bmw 328i Problems

bmw 328i 2007 Complaints

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

i leased a bmw 328i 4 door, and the dealer delivered the new car from spring valley , ny to lawrence, ny on march 1 2007. on march 13 2007, 12 days later & 200 miles on the car which the dealer drove at least 100 or more of the miles, and while driving into a gas station for first gas fillup the front driver's side tire cracked off the tie rod, just cracked my pictures , which was unbelievable. the car was towed to the original dealer by bmw. the car was looked at by the dealer, and their response was that i hit something a few days ago, and bmw was not resposible for this. i should call my insurance ompany. i was appaled by the response, so i started writing & calling bmw of north america. i was assured by customer relations that they were sending engineers to see the car in spring valley ,ny, and responded to this matter in a timely fashion.*ak

Reported in: LAWRENCE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33557P

STEERING

tl*the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. while driving approximately 25 mph and making a right turn, the steering wheel locked. the contact drove across several lanes of traffic without crashing. the brakes were slow to respond when depressed and the abs light on the instrument panel illuminated. when the vehicle came to a stop, the service engine light illuminated and the steering wheel was still locked. the contact shut off the vehicle. when she restarted it, the vehicle began operating normally. the vehicle was towed to the dealer where it currently remains. the current and failure mileages were 3,183.

Reported in: BOCA RATON FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

tl*the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the keyless entry remote would not open the vehicle's door. she was able to open the door manually with the key, but it became stuck in the ignition. the vehicle was towed to the bmw dealer. the 30g relay was replaced. on june 24, 2007, the failure recurred and the vehicle was towed to the bmw dealer. the key slide and the ribbon cable were replaced. on june 27, 2007, while driving 45 mph, the engine shut down without warning. the contact was able to safely pull the vehicle over. the vehicle was towed to the bmw dealer where it is awaiting a diagnosis. the powertrain was unknown. the current mileage is 1,299 and failure mileage was 700.

Reported in: ESCONBIDO AL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA375X7N

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

i was driving on the highway and a rock flew up from the road and hit my windshield. when i got home, my dad noticed a chip in the corner of my windshield. the next day, the chip formed into a crack over a foot long. i had to get my windshield replaced. it has only been two weeks with my new windshield and the other day i was hit by a rock again, creating another chip. so far, there is no crack. and i found forums that people also had this same issue. *jb

Reported in: HAIKU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33547P

STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

when trying to use the convertible roof- it tries to put itself into the trunk when the trunk is closed. roof gets stuck 1/2 way open and closed. the dealer has tried to fix it 3 times. the roof still continues to try to put itself into the trunk with the trunk closed. roof has bent itself trying to put itself into a closed trunk. roof has broken parts as a result of its attempt to put convertible roof into a closed trunk. car is inoperable in this condition as the roof is not secure. any attempt to drive the car might cause the roof to bounce around as it is not connected and locked!

Reported in: KENT WA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13587P

STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

Reported in: KENT WA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13587P

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

4 days after car was lease brand new 2007 bmw 328i failed on the road where it completely halted with no warning system. it was on surface streets luckily not on the highway or it would have been a car accident with possible deadly consequences. after 3 days still not diagnostic result! brand new! not used. *jb

Reported in: PASADENA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53557F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

service engine soon light continues to go on after numerous resets.

Reported in: ROXBURY CT || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33547P

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS

auto manufactures are beginning to install led tail lights with refresh rates that cause me to see significant flicker (strobe effect) at night. it makes it very difficult to drive when i am behind one of these cars. my fear is that the roads will be filled with these cars in a few years, and the distractions will be too intense to drive. specifically, at night, when the tail lights are dimmed, (brakes not on) and i look at them and blink or turn my head, the after image is very strange. i see dashes or trails of light. last night in particular, i had an after image for about two minutes after the car in front of me turned off the road. the cars that have the most significant effect seem to be cadillac's, infinities, and bmws. i have found a thread on a newsgroup that might be useful explaining what is going on: http://www.automotive-usenet.com/rec-autos-tech/1414-re-car-led-tail-lights-strobe-rate-too-slow.html i would appreciate if someone would look into it.

Reported in: GREENWICH CT || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

on 12/15/07 i pulled onto the highway from the dirt median. the car engine lost power and the vehicle came to a virtual stop on the highway with high speed traffic quickly approaching. i was pushing the gas pedal to the floor but no power was being applied to the wheels and engine rpm did not increase. this lasted for many seconds. i had time to confirm i was still in first gear. i then depressed the clutch, revved the engine to high rpm and took off in second gear. my wife and i were almost killed due to the length of time we were on the highway with the vehicle virtually at a standstill.

Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33547P

TIRES

i purchased a 2007 bmw 328i on 2/22/2007. it came equipped with bridgestone turanza el42. in december of 2007, i found out that these tires are not wearing properly. in my searches on the internet, i have found that this problem has been ongoing for at least 2 years. bmw refuses to pay for replacing all the tires if you are over 10k miles. my tires are wearing horribly and causing a safety risk. bmw knew of this problem in january 2007 when they issued a service info bulletin to all the dealers. however, they did not inform the owners and they actually sold my car to me without mentioning the problems they are having with the tires. no tires should wear out after 10k miles. i actually took the car in for service in early sept to have a tire replaced and no one still mentioned the sib to me. my husband found a copy of it on the internet and it basically says, don't replace these unless the customer complains. however, its difficult to detect the uneven tread wear until there are huge flat spots on your tires. this is so reminiscent of the firestone/ford debacle and i feel that bmw is playing the odds to keep from having to help fund a huge recall. they kept putting these same tires on these cars despite the complaints.

Reported in: BOWLING GREEN KY || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

new bmw 3 series sports wagon self-accelerated and crashed into the family's garage. minutes before the crash, the car was slowing down as it was being driven onto the driveway of the house, which is perpendicular to the road. soon after the car the garage door lifted with the steering wheel in a turn position (onto the driveway), the car started to move as through it was accelerating on its own and quickly crashed into the garage. it only stopped from the impact of hitting and breaking a structural house column and a pile of sheetrock in the garage. the engine was running, when it stopped. the entire event took place in less than a minute.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

fuel pump failure.

Reported in: MONTEREY PARK CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

TIRES

excessive road noise and abnormal (premature) wear of bridgestone-firestone turanza el42 run flat tires 205/55r16. excessive road noise started before 10,000 miles and all tires had to be replaced after only 1 year (approx 14,000 miles). car was a 2007 bmw 328i. bmw has a service bulletin (si b 36 06 06) regarding this issue and is replacing all tires (upon complaint) if < 10,000 miles. if tires have between 10,001 to 20,000 miles, replacement is at 50%. tires were "cupping" and demonstrating very abnormal wear patterns. upon complaint to bridgestone firestone, they agreed to 100% replacement costs. old tires are not available.

Reported in: LEWISVILLE TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl*the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the vehicle has an electronic interior latch assembly that does not allow passengers to manually open the doors. while passengers were occupying the vehicle, there was an experienced an electrical shortage that caused the latch assembly to fail. as a result, the passengers could not exit the vehicle. he took the vehicle to the dealer and a technician repaired the open circuit in the fuse box. he notified the manufacturer and is waiting for a response. the failure and current mileages were 12,000. updated 10/16/08. *lj updated 10/17/08. *jb

Reported in: MAITLAND FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33577P

AIR BAGS

driving a 2007 bmw 328i coupe (only 7,000 miles on the car), i was involved in a severe front end collision...the car is not drivable and may even be totaled. none of my airbags deployed.

Reported in: CHICAGO IL || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5UXFE43537L

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

my 2007 328i has been in the service department a total of 4 times (that i have paperwork on, it might be more). i have had major mechanical problems with the most recent being electrical. my key will not open any of the doors, i have to use the valet key to get inside. once i get inside the button on the dash that opens and locks the doors was unresponsive as well. when this started the drivers side mirror also became unresponsive and would not adjust, i can't adjust it to see the road and have almost been in 2 accidents. the same day the air conditioning, which i had set on 60, turned itself to 84 blowing full blast. that is actually the second time this year that the air conditioning has automatically turned to the heater. short list of other issues: recurrent break squeaking, oil sensor and engine harness wires breaking, and problems accelerating. the computer software malfunctioned as well (another electrical issue which was causing the car to malfunction). after the brake pads & sensors were replaced, the brakes sound the same to this day, horribly squeaky almost grinding. the front driver & passenger windows have a mysterious electrical malfunction. they will cease to go up or down. i hold the window button in the "up" position, the window will roll up an inch then stop. i will have to do this several more times before the window will go up or down. my car goes in again tomorrow am. this time i even mentioned that if i did have passengers in the vehicle and we had gotten in an accident, or worse yet the car catches on fire, my passengers would be trapped. the service advisor didn't seem to care. i can't drive my friends or family anywhere for fear they will be stuck in the vehicle if an accident occurred. as well, i'm not going to ask my parents, who are in their 50's, to crawl through a window to get in or out of my vehicle. my car has been out of commission for me at least 30 days since i've owned it.

Reported in: ESCONDIDO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: ESCONDIDO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:AIR CONDITIONER

Reported in: ESCONDIDO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Reported in: ESCONDIDO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

VISIBILITY

Reported in: ESCONDIDO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

a simple fuse failure in the automatic door locking system rendered the inside door handles unusable, except for one, whose actuator caused the original electrical overload. had something else caused the fuse to fail, we would be unable to egress the vehicle except through the windows, and, with a complete electrical failure that also would have been impossible. the bmw tech people tell me that the system is designed that way. i feel that it is a safety hazard.

Reported in: SUN CITY WEST AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33577P

EQUIPMENT

my 2007 bmw model 328i was delivered new with bridgestone run-flat-tires as original equipment but with no jack and spare tire included. the run-flat-tires have proven to be unreliable, noisy, and prone to low-mileage wear out. i have filed two written claims with bmw of north america for reimbursement of the expenses necessary to purchase a spare emergency wheel and jack kit. bmwna has denied both claims. bmwna continues to deliver 3-series and other model new vehicles without a jack and spare included. i believe this essential safety equipment should be included in all new-car deliveries, regardless of tire type used. a civil class-action suit has been filed in new jersey regarding the issue with bmw's use of bridgestone run-flat-tires, but the suit does not address jack and spare tire safety equipment issues.

