bmw 328xi 2007 Complaints

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the 2007 bmw 328xi coupe's "service engine soon" light comes on all the time, and the electronic engine oil dipstick (no manual dipstick in this car) often reports an incorrect reading of "add engine oil". these problems are dangerous as the engine service light can indicate any of a wealth of dangerous faults, and adding engine oil when the engine is full can create a hazard of splashing and/or burning of the skin. it seems that the engine oil is almost always full despite the warning. nevertheless it is reasonable for an owner to wrongfully add oil and thereby injure himself as the manufacturer's specifications indicate that one quart of oil may need to be added every 750 miles. my conversations with bmw owners in similar positions indicate that this problem is not isolated but rather is an epidemic. when the car is brought into the bmw service department all they do is change the oil and reset the "service engine soon" light. i have been told by the bmw technician that bmw is aware of these problems in this model, but that the service department is only authorized to take these measures and not make any repairs. the same exact problem(s) reappear in part or in whole a few days later. this recurrence is also not an isolated circumstance, but rather borne by many owners of this particular model. not only does this defect render the vehicle dangerous, it also severely limits the consumer's (myself included) use. *nm

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

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

the 2007 bmw 328xi coupe's "service engine soon" light comes on all the time, and the electronic engine oil dipstick (no manual dipstick in this car) often reports an incorrect reading of "add engine oil". these problems are dangerous as the engine service light can indicate any of a wealth of dangerous faults, and adding engine oil when the engine is full can create a hazard of splashing and/or burning of the skin. it seems that the engine oil is almost always full despite the warning. nevertheless it is reasonable for an owner to wrongfully add oil and thereby injure himself as the manufacturer's specifications indicate that one quart of oil may need to be added every 750 miles. my conversations with bmw owners in similar positions indicate that this problem is not isolated but rather is an epidemic. when the car is brought into the bmw service department all they do is change the oil and reset the "service engine soon" light. i have been told by the bmw technician that bmw is aware of these problems in this model, but that the service department is only authorized to take these measures and not make any repairs. the same exact problem(s) reappear in part or in whole a few days later. this recurrence is also not an isolated circumstance, but rather borne by many owners of this particular model. not only does this defect render the vehicle dangerous, it also severely limits the consumer's (myself included) use. *nm

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

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

all new bmw cars speedometer is in error. bmw is admitting to this issue. please see the information letter from bmw stating and describing the problem. group 62 instruments b 62 02 96 woodcliff lake, nj product engineering may 1996 subject: maximum permissible speedometer error models: all general information: a certain amount of "speedometer advance" is necessary to compensate for negative tolerances in tire diameter, electronic controls, and other factors. this advance reduces the risk of the speedometer displaying a speed that is less than the vehicle's actual speed. the amount of speedometer advance can be calculated by inputting a frequency (using the dis tester, "kombi test schedule") that corresponds to a given speed and noting the speed that is indicated by the speedometer. the maximum permitted speedometer advance is 10% of the actual (input) speed plus 2.4 mph. example: actual speed = 50 mph 50 mph x 10% = 5 mph; 5 mph + 2.4 mph = 7.4 mph therefore, the permissible displayed speed is 50 to 57.4 mph. (note: the displayed speed must never be less than the actual speed). no repairs should be attempted if the speedometer advance is within 10% + 2.4 mph. note: the amount of speedometer advance has no effect on recording of accumulated mileage in the odometer display. the odometer records total mileage digitally and does not incorporate any "advance" tolerances. warranty status: information only. *jb

Reported in: CHANHASSEN MN || Crash: N || VIN #:

TIRES

tl*the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the vehicle has bridgestone tires. the contact stated that her tires are defective at 18,000 miles. while driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle began swerving to the left and the tires felt hard. the dealer stated that the tires are defective and all four needed to be replaced. the tires are called "flat" tires and no spare tire was available. if the "flat" tires ever go flat, she can still drive on them for at least 125 more miles. the dealer will replace two of her tires for free, but the other two must be purchased at the cost of $625. the tire size was unknown. the failure mileage was 18,025.

Reported in: SHELTON CT || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73567K

AIR BAGS

passenger seat belt sensor is fault causing my airbag sensor to go off which indicates that there is a "failure in the passenger restraining system." one day the light was off - the next day the light was on. there was no accident. this occurred on my 2007 bmw 328xi. there are similar recalls on 2009 bmws? is there one for the 2007 model?

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

STEERING

dashboard indicates, "electric steering lock engaged". car is currently drivable, however the dealer has informed me that this has happened often in this year and model of bmw, and will continue to worsen until the car will no longer turn on. the malfunctioning feature (steering wheel lock) has been removed from subsequent models, indicating that the manufacturer recognizes the malfunction. repair includes replacement of the entire steering column, cost to repair is approximately $1300.

