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2007 BMW 335I

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most 335I years

Owner complaints for the 2007 BMW 335I are substantially higher than the model-year median of 31.5.

About this comparison →

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

236 reports with mileage · 52 unknown

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.

  • Fuel System, Gasoline. Review the 96 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 51 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Air Bags. Review the 38 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

6 crash reports9 fire reports2 injury reports

What owners actually said

288 reports
26,000 miles · Nov 15, 2011
Tires

I PURCHASED THESE GENERAL TIRES FROM TIRERACK.COM SEVERAL YEARS AGO THEY ARE RATED TREAD LIFE OF APPROX 40K MILES. A FEW WEEKS AGO I NOTICED BY MY TIRE PRESSURE SENSORS I HAD A SLOW LEAK IN MY FRONT LEFT TIRE. I REMOVED THE ENTIRE WHEEL TO INSPECT FOR TIRE DAMAGE OR CRACKS, AND WAS APPALLED TO FIND THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE TREAD…

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I PURCHASED THESE GENERAL TIRES FROM TIRERACK.COM SEVERAL YEARS AGO THEY ARE RATED TREAD LIFE OF APPROX 40K MILES. A FEW WEEKS AGO I NOTICED BY MY TIRE PRESSURE SENSORS I HAD A SLOW LEAK IN MY FRONT LEFT TIRE. I REMOVED THE ENTIRE WHEEL TO INSPECT FOR TIRE DAMAGE OR CRACKS, AND WAS APPALLED TO FIND THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE TREAD HAD SPLIT FROM THE SIDEWALL THE ENTIRE WAY AROUND. THIS IS QUITE DANGEROUS I HAD NO IDEA I COULD HAVE HAD A BLOW OUT AT ANY TIME. I DO NOT KNOW HOW LONG THIS TIRE WAS IN THIS CONDITION. I HAD APPROX 25K MILES ON THE TIRES. I IMMEDIATELY ORDERED NEW FRONT TIRES AND DID NOT DRIVE THE CAR UNTIL REPLACED. I AM SEEKING REPLACEMENT TIRE FROM GENERAL HOWEVER THEY DO NOT SEEM VERY CONCERNED WITH THIS ISSUE. THE GUYS AT TIRE KINGDOM WHO CHANGED THE TIRES CONFIRMED IT WAS VERY DANGEROUS TO BE DRIVING ON A TIRE IN THAT CONDITION. THEY ALSO SAID IT'S LIKELY A DEFECTIVE GENERAL TIRE. GENERAL OFFERED TO REPLACE BASED ON REMAINING LIFE BUT WOULD LIKELY FIND AN EXCUSE BASED ON WEAR PATTERN AND BLAME USAGE. THE OTHER FRONT TIRE SAME BRAND, SIZE AND WEAR DID NOT HAVE THIS ISSUE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10435969

48,500 miles · Nov 5, 2011
Electrical SystemLatches/locks/linkages

THE AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCKS ON MY CAR HAVE QUICK WORKING AND THE ONLY WAY TO ENTER OR EXIT THE CAR IS THROUGH THE DRIVER DOOR USING THE MANUAL KEY FOB. PASSENGER DOORS ARE INOPERABLE FROM BOTH INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR. THIS PRESENTS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT OR FIRE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10434330

22,816 miles · Oct 26, 2011
Engine And Engine CoolingFuel System, Gasoline

THE CAR STALLED AND LOST POWER ON HIGHWAY. ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON . ROUGH IDLING. FIRST INCIDENT OCCURRED SEPTEMBER 2011. THE SECOND INCIDENT HAPPENED OCT 26, 2011. BOTH TIMES THE CAR STALLED AND LOST POWER ON THE HIGHWAY. I BELIEVE THAT THIS CREATED A VERY DANGEROUS AND LIFE THREATENING SITUATION FOR ME AND OTHERS ON THE HIG…