Reported in: BLOOMINGTON IN || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

bmw328xi got huge impact on the driver seat. the door bent inside and move the seat 2-3 inch inside,but the side airbag did not deploy !!! and bmw has not got the replacement part yet (hornest fiber optic) for 3 months.

Reported in: WHITE PLAINS NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: WBAWV53517P

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2006, 2007, and 2008 bmw 3 series have a metallic ticking noise from under the engine.

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37597N

EQUIPMENT

bmw auto jack part # 71 10 6 773 536 used with 2007 bmw 328i sport wagon. this floor jack is an accessory for bmw automobiles and available for purchase from bmw dealers. although sold and marketed by bmw, it appears to be manufactured by bilstein. this jack failed on its 4th use. the main screw mechanism stripped resulting in the vehicle falling. the jack was on a secure garage floor, was securely locked into the bmw jack posts on the vehicle, and was used according to directions in every respect. the car was secure and the jack was in a proper vertical orientation. the failure was sudden and there is evidence that the threads in the main screw-type mechanism have stripped. i will attempt to obtain a replacement from bmw.

Reported in: ORCHARD PARK NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

service engine light has come on 5 times within the past 6 weeks. i have returned to the dealership and they have been unable to identify the problem. the dealership has advised the dealership to reset the computer program, replace a purge valve, and eventually has had to replace the entire computer system. this has resulted in 5 visits to the dealership and an extreme inconvenience.

Reported in: KEARNY NJ || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

my vehicle shakes and shuts down when im stopped at a red light and even sometimes when i put it on in the morning, this has happened more than five or six times since i bought the vehicle, i took the vehicle to the dealership and they keep saying they can not find the problem and they refresh a computer they say. also the service light comes on when i have this problem and before the check engine light came on.

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

TIRES

tl*the contact owns a set of bridgestone run flat potenza tires on a 2007 bmw 328i. while driving 25 mph, the contact heard a clicking noise. after examining the vehicle, the contact noticed that the tread was disconnected from the tire. the contact spoke with the manufacturer about related run flat tire complaints and they advised the contact to have the vehicle inspected by a dealer. the dealer stated they had never seen that form of tread separation; however, the failure was due to normal wear and tear. the contact would like for the manufacturer to assume the repair cost.

Reported in: ATLANTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13547P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

model: 2007 bmw 328i. the electronic "door actuators" failed. as a result, it became impossible to open any door of the vehicle from the inside, except the driver's door. when these electronic door actuators fail, passengers are trapped in the vehicle, and are exposed to injury or death in the event of a fire or if the vehicle becomes submerged. the service advisor at the dealership (weatherford bmw, berkeley, california) suggested that even if the electronic door actuators were disabled the doors could still be opened by pulling twice on the opening latch. however, when this was tried, the doors still could not be opened. the service advisors did comment that this problem had occurred in other 328i models; and, in fact, another vehicle was being serviced for the identical problem. in view of this extremely serious defect which apparently exists with the 328i model, resulting in trapping passengers if the electrical system controlling the doors fails, we strongly suggest that this defect be investigated, and that the subject vehicles be recalled so that the defect can be corrected before deaths or injuries occur.

Reported in: RICHMOND CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVS13517F

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

all doors on a 2007 bmw 328i, 4-door, would not unlock for an unknown reason. all passengers were trapped inside the vehicle and had to climb out the windows to exit the vehicle.

Reported in: WHITTIER CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION

2007 bmw 328i coupe, 6-speed manual fails to go into 1st occasionally. i have brought it back to the shop 4 times and it still sometimes will not engage 1st gear with the clutch pressed all the way down. the issue has caused me to be stalled at an intersection twice and in reverse once by accident due to the panic of not engaging 1 st gear. this was escalated to the regional service advisor for the southeast and he state the car is designed to do this??? the are complaints all over the web about this issue and it is dangerous!

Reported in: POMPANO BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB335X7P

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR

original warranty expired at 50,000 miles so i began taking my vehicle to a licensed mechanic to do scheduled maintenance. while driving over to the mechanic for a brake change i went to stop and lost usage of my brake. this resulted in me merely rearending the back end of the car in front of me. my mechanic replaced rotors and brake pads; and there was still a problem. so he began to look over my car and found that the vacuum boost pump for my bakes was possibly bad. once opened in that area he found that the bolt holding the sprocket was broken. part of the bolt was remaining and the rest is still missing somewhere in my engine. towed my car because it is not drivable to bmw of riverside to have them look it over and fix the faulty bolt. they refused to fix it because it wants serviced there for one year due to the expired warranty. i called bmw of north america to file a claim to investigate it under a safety issue because bmw of riverside said it was a mechanical issue, but it is truly a safety issue. susan monjelli from bmw of north america filed my claim and had a engineer look a my vehicle again. she is claiming because i took my car to another mechanic other than bmw that my mechanic must have broken the bolt and that it isn't because it was faulty. my mechanic has never touched this item. he states that the sprockets and the chain are lodged and the only way that this could have happened is when the car is running, not buy him working on it in any way. also there is a website saying that there is a problem with this particular part in old and new bmw vehicles.

Reported in: PHELAN CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53567F

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

while driving on the highway at about 60 mph, the front passenger door opened by itself and door open warning showed up. it has happened only once on my car so far but a few other owners of similar bmw cars have had the same issue. when reported to the manufacturer's dealership service department, the standard response from the dealership is "unable to replicate problem" and they will not do anything else about it.

Reported in: LAKE JACKSON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33577P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

repeated door lock actuator failure in 2007 bmw 3281. when this happens, both rear doors and the front passenger doors are impossible to open from outside or inside. this is an obvious safety hazard.

Reported in: WHITESBURG KY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

TIRES

bridgestone turanza tires 225/45r17 dot 4906 - very noisy tires at 9, 131 miles.

Reported in: EAST ORANGE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13597P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

the doors on my 2007 bmw 328i would not open with the push button lock. i removed the manual key and was able to open the door from the outside. when i returned to my house, i reviewed the owners manual and checked to see if the setting was wrong with the key. pushing the key, open-close button the doors locked but would not open. i had the foresight to roll my window down prior to checking the lock. if i had not done so, i would have been locked in the vehicle. this happened in florida and could have been fatal if locked in the car without a way out in the florida heat. also, the gas door was locked shut and i was unable to put gas in the vehicle. i contacted the bmw dealership (quality imports- ft walton beach) and took the car to them for repairs. it took two days instead of the two hours that i was promised. also, i found out that they had a technical repair bulletin that had been issued regarding faulty locks on this model vehicle. besides the safety complaint i feel that i was charges when i should have been taken care of (no cost to the consumer) since this vehicle�s problem was a safety issue. i have talked with corporate bmw and was told that any issue could be considered a safety issue. (i felt that i was blown off). i would like for the faulty door actuators to be considered a safety issue and not a technical bulletin issue. when asking the dealership what they meant by a technical bulletin, the response was that they knew about the problem but there was no safety problems identified. i disagree.

Reported in: NEBRASKA CITY NE || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37537N

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

in october of 2009 my leased vehicle did not start, i had the vehicle towed to a dealer for service in detroit. i was told that the vehicle did not start because of the battery. battery was replaced at this time. in january of 2010 the vehicle did not start again, after testing it was determined that the steering column was defective. this was replaced at my expense. in april of 2010 the vehicle did not start for a third time. i contacted a dealer to have the vehicle towed in; after 5 days the dealer identified the problem as a faulty negative battery cable. i contacted bmw na as i felt that this may have been the original issue and reason for the vehicle not starting. after two weeks of "investigation" bmw na contacted me and stated that due to mileage on the vehicle no assistance would be granted the vehicle is still under lease and was sold to me as a demo vehicle with roughly 9000 miles already on it at time of lease inception.

Reported in: ATLANTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

i had just purchased a brand new bmw 328i. we were driving on i-5 from los angeles to san francisco. i was accompanied by my husband and two dogs. we were traveling ~80 miles per hour in the left lane. all of the sudden and without warning, the engine turned completely off on the vehicle. i lost power steering and breaking and had no other option than to glide into the center median. unfortunately, there was not sufficient room for the vehicle, so the right tires were in the left lane of traffic. we called bmw assist, but they said they would not pick us up because we had dogs in the car. we were stuck in the median for nearly one hour, around a bend in the freeway, where other cars could not see us well until the last minute. a california state trooper together with a tow truck finally rescued us from the center median. he said we were in grave danger, which we obviously knew. after the incident i called the beverly hills bmw dealership, where we purchased the vehicle, and spoke with the manager and reported the issue to bmw assist. i was furious that a vehicle would turn off at that speed. they told me they would document the claim but that no other incidences of this had been reported. the latter is inaccurate, as many people apparently have had the exact same issue.

Reported in: WEST HOLLYWOOD CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

door actuators on my 2007 bmw 328i failed. it began with just the front two doors and then the rear doors. a very expensive repair, mostly labor expense. i am thankful that this did not occur when away from home as locking and unlocking the doors was not possible. also, if someone had been in the backseat they may not have been able to get out.

Reported in: ALPHARETTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

bmw 328i 2007. my whole family {4} of us were locked in car. we could not open the car from inside. that is most crazy thing ever happen to me. this is the safety issue and bmw need to recall all vehicles and fix problem before somebody gets really in trouble. i made some research and find out that more people had the same problem as i had. i had to pull out my children trough the window to get them out of car. what would happen if some bigger adult was sitting in the back of car or if we had crash on our way home. this issue with this car need to be recalled!!