Reported in: BLOOMFIELD NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33567P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

unable to open front passenger door and rear passenger door due to failure of fuse caused by defective door lock actuators creating an unsafe condition in the event of an accident. this is known problem by bmw as service bulletin was issued. as a technical expert in this field i believe this should be a recall. the failure mode is unsafe and can occur during driving, if failure occurs during driving passengers cannot exit the vehicle. the locking system does not comply to fmvss206 s4.1.3 as there is no ability to unlock the mechanism once the door is locked and the fuse fails.

Reported in: NORTHVILLE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT73537F

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

unable to open front passenger door and rear passenger door due to failure of fuse caused by defective door lock actuators creating an unsafe condition in the event of an accident. this is known problem by bmw as service bulletin was issued. as a technical expert in this field i believe this should be a recall. the failure mode is unsafe and can occur during driving, if failure occurs during driving passengers cannot exit the vehicle. the locking system does not comply to fmvss206 s4.1.3 as there is no ability to unlock the mechanism once the door is locked and the fuse fails.

Reported in: NORTHVILLE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT73537F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

since approximately jan./2008 the "service engine soon" light on my 2007 bmw 328xi comes on and off periodically at approximately two week intervals. i have had the bmw service dept. look at it five(5) times to no avail. the danger lies in the compulsion to ignore a real problem because of so many false indications, leading to a catastrophic failure on a public road resulting in injuries. internet blogs report possible instructions by parent company bmw for service depts. to ignore the problem deliberately.

Reported in: BELLMORE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33547P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

earlier this year i went on a weekend trip with my family: my wife on the front passenger seat, on the rear seat my sister and my two and a half year old niece on her car seat. when we arrived to our destination none of the passenger doors would open; they were completely shut and they would not open with the internal controls, the remote or in any other way. only the drivers¿ door, which is also the only door that has a key hole, would open. all other doors are key-less and remained locked. my family had to climb through the windows to get out of the car. this was especially difficult with my little niece in the back seat. i took the car to the dealership and they found the problem¿s cause was a blown fuse. fortunately we did not have an emergency that require a quick exit of or entry into the car. but my family and i are very concerned about the safety hazard this design represent. in the event we would have been required to leave the vehicle in a rush we could not have done it. my wife is now pregnant i am really concerned about how safe this vehicle really is. the dealership and the manufacturer argue that this is a simple malfunction and they cannot guarantee it won¿t happen again. they are obviously dismissing the case; i believe the system should be designed to allow for manual lock/unlock of the doors even if the fuse blows - at least from the inside. good safety engineering policies should state that in the event of a fuse blow no system should get passengers locked inside their cars; this should not happen under any circumstance. failure to fix this represents a passenger's casualty waiting to happen. i hope you see it this way too.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT73527F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

earlier this year i went on a weekend trip with my family: my wife on the front passenger seat, on the rear seat my sister and my two and a half year old niece on her car seat. when we arrived to our destination none of the passenger doors would open; they were completely shut and they would not open with the internal controls, the remote or in any other way. only the drivers¿ door, which is also the only door that has a key hole, would open. all other doors are key-less and remained locked. my family had to climb through the windows to get out of the car. this was especially difficult with my little niece in the back seat. i took the car to the dealership and they found the problem¿s cause was a blown fuse. fortunately we did not have an emergency that require a quick exit of or entry into the car. but my family and i are very concerned about the safety hazard this design represent. in the event we would have been required to leave the vehicle in a rush we could not have done it. my wife is now pregnant i am really concerned about how safe this vehicle really is. the dealership and the manufacturer argue that this is a simple malfunction and they cannot guarantee it won¿t happen again. they are obviously dismissing the case; i believe the system should be designed to allow for manual lock/unlock of the doors even if the fuse blows - at least from the inside. good safety engineering policies should state that in the event of a fuse blow no system should get passengers locked inside their cars; this should not happen under any circumstance. failure to fix this represents a passenger's casualty waiting to happen. i hope you see it this way too.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT73527F

WHEELS

i discovered few weeks ago that the car i lease since 2008 does not have a spare tire. when i inquire the reason why, the manufacturer explained that the car uses especial tires called run flat which in the event of a tire problem would allow me to go to the next tire shop. there are a number of problems with this argument. first, the rationale for eliminating a spare tire is flawed and unsafe: a spare provides drivers with an extra wheel ¿ including both tire and rim, in case something happens with either component. eliminating the spare because a car has rfts (run flat tires) fails to take into consideration that the wheels of the car can also suffer damage to the point of immobilizing the vehicle. this is an important safety hazard that would be easily solved with a spare tire. second, after researching about rfts i found out that most tire shops in the metropolitan area where i live don¿t carry these tires (one needs to pre-order them) and cannot even repair them. i cannot imagine what would be the availability outside metropolitan areas. third, these tires are twice or three times as expensive as a regular tire ¿ the cheapest rft for my car are $200 per tire; and according to tire shop employees they typically last half the mileage of a regular tire. fourth, and perhaps the most concerning issue, when i was buying the car nobody at the dealership disclosed the type of tires the car had or the lack of spare tire. if i would have known this information i simply would not have leased the vehicle. i contacted the manufacturer and they said that even though they suggest their dealers disclose this information, they cannot monitor nor can they do anything to make the dealers comply. i think both manufacturer and dealers are to blame for putting people at risk by eliminating the spare tire, and for not being forthcoming and explicit about the introduction of new technologies that may affect the purchase decision.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT73527F