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THE CAR STALLED AND LOST POWER ON HIGHWAY. ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON . ROUGH IDLING. FIRST INCIDENT OCCURRED SEPTEMBER 2011. THE SECOND INCIDENT HAPPENED OCT 26, 2011. BOTH TIMES THE CAR STALLED AND LOST POWER ON THE HIGHWAY. I BELIEVE THAT THIS CREATED A VERY DANGEROUS AND LIFE THREATENING SITUATION FOR ME AND OTHERS ON THE HIGHWAY. *TT

NHTSA ODI #10432945

56,000 miles · Oct 17, 2011
Fuel System, Gasoline

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 BMW 335I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE VEHICLE WOULD ATTEMPT TO SHUT OFF. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 BMW 335I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE VEHICLE WOULD ATTEMPT TO SHUT OFF. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 56,000.

NHTSA ODI #10430446

2,500 miles · Sep 30, 2011
Engine And Engine Cooling

MY BMW LOST POWER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS.IT WAS IN BMW SERVICE FOR 6 WEEKS DISCOVERED A PROBLEM WITH MANIFOLD "LEAKING OIL AND NO POWER TO TWIN TURBO. FACTORY MAN COULD NOT FIND THE CAUSE. THEY HAD TO TEAR DOWN THE ENGINE FINALLY AFTER WE WERE LOSING OUR PATIENCE TO FINALLY "FIND THE PROBLEM". THIS WAS WHEN THE CAR WAS BRAND NEW…

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MY BMW LOST POWER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS.IT WAS IN BMW SERVICE FOR 6 WEEKS DISCOVERED A PROBLEM WITH MANIFOLD "LEAKING OIL AND NO POWER TO TWIN TURBO. FACTORY MAN COULD NOT FIND THE CAUSE. THEY HAD TO TEAR DOWN THE ENGINE FINALLY AFTER WE WERE LOSING OUR PATIENCE TO FINALLY "FIND THE PROBLEM". THIS WAS WHEN THE CAR WAS BRAND NEW. HAVE HAD MULTIPLE TRIPS TO BMW SERVICE FOR STALLING AND LOSS OF POWER ON THE ROAD. HAVE HAD TO RESET THE"CARS' "SYSTEM AGAIN ON 2 OCCASIONS.BMW DID EXTEND THE SERVICE WARRANTY ON THE TURBO AND FUEL PUMP. TONIGHT HAD COMPLETE POWER FAILURE ON HIGHWAY. HAD TO STOP AND START AND GO SEVERAL HUNDRED FEET.CAR LIMPED HOME INTO THE GARAGE. IM SURE MY TRIP TO THE BMW SERVICE STATION WILL BE AN EXERCISE IN FUTILITY SINCE THEY TELL ME THE CAR IS FINE. THERE MUST BE SOME ISSUE WITH THE TWIN TURBO ENGINE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10428103

Mileage unknown · Sep 26, 2011
Engine And Engine Cooling

CAR SUDDENLY LOOSES POWER AND DISPLAYS "ENGINE MALFUNCTION REDUCED POWER OUTPUT." THIS IS SCARY AND UPSETTING WHEN DRIVING ON HOUSTON HIGHWAYS WITH 18 WHEELERS PASSING YOU. YOU NEED TO SAFELY PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER, RESTART THE CAR, AND THE WARNING GOES AWAY, THE POWER COMES BACK AND YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN AND WHERE THIS WILL HA…

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CAR SUDDENLY LOOSES POWER AND DISPLAYS "ENGINE MALFUNCTION REDUCED POWER OUTPUT." THIS IS SCARY AND UPSETTING WHEN DRIVING ON HOUSTON HIGHWAYS WITH 18 WHEELERS PASSING YOU. YOU NEED TO SAFELY PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER, RESTART THE CAR, AND THE WARNING GOES AWAY, THE POWER COMES BACK AND YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN AND WHERE THIS WILL HAPPEN AGAIN. VERY UNSAFE AND DISTURBING. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10427137

