 miles · Jan 23, 2013
Electrical SystemExterior Lighting
AFTER THE RECALL, NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA09019 , I BROUGHT IN MY CAR AND THEY ADDED A GROUND WIRE THAT WAS TO FIX THE ISSUE WITH AN INTERMITTENT LIGHTS-OUT WARNING AT THE DASHBOARD. AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS, THE ISSUE WAS STILL THERE. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK TO BMW AND THEY SAID THAT THEY ALREADY ADDED THE GROUND CABLE AND THAT'S…
Read full complaint
AFTER THE RECALL, NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA09019 , I BROUGHT IN MY CAR AND THEY ADDED A GROUND WIRE THAT WAS TO FIX THE ISSUE WITH AN INTERMITTENT LIGHTS-OUT WARNING AT THE DASHBOARD. AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS, THE ISSUE WAS STILL THERE. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK TO BMW AND THEY SAID THAT THEY ALREADY ADDED THE GROUND CABLE AND THAT'S ALL THEY COULD DO. THE SAME ISSUE STILL EXISTS. UPON READING FURTHER REGARDING THIS ISSUE, IT APPEARS THE WIRING HARNESSES HAD "MELTED" DUE TO EXCESSIVE HEAT CREATED BY A FAULTY GROUND CABLE. THE DAMAGE HAS ALREADY BEEN MADE AND BMW REFUSED TO FIX THE ISSUES CAUSED BY THIS FAULTY DESIGN. THEY QUOTED ME OVER $800 TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE HARNESS AND CHARGED ME 1 HOUR OF LABOR @$195/HR TO FIND THAT OUT. THE FAULTY GROUND CABLE CREATED THE EXCESSIVE HEAT CREATING ISSUES WITH THE WIRING HARNESS TO THE REAR OF THE CAR LIGHTS. BMW SHOULD PAY NOT JUST TO PREVENT ISSUES BUT TO PAY FOR ISSUES ALREADY CREATED BY THIS FAULTY DESIGN. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10494395
75,000 miles · Dec 14, 2011
Exterior Lighting
LEFT TAILLIGHT ASSEMBLY SHORTED OUT, AND THE DASH INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON. I FIXED IT WITH ELECTRICIAN'S TAPE. TODAY, WENT IN TO HAVE THE FIX PRESCRIBED BY RECALL CAMPAIGN 11V-438000, WHICH EXACTLY ADDRESSED MY ISSUE. BMW'S RECALL LETTER DATED DECEMBER, 2011 INCLUDES "THE LAMPS WILL ALSO BE CHECKED FOR PROPER FUNCTIONALITY. I…
Read full complaint
LEFT TAILLIGHT ASSEMBLY SHORTED OUT, AND THE DASH INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON. I FIXED IT WITH ELECTRICIAN'S TAPE. TODAY, WENT IN TO HAVE THE FIX PRESCRIBED BY RECALL CAMPAIGN 11V-438000, WHICH EXACTLY ADDRESSED MY ISSUE. BMW'S RECALL LETTER DATED DECEMBER, 2011 INCLUDES "THE LAMPS WILL ALSO BE CHECKED FOR PROPER FUNCTIONALITY. IF THEY ARE NOT OPERATING PROPERLY, THEN THEY WILL BE REPAIRED WHICH COULD INCLUDE REPLACEMENT OF THE LAMP'S 8-PIN CONNECTOR HOUSING, IF NECESSARY". THUS, BMW IS COGNIZANT OF THE INESCAPABLE NEXUS BETWEEN A SHORT CIRCUIT OF THE CONNECTOR AND DAMAGE TO THE HOUSING. WELL, ACCORDING TO THE DEALER, ONLY THE FIXING OF THE GROUND CONNECTION IS COVERED BY THE RECALL AND BMW WOULD NOT PAY FOR REPLACING THE RUINED HOUSING (AND WITH THE WARRANTY "FIX", MY LIGHTS WOULD NO LONGER WORK BECAUSE MY REPAIR HAD BEEN ELIMINATED, PRESUMABLY BY THE INSTALLATION OF A NEW CONNECTOR WHICH WOULD NO LONGER INTERFACE WITH THE DAMAGED