Reported in: BLACKLICK OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

i own a 2007 bmw 328i with 21,000 miles on it. in july 2009 i was backing out of my driveway when the car lost all steering power, the accelerator no longer functioned, the check engine light came on, & the key was unable to be ejected. a bmw dealer was unable to duplicate the issue, so they said there was not a problem with the car. in aug 2009, after turning the car on, the car began to shake and it powered down. again, the check engine light came on, and the key was not able to be ejected. the same bmw dealership was unable to duplicate the problem, but they said they installed software updates. in sept 2010 i was driving the car and at a low speed when the car lost all steering control, the accelerator did nothing when i pushed down on it. i had to push the car out of the road. the check engine light was still on, and the key would not eject itself. minutes later, i was able to get the key out, and after i restarted the car, the check engine light went off. (i have photos of it on). the vehicle was towed to a different bmw dealership--but once again, they were unable to resolve the issue. they tested the fuel--the fuel was fine. they told me they had incentive to find a problem with the car so that they could be paid. i have contacted bmw n. america several times, but to no avail. at one point, i asked what it would take for them to fix the car-- personal injury? property damage? the bmw rep said no--but agreed that i'd just have to wait it out and see what happens. after sending a letter to bmw n. america the customer service rep said i would need a local dealer to consent to having an engineer look at my car. he said he would contact the dealer to see if they would grant me consent. he never called. i had to call on my own and beg them to have an engineer look at my car. the engineer was unable to explain why my car keeps powering down. he did however install a software update. bmw won't help me, so my only recourse is to sell it.

Reported in: CORAL GABLES FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33527K

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Reported in: CORAL GABLES FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33527K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

the door locks failed to unlock (with both the remote entry and the door lock switch located in the car) with the exception of the driver side door. this resulted in all passengers (including small children) to have to exit the car through the driver's door. in the event of an emergency this could cause safety issues for all occupants. this was repaired by increasing the size of the fuse (to a 20 amp from a 15 amp). after research, this appears to be just a temporary fix. i am concerned with the safety issues this could cause for other families.

Reported in: WOODLAND CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2007 bmw 328i doors would not lock/unlock.

Reported in: MONTEREY CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

tl*the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that while attempting to make a left turn, the vehicle stalled without warning. the contact pulled over and was able to restart. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who stated that the piston valve area timing system was defective. the dealer reprogrammed the engine. the current and failure mileages were 80,000.

Reported in: SHELTON CT || Crash: N || VIN #: WSBAWB3Z557

STEERING

red steering wheel and padlock warning indicator light is on - steering wheel will not lock. the most common issue with this fault can cause a "no start" condition. the "no start" condition can arise and the steering wheel could lock while driving. this is the second failure within 4 years and common in bmw's (see thread: http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=316722 *and thread: http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=147586)

Reported in: SANTA CLARA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: SANTA CLARA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

STEERING

steering wheel locks up unexpected and car will not start. have been replaced once before. this is the second incident since 12/28/09. car has to be towed from locations.

Reported in: CERRITOS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517P

STEERING

bmw steering wheel lock cant start vehicle leaves you stranded. had dealer replaced already once in past problem persists.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

i was driving the car and the electronic steering wheel lock icon illuminated on the dash panel. it kept giving the warning that the steering wheel will lock and if i turn the car off, i won't be able to crank it. i drove it for about two weeks. when i turned the car off, i could not crank it back up. i had to have the steering column replaced at my local bmw repair shop. i have known other bmw owner's who says this has happened to them more than once. i am wondering if this is a defect in the bmw 328i models because i have been told that the steering wheel could also lock if a person was driving, also.

Reported in: FLORENCE SC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

drivers side door will not unlock from inside. pulling on handle will not unlock the door nor will the unlock button for all locks on car. in addition the remote key fob will not lock or unlock the door. random occurrence. worked perfectly fine in the morning and then malfunctioned later on in the day. serious safety hazard. what if there is an accident. i can not get out of the car.

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53527F

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

tl*the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that while driving approximately 55 mph the vehicle would suddenly stall without warning. the vehicle was towed to a dealer and they advised him that the fuel pump had failed. the vehicle was repaired. a few days later the vehicle suddenly stalled without warning. the vehicle was towed to a dealer and they advised him that there was a loose connection in the fuel tank. the vehicle was repaired again by connecting the tank in place. the vehicle suddenly stalled a third time and it was towed to the same dealer who advised him that the fuel gauge wasn't working and he didn't have any gasoline in the tank. the fuel gauge was repaired. the failure occurred again and the contact was waiting to for the diagnosis. the failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Reported in: LOS GATOS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53547F

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

passenger and rear doors will not unlock even from the inside. key fob, interior unlock button and manual door handles will not unlock the doors making passengers have to exit through the drivers door or windows.

Reported in: HILLSBORO OR || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVS13547F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

in june of 2011 my bmw328i had intermittent start. i sent the vehicle to a dealer for service in fremont. i was told that the vehicle did not start because of the battery. battery was replaced at this time. two days later, the vehicle did not start again, after testing it was determined by fremont dealer that the problem was a faulty negative battery cable. after cable replacement, today problem occurs again.

Reported in: PALO ALTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53567F

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Reported in: FAIR OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: FAIR OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587K

STEERING

steering wheel locked on 2007 bmw 328i coupe for the second time in two months! had to have vehicle towed, missed work, and out of a vehicle until it is fixed...for the second time in two months. i also know of at least 4 people who have had the exact same problem with their bmw's. please look into this.

Reported in: MOBILE AL || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

door locks failed to unlock either with the remote control or the inside door lock button (central locking system). doors except for the drivers door would not open even using the inside door handles. the drivers door had to be opened from the outside using the key. my wife and i were locked in the car in temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. we did not even realize the locks did not work until we returned home from a brief trip. had we been in an accident we would not have been able to get out of the car. the gas filler door is linked to the door locks and would also not open. it seemed that the door locks are only electronically controlled with no manual linkage since lifting the button on the door did not unlock the door. after finally getting out of the car i did some quick research online and found this to be a common problem. the fuse had blown so i replaced the fuse but i am sure it will fail again. cannot trust the car now so will be getting rid of it. this is a dangerous design when the doors will not open from the inside when there is an electrical failure.

Reported in: DURHAM NC || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2007 bmw 328i key fob no longer locks/unlocks all doors. this is a severe safety hazard. this has happened more than twice already. if there were an accident or if passengers were in the car, they would have to go out of the car through the car windows. only the manual key opens the driver's side door.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

my wife was unable to open the door on our 2007 bmw 328i. the door locks seem to be stuck with no way to open them except the drivers door which will still open with two pulls on the door release latch. all other doors and the fuel filler door are stuck closed. very dangerous situation as everyone has to exit through the drivers door or through the electric windows. obvious safety issue which seems to be very common with these cars. should be recalled and have a fix which makes the doors open even with an electrical failure.

Reported in: VICTORIA BC WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

i have an 2007 328i bmw which stalled and cutoff on 3 occasion within 4 years. they replaced as per tech the fuel injection twice within 2 years and now the car is parked my warranty is expired and cutoff again last 2 weeks. *kb

Reported in: NEW YORK NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

Reported in: NEW YORK NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

Reported in: NEW YORK NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

my doors have locked and will not unlock without a very expensive repair. i have to use the internal key from the key fob to unlock the driver door but there is no way to unlock any of the other doors. this is extremely dangerous as the other doors will not even unlock from inside the car. also if you plan on having any passengers they all have to get in through the driver door, if in an accident they have to get out of the driver door, this is absolutely ridiculous and was expensive to fix!

Reported in: SCOTTSDALE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: SCOTTSDALE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the doors failed to unlock with the key fob. only way to enter was with the key into the drivers door. the other doors failed to unlock from the inside, both by using the handle and the unlock button on the dash. apparently, the door lock actuators are drawing more current flow and burning the 15a fuse installed. a bmw sb says to replace with a 20a fuse, however, the problem still exists. this creates an unsafe condition, in that no passenger(s) can exit the vehicle, and nobody, such as emergency personnel, can enter from the outside. the fuse isn't the answer, bmw knows about this problem and should deal with it in a manner that promotes safety of passengers, not profits for the dealers.

Reported in: KENT WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Reported in: KENT WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE:BODY

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the keyless entry function failed to operate when he attempted to unlock the vehicle. the failure affected the front and rear passenger doors disallowing him to enter the vehicle. the dealer replaced the actuator and the manufacturer was made aware of the failure however, did not offer any assistance. the current and failure mileages were 24,000.

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33527F

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

my door locks failed to unlock (with both the remote entry and the door lock switch located in the car) with the exception of the driver side door using the manual key turn. this was repaired by replacing the door lock actuators, under warranty.

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37547N

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37547N

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37547N

STRUCTURE:BODY

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37547N

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

there is a defect with the electronic steering wheel lock. the warning light came on, but the car functioned normally despite the owner's manual saying the car would not start. i thought it was a defective light, until i tried to start my car one morning. the electronic steering wheel lock would not disengage, and i had to get the car towed. it appears to be a complex problem as bmw dealer mechanics can only tell me that the steering column needs to be replaced. they will not tell me why it needs to be replaced or what is causing the problem. estimates for repair have been between $1300 and $1800 depending on the dealer. i understand that cars break down but, after visiting bmw forums on the internet, it is plain to see that this is a known defect that bmw refuses to fix. one posting did indicate that the steering wheel locked up while the car was being driven causing a dangerous situation, but, in my case, the car was parked. this defect does pose to car owners a great inconvenience with possible unsafe consequences depending on the circumstances surrounding the car owner getting stranded. furthermore, once stranded, the owner has little choice but to get it towed most likely to a bmw dealership and pay the large repair bill. (i tried an indy bmw specialist first. he could not fix it or even determine why it was occurring.) i am filing this complaint in the hope that any subsequent investigation by the nhtsa will reveal that bmw has let a known defect persist. once that is discovered, bmw should be required to fix the defect and reimburse owners who have had to pay for a costly repair.

Reported in: ORANGE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33507P

STEERING

Reported in: ORANGE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33507P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated the key lock actuator failed; whenever she unlocked the doors the latch on the front drivers and front passengers side failed to lock. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated she needed all four actuators to function in order for the locks to work properly. the contact was advised that the repair cost was $1200 at her expense; however, the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was unknown.

Reported in: FRESNO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53507F

STEERING

the steering column lock failed which required bmw to replace the upper steering column at $1,252.92!!!