12,000 miles · Sep 22, 2011
Air BagsService Brakes, Hydraulic

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 BMW 335I. WHILE PARKED THE CONTACT NOTICED THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE AIR BAG SENSOR IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE SENSOR WAS REPLACED. IN ADDITION, THE BRAKE LIG…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 BMW 335I. WHILE PARKED THE CONTACT NOTICED THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE AIR BAG SENSOR IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE SENSOR WAS REPLACED. IN ADDITION, THE BRAKE LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE COMPUTER WOULD HAVE TO BE REPROGRAMMED. THE FAILURE CONTINUED AFTER THE COMPUTER WAS REPROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER A SECOND TIME FOR DIAGNOSTICS BUT THE TECHNICIANS WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12,000.

NHTSA ODI #10426763

61,000 miles · Sep 20, 2011
Steering

RED STEERING WHEEL WITH PADLOCK IN THE DASH. DOESN'T GO AWAY AT ALL. COST SEVERAL THOUSAND TO FIX. CAR WON'T START SOMETIMES OTHERS IT WILL BUT STEERING WHEEL DOESN'T LOCK. SEARCHED ONLINE AND TONS OF OTHER 2006-2007 BMW OWNERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM, ONCE THEY FOUND OUT THE PROBLEM THEY STARTED KEEPING ALL THE PARTS ION STOCK. I…

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RED STEERING WHEEL WITH PADLOCK IN THE DASH. DOESN'T GO AWAY AT ALL. COST SEVERAL THOUSAND TO FIX. CAR WON'T START SOMETIMES OTHERS IT WILL BUT STEERING WHEEL DOESN'T LOCK. SEARCHED ONLINE AND TONS OF OTHER 2006-2007 BMW OWNERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM, ONCE THEY FOUND OUT THE PROBLEM THEY STARTED KEEPING ALL THE PARTS ION STOCK. I EVEN SPOKE TO A DEALERSHIP THAT SAYS THEY HAVE 2 CARS A WEEK FOR THIS; ABSOLUTELY INSANE FOR ONE DEALERSHIP. ITS A WELL KNOWN DEFAULT BUT NOT RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED. IF THE STEERING WHEEL WAS TO LOCK WHILE SOMEONE WAS DRIVING IT COULD BE FATAL. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10426414

32,000 miles · Sep 16, 2011
Electrical SystemLatches/locks/linkages

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 BMW 335I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN HE NOTICED THAT ONLY THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR WOULD OPEN FROM THE INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THEY WERE IN THE PROCESS OF DIAGNOSING THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 BMW 335I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN HE NOTICED THAT ONLY THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR WOULD OPEN FROM THE INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THEY WERE IN THE PROCESS OF DIAGNOSING THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 32,000. UPDATED 11/29/11 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR ACTUATOR FAILED, CAUSING ALL THE OTHER DOORS TO REMAIN LOCKED AND INOPERABLE. UPDATED 12/07/11

NHTSA ODI #10425751

30,262 miles · Jul 10, 2011
Power Train

MY VEHICLE IS 2007 BMW 335I. ON 7/3/11, I WAS ON THE INTERSTATE GOING 70 MILES PER HOUR WHEN THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT "ENGINE MALFUNCTION- REDUCED POWER" WAS ACTIVATED CAUSING THE VEHICLE SPEED TO ABRUPTLY REDUCE SPEED TO AROUND 20-30MPH. I HAD TO ACTIVATE HAZARD LIGHTS AND LIMP OFF INTERSTATE WHILE CAR WAS BUCKING, COUGHING, A…