HOUSING). WHILE AT THE DEALER, CALLED BMW CUSTOMER SERVICE, AND ULTIMATELY SPOKE TO "BOBBY". SHE VERIFIED WITH THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT HE HAD GONE UP THE CHAIN OF COMMAND AS APPROPRIATE, GOTTEN THE DENIAL, AND TOLD ME THAT I WAS OUT OF RECOURSE WITH RESPECT TO BMW: BMW WOULD NOT BE LIABLE. HAVING GIVEN THEM THEIR SHOT TO DO THE RIGHT THING, AM NOW TAKING THE NEXT STEP (NOTIFYING YOU). SINCE I COULDN'T DRIVE AROUND W/O PROPER FUNCTIONING REAR SIGNAL LIGHTS, I PAID FOR THE NEW HOUSING. THE DEALER ATE SOME OF THE COST SO ONLY CHARGED ME $39.32, FOR $41.68 WITH TAX. UPON GETTING HOME, GOOGLED THE PART # AND GOT A PRICE OF ~$28. SO, THIS IS NOT HUGE DOLLARS (AND FOR ME ITS JUST A MATTER OF PRINCIPLE) BUT BMW SHOULD BE TOLD TO BEHAVE LOGICALLY AND FAIRLY, ADHERE TO THEIR OWN WORDS IN THEIR LETTER, AND REPLACE ANY HOUSINGS DAMAGED BY THE ISSUE CAUSING THE RECALL. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10439934
84,000 miles · Nov 8, 2011
Exterior Lighting
TAILLIGHT ELECTRICAL FAILURE. BRAKE AND TAILLIGHT FAILED AS A RESULT OF MALFUNCTIONING GROUND. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10434854
30,000 miles · Oct 26, 2010
Exterior Lighting
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 BMW 330I. HE EXPERIENCED A RECURRING FAILURE IN WHICH THE EXTERIOR LIGHTS FAILED. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE EXTERIOR LIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY FAILED TO FUNCTION UNTIL HE REMOVED THE REAR LIGHTING COVER IN ORDER TO SHIFT THE WIRES. HE ALSO INTERMITTENTLY RECEIVED A MESSAGE INDICATING THAT THE TURN SIGNAL BUL…
Read full complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 BMW 330I. HE EXPERIENCED A RECURRING FAILURE IN WHICH THE EXTERIOR LIGHTS FAILED. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE EXTERIOR LIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY FAILED TO FUNCTION UNTIL HE REMOVED THE REAR LIGHTING COVER IN ORDER TO SHIFT THE WIRES. HE ALSO INTERMITTENTLY RECEIVED A MESSAGE INDICATING THAT THE TURN SIGNAL BULBS WERE BLOWN OUT. WHEN HE EXAMINED THE BULBS HE WOULD NOTICED THAT THEY WERE FUNCTIONING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NEVER REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 92,000.
NHTSA ODI #10362418
Mileage unknown · Jun 22, 2009
Exterior Lighting
CONSUMER IS INQUIRING ON THE STATUS OF THE MARK PETERS DEFECT PETITION DP09002. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED MULTIPLE REAR LAMP EXTERIOR LIGHTING FAILURES. HE ALSO STATED THAT A REAR LAMP WIRING HARNESS AND CONNECTOR MAY OVERHEAT LEADING TO REAR LAMP BULB FAILURES.*JB
NHTSA ODI #10274519
Mileage unknown · Mar 23, 2009
Electrical SystemExterior Lighting
SAFETY RELATED DEFECT WITH BMW E46 MODELS; PETITION FOR FORMAL INVESTIGATION PURSUANT TO 49 U.S.C. 30162 AND 49 CFR PART 552 *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE E46 MODELS AS WELL AS HIS 2002 330I HAD PROBLEMS WITH TAILLIGHTS, BRAKE LIGHTS AND/OR TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS.