Reported in: FISHERVILLE KY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33507P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

door lock actuator failure: front door lock actuators failed disallowing exit from all doors except the driver's side front door. passengers could only exit the vehicle by crawling out of the driver's side front door. the front passenger door and both rear doors could not be opened by using the interior or exterior doorhandles. furthermore, the electrical system disallowed any unlocking of these three doors as well. fortunately, the car was not involved in an accident during this door lock actuator failure. during the time of this incident, two people were in the car. the consequences of not having doors which can open from the inside of the car could prove deadly in an accident. a letter was written to bmw of north america, llc by the owner of this car in this report and their response on october 7th, 2011 was, "we have no response."

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA375X7N

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA375X7N

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

i purchased a 2007 bmw 328i on 8/6/2011, 59,642 miles. shortly after this purchase, i experienced this vehicle overheating and losing all power while driving twice in one week, october 25 and october 27, 2011. after approximately 5 minutes of driving, the yellow warning signal illuminated and ten seconds later, the red warning light illuminated and the vehicle immediately lost power and stalled in the middle of the roadway. i was told to pick up my car and come back if it ran hot and stalled again (customer to monitor). i picked my car up on wednesday evening after work and drove straight home. on thursday morning the yellow light flashed and immediately turned red and shut off in the middle of the roadway again. i had the vehicle towed to the dealership again. this time, when the car was place on the tow truck, coolant ran from under the vehicle onto the ground. this is a very frustrating, unexpected, expensive and dangerous problem with this vehicle. if i had been traveling on the highway and this vehicle shut down within 10 seconds, i would not have been able to safely navigate this vehicle to the shoulder of the road. fortunately, i was not rear ended on either incident. i understand that the purpose of the engine shutting down is to prevent engine damage, but there seems to be no advance warning, which puts the occupants in danger or being rear ended. i am very concerned about this swift total shut down occurring while on the highway and causing a major accident. although the water pump was not deemed as the absolute cause of the problem, the dealership started their corrective action with replacing the water pump and thermostat. i recently discovered while under warranty, this vehicle's cylinder head was replaced and sludge was in the engine oil (prior to my purchase). i contacted bmwusa and was told that components break down sometimes.

Reported in: ATLANTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33557P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the actuator failed on all four doors of the vehicle and none of the doors would open from the exterior or interior. the failure also prevented the door to the fuel tank from being opened. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the actuators were replaced. the failure mileage was 68,000 and the current mileage was 74,000.

Reported in: CORONA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53557F

STEERING:COLUMN

steering column needed to be replaced per dealer. *kb

Reported in: COMPTON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517P

STEERING

steering column needed to be replaced per dealer. *kb

Reported in: COMPTON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517P

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

sensor in fuel tank did not report amount of gas in tank to dash. car did not have any gas but reported a quarter tank. while driving at roughly 45 miles an hour, car suddenly died in center lane. barely had enough time to pull over. the worst part is i was about to enter the highway and my speed would have been roughly 70-75 mph. on a highway, had my car died in the same manner my safety would have been compromised! i ended up blocking a street with oncoming traffic and was unable to move car alone. dealership stated the sensor is a part of the whole tank and the tank must be replaced. however, because it is a sensor issue might have to be replaced again in the future. this is defect!

Reported in: NEWARK NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53597A

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the rear windows would open independently while driving various speeds and would not respond to the contact�s attempts to close them. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was advised that the window regulator failed. the driver�s side rear window regulator was replaced, but not the passenger side. the failure mileage was unknown. updated 02/15/12*lj the consumer stated both rear regulators failed without warning during the past year. when the consumer's wife attempted to roll down the windows using the controls located on the panel, the windows did not move, they subsequently sagged in the window frames and created an opening. the windows could be pushed un in the frame by hand, but would then fall back down when driving. updated 02/22/12

Reported in: GARNDENDALE AL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVS13517F

STEERING

we did not buy bmw just for the look but we bought it cause of how good they make there cars and now this happen and boy i was fooled.

Reported in: GARLAND TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37547N

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

car was parked, and when key fab was used to unlock the doors to enter the car the locks did not work. only when the emergency key was used did the driver door open manually. no other doors would open locking any passengers in the car. dealership recommended change of fuses which was done and did not solve the door lock problem. the central locking system was still not working. dealer recommended changing the door actuators for $3000 even though this is a known safety issue. central locking also caused the gas cap to remain locked and possibly stranding the driver at the gas station.

Reported in: SCOTTSDALE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: SCOTTSDALE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

door lock actuator failure: front door lock actuators failed disallowing exit from all doors except the driver's side front door. passengers could only exit the vehicle by crawling out of the driver's side front door. the front passenger door and both rear doors could not be opened by using the interior or exterior doorhandles. furthermore, the electrical system disallowed any unlocking of these three doors as well. fortunately, the car was not involved in an accident during this door lock actuator failure. during the time of this incident. car was taken to bmw dealer (passport) for repair and when asked about the safety implications said it is unfortunate but all cars with electronic locks respond this way when the central locking system fails.

Reported in: BURKE VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

door lock actuator failure: front door lock actuators failed disallowing exit from all doors except the driver's side front door. passengers could only exit the vehicle by crawling out of the driver's side front door. the front passenger door and both rear doors could not be opened by using the interior or exterior doorhandles. furthermore, the electrical system disallowed any unlocking of these three doors as well. fortunately, the car was not involved in an accident during this door lock actuator failure. during the time of this incident. car was taken to bmw dealer (passport) for repair and when asked about the safety implications said it is unfortunate but all cars with electronic locks respond this way when the central locking system fails.

Reported in: BURKE VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7K

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

i was left stranded in a parking lot with the steering wheel lock light showing. i was not able to start the car at all and i was upset because i could not move the car and had to be towed to the closest place which was an extreme burden on me financially.

Reported in: ROWLAND HEIGHTS CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

Reported in: ROWLAND HEIGHTS CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

steering wheel lock malfunction which is inherent on this model. bmw refuses to recall the item. they have since corrected the malfunction on subsequent years. repair cost $1800 min. i will add this complaint to the ever growing list i am sure you have on this model. hopefully you will attend to the dangerous problem. the steering wheel locks you crash. *kb

Reported in: THOUSAND OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWV13557P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

model: 2007 bmw 328i. the electronic "door actuators" failed. as a result, it became impossible to open any door of the vehicle from the inside, except the driver's door. when these electronic door actuators fail, passengers are trapped in or out of the vehicle. the service advisor at the dealership (weatherford bmw, berkeley, california) explained that he new exactly what was wrong with my vehicle because they received a bulletin regarding this (meaning this is a "known issue" to bmw with this model car! my question was if bmw has received major complaints about this particular issue, why would"nt it be recalled...he advised me that are normally pertained to "safety", we"ll what would you consider this situation...safe? $900.00 was my quote to have this fixed! ridiculous!!! we strongly suggest that this defect be investigated, and that the subject vehicles be recalled so that the defect can be corrected before deaths or injuries occur.

Reported in: SAN PABLO CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

model: 2007 bmw 328i. the electronic "door actuators" failed. as a result, it became impossible to open any door of the vehicle from the inside, except the driver's door. when these electronic door actuators fail, passengers are trapped in or out of the vehicle. the service advisor at the dealership (weatherford bmw, berkeley, california) explained that he new exactly what was wrong with my vehicle because they received a bulletin regarding this (meaning this is a "known issue" to bmw with this model car! my question was if bmw has received major complaints about this particular issue, why would"nt it be recalled...he advised me that are normally pertained to "safety", we"ll what would you consider this situation...safe? $900.00 was my quote to have this fixed! ridiculous!!! we strongly suggest that this defect be investigated, and that the subject vehicles be recalled so that the defect can be corrected before deaths or injuries occur.

Reported in: SAN PABLO CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

model: 2007 bmw 328i. the electronic "door actuators" failed. as a result, it became impossible to open any door of the vehicle from the inside, except the driver's door. when these electronic door actuators fail, passengers are trapped in or out of the vehicle. the service advisor at the dealership (weatherford bmw, berkeley, california) explained that he new exactly what was wrong with my vehicle because they received a bulletin regarding this (meaning this is a "known issue" to bmw with this model car! my question was if bmw has received major complaints about this particular issue, why would"nt it be recalled...he advised me that are normally pertained to "safety", we"ll what would you consider this situation...safe? $900.00 was my quote to have this fixed! ridiculous!!! we strongly suggest that this defect be investigated, and that the subject vehicles be recalled so that the defect can be corrected before deaths or injuries occur.

Reported in: SAN PABLO CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

oil leaking from head gasket. the aluminum bolts used in the engine warped causing leak. had to replace head gasket and all headbolts. *js

Reported in: FT MYERS FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33567P

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2007 328i -- i was driving thru my neigborhood in nyc and the car suddenly shut down completely; no power, no brakes, absolutely nothing at all.. and the thing is no warnings ever showed up.. i hope everyone who's had problems like this reports them to bwm because this is unacceptable and extremely dangerous. i'm lucky i was driving locally and there weren't any cars around because it was the scariest thing i've ever experienced driving a car. hope bmw steps up before something catastrophic happens, like toyota had them.

Reported in: RIDGEWOOD NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53567F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: RIDGEWOOD NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53567F

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

suddenly all 3 doors (except one passenger door) fail to unlock and even the inside door knob wouldn't unlock the door. it seems to be a very well known problem but bmw wouldn't fix the problem before it happens, and my warranty period is over.

Reported in: MOUNTAIN VIEW CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: MOUNTAIN VIEW CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i drove my car approximately 2 miles then got home and turned my car off. 10 minutes later i look out the window and my car is on fire. the fire dept. stated that the fire started around the passenger side headlight and that it looked like an electrical fire.

Reported in: TULSA OK || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

the door locks would not work with the fob. i was locked in side the vehicle. when i finally got out and tried to open the doors from outside, the doors would not open. this situation has happened many times over the years. i was trapped inside the car during a heavy rain fall on the road last year due to the doors not unlocking.

