Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
Limited mileage data: 19 of 33 reports include usable mileage. There isn’t enough coverage to show a useful chart.
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
Air Bags. Review the 13 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
Electrical System. Review the 8 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
Tires. Review the 4 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
0 crash reports2 fire reports1 injury reports
What owners actually said
33 reports
109,000 miles · Dec 18, 2014
Air Bags
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 330XI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBE…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 330XI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 109,000.
NHTSA ODI #10667036
79,000 miles · Oct 13, 2013
Electrical System
I WAS IN A PARKING GARAGE THE WEEKEND AFTER I HAD JUST BOUGHT MY 2003 BMW 330XI MAN IT WAS BEAUTIFUL, I HAD MY GIRLFRIEND WITH ME AT THE TIME. UPON TRYING TO EXIT THE VEHICLE WE COULDN'T NOTHING WOULD UNLOCK THE DOORS, NOTHING WOULD ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS, THIS WAS EXTREMELY EMBARRASSING TO BE HAPPENING ON A DATE. SHE COULDN'T BE…
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I WAS IN A PARKING GARAGE THE WEEKEND AFTER I HAD JUST BOUGHT MY 2003 BMW 330XI MAN IT WAS BEAUTIFUL, I HAD MY GIRLFRIEND WITH ME AT THE TIME. UPON TRYING TO EXIT THE VEHICLE WE COULDN'T NOTHING WOULD UNLOCK THE DOORS, NOTHING WOULD ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS, THIS WAS EXTREMELY EMBARRASSING TO BE HAPPENING ON A DATE. SHE COULDN'T BELIEVE WE WERE STUCK IN THE CAR AND THERE WAS NO WAY OUT. LUCKILY HAVING MY CELL PHONE I WAS ABLE TO CALL 911 SO THEY COULD HELP ME. I MANAGED TO HAVE THE SUNROOF OPEN AT THE TIME AND WAS ABLE TO HAND THEM MY KEYS WHERE THEY COULD PLACE THE KEY INSIDE OF THE KEY HOLE AND MANUAL UNLOCK THE DOORS. THIS IS ONLY THE FIRST EXPERIENCE I EVER HAD. I ONLY CALLED THE POLICE SO THEY COULD TAKE NOTE OF THE ISSUE OF THE SAFETY. I HAVE TAKEN FAMILY OUT FOR OUTINGS ONLY TO FIND OUT THEY ALL HAVE TO CLIMB OUT OF WINDOWS OR THROUGH THE DRIVERS DOOR. I'VE EVEN HAD TO CLIMB OUT OF MY OWN CAR I REFUSE TO PUT A DIME INTO FIXING THIS AS ITS CAUSED ME EMBARRASSMENT TO THE POINT I HARDLY DRIVE IT UNLESS I GO SOMEWHERE ALONE. I EVEN HAVE A SEAT BELT THAT DOESN'T WORK FOR NO REASON. THE GM5 NEEDS TO BE RECALLED IMAGE IF I HAD A CHILD OR FAMILY BACK THERE THE CAR WAS ON FIRE AND THE ONLY WAY TO GET THEM OUT IS TO OPEN THE DOOR AND YOU CAN'T BECAUSE OF A FAULTY PIECE OF EQUIPMENT. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10547744
Mileage unknown · Sep 20, 2012
Tires
2003 BMW 330XI. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SPONTANEOUS CATASTROPHIC TIRE FAILURE *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRE FAILURE OCCURRED ON HIS DAUGHTER'S VEHICLE IN MAY OF THIS YEAR. THE ENTIRE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE FAILED,CREATING A VOID AROUND THE OUTSIDE CIRCUMFERENCE OF THE TIRE, ABOUT MID-WAY BETWEEN THE BEAD AND TREAD LINES…
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2003 BMW 330XI. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SPONTANEOUS CATASTROPHIC TIRE FAILURE *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRE FAILURE OCCURRED ON HIS DAUGHTER'S VEHICLE IN MAY OF THIS YEAR. THE ENTIRE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE FAILED,CREATING A VOID AROUND THE OUTSIDE CIRCUMFERENCE OF THE TIRE, ABOUT MID-WAY BETWEEN THE BEAD AND TREAD LINES. THE CONSUMER STATED IT APPEARED THE SIDEWALL PILES SIMPLY GAVE WAY AND WITHOUT THAT INTERNAL STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY, THE TIRE SUDDENLY LOST AIR. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL DISCOUNT TIRE STORE FOR AN INSPECTION. THE TECHNICIAN DID NOT OBSERVE ANY ROAD TRAUMA OR EXTERNAL REASON FOR THE SUDDEN FAILURE. THE TIRES WERE VIRTUALLY NEW. THE TECHNICIAN CONCLUDED, THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO A MANUFACTURING DEFECT ON DUNPLOP'S PART. DUNLOP REFUSED TO INVESTIGATE THE FAILURE, BECAUSE THE CONSUMER WAS NOT THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER AND THE TIRES HAD BEEN PURCHASED BY THE ORIGINAL OWNER MORE THAN SIX YEARS AGO.