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MY VEHICLE IS 2007 BMW 335I. ON 7/3/11, I WAS ON THE INTERSTATE GOING 70 MILES PER HOUR WHEN THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT "ENGINE MALFUNCTION- REDUCED POWER" WAS ACTIVATED CAUSING THE VEHICLE SPEED TO ABRUPTLY REDUCE SPEED TO AROUND 20-30MPH. I HAD TO ACTIVATE HAZARD LIGHTS AND LIMP OFF INTERSTATE WHILE CAR WAS BUCKING, COUGHING, AND SPUTTERING. IT WAS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AS THE SUDDEN SLOW DOWN MIGHT HAVE HAPPENED ON A BUSIER INTERSTATE. I CALLED THE TOW TRUCK AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A BMW CENTER WHERE THEY CLAIMED THEY REMOVED SOME SAND FROM THE THROTTLE BODY. BMW WANTED TO BLAME THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP, BUT REALIZED IT WAS REPLACED 3 WEEKS EARLIER DUE TO A RECALL, ALONG WITH AN "UPDATING" OF THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT SOFTWARE AND REPLACING SOME INJECTORS. I NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH ENGINE UNTIL AFTER THESE RECALL "FIXES." THE CARE NOW LOSES POWER AND HAS TURBO ACCELERATION LAG. THESE SAME DANGEROUS ENGINE ISSUES HAVE HAPPENED ANOTHER 5 SINCE THE "FIX", ONLY A MONTH AGO. THIS IS A KNOWN BMW DEFECT! THIS VERY SAME ISSUE APPEARED QUITE OFTEN TO A NUMBER OF 335I OR OTHER BMW MODELS USING THE SAME ENGINE, IN PARTICULAR TO THE 07 AND 08 MODELS. MANY CAR OWNERS HAVE THE SAME ISSUE HAPPEN AFTER THEIR FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED ONCE OR EVEN TWICE. IT SEEMS LIKE THERE IS NO FIX FOR THIS ISSUE AND IT POSES AS A TREMENDOUS DANGER FOR BMW DRIVERS WITH THIS SPECIFIC ENGINE SINCE YOU CANNOT BE CERTAIN WHEN THE PROBLEM WILL RE-OCCUR. A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT WAS FILED RECENTLY IN CALIFORNIA REGARDING THESE SAME ISSUES. WILL SOMEONE HAVE TO DIE BEFORE THE GOVERNMENT HOLDS BMW RESPONSIBLE? *TR

NHTSA ODI #10411695

Official recalls

5

24V513000 · Air Bags:frontal; Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

Jul 3, 2024

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (324i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi), 2006-2012 3 Series Sportswagon (325xi, 328i, 328xi), and 2009-2011 3 Series Sedan (335d) vehicles. The original steering wheel may have been replaced with a sport or M-sport steering wheel equipped with an inflator that can explode during deployment.

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: Dealers will inspect and replace the driver's air bag module as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 30, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (324i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi), 2006-2012 3 Series Sportswagon (325xi, 328i, 328xi), and 2009-2011 3 Series Sedan (335d) vehicles. The original steering wheel may have been replaced with a sport or M-sport steering wheel equipped with an inflator that can explode during deployment.

Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the driver's air bag module as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 30, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Air Bags:frontal

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (324i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi), 2006-2012 3 Series Sportswagon (325xi, 328i, 328xi), and 2009-2011 3 Series Sedan (335d) vehicles. The original steering wheel may have been replaced with a sport or M-sport steering wheel equipped with an inflator that can explode during deployment.

Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the driver's air bag module as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 30, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

20V017000 · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

Jan 15, 2020

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) 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 driver air bag. On X5 and X6 vehicles, only the inflator will be replaced. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

17V676000 · Electrical System:wiring

Oct 25, 2017

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi and M3, 2007-2011 328i xDrive, 335i xDrive and 335is and 2009-2011 335d vehicles. The wiring and electrical connectors for the system that controls air flow for the heating and air conditioning system may overheat.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Wiring that overheats could cause the electrical connectors to melt, and increase the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is unattended.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiring and electrical connectors, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