Reported in: OKLAHOMA CITY OK || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC535XFZ

STEERING

red indicator for electronic steering wheel lock malfunction. car failed to start unless multiple attempts to unlock column by inserting and removing key. dealer says the column needs to be replaced, and the car reprogrammed to "accept" the new column. the car is covered under a cpo warranty, so the parts will be covered, but the "reprogramming" is not. an internet search for "bmw electric steering wheel lock malfunction" returns multiple instances of the failure mode. in some cases multiple times per vehicle. please help us! bmw is ignoring the issue or kicking-the-can down the road until the vehicle is out of warranty.

Reported in: VALLEY CENTER CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33517P

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the vehicle would stall sporadically. the coolant warning light would illuminate after the failure. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer but was informed that there were no failures found within the vehicle. the dealer and manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage was 70,000.

Reported in: PINSON AL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33567K

STEERING

vehicle will not start, replaced battery and icon displaying electric steering lock (elv) shows in the dashboard. vehicle will not start as steering wheel is locked and can not be released dealer says the steering wheel column needs to be replaced. this is an extremely common problem with these cars, dealer said the see about 3 cars a week with this problem.

Reported in: ORANGE CITY FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33507P

ENGINE

Reported in: ORANGE CITY FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33507P

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

the fuel system failed when the car was at 80mph. the car was later diagnosed for fuel pump failure.

Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

a blown fuse caused the door unlocking mechanism to fail, trapping occupants in the car. the doors could not be opened by any means, as the failure also disabled the normal mechanism by which pulling on an interior door handle released the associated lock. the sole exception is that the driver's door could be opened by rolling down the window, and reaching out awkwardly through the window to the exterior door handle with the mechanical auxiliary key. however, the only exit available to backseat passengers was through the windows, assuming the passengers were small enough to fit through them. neither of these modes of egress would be satisfactory if exit needed to be quick. fortunately, this particular failure happened to my family while the car was safely parked. in the event of a collision or fire that required rapid evacuation of the vehicle, however, this would be a potentially life threatening situation. ideally, the locks should be mechanically linked to the door handles so that an electrical failure would not render it impossible to open the doors. absent that, at least having individual fuses for each lock actuator would leave three functioning doors if one failed.

Reported in: PALO ALTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53567F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: PALO ALTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53567F

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

on aug 10, 2012, i was driving my 2007 bmw 328i on montague expy (county highway g4) during the peak traffic hour (6:30pm). obviously, at that time, the road was packed with traffic, and suddenly my car engine extinguished and died right there in the middle of the expressway. i had to stay in my car for my nearly 45 minutes, too terrified to walk out of my car and also terrified to stay inside, where i was equally vulnerable. thankfully, the car behind me had kept a good distance away and stopped too; if the driver wasn't so careful, one can only imagine a far worse situation occurring, such as a pileup. i have kept a very good maintenance record on this bmw 328i and also purchased the extension maintenance program back when i bought it, and therefore, this malfunction issue was most definitely not caused by owner ignorance or lack of care. and yet, despite having taken good care of my car, i already had to have a major engine repair on the bmw within its first two years. and just half a year ago, i had to have another major starter repair as well - i couldn't even start up the car engine. and now there's this - a car stall from a defect with the fuel pump. i find this recent incident the most aggravating and dangerous of them all; i honestly could have died. thus i am filing this complaint to alert the national highway traffic safety administration that there is a problem in particular with the bmw 328i. hopefully once this problem is documented and bmw is notified, we can see if other bmw 328i owners have been experiencing similar problems as well, and ultimately prevent bmw owners from experiencing an incident as dangerous as mine in the future.

Reported in: FREMONT CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53557F

TIRES

my vehicle displayed a code, "tpm", which means, tire pressure monitor, which is to detect tire pressure issues from the "run flat tires" that are standard on my vehicle. i took the vehicle into my dealer and they said, "the temperature swing tripped the warning light". they reset the system and i continued to use my vehicle and within 3 days, the tpm light came on again, and i immediately drove over to the dealer again. on my way two of my run flat tires literally shredded and i was forced to have the car towed to the dealer. this time the dealer diagnosed the problem was caused by the nitrogen that is used to inflate the tires, had eroded the interior lining (walls) of the tires which is why they did not detect this issue 3 days before. not only did i have to spring for 4 new tires, that have 27k miles on them, i am now fearful of this happening again. if nitrogen is in fact destroying the tire from the inside out, than why is this chemical being used???

Reported in: CENTREVILLE VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33567K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

a copy of an email to bmw: i have been reasonably happy with my 2007 328i until the electronic locks failed. i could not get in my car except with a key. i couldn't open any door except the driver's door even from the inside! if i had an emergency both my passengers and i would have been trapped. when i looked online, i found that my problem was not at all unique many others have experienced the same issue with failing actuators. what troubles me is not the failure of a part (though i do expect better of bmw), but the fact that my family's safety was potentially compromised. more importantly, bmw has not addressed this issue with corrective parts and procedures so, i am told that if this happens again, i could still find myself trapped in my car after an accident. i expected better with the purchase of a bmw. i am profoundly disappointed that bmw does not think enough of its customer's safety to appropriately address and correct this issue so that there are always mechanical overrides of the electrical system. perhaps you have decided, like ford did 40 years ago with the pinto, that the costs of settling a few wrongful death claims is cheaper than correcting a safety design defect. in lieu of a proactive action on your part, i have filed a complaint with the nhtsa.

Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33557K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33557K

STEERING

i was driving the car and the electronic steering wheel lock icon came up on the dash panel. it kept giving the warning that the steering wheel will lock and if i turn the car off and i won't be able to crank it. i drove it home and when i turned the car off, i was able to crank it back up and had no problem with steering in test drive, but i will have to visit my local bmw repair shop tomorrow. i have known other bmw owner's who says this has happened to them more than once and i found a lot of the same problems on the internet forums. i am wondering if this is a defect in the bmw 328i models because i have been told that the steering wheel could also lock if a person was driving, also. i am filing this complaint, hoping that any subsequent investigation by the nhtsa will reveal any safety issue with this known defect.

Reported in: MOUNTAIN VIEW CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

electric steering lock light on my 2007 bmw 328i coupe comes up in red and car won't start... initially thought it was the battery but after getting a jump start and the power flickered off and on different features in the car the car never started, the key fob kept being rejected from the ignition box and the car eventually went dead. i had to manually lock and unlock doors and left it sitting over night. the car was jump start again the next day and radio, lights, trunk, door locks, and seat belts, etc. appear to be working fine electronically but the car still would not start... the brakes feel tight and the steering column is tight but clicks when turn left and right (feels semi-engaged if that's possible)... was wondering if the battery is just low and doesn't trigger the steering wheel lock? should we disconnect the battery and reconnect or replace to see if it triggers the electric steering wheel lock? the issue with the battery has happened on several other occasions and the steering wheel lock light came up yellow however the car started in the past after jump starting. this appears to be a known problem and i?m formally complaining if this is the case for i?m trying to avoid any unnecessary costly repairs such as replacing the steering column or reprogramming in any way possible if a known fix is available or faulty product is the cause. i also feel this is definitely a potential safety hazard :-/

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the rear driver's door would not unlock. the contact was unable to unlock the door using the manual key or the electronic key fob. the front driver's side door was also affected. the vehicle was taken to the dealer but a diagnostic was not performed. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who was waiting for the results of the diagnostic. the vin was not available. the approximate failure and current mileage was 63,000.

Reported in: DEL CITY OK || Crash: N || VIN #:

AIR BAGS

we were in the left lane about to take a curve to the left when a car in the right lane ran us off the road straight into a telephone pole. i was in the passenger seat and my airbag did not deploy, as the drivers side did. my head hit the dash and i broke my nose, my teeth, and suffered a major concussion.

Reported in: KELSEYVILLE CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: WBAWB33527P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that when entering or exiting the vehicle with the use of the key fob or manually, the four power door locks would not unlock however, the front driver's side door would unlock manually with the key. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 38,000.

Reported in: IRVINE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC535X7F

STEERING

battery seemed to have drained...when given a jump and power was restored, the car had a the steering locked light up red. the car turned on for a few times and now it doesn't turn on at all. there seems to be power in the car as everything lights up but when attempting to start nothing happens and the only light on the dashboard is the one of the steering locked in red!!!! this has to be a defect!!!

Reported in: PERRIS, CA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: PERRIS, CA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547P

SERVICE BRAKES

abs system light went off - no traction control system.

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33597P

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

abs system light went off - no traction control system.

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33597P

SEAT BELTS

there was a recall for 2006 (i drive a 2007) models of this vehicle for the passenger seat occupancy sensor mat in the passenger seat. when this mat becomes defective, it disables airbag systems in the vehicles. this has been a known problem since 2008 (when the recall was issued), however these cars were produced from 2006-2008+ before the recall was issued. the recall only covers 2006 models which is absolutely ridiculous. if the same exact vehicle continues to be produced with the same defective part that have the same problem, but you only cover one year of it being produced when there were three, what good is that? why is it that i have to drive around in a car that has a known defective airbag system because of the defective detection mat and bet on my luck that i don't get in a serious accident and be caught with no air bags for safety. this is a serious lawsuit waiting to happen the minute someone gets in an accident and the airbags don't deploy due to the failed passenger seat sensor. i know you have complaints about this. refer to: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/recalls/recallresults.cfm?start=1&searchtype=quicksearch&rcl_id=08v384000&summary=true&prod_id=218996&printversion=yes.

Reported in: GAINESVILLE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33567F

SEATS

Reported in: GAINESVILLE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33567F

AIR BAGS

Reported in: GAINESVILLE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33567F

ENGINE

i tried starting my car and it would not start. figured it was a dead battery so i bought a new one and had it replaced. the car worked fine for about 3 days then had the same problem as before. i contacted the dealer, had to have the car towed to them, and was told that it was the connections from the battery to the engine that were loose and causing the car to not start. i picked up my car the next day after paying $120 to have the problem (wiggling some wires) fixed. 2 days later...same problem. it has been sitting now for over 2 weeks because i haven't had time to keep getting it to and from the dealership. after reading all of these other reported problems i am now terrified to drive it ever again.