NHTSA ODI #10263409
48,000 miles · Jul 27, 2007
Electrical SystemExterior Lighting
FAILURE OF THE TURN SIGNALS, BRAKE LIGHTS AND REAR PARKING LAMPS OF THE 1999-2005 BMW 3 SERIES ("E46"). ALSO NOTED ARE FORWARD TURN SIGNAL LIGHTING FAILURES. THE PROBLEM MAY INVOLVE TWO UNRELATED COMPONENT FAILURES: CHRONICALLY OVERHEATING/PARTIALLY MELTED 7-PIN WIRING CONNECTORS (AT THE REAR LAMP CLUSTER) AND CORRODED BULB SO…
Read full complaint
FAILURE OF THE TURN SIGNALS, BRAKE LIGHTS AND REAR PARKING LAMPS OF THE 1999-2005 BMW 3 SERIES ("E46"). ALSO NOTED ARE FORWARD TURN SIGNAL LIGHTING FAILURES. THE PROBLEM MAY INVOLVE TWO UNRELATED COMPONENT FAILURES: CHRONICALLY OVERHEATING/PARTIALLY MELTED 7-PIN WIRING CONNECTORS (AT THE REAR LAMP CLUSTER) AND CORRODED BULB SOCKETS (AT THE FRONT TURN SIGNALS). (THE FIRST PROBLEM MAY BE MORE COMMON IN WARM WEATHER STATES.) BY WAY OF BACKGROUND, I HAVE OWNED THREE E46 MODEL BMW'S, ALL PURCHASED NEW. ALL HAVE HAD REPEATED, YET INTERMITTENT TURN SIGNAL AND EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEMS. MOST RECENTLY I NOTED ANOTHER INTERMITTENT FAILURE OF ALL THE LIGHTS IN THE LEFT REAR LAMP CLUSTER OF MY 2002 BMW 330I WITH ~48,000 MILES. AFTER ANOTHER CAREFUL INSPECTION, TO INCLUDE REMOVING EACH BULB AND CHECKING ITS FILAMENT, RESISTANCE AND CONNECTION CLEANLINESS, I FOUND SOMETHING I HAD NOT PREVIOUSLY NOTED--THE 7-PIN WIRING CONNECTOR WAS MELTED AT TERMINAL #2, THE TERMINAL THAT APPEARS TO BE THE COMMON GROUND FOR ALL THE LAMPS IN THE CLUSTER. THE CAR'S WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR (FEMALE) AND THE MALE PIN (#2) BOTH SHOW EXCESSIVE RESISTANCE/HEAT DAMAGE. I HAVE REMOVED IT FROM MY CAR AND TAKEN SOME PHOTOGRAPHS FOR SUBMISSION VIA AN EMAIL ACCOUNT TO MR. AJIT ALKONDON AT DOT. THE PART AS INSTALLED IN MY CAR HAS THE FOLLOWING IDENTIFICATION: 63.21-6 907 935 DATE CODE: 19.9.01 (FOR SEPTEMBER 19TH, 2001) TIME CODE: 15:54 AS AN ASIDE, A LOCAL BMW DEALERSHIP HAS PREVIOUSLY REPLACED THE REAR BULB CARRIER ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE CAR. WHILE IT HAS HELPED, I AM STILL LEFT WITH CHRONIC, YET HIGHLY INTERMITTENT, LAMP FAILURES, (AS INDICATED BY THE CAR'S WARNING SYSTEM) FOR _BOTH_ REAR LAMP ASSEMBLIES. AT THE FRONT OF THE CAR, ALL THREE E46'S I OWNED HAVE HAD FORWARD TURN SIGNAL SOCKETS REPLACED FOR CORROSION, USUALLY WITHIN THE FIRST FEW YEARS OR MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10197639
Official recalls
6Jan 15, 2020
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 PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Consequence & remedy
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.
Jun 11, 2018
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; 2001-2006 330i sedans, coupes, and convertibles; 2001-2005 330xi sedans; and 2001-2006 M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure that could cause the air bag inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
Consequence & remedy
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 became available, on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
May 28, 2015
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, and 2003 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity Vehicles. Please note that the 5-series and X5 vehicles are only included if they are equipped with the optional sports steering wheel. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence & remedy
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 recall 14V-348 in its entirety. Additionally, vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Note: On December 17, 2015 BMW removed the model year 2004 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity vehicle from this recall. Those vehicles were mistakenly identified as including the air bags that are subject to this recall.