13V564000 · Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification

Nov 12, 2013

BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans and 325xi sports wagons, model year 2007 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi sedans and 328i and 328xi sports wagons, model year 2006-2007 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i sedans and 530xi sports wagons, model year 2006 760i sedans, model year 2006-2007 750i, 750Li, and 760Li sedans, and model year 2006 X5 sports activity vehicles, equipped with certain seat types. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if and how the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners with an interim notification letter in January 2014 since parts are not currently available. When parts are available, BMW sent a second letter in August and dealers will repair the occupant detection mat to eliminate the possibility that it may crack, free of charge. Additionally, owners of model year 2006-2007 3 Series with standard seats, 5 Series with comfort seats, and Z4 models, will receive an extended warranty on their front passenger seat occupant detection mat. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

13V044000 · Electrical System; Electrical SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V Battery:cables; Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers

Feb 7, 2013

BMW is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011. In February 2013, BMW recalled 504,545 vehicles. In July 2013, BMW informed the agency that it was adding 1-Series, 3-Series, and Z4 vehicles, representing an additional 12,094 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 516,791. The connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection, and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If there is a loss of electrical power to the vehicle, the vehicle may unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

Additional source detail variants (3)

Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers

BMW is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011. In February 2013, BMW recalled 504,545 vehicles. In July 2013, BMW informed the agency that it was adding 1-Series, 3-Series, and Z4 vehicles, representing an additional 12,094 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 516,791. The connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection, and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.

Consequence: If there is a loss of electrical power to the vehicle, the vehicle may unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

Electrical SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V Battery:cables

BMW is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011. In February 2013, BMW recalled 504,545 vehicles. In July 2013, BMW informed the agency that it was adding 1-Series, 3-Series, and Z4 vehicles, representing an additional 12,094 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 516,791. The connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection, and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.

Consequence: If there is a loss of electrical power to the vehicle, the vehicle may unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

Electrical System

BMW is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011. In February 2013, BMW recalled 504,545 vehicles. In July 2013, BMW informed the agency that it was adding 1-Series, 3-Series, and Z4 vehicles, representing an additional 12,094 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 516,791. The connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection, and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.

Consequence: If there is a loss of electrical power to the vehicle, the vehicle may unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

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

1

PE08032 · Engine Stalling - Fuel Pump Failure

Opened Apr 28, 2008 · Closed Aug 15, 2008

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline; Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery; Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump

IN RESPONSE TO ODI'S INFORMATION REQUEST FOR PE08-032 BMW STATED THAT DURING FAILURE OF THE HIGH PRESSURE PUMP THE CUSTOMER SHOULD INITIALLY EXPERIENCE LONGER ENGINE STARTING TIMES OR ROUGH ENGINE RUNNING.AFTER A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 1 TO 2 MILES THE PUMP- AND ENGINE-EMERGENCY OPERATION PROGRAM IS ACTIVATED, AND THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP IS ILLUMINATED.DESPITE REDUCED ENGINE POWER BMW BELIEVES THAT SAFE VEHICLE OPERATION IS POSSIBLE AND THAT VEHICLE DRIVEABILITY, STEERING, AND BRAKING SYSTEMS ARE NOT AFFECTED AND FUNCTION IN A NORMAL MANNER.BMW INDICATED THAT ONLY IN VERY RARE CASES COULD THE ENGINE STALL. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY DATA CLAIMS INDICATING POSSIBLE STALL INCIDENTS ESTIMATES THAT THE RATE AT THREE YEARS IN SERVICE WOULD BE LESS THAN 1.0% OF THE POPULATION (NOTE THAT SOME OF THE CLAIMS INDICATING STALL DO NOT APPEAR TO INVOLVE ACTUAL ENGINE STALLS, BUT RATHER OPERATION AT REDUCED ENGINE POWER).ODI'S ANALYSIS OF CONSUMER COMPLAINTS DETERMINED THAT ABOUT HALF DESCRIBE THE CONSEQUENCE OF THE FAILURE AS OPERATION IN LIMP MODE, 27 PERCENT INDICATE THE PROBLEM RESULTED IN A HARD START OR NO START CONDITION AND 19 PERCENT STATE THAT THE PROBLEM WAS DETECTED BY ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP OR A MINOR DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOM. ONLY FOUR PERCENT OF THE COMPLAINTS TO ODI AND BMW INDICATE THAT AN ENGINE STALL OCCURRED.BMW INDICATED THAT A SERVICE ACTION WAS INITIATED IN APRIL 2008 TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM AND IT IS CONTINUING TO MONITOR THE FIELD SITUATION AND ANALYZE FIELD DATA. FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THIS MATTER WOULD NOT BE AN EFFICIENT ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR COMPLAINTS AND OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN THE FUTURE IF WARRANTED.