NHTSA ODI #10476429
110,000 miles · Jul 10, 2012
Electrical SystemFire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 330 XI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CAUGHT FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE POLICE WERE CONTACTED AND A FIRE REPORT WAS ON FILE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN QUALIFIED FO…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 330 XI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CAUGHT FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE POLICE WERE CONTACTED AND A FIRE REPORT WAS ON FILE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN QUALIFIED FOR REPAIRS UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 11V438000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS). THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 110,000.
NHTSA ODI #10465090
Mileage unknown · May 5, 2012
Seats
DRIVERS SEAT HAS SEAT WARMERS AND THE SEAT OVERHEATS WHEN TURNED ON. IT HAS BURNED A SMALL HOLE IN MY SEAT AND PROBABLY WOULD CAUSE A FIRE IF LEFT TURNED ON. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10457556
Mileage unknown · May 4, 2012
Electrical SystemLatches/locks/linkages
THE DOORS ON OUR BMX 330XI WILL LOCK AND WE CANNOT UNLOCK THEM FROM THE INSIDE OR THE OUTSIDE USING THE INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLES OR THE KEY FOB. MY WIFE AND KIDS HAD TO CLIMB OUT OF THE WINDOWS TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE. IF THERE WAS AN ACCIDENT THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN TRAPPED. I CALLED THE BMW DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME TO …
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THE DOORS ON OUR BMX 330XI WILL LOCK AND WE CANNOT UNLOCK THEM FROM THE INSIDE OR THE OUTSIDE USING THE INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLES OR THE KEY FOB. MY WIFE AND KIDS HAD TO CLIMB OUT OF THE WINDOWS TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE. IF THERE WAS AN ACCIDENT THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN TRAPPED. I CALLED THE BMW DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME TO HAVE IT TOWED AND THEY WOULD TAKE A LOOK AT IT. THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES AND IT IS AN EXTREME SAFETY ISSUE. I HAVE RESEARCHED IT AND IT APPEARS TO BE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM ON THE 300 SERIES. IT HAS HAPPENED A FEW TIMES AND THEN THE PROBLEM GOES AWAY. I HOPE NO ONE GETS HURT BECAUSE THEY GET TRAPPED IN THEIR VEHICLE. THANK GOD THAT MY FAMILY WAS PHYSICALLY ABLE TO CLIMB OUT OF THE WINDOWS ,IF THEY WERE ELDERLY OR DISABLED THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN TRAPPED. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SAFETY DEFECT THAT NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED, ADDRESSED AND REMEDIED BY THE MANUFACTURER. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10457540
58,000 miles · Feb 24, 2010
Air Bags
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 330XI. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 35 MPH THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT AIR BAG SUDDENLY DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALERSHIP AND THERE WERE NO PRIOR WARNINGS. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 58000.