May 2, 2013
BMW is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans; 325Ci and 330Ci coupes and convertibles; 325iT and 325xiT Sports Wagons; and M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with 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 intends to issue initial notifications to owners informing them of the safety defect in June 2013. Once replacement parts are available, estimated for July, BMW will notify owners again to contact their dealers and schedule a replacement of the passenger air bag, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Aug 26, 2011
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 325I, 325XI, 330I, AND 330XI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2001, THROUGH MARCH 1, 2005. OVER TIME, RESISTANCE IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE ONE OR MORE REAR LAMP FUNCTIONS (TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN-SIGNAL), WITHIN THE VEHICLE'S BODY PANEL, TO STOP WORKING.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: INTERMITTENT LIGHT OPERATION REDUCES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER MOTORISTS OF THE DRIVER'S INTENTIONS. THIS COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
Additional source detail variants (3)
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 325I, 325XI, 330I, AND 330XI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2001, THROUGH MARCH 1, 2005. OVER TIME, RESISTANCE IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE ONE OR MORE REAR LAMP FUNCTIONS (TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN-SIGNAL), WITHIN THE VEHICLE'S BODY PANEL, TO STOP WORKING.
Consequence: INTERMITTENT LIGHT OPERATION REDUCES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER MOTORISTS OF THE DRIVER'S INTENTIONS. THIS COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 325I, 325XI, 330I, AND 330XI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2001, THROUGH MARCH 1, 2005. OVER TIME, RESISTANCE IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE ONE OR MORE REAR LAMP FUNCTIONS (TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN-SIGNAL), WITHIN THE VEHICLE'S BODY PANEL, TO STOP WORKING.
Consequence: INTERMITTENT LIGHT OPERATION REDUCES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER MOTORISTS OF THE DRIVER'S INTENTIONS. THIS COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
Exterior Lighting:tail Lights
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 325I, 325XI, 330I, AND 330XI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2001, THROUGH MARCH 1, 2005. OVER TIME, RESISTANCE IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE ONE OR MORE REAR LAMP FUNCTIONS (TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN-SIGNAL), WITHIN THE VEHICLE'S BODY PANEL, TO STOP WORKING.
Consequence: INTERMITTENT LIGHT OPERATION REDUCES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER MOTORISTS OF THE DRIVER'S INTENTIONS. THIS COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
Feb 19, 2002
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, DURING THE STRUT MOUNT MANUFACTURING PROCESS, THE THRUST BEARING WAS NOT PROPERLY POSITIONS AND SECURED. IF THE SUSPENSION IS FULLY UNLOADED, THE FRONT STRUT COULD SEPARATE FROM THE UPPER MOUNT.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS COULD AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH FRONT SPRING STRUT UPPER MOUNTS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 15, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
3EA09019 · Rear Lamp Illumination
Opened Dec 18, 2009 · Closed Sep 28, 2011
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Exterior Lighting; Exterior Lighting:brake Lights; Exterior Lighting:tail Lights; Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August25, 2011, BMWindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.This can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.The recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.An 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.BMW will complete dealer notification in September 2011 and will begin owner notification in October 2011.All 3 series sedans (except for the M3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between September 1, 2001 and March 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.The action taken by BMW is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
Additional source detail variants (4)
Exterior Lighting
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August25, 2011, BMWindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.This can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.The recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.An 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.BMW will complete dealer notification in September 2011 and will begin owner notification in October 2011.All 3 series sedans (except for the M3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between September 1, 2001 and March 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.The action taken by BMW is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August25, 2011, BMWindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.This can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.The recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.An 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.BMW will complete dealer notification in September 2011 and will begin owner notification in October 2011.All 3 series sedans (except for the M3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between September 1, 2001 and March 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.The action taken by BMW is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