Additional source detail variants (3)

Fuel System, Gasoline

IN RESPONSE TO ODI'S INFORMATION REQUEST FOR PE08-032 BMW STATED THAT DURING FAILURE OF THE HIGH PRESSURE PUMP THE CUSTOMER SHOULD INITIALLY EXPERIENCE LONGER ENGINE STARTING TIMES OR ROUGH ENGINE RUNNING.AFTER A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 1 TO 2 MILES THE PUMP- AND ENGINE-EMERGENCY OPERATION PROGRAM IS ACTIVATED, AND THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP IS ILLUMINATED.DESPITE REDUCED ENGINE POWER BMW BELIEVES THAT SAFE VEHICLE OPERATION IS POSSIBLE AND THAT VEHICLE DRIVEABILITY, STEERING, AND BRAKING SYSTEMS ARE NOT AFFECTED AND FUNCTION IN A NORMAL MANNER.BMW INDICATED THAT ONLY IN VERY RARE CASES COULD THE ENGINE STALL. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY DATA CLAIMS INDICATING POSSIBLE STALL INCIDENTS ESTIMATES THAT THE RATE AT THREE YEARS IN SERVICE WOULD BE LESS THAN 1.0% OF THE POPULATION (NOTE THAT SOME OF THE CLAIMS INDICATING STALL DO NOT APPEAR TO INVOLVE ACTUAL ENGINE STALLS, BUT RATHER OPERATION AT REDUCED ENGINE POWER).ODI'S ANALYSIS OF CONSUMER COMPLAINTS DETERMINED THAT ABOUT HALF DESCRIBE THE CONSEQUENCE OF THE FAILURE AS OPERATION IN LIMP MODE, 27 PERCENT INDICATE THE PROBLEM RESULTED IN A HARD START OR NO START CONDITION AND 19 PERCENT STATE THAT THE PROBLEM WAS DETECTED BY ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP OR A MINOR DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOM. ONLY FOUR PERCENT OF THE COMPLAINTS TO ODI AND BMW INDICATE THAT AN ENGINE STALL OCCURRED.BMW INDICATED THAT A SERVICE ACTION WAS INITIATED IN APRIL 2008 TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM AND IT IS CONTINUING TO MONITOR THE FIELD SITUATION AND ANALYZE FIELD DATA. FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THIS MATTER WOULD NOT BE AN EFFICIENT ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR COMPLAINTS AND OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN THE FUTURE IF WARRANTED.