Reported in: BREAUX BRIDGE LA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

SEAT BELTS

every time i have a passenger the airbag light remains on. when there is a passenger sitting in the front passenger seat and then gets out of the car, the sensor thinks the person is still sitting in the seat and keeps reminding me to put on the passenger seat belt, plus the air bag light remains on. after 3 to 4 days, all the warning lights go off. but lately, the lights remain on for months. is the problem related with the passenger seat occupancy sensor mat? isn't this suppose to be a delta government regulated issue? isn't it also dangerous? does this mean the air bag is deactivated? what if i get into an accident and i have a passenger? please help.

Reported in: ALEXANDRIA VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33557P

AIR BAGS

Reported in: ALEXANDRIA VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33557P

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that while driving 35 mph, the vehicle stalled. after a few minutes, the vehicle started and operated as designed. the contact also stated that the failure occurred once before. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis and the contact was informed no cause for failure could be found. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure and current mileage 54,000.

Reported in: FORT LEE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587P

WHEELS

i just discovered that the left rear rim on my 2007 bmw 328 convertible is cracked. my car has less than 38k miles on it. the tires are 225/45 17� run-flats. i had four new tires put on about 6 months ago. i got the low tire pressure warning light about a week ago when i started the car. i checked, didn't notice anything, and reset the tpm successfully. since it was a cold morning, i figured the sensor was just reacting to pressure change due to the temperature change. a few days later, it came again. i decided to check, and found the pressure was down to about 25 psi. i filled the tire to recommended psi. i drove about 260 miles on sunday, mostly freeway speeds. when i was about 30 miles from home, the warning light came on again. at that time i was on a freeway, going about 70 mph. once i got to home, i filled the tire (again it was about 25 psi), and the warning stopped. yesterday the light came on, and i took it to my local tire shop. they didn't find a puncture; but remounted it and filled it. i drove home, and a few hours later, the warning came on again. this morning, i took it back to the shop, and they again removed the tire. this time they did a very close inspection and found the crack in the rim. they are ordering me a replacement rim. from what i have seen on the internet, there seems to be a problem with the bmw rims and run-flat tires. this is definitely a safety issue, if the rim would have a catastrophic failure while the car was traveling at highway speeds this could be deadly.

Reported in: DEL REY OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13527P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

went to unlock doors with key fob. all unlocked but drivers door. had to use manual key. once inside, relocked doors and then could not open drivers door. only way to open drivers door is with manual key from outside. huge safety issue bmw! and apparently a well known one.

Reported in: GERMANTOWN TN || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE

the vehicle engine shut-offs in motion. the first occurrence, the vehicle was going 15mph & the engine failed while turning into a block (residential area), after idling rough and high pitch noise coming from the engine. the 2nd occurrence, the engine failed after exiting the freeway. that time, the vehicle was stopped on a hill when the failure occurred. the 3rd time, the vehicle was at a stop when the engine failed. once the failure occurred, the vehicle was place in park mode & re-started. the engine started again & the vehicle was driven home. note: since january 2012, the vehicle has been to the bmw service department several times for idling rough and high pitch noise from engine complaints. the issue now has progress to engine failure in motion.

Reported in: SAN JOSE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA375X7N

AIR BAGS

the passenger side occupancy sensor is a known problem and i believe that the warranty extension has not covered all affected vehicles. my bmw 2007 328 convertible has the identical problem as identified below. i have repaired it and it has continued to malfunction numerous times since, while driving and while stopped, creating a safety issue for anyone in the passenger side should there be an accident. i believe this faulty part must have been used in my 2007 328 convertible. august 2008 -- bmw is recalling 200,000 my 2006 3 series (sport seat), my 2004-2006 5 series (standard and sport seat), and my 2004-2006 x3 passenger vehicles. a fatigue failure of the front passenger seat occupant detection mat can occur. if this happens, the front passenger air bags, with the exception of the head protection system, will be deactivated and the air bag warning lamp as well as the passenger air bag "on-off" lamp will be illuminated. in this situation the front passenger air bags will not deploy even if a sufficiently severe accident would occur and occupant protection provided by the system would not be possible. bmw will also extend the warranty on these vehicles to 10 years from first registration without any mileage limit. owners may contact bmw at 1-800-525-7417. bmw is extending the warranty to 10 years from first registration without any mileage limit to the following vehicles: my 2006 6-series, 3-series (standard seat), my 2004-2005 z4, my 2004-2006 7-series, my 2006 x5, and my 2004-2006 5-series (comfort seat). under the extended warranty program, the occupant detection mat in a vehicle that experiences this specific issue will be replaced at no charge to the customer. this recall was the subject of an engineering analysis, ea08-001, conducted by the office of defects investigation. 08v384.

Reported in: HADLEY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13597P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: HADLEY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13597P

SEATS

Reported in: HADLEY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13597P

SEATS

i purchased my bmw in germany!!! there was a recall for 2006 (i drive a 2007) models of this vehicle for the passenger seat occupancy sensor mat in the passenger seat. when this mat becomes defective, it disables airbag systems in the vehicles. this has been a known problem since 2008 (when the recall was issued), however these cars were produced from 2006-2008+ before the recall was issued. the recall only covers 2006 models which is absolutely ridiculous. if the same exact vehicle continues to be produced with the same defective part that have the same problem, but you only cover one year of it being produced when there were three, what good is that? why is it that i have to drive around in a car that has a known defective airbag system because of the defective detection mat and bet on my luck that i don't get in a serious accident and be caught with no air bags for safety. this is a serious problem...

Reported in: FT. BENNING GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517K

AIR BAGS

Reported in: FT. BENNING GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517K

ENGINE

i'm a retired u.s. naval officer who currently works in fort detrick, maryland. i was on my way to work when all of a sudden the engine stalled without warning at about 45 mph on a busy rush hour freeway in i-270 north. immediately i turned on the emergency lights and made every effort to make it to the left shoulder with a stalled (dead) engine. the car behind me immediately noticed the problem and slowed down, as well as the other cars behind him. my car came to a complete stop with half of the body still in the freeway. i was shaking due to safety concerns, but when i shifted the gear to "park" and pushed the "start" button, immediately the car started with no problem at all. on a separate occasion about four months ago, my son was driving the car on a one-lane road at about 30 mph. without warning the engine stalled again and there wasn't any shoulder he can safely turn to because of a concrete pavement. the cars behind stopped to help him move to the side as much as possible, but when he shifted to "park" and pushed "start", the car immediately started without anything wrong with it. i am filing this complaint due to the recent recall you have identified for bmw 3-series 2007 coupe. bmw will not fix my problem even though it is very identical to the nhtsa's identified recall, due to the reason that my car was manufactured on november 6, 2006 and did not meet the recall requirement of march 2007 through july 2011. they want me to pay for the expensive repair. i am asking for your help in extending the dates to cover my car (it was on it's very early stage of production). my car has not been modified at all and is still all original specification. i'm not sure when the next occurence may happen. if it involves a fast freeway commute, there is a very big possibility that our lives could be in danger. i need your help for our safety and will not buy bmw anymore.

Reported in: FREDERICK MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33587P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS

steering wheel locked wile driving - very similar to nhtsa case # 10194169. my daughter was turning right into a parking lot when she noticed that the steering wheel came to a hard stop. when she realized that she would not make the turn, she tried to turn it back to the left but it immediately locked hard in place. she pulled forward in the direction of travel and was able to stop in the grass on the side of the road. after she stopped she noticed that the "service engine soon" warning message was illuminated. she then turned the car off and back on and everything worked normally and she was able to drive the car about a mile to the house. we had it towed to the local bmw dealer - the dealer kept the car for 3 days where they reviewed fault codes (found none), tried to duplicate the problem (could not duplicate), and took the steering column apart (but found no problem). the dealer did implement nhtsa campaign number 13v044000, but said there was no indication of a problem with the electrical system. needless to say i am very concerned about my daughter driving this vehicle, but have no other choice at the time. can the nhtsa provide any further assistance with this situation.

Reported in: GAITHERSBURG MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33517P

STEERING

Reported in: GAITHERSBURG MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33517P

STEERING

steering wheel lock displayed on car dash board. it will not start and car had to be towed to dealership. i have found several complaints of this same issue online. bmw needs to pay for this issue i will never buy another bmw the rest of my life. please check into this.

Reported in: MADISON MS || Crash: N || VIN #:

SEAT BELTS

i took the car into the shop for a battery change and upon picking up the car the front passenger seat belt warning light went on. i took it back to the shop and was told that it was con-incidental that it happened on that day and would cost over $1000 to fix. i got a second opinion and was told by dealership that the mat sensor is broke and may deploy in accident whether or not someone is sitting in the seat. i looked on the internet and saw that a recall was issued by you for models 2006 and earlier for the same issue. after speaking with bmw corporate, i was told to register a complaint with you that there is nothing they can do unless the nhtsa issues a recall.

Reported in: ACWORTH GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587K

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

Reported in: ACWORTH GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33587K

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. the vehicle was taken to a dealer but the dealer was not able to diagnose the failure. the failure recurred numerous times over the course of three years. the vehicle was repeatedly taken to dealers for diagnostics and during that time, the battery, fuel pump, air flow sensor, two cam sensors, crank sensor, ecu and harnesses were all replaced. the failure recurred. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure mileage was 33,000 and the current mileage was 65,000.

Reported in: MONTEREY PARK CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37597N

ENGINE

car has horrible lifter ticking noise. started around 58k miles, now up to 61k. bmw knows about this issue and have even went as far as issuing a new (revision in 2009) service bulletin and redesigning the head and lifters. they don't want to issue a recall notice for their own design flaw because of the cost associated with replacing these parts. i change the oil every 3k miles and have been noticing ferrous metal flakes in the filter caused by the lifters being starved of oil due to the oil ports in the head being too small to allow adequate oil flow to them. one would expect a bmw to last a little bit longer than 60k miles before any issues like this arise.