Exterior Lighting:tail Lights
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August25, 2011, BMWindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.This can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.The recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.An 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.BMW will complete dealer notification in September 2011 and will begin owner notification in October 2011.All 3 series sedans (except for the M3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between September 1, 2001 and March 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.The action taken by BMW is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
In a letter submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dated August25, 2011, BMWindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.The issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.Through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.This can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.The recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.An 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.BMW will complete dealer notification in September 2011 and will begin owner notification in October 2011.All 3 series sedans (except for the M3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between September 1, 2001 and March 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.The action taken by BMW is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
PE09036 · Rear Lamp Illumination
Opened Aug 7, 2009 · Closed Dec 22, 2009
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Exterior Lighting; Exterior Lighting:brake Lights; Exterior Lighting:tail Lights; Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
ODI HAS RECEIVED COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS STATING THAT THEIR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY IS NOT PROPERLY ILLUMINATING.THE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY CONSISTS OF A TURN SIGNAL LAMP, A TAIL LAMP AND A BRAKE LAMP.THE COMPLAINANTS HAVE INDICATED THAT THE ISSUE IS WITH AN 8 PIN CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING.THESE COMPONENTS ARE ALLEGEDLY OVERHEATING AND MELTING DUE TO EXCESSIVE ELECTRICAL CURRENT THAT RUNS THROUGH THE SYSTEM.BMW ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) SIB-630306 ON FEBRUARY 2007 TO ADDRESS THE CONDITION BY ADDING SUPPLEMENTARY GROUND WIRING TO THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI IS UPGRADING TO AN EA TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE ISSUE.
Additional source detail variants (4)
Exterior Lighting
ODI HAS RECEIVED COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS STATING THAT THEIR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY IS NOT PROPERLY ILLUMINATING.THE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY CONSISTS OF A TURN SIGNAL LAMP, A TAIL LAMP AND A BRAKE LAMP.THE COMPLAINANTS HAVE INDICATED THAT THE ISSUE IS WITH AN 8 PIN CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING.THESE COMPONENTS ARE ALLEGEDLY OVERHEATING AND MELTING DUE TO EXCESSIVE ELECTRICAL CURRENT THAT RUNS THROUGH THE SYSTEM.BMW ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) SIB-630306 ON FEBRUARY 2007 TO ADDRESS THE CONDITION BY ADDING SUPPLEMENTARY GROUND WIRING TO THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI IS UPGRADING TO AN EA TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE ISSUE.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
ODI HAS RECEIVED COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS STATING THAT THEIR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY IS NOT PROPERLY ILLUMINATING.THE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY CONSISTS OF A TURN SIGNAL LAMP, A TAIL LAMP AND A BRAKE LAMP.THE COMPLAINANTS HAVE INDICATED THAT THE ISSUE IS WITH AN 8 PIN CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING.THESE COMPONENTS ARE ALLEGEDLY OVERHEATING AND MELTING DUE TO EXCESSIVE ELECTRICAL CURRENT THAT RUNS THROUGH THE SYSTEM.BMW ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) SIB-630306 ON FEBRUARY 2007 TO ADDRESS THE CONDITION BY ADDING SUPPLEMENTARY GROUND WIRING TO THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI IS UPGRADING TO AN EA TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE ISSUE.
Exterior Lighting:tail Lights
ODI HAS RECEIVED COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS STATING THAT THEIR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY IS NOT PROPERLY ILLUMINATING.THE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY CONSISTS OF A TURN SIGNAL LAMP, A TAIL LAMP AND A BRAKE LAMP.THE COMPLAINANTS HAVE INDICATED THAT THE ISSUE IS WITH AN 8 PIN CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING.THESE COMPONENTS ARE ALLEGEDLY OVERHEATING AND MELTING DUE TO EXCESSIVE ELECTRICAL CURRENT THAT RUNS THROUGH THE SYSTEM.BMW ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) SIB-630306 ON FEBRUARY 2007 TO ADDRESS THE CONDITION BY ADDING SUPPLEMENTARY GROUND WIRING TO THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI IS UPGRADING TO AN EA TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE ISSUE.