NHTSA ODI #10313671
79,096 miles · Feb 16, 2010
Engine And Engine Cooling
THE CAR HAD NO SYMPTOMS LEADING UP TO THE EVENT. CAR WAS IDLING IN PARKING LOT TO WARM UP AND RANDOMLY TURNED OFF. WOULD NOT TURN BACK ON AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO A SHOP. FOUND OUT THAT THE CRANKCASE VENTILATION SYSTEM FROZE CAUSING OIL PRESENT IN ALL SIX CYLINDERS. SYSTEM WAS REPLACED ONCE THE MECHANIC HAD ACCESS TO THE TECHNICAL…
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THE CAR HAD NO SYMPTOMS LEADING UP TO THE EVENT. CAR WAS IDLING IN PARKING LOT TO WARM UP AND RANDOMLY TURNED OFF. WOULD NOT TURN BACK ON AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO A SHOP. FOUND OUT THAT THE CRANKCASE VENTILATION SYSTEM FROZE CAUSING OIL PRESENT IN ALL SIX CYLINDERS. SYSTEM WAS REPLACED ONCE THE MECHANIC HAD ACCESS TO THE TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN. MECHANIC WAS SURPRISED TO SEE BMW HAD NO RECALLS FOR THIS DESIGN FLAW SINCE IT IS VERY DANGEROUS. IF THE CAR HAD BEEN MOVING WITH 2500-3500 RPMS, MUCH MORE DAMAGE WOULD HAVE BEEN CAUSED WITH ANYWHERE FROM PISTON RINGS TO ENGINE BLOCK IN ADDITION TO AN ACCIDENT AND POSSIBLY DEATH OR INJURY. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10311127
43,000 miles · Jun 9, 2009
Air Bags
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 330XI. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT DROVE OVER A POTHOLE IN THE ROAD, WHICH CAUSED THE LOWER PORTION OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE TOP PORTION OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG HAD NO AIR IN IT; THEREFORE, IT COULD NOT DEPLOY PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE HAD …
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BMW 330XI. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT DROVE OVER A POTHOLE IN THE ROAD, WHICH CAUSED THE LOWER PORTION OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE TOP PORTION OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG HAD NO AIR IN IT; THEREFORE, IT COULD NOT DEPLOY PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO A BMW SHOP AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ENTIRE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT A POTHOLE SHOULD NOT HAVE CAUSED THE AIR BAG TO DEPLOY. HE WAS VERY DISAPPOINTED TO DISCOVER AFTER THE DEPLOYMENT THAT HALF OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. HE BELIEVES THAT THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIRS, BUT THEY ARE REFUSING RESPONSIBILITY. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 43,000.
NHTSA ODI #10273190
34,800 miles · Oct 6, 2008
Air Bags
WE BOUGHT A BMW 330XI IN AUGUST 2003. IN APRIL AND JULY 2007, WE HAD THE AIRBAG SIGN COME UP ON THE DASHBOARD. WE GOT IT REPAIRED THE FIRST TIME WE HAD IT AND IT WORKED WELL FOR A WHILE - NO SIGN. THEN THE SIGN CAME ON AGAIN IN JUNE. WE GAVE IT FOR REPAIR AGAIN AND THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN REPAIRED IT AND TOLD US THAT THE PROBLEM H…
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WE BOUGHT A BMW 330XI IN AUGUST 2003. IN APRIL AND JULY 2007, WE HAD THE AIRBAG SIGN COME UP ON THE DASHBOARD. WE GOT IT REPAIRED THE FIRST TIME WE HAD IT AND IT WORKED WELL FOR A WHILE - NO SIGN. THEN THE SIGN CAME ON AGAIN IN JUNE. WE GAVE IT FOR REPAIR AGAIN AND THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN REPAIRED IT AND TOLD US THAT THE PROBLEM HAD BEEN SOLVED. OUR CAR WENT OUT OF WARRANTY IN AUGUST 2007. WE HAVE THAT SIGN COMING UP AGAIN SINCE SEPTEMBER 2007. WE GAVE FOR REPAIRS TO A NON-DEALER FACILITY (ABOUT SUMMER 2008) AND THE IT COULD NOT BE RESOLVED. THE REPAIR FACILITY TOLD US THAT THE AIRBAG SENSORS MAY BE GOING BAD REPEATEDLY AND HENCE THE SIGN COMES ON. WE BELIEVE THAT THESE SENSORS GOING BAD REPEATEDLY WHEN PERHAPS THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE AIRBAG IS INDICATIVE OF FAULTY WORKMANSHIP. *TR
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
3
EA09019 · 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.
2003 BMW 330XI Problems, Complaints & Recalls | Skip That Year
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