Reported in: EDGEWOOD WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i was going about 50 to 55 mpa when my temp light came on, within a few seconds my car lost speed rapidly and completely quit locking everything up on a busy highway. i bought the car as a certified pre-owned with 100,000 mile warrenty.when i called century bmw dealer in huntsville, al where i purchased it i was told my warranty went out two months ago on 5/15 according to date of shipment, a few day's before i had received a notice that my factory warning may be expiring based on time and miles it stated that available coverage expires on 8/23/2013 which was 21 day's after date of failure. i was told that was time i had to buy another extended warranty, that is not what the statement said.when towed to shop it was the water pump and thermostat at a cost of $1,212.11 plus towing charge that i do not have a bill on yet which should have also been covered. i am just lucky that no one behind me slammed into the rearend of car of luckily not turning in oncoming traffic since there was no warning except seconds before it stopped cold. i had took the car in before because i smelled anti-freeze and was told there was no problem, and have at times since then smelled anti-freeze but since i had it checked out just thought maybe it was something about that model. i have since found out this was a common problem with this model, so why was their no recall stating the danger of this happening. and why are they not honoring their warranty.

Reported in: ARAB AL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37597N

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Reported in: ARAB AL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37597N

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that while driving 10 mph, the vehicle stalled. the failure recurred numerous times. the vehicle was taken to two different dealers for diagnosis but no cause for failure was found. the manufacturer was notified was notified of the failure. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure and current mileage was 65,000.

Reported in: PALO ALTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37577N

SEAT BELTS

i own a 2007 328i ,recently my car has been giving me an error message due to the front passenger air bag sensor. whenever, a passenger sits in the front it, a light turns on letting me know that the airbag is off. this means that in case of a serious car accident the airbag will not deploy and the passenger's life will be at risk. after the error message i did some research and found out that the issue is very common in the 3-series. bmw actually did a voluntary recall but it only involved 2006 3-series. however, i am experiencing the same issue that the recall was about. i took my car to bmw pacific in glendale and informed me that they would not be able to help me since my car was not part of the recall. here is the recall that bmw announced: "statement on voluntary recall involving front passenger seat sensor mat on u.s.a. model bmws - august 13, 2008 today, bmw announced a voluntary recall regarding the front passenger air bag seat sensor mat involving approximately 200,000 model year 2004-06 vehicles. affected are certain model year 2006 3-series, model year 2004-06 5-series, and model year 2004-06 x3 vehicles, depending upon seat type. bmw has found that the sensor mat may become damaged during vehicle usage depending upon the manner and frequency of the front passenger's entry and exit. link: http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/contactus/voluntaryrecall.aspx i don't understand why bmw only covered 06 models when 07 models are experiencing the same exact issue. i feel that this is very irresponsible and negligible on their part. i really hope that you can help me out with the issue that i am experiencing and include my car in the recall. i have a wife and daughter that ride with me and the last thing i want is for anyone to get seriously hurt over something that can be prevented by bmw. thank you.

Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

AIR BAGS

Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

the door actuator system on my 2007 bmw 3281 has failed twice, once locking me in and the other time immobilizing the car and stranding me for several hours.i noticed the first failure when i stopped for gas & could not open the fuel flap. i drove to the dealer but the driver side door would not open, either electronically or manually, and the windows would not lower and the other three doors would not open. fortunately, the sun roof was not on the door circuit & i was able to toss out the fob key for someone to open the driver door and let me out. a mechanic replaced the 15 amp fuse in the door circuit with a 20 amp fuse and sent me on my way. conclusion: this car is a death trap waiting to happen. the second incident occurred as i drove home after a state inspection. when i parked and hit the fob lock button, i heard a muffled noise. the fuse had blown again. i unlocked the car with the fob key and after much time and great effort, i installed a another 20 amp fuse. because the passenger door won't open when the circuit blows, replacing the fuse is very difficult, next to impossible. it requires agility, know-how, and good conditions--not something you can count on in the general population. what can be done about this dangerous condition: go back to mechanical locking, electronic locking is a bad solution at least, you can get out of the car. second: require bmw to recall the original actuators and replace them with new designs that, if they too fail, they fail in a door-open mode. at the very least, car manufacturers should be required to offer buyers a choice between mechanical and electronic door opening. lives are at stake.

Reported in: RESTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33507K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: RESTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33507K

ENGINE

on august 31st, i was driving on the freeway in the number 2 lane at 70 mph when the temperature overheat light came on and i experienced an immediate loss of power and was forced to navigate the vehicle across several busy lanes to the shoulder. i allowed the vehicle to cool down, added some water and i attempted to drive the vehicle to the closest dealer 5 miles away. upon entering the freeway again the vehicle immediately experienced the same symptoms and i was forced to tow the vehicle to the local dealership. i was told on september 3rd, the electric water pump had failed. the bmw dealership quoted $1332.00 to repair. upon further research it is apparent that this is a common issue with the bmw's right after the vehicle falls outside of warranty. this loss of power is a serious safety issue as this incident occurred without warning and at high speed with heavy traffic. due to the nature of this loss of power and the common occurrence i would recommend a recall or an extended warranty to be issued for this known problem. *jb

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

SERVICE BRAKES

brakes go out a lot front and rear on both my bmws , and passengers rear door locks stop working on both my bmw's 2006 325, and 328i 2007. windows on both right rear doors work when they want to. i've been telling the bmw dealer about these things and all they say is what it will cost me to fix. i even told them about the electrical problems on both my cars and they had me pay for it, then later i find out it is a recall. but didn't get money back for me paying to get it fixed. same thing about the brakes , both my bmws been in the shop more then 30 times or more apiece. can someone help.

Reported in: TEMPLE TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: TEMPLE TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

WHEELS

rear alloy wheel is cracked resulting in loss of pressure. no impact occurred to cause this crack.

Reported in: CHARLOTTE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVS13597F

AIR BAGS

when a person is seated in the passenger seat, the seat belt and large airbag warning lights come on the dash and stay on. once the passenger exits the car, the lights go off. i see there are recalls for the 2006 328i but not for the 2007. i am concerned that in the event of an accident, the air bag will not deploy.

Reported in: LONG BEACH MS || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

SEAT BELTS

Reported in: LONG BEACH MS || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

several times throughout the day after the car was parked, it was difficult to start and he battery indicator came on a few times. the final time after driving from connecticut to queens ny, i was in a friends driveway after dropping them off from the airport, the car would not start even thought the lights were working. eventually all power was lost. i had to have car pushed out if the driving and on to the street. also to note earlier i was charging my cell phone, but it stopped charging. i went and purchase a new charged (usb adaptor) which did not work either, but worked when i hooked it up to the computer. the tow truck person was not able to get the car started with a jump, and indicated that it appeared to be an electrical issues. i reviewed the internet to see what the problem could be since my car has such low milage, and noticed there was a recall on my vehicle year and model from february 2013. i don't know if this is the same, but it sounds similar.

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7P

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled without warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to diagnose the failure. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 60,000 and the current mileage was 74,000.

Reported in: PALM HARBOR FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

i was driving my 328i with 48k miles and the electronic steering wheel lock icon came up on the dash panel. it kept giving the warning that the steering wheel will lock and if i turn the car off and i won't be able to start it. i drove it home and when i turned the car off, i was able to crank it back up and had no problem with steering in test drive. dealer told me that i need to replace the column because it could actually lock. this would be disastrous on a freeway in southern cal where i live. this is a defect in the bmw 328i models because i am reading other online posts stating the steering did lock. i am filing this complaint, hoping that any subsequent investigation by the nhtsa will see this is a real safety issue and bmw knows there is a problem that could result in a serious accident yet they won't issue a recall.

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

STRUCTURE

i was trapped inside my vehicle with the driver's side door unable to unlock. i could not use the manual door handle on the inside or out. the interior door open button located on the dashboard would not unlock the driver's side door. the key fob would not unlock it. i finally had to maneuver across the center console and slide out through the passenger door. i was scared and frustrated. it was dark and in an empty parking lot.

Reported in: MANCHESTER CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53557F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: MANCHESTER CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53557F

STEERING

steering wheel lock sign keeps appearing and locking me out of the car. this has happened 4 times in the last two weeks and has left me stranded every time and 3 of the times a tow truck was unable to reach my car to tow it. i have had it at the dealer for a week now and the sign has not popped up for them so they say they can not do anything. when i dropped off the car to them after being stuck for 45 min, as soon as i parked it at bmw the service woman tried to go into it and start it and it showed the sign. the service team has been unable to diagnose the problem. so i am pick up the car today with nothing that has been done to it and it will most likely happen again in the next couple of days since it will be driven normally.

Reported in: SHERMAN OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33587P

ENGINE

i have had numerous problems with over heating. every time i have taken it to the dealer for this problem they have found multiple leaks and the manifold cracked (not diagnosed in one visit these were found after multiple visits). it still does it and now they claim they cannot find anything. they want proof that this is actually happening so i am going to film it when it happens to me again. the incident that happened on 12/31/13, i was driving on a road to get to a resort, this road was not elevated in anyway it was level. it happens every month or so.

Reported in: SHERMAN OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33587P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

at 65 mph on freeway, suddenly lost power. vehicle immediately slowed to about 10 mph as i pulled off the freeway. cars behind nearly ran me over. drove slowly to bmw service who diagnosed "water pump short to ground" causing veh to lose power.

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVS13537F

ENGINE

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVS13537F

ENGINE

owner of 2007 bmw 328i, start my car in the morning, but the car won't start it, it no sound when i try to start the car. but the window, locks and radio are all working well. try to jump the battery, it nothing wrong with the battery. need tow my car to the dealership, over one days already, still waiting the reply from the dealer.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

locked in car due to failed door locks. opened window to access manual door key but passenger crawled over to drivers side since this was the only way out.

Reported in: ELGIN IL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

STRUCTURE:BODY

locked in car due to failed door locks. opened window to access manual door key but passenger crawled over to drivers side since this was the only way out.

Reported in: ELGIN IL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the vehicle automatically unrolls all windows and the moonroof whenever it rains. this is flooding and ruining the vehicle, and causing moisture to enter the electrical system and cause a significant fire hazard. there is a burning smell from the electrical system. the issue, which is well known on the blogosphere, is due to a faulty and improperly installed wiring harness (installed crooked), an electrical short in pins 18 and 19 for the door lock actuator, and improper moisture sealing for the harness and actuator. the manufacturer refuses to acknowledge or address the issue.