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
ODI HAS RECEIVED COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS STATING THAT THEIR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY IS NOT PROPERLY ILLUMINATING.THE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY CONSISTS OF A TURN SIGNAL LAMP, A TAIL LAMP AND A BRAKE LAMP.THE COMPLAINANTS HAVE INDICATED THAT THE ISSUE IS WITH AN 8 PIN CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING.THESE COMPONENTS ARE ALLEGEDLY OVERHEATING AND MELTING DUE TO EXCESSIVE ELECTRICAL CURRENT THAT RUNS THROUGH THE SYSTEM.BMW ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) SIB-630306 ON FEBRUARY 2007 TO ADDRESS THE CONDITION BY ADDING SUPPLEMENTARY GROUND WIRING TO THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI IS UPGRADING TO AN EA TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE ISSUE.
DP09002 · Rear Lamp Illumination
Opened Apr 8, 2009 · Closed Aug 6, 2009
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Exterior Lighting; Exterior Lighting:back Up Lights; Exterior Lighting:brake Lights; Exterior Lighting:tail Lights; Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
IN MARCH 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A PETITION FROM MR. MARK PETERS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF REAR LAMP FAILURE IN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES.AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER WAS SENT TO BMW IN APRIL 2009, AND ODI RECEIVED BMW'S RESPONSE IN JUNE 2009.THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CONTAINS LIGHTING FOR THE BRAKE LAMPS, TAIL LAMPS, AND TURN SIGNALS.A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) WAS ISSUED BY BMW IN JANUARY OF 2007 INSTRUCTING SERVICE TECHNICIANS TO EXAMINE AN 8 PIN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR HEAT-RELATED DAMAGE AND TO INCORPORATE ADDITIONAL GROUND WIRING TO THE CONNECTOR.COMPLAINANTS HAVE ALLEGED THAT SIGNIFICANT THERMAL DAMAGE TO THE CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING HAS OCCURRED.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN INTERMITTENT OR TOTAL LOSS OF ALL LIGHTING (BRAKE, TAIL, AND TURN SIGNAL) FOR THE EFFECTED REAR LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI WILL OPEN A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO FURTHER EXAMINE THIS ISSUE INCLUDING FURTHER EVALUATING BMW COMPLAINTS AND RELATED WARRANTY DATA.
Additional source detail variants (5)
Exterior Lighting:back Up Lights
IN MARCH 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A PETITION FROM MR. MARK PETERS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF REAR LAMP FAILURE IN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES.AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER WAS SENT TO BMW IN APRIL 2009, AND ODI RECEIVED BMW'S RESPONSE IN JUNE 2009.THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CONTAINS LIGHTING FOR THE BRAKE LAMPS, TAIL LAMPS, AND TURN SIGNALS.A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) WAS ISSUED BY BMW IN JANUARY OF 2007 INSTRUCTING SERVICE TECHNICIANS TO EXAMINE AN 8 PIN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR HEAT-RELATED DAMAGE AND TO INCORPORATE ADDITIONAL GROUND WIRING TO THE CONNECTOR.COMPLAINANTS HAVE ALLEGED THAT SIGNIFICANT THERMAL DAMAGE TO THE CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING HAS OCCURRED.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN INTERMITTENT OR TOTAL LOSS OF ALL LIGHTING (BRAKE, TAIL, AND TURN SIGNAL) FOR THE EFFECTED REAR LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI WILL OPEN A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO FURTHER EXAMINE THIS ISSUE INCLUDING FURTHER EVALUATING BMW COMPLAINTS AND RELATED WARRANTY DATA.