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery

IN RESPONSE TO ODI'S INFORMATION REQUEST FOR PE08-032 BMW STATED THAT DURING FAILURE OF THE HIGH PRESSURE PUMP THE CUSTOMER SHOULD INITIALLY EXPERIENCE LONGER ENGINE STARTING TIMES OR ROUGH ENGINE RUNNING.AFTER A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 1 TO 2 MILES THE PUMP- AND ENGINE-EMERGENCY OPERATION PROGRAM IS ACTIVATED, AND THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP IS ILLUMINATED.DESPITE REDUCED ENGINE POWER BMW BELIEVES THAT SAFE VEHICLE OPERATION IS POSSIBLE AND THAT VEHICLE DRIVEABILITY, STEERING, AND BRAKING SYSTEMS ARE NOT AFFECTED AND FUNCTION IN A NORMAL MANNER.BMW INDICATED THAT ONLY IN VERY RARE CASES COULD THE ENGINE STALL. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY DATA CLAIMS INDICATING POSSIBLE STALL INCIDENTS ESTIMATES THAT THE RATE AT THREE YEARS IN SERVICE WOULD BE LESS THAN 1.0% OF THE POPULATION (NOTE THAT SOME OF THE CLAIMS INDICATING STALL DO NOT APPEAR TO INVOLVE ACTUAL ENGINE STALLS, BUT RATHER OPERATION AT REDUCED ENGINE POWER).ODI'S ANALYSIS OF CONSUMER COMPLAINTS DETERMINED THAT ABOUT HALF DESCRIBE THE CONSEQUENCE OF THE FAILURE AS OPERATION IN LIMP MODE, 27 PERCENT INDICATE THE PROBLEM RESULTED IN A HARD START OR NO START CONDITION AND 19 PERCENT STATE THAT THE PROBLEM WAS DETECTED BY ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP OR A MINOR DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOM. ONLY FOUR PERCENT OF THE COMPLAINTS TO ODI AND BMW INDICATE THAT AN ENGINE STALL OCCURRED.BMW INDICATED THAT A SERVICE ACTION WAS INITIATED IN APRIL 2008 TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM AND IT IS CONTINUING TO MONITOR THE FIELD SITUATION AND ANALYZE FIELD DATA. FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THIS MATTER WOULD NOT BE AN EFFICIENT ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR COMPLAINTS AND OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN THE FUTURE IF WARRANTED.

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump

IN RESPONSE TO ODI'S INFORMATION REQUEST FOR PE08-032 BMW STATED THAT DURING FAILURE OF THE HIGH PRESSURE PUMP THE CUSTOMER SHOULD INITIALLY EXPERIENCE LONGER ENGINE STARTING TIMES OR ROUGH ENGINE RUNNING.AFTER A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 1 TO 2 MILES THE PUMP- AND ENGINE-EMERGENCY OPERATION PROGRAM IS ACTIVATED, AND THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP IS ILLUMINATED.DESPITE REDUCED ENGINE POWER BMW BELIEVES THAT SAFE VEHICLE OPERATION IS POSSIBLE AND THAT VEHICLE DRIVEABILITY, STEERING, AND BRAKING SYSTEMS ARE NOT AFFECTED AND FUNCTION IN A NORMAL MANNER.BMW INDICATED THAT ONLY IN VERY RARE CASES COULD THE ENGINE STALL. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY DATA CLAIMS INDICATING POSSIBLE STALL INCIDENTS ESTIMATES THAT THE RATE AT THREE YEARS IN SERVICE WOULD BE LESS THAN 1.0% OF THE POPULATION (NOTE THAT SOME OF THE CLAIMS INDICATING STALL DO NOT APPEAR TO INVOLVE ACTUAL ENGINE STALLS, BUT RATHER OPERATION AT REDUCED ENGINE POWER).ODI'S ANALYSIS OF CONSUMER COMPLAINTS DETERMINED THAT ABOUT HALF DESCRIBE THE CONSEQUENCE OF THE FAILURE AS OPERATION IN LIMP MODE, 27 PERCENT INDICATE THE PROBLEM RESULTED IN A HARD START OR NO START CONDITION AND 19 PERCENT STATE THAT THE PROBLEM WAS DETECTED BY ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP OR A MINOR DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOM. ONLY FOUR PERCENT OF THE COMPLAINTS TO ODI AND BMW INDICATE THAT AN ENGINE STALL OCCURRED.BMW INDICATED THAT A SERVICE ACTION WAS INITIATED IN APRIL 2008 TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM AND IT IS CONTINUING TO MONITOR THE FIELD SITUATION AND ANALYZE FIELD DATA. FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THIS MATTER WOULD NOT BE AN EFFICIENT ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR COMPLAINTS AND OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN THE FUTURE IF WARRANTED.