Reported in: GREENVILLE SC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33577K

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Reported in: GREENVILLE SC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33577K

STEERING

passenger airbag seat pad does not detect. steering wheel lock fault both these problems have been recalled on other vehicles of same models same year but not mine. both problems have occurred on my vehicle and i refuse to py to get it fixed when others get there covered with a recall.

Reported in: ODESSA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37567N

AIR BAGS

Reported in: ODESSA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37567N

AIR BAGS

i unlocked the car and sat in the driver's seat. my wife sat in the front passenger seat. i inserted the keyfob and pushed the 'start' button. the car turned on and about 5 seconds later we heard a 'gong' sound. we looked at the screen and it was showing a red warning about the front passenger airbag being disabled. i powered off the car, waited a minute and powered it back on. same error came up. so i powered off the car a second time, asked the wife to get out of the car and then back onto the front passenger seat, then i powered on the car. the error went away. we drove 15 minutes to dinner, ate and returned home without further incident. that night i setup an appointment with global imports bmw for 9/12/2012 to have them look at it. the dealer ran diagnostics and reported the following in regards to the front passenger seat issue: "87844 performed short test and found fault mrs-93c3. performed test module and found the passenger seat mat to be defective. customer declined the seat mat replacement." next to this i had the service manager write in the total repair cost, $1,345.70. i still have a copy of the paperwork with the details if needed. i declined the repair at the time because i felt the fact they found "...the seat mat to be defective" indicated a known issue. fast forward to today 4/11/2014, nhtsa lists a "recall subject : front seat occupant protection mat" campaign number 13v564000. i called bmw usa's customer relations number and they told me my car had no recalls associated with it even though there's clearly an issue with the sensor mat. to this day i have yet to receive any recall letter's from bmw nor nhtsa. the car still brings up this error when my wife sits in the front passenger seat. it's not safe and i should not have to pay for repairs if there's an active recall for this model year. please help.

Reported in: NORCROSS GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

SEATS

Reported in: NORCROSS GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: NORCROSS GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

STEERING

red warning light steering problem stop car immediately. bmw and internet states this was common problem $1800+ to fix i had extended warrantee but it stil cost me approx $600.

Reported in: THOUSAND OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWV13557P

AIR BAGS

when i was driving and at the stop light, when i was about to go and the air bags came on and the sound ding, ding, ding, and the air bags light came on the dash? when i take it to my local shop and let them run ob2 scanner and it came up on the ob2 scanner it was the passenger side air bags mat sensor.

Reported in: LAKEWOOD CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53557F

SEATS

Reported in: LAKEWOOD CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53557F

AIR BAGS

the airbag sensor on my 2007 bmw 328i is malfunctioning. it matches the exact description as the recall and other filed complaints. however, bmw insists that my vin is not covered by the recall.

Reported in: ROCKWALL TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33597P

ENGINE

the engine stalled at a low speed coming to a stop. this is the second time this has happened over the past week.

Reported in: CAYCE SC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13577P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the engine stalled at a low speed coming to a stop. this is the second time this has happened over the past week.

Reported in: CAYCE SC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13577P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

driver door will not unlock or open. according to dozens of forum posts, it's a known issue. very dangerous if this fails in an accident and can't get out of the car. only way to get in and out is through window or passenger door. it is possible for all locks to fail and only way to get out would be from the windows. even door handle can't open door.

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC53577F

VISIBILITY:SUN ROOF ASSEMBLY

2007 bmw 328i. consumer writes in regards to vehicle sun roof shattered without warning. *smd

Reported in: WESTPORT CT || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

everything was fine. i hadn't noticed any changes except the cruise control would shut off by itself. then i needed a jump and it took right away. the next time i needed a jump it wouldn't take. took the battery to autozone and had it checked and it was fine. so realized it wasnt the battery. id try to start the car but nothing happens not even a clicking noice nothing. but the lights still came on windows still rolled down radio even worked it just wouldn't start.

Reported in: SEMINOLE OK || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33517P

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE

bmw recall dated 11/12/2013, nhtsa campaign number: 13v564000. recall up to 76,565 units for failures of front seat occupant protection mat. air bag will not deploy in the event of an accident. contacted bmw and told my vin does not fall into bmw range but i've been experiencing the exact failure since purchasing the vehicle used in 10/2013. bmw has likely not identified the true vin range of vehicles impacted by defective occupancy mats and refuses to pay for replacement.

Reported in: EPHRATA PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

SEAT BELTS

Reported in: EPHRATA PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

AIR BAGS

Reported in: EPHRATA PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37517N

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328 i. the contact stated while driving 30 mph, the vehicle stalled and the service engine warning indicator illuminated. the contact was able to restart the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to two different independent mechanics who were not able to duplicate the problem. the third time the failure occurred, the vehicle was taken to the dealer, who stated the failure was due to a defective eccentric shaft sensor which needed to be replaced. the contact was made aware of a recall under nhtsa campaign id number 13v044000 (electrical system), however, her vin was not included. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 106,745. the vin was not available.

Reported in: REYNOLDSVURG OH || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

ENGINE

Reported in: REYNOLDSVURG OH || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33547K

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the passenger air bag warning lamp illuminated. the vehicle was taken to the dealer. the technician diagnosed that the passenger air bag sensor mat was defective and needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in recall nhtsa campaign number: 13v564000 (air bags). the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 67,000 and the current mileage was 75,338. updated 8/27/14*cn updated 8/29/2014 *js

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVS13547F

AIR BAGS

warning light came on so we took the care to a technician who found the following fault code: "-93c3 seat occupancy detector, passenger, currently present, 95x0". this failure seems to be extremely common with this vehicle. when i contacted bmw customer relations, they stated: "thank you for contacting bmw of north america, llc regarding our amended voluntary recall announcement for the front passenger air bag seat occupancy sensor mat for certain 2006-2007 models depending upon seat type. included 3 series are 2006-2007 3 series sedans with sports seats that were produced between december 2005 ¿� september 2006. recalls are specific to a vehicle's identification number (vin) based on the above criteria, and does not have this recall. i suggest continuing to work with the service team at your authorized bmw center to review any concerns you may have with your vehicle." can you please investigate this and consider more vehicles for this recall? also, please let me know if i have any recourse for reimbursement if i go ahead and have the vehicle repaired at my own cost. thank you!

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

SEAT BELTS

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

AIR BAGS

there has been a recall on my vehicle model (2007 bmw 328i) for cracks developing in the "front passenger seat occupant detection mat". this causes the passenger side airbag to be deactivated during a crash (nhtsa campaign number: 13v564000). i called bmw and they say that my particular vehicle is not covered under this recall. i really do not understand why my particular vehicle is not covered when my exact model is covered under the recall and the issue with my car is exactly the same. i feel this is very unfair. please help me out here. i fear the worst because now i am married and i have a passenger more often than before. i really cannot afford $1000 right now to fix an issue that should be covered by bmw.

Reported in: AURORA CO || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA335X7F

ENGINE

batterry sparks third. time replacing, something clicks in the fuse box now the car won't. start.

Reported in: MORENO VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33537P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i was driving my bmw 328i 2007 and had passengers in the car. apparently one of the door lock fuses blew. i am unable to unlock any of the passenger doors with the key fob nor from the inside of the car. i am able to open the driver's side door manually but that is it. in other words, the passengers in my car could not manually open their doors at all. they had to crawl through the driver side to exit the vehicle! thank god i wasn't in an accident, there wasn't a fire. i'm now being told that bmw has to "run a full diagnostic" but there is no way to open any passenger doors of the vehicle for entrance or exit unless i potentially spend thousands of dollars on an electrical system issue. seriously? does this seem safe to the average person?

Reported in: PEACHTREE CITY GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33527K

AIR BAGS

front passenger air bag light came on. not part of the recall? not the specific to the vin? bmw dealer said it the seat pan cushin? different part? is this not a safety issue?

Reported in: SANTA FE NM || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37577N

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328i. the contact stated that the air bag sensor was not functioning properly. the vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the mat sensor system needed to be replaced. the contact stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 13v564000 (air bags). the approximate failure mileage was 50,000....updated 09-05-14 *bf

Reported in: CRANBURY NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

SEAT BELTS

passenger seat sensor failed (code 93c3), disabling potential airbag deployment. apparently this particular vin is not included in the current recall for this vehicle. please expand this recall. bmw has refused to fix the problem under the recall, so we paid nearly $1,200 to replace the faulty oc3 mat.

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

SEATS

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

AIR BAGS

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37557N

AIR BAGS

person kneeled on passenger seat and the seat restaint warning light came on. this part is being replaced under warrenty for some 2007 bmw's but not my vin

Reported in: REISTERSTOWN MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13517P

SEATS

person kneeled on passenger seat and the seat restaint warning light came on. this part is being replaced under warrenty for some 2007 bmw's but not my vin

Reported in: REISTERSTOWN MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWL13517P

STRUCTURE:BODY

hi, i think, this is a safety issue that bmw has to fix. my automatic car lock gets stuck and i can only open driver's side door and passenger side door doesn't open. the manual lever that is supposed to open the passenger side door and back door doesn't open the door. my wife and kids were stuck and some how manually they crawled out of the driver's side. it was very stressful and i was wondering if my son was 20yrs old, how can he come through the driver's side from the back seat. bmw is well aware of this issue and has not recalled the cars to fix the manual override when the automatic door opener doesn't work.

Reported in: FREMONT CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37577N

AIR BAGS

air bag and seat belt warning lights on dash remain lit at all times. additionally, the "passenger airbag disabled" indicator remains lit at all times. there is a recall campaign for the passenger seat sensor mat issue which caused these problems, yet apparently not for my vin. the disabled passenger seat airbag is a major safety issue, and clearly my vin should be part of the recall.

Reported in: TOMBALL TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA37507N

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

passenger restraint system malfunction - warning error is on after multiples batteries have been replaced. airbag is no longer working since this warning is on. the rear brake lights malfunction warming are on but still working/on. the right rear night light is not working but no warning error message. we changed the bulb but still not working... please help!!!

Reported in: FOUNTAIN VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33547P

AIR BAGS

Reported in: FOUNTAIN VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWB33547P

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