Exterior Lighting
IN MARCH 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A PETITION FROM MR. MARK PETERS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF REAR LAMP FAILURE IN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES.AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER WAS SENT TO BMW IN APRIL 2009, AND ODI RECEIVED BMW'S RESPONSE IN JUNE 2009.THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CONTAINS LIGHTING FOR THE BRAKE LAMPS, TAIL LAMPS, AND TURN SIGNALS.A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) WAS ISSUED BY BMW IN JANUARY OF 2007 INSTRUCTING SERVICE TECHNICIANS TO EXAMINE AN 8 PIN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR HEAT-RELATED DAMAGE AND TO INCORPORATE ADDITIONAL GROUND WIRING TO THE CONNECTOR.COMPLAINANTS HAVE ALLEGED THAT SIGNIFICANT THERMAL DAMAGE TO THE CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING HAS OCCURRED.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN INTERMITTENT OR TOTAL LOSS OF ALL LIGHTING (BRAKE, TAIL, AND TURN SIGNAL) FOR THE EFFECTED REAR LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI WILL OPEN A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO FURTHER EXAMINE THIS ISSUE INCLUDING FURTHER EVALUATING BMW COMPLAINTS AND RELATED WARRANTY DATA.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
IN MARCH 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A PETITION FROM MR. MARK PETERS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF REAR LAMP FAILURE IN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES.AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER WAS SENT TO BMW IN APRIL 2009, AND ODI RECEIVED BMW'S RESPONSE IN JUNE 2009.THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CONTAINS LIGHTING FOR THE BRAKE LAMPS, TAIL LAMPS, AND TURN SIGNALS.A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) WAS ISSUED BY BMW IN JANUARY OF 2007 INSTRUCTING SERVICE TECHNICIANS TO EXAMINE AN 8 PIN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR HEAT-RELATED DAMAGE AND TO INCORPORATE ADDITIONAL GROUND WIRING TO THE CONNECTOR.COMPLAINANTS HAVE ALLEGED THAT SIGNIFICANT THERMAL DAMAGE TO THE CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING HAS OCCURRED.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN INTERMITTENT OR TOTAL LOSS OF ALL LIGHTING (BRAKE, TAIL, AND TURN SIGNAL) FOR THE EFFECTED REAR LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI WILL OPEN A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO FURTHER EXAMINE THIS ISSUE INCLUDING FURTHER EVALUATING BMW COMPLAINTS AND RELATED WARRANTY DATA.
Exterior Lighting:tail Lights
IN MARCH 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A PETITION FROM MR. MARK PETERS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF REAR LAMP FAILURE IN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES.AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER WAS SENT TO BMW IN APRIL 2009, AND ODI RECEIVED BMW'S RESPONSE IN JUNE 2009.THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CONTAINS LIGHTING FOR THE BRAKE LAMPS, TAIL LAMPS, AND TURN SIGNALS.A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) WAS ISSUED BY BMW IN JANUARY OF 2007 INSTRUCTING SERVICE TECHNICIANS TO EXAMINE AN 8 PIN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR HEAT-RELATED DAMAGE AND TO INCORPORATE ADDITIONAL GROUND WIRING TO THE CONNECTOR.COMPLAINANTS HAVE ALLEGED THAT SIGNIFICANT THERMAL DAMAGE TO THE CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING HAS OCCURRED.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN INTERMITTENT OR TOTAL LOSS OF ALL LIGHTING (BRAKE, TAIL, AND TURN SIGNAL) FOR THE EFFECTED REAR LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI WILL OPEN A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO FURTHER EXAMINE THIS ISSUE INCLUDING FURTHER EVALUATING BMW COMPLAINTS AND RELATED WARRANTY DATA.
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
IN MARCH 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A PETITION FROM MR. MARK PETERS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF REAR LAMP FAILURE IN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES.AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER WAS SENT TO BMW IN APRIL 2009, AND ODI RECEIVED BMW'S RESPONSE IN JUNE 2009.THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CONTAINS LIGHTING FOR THE BRAKE LAMPS, TAIL LAMPS, AND TURN SIGNALS.A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) WAS ISSUED BY BMW IN JANUARY OF 2007 INSTRUCTING SERVICE TECHNICIANS TO EXAMINE AN 8 PIN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR HEAT-RELATED DAMAGE AND TO INCORPORATE ADDITIONAL GROUND WIRING TO THE CONNECTOR.COMPLAINANTS HAVE ALLEGED THAT SIGNIFICANT THERMAL DAMAGE TO THE CONNECTOR AND ASSOCIATED GROUND WIRING HAS OCCURRED.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN INTERMITTENT OR TOTAL LOSS OF ALL LIGHTING (BRAKE, TAIL, AND TURN SIGNAL) FOR THE EFFECTED REAR LAMP ASSEMBLY.ODI WILL OPEN A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO FURTHER EXAMINE THIS ISSUE INCLUDING FURTHER EVALUATING BMW COMPLAINTS AND RELATED WARRANTY DATA.
Illustration