TIRES

i discovered few weeks ago that the car i lease since 2008 does not have a spare tire. when i inquire the reason why, the manufacturer explained that the car uses especial tires called run flat which in the event of a tire problem would allow me to go to the next tire shop. there are a number of problems with this argument. first, the rationale for eliminating a spare tire is flawed and unsafe: a spare provides drivers with an extra wheel ¿ including both tire and rim, in case something happens with either component. eliminating the spare because a car has rfts (run flat tires) fails to take into consideration that the wheels of the car can also suffer damage to the point of immobilizing the vehicle. this is an important safety hazard that would be easily solved with a spare tire. second, after researching about rfts i found out that most tire shops in the metropolitan area where i live don¿t carry these tires (one needs to pre-order them) and cannot even repair them. i cannot imagine what would be the availability outside metropolitan areas. third, these tires are twice or three times as expensive as a regular tire ¿ the cheapest rft for my car are $200 per tire; and according to tire shop employees they typically last half the mileage of a regular tire. fourth, and perhaps the most concerning issue, when i was buying the car nobody at the dealership disclosed the type of tires the car had or the lack of spare tire. if i would have known this information i simply would not have leased the vehicle. i contacted the manufacturer and they said that even though they suggest their dealers disclose this information, they cannot monitor nor can they do anything to make the dealers comply. i think both manufacturer and dealers are to blame for putting people at risk by eliminating the spare tire, and for not being forthcoming and explicit about the introduction of new technologies that may affect the purchase decision.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT73527F

TIRES

my car failed a vehicle inspection today for "safety reasons" because i'm told the 2 front tires are worn out. i have a 2007 bmw 328xi that came with bridgestone turanza el 42 run flat tires. after 8114 miles in response to my complains with the handling, and noise, the tires were found to be scalloped and all 4 were replaced (with same make and model) free of charge in 2007. at 22k miles (14k on new tires) the noise became unbearable and at 28,555 (20k on tires) i took the car back in and was told to replace the tires for close to $1000 (since the dealer said they could only replace tires once) with advise to shop for a better price. given that my state inspection guidelines consider this a safety issue, and i'm asked to change tires twice under 29k miles, i would have hoped bmw or bridgestone would have done something about this. but i'm requesting the nhtsa to look into it.

Reported in: BILLERICA MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC735X7K

WHEELS

runflat tires on bmw 328xi are not suited to american roads. hit a pothole on the highway with the runflat tires. wheel was damaged and tire was damaged as well. runflat tires seem less resilient than standard tires, and result in greater likelihood of wheel damage. tire did not go flat, but wheel and tire need replacement.

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

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2007 bmw 328xi. electronic door locks would not unlock. no door could be unlocked from inside vehicle. no door could be opened from inside vehicle. pulling the internal door latch repeatedly failed to unlock or open door. pushing electronic lock/unlock button on dashboard failed to unlock doors. lowering window and using manual key in exterior lock unlocked door but as soon as key was rotated to remove from lock door immediately electronically relocked. key had to be held in unlock position while interior door latch was used to open the door in order to open door to exit car. subsequently except for driver's door all doors remained inoperable locked but drivers door could be opened only manually with manual key from exterior or latch from interior without automatically re-locking. dealer was notified and repaired. dealer reported that a "short" had caused failure of ability to unlock. event has not occurred again in one month.

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

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

the door locks suddenly stop working. they lock and stay locked. you cannot open them from the inside, except the driver's door. all three remaining doors do not open! this is a common problem in bmw 3-series e90s.

Reported in: BOSTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

i purchased a used 2007 bmw 328xi coupe with the zf 6-19 automatic transmission. (not the zf 6-19 tu) two weeks after the purchase i was traveling at a steady 45 mph & had to brake quickly to about 5 mph. i then immediately hit the gas to accelerate away, and the car did not respond for an unacceptable period of time. dealership couldn't find the problem. i tested the car & determined that when the vehicle was in top (6th) gear, and was braked rapidly down to a speed needing a substantially lower gear, the transmission remains in 6th. when the driver attempts to accelerate the transmission shifts one gear at a time, takes about 0.8 seconds per gear change, and does not provide any accelerative force until it has made it to the correct gear. in an incident when decelerating from top gear to 10 mph or less and then immediately attempting to accelerate, the car takes about 4 seconds to begin to respond. once i demonstrated it to the dealership they looked into it further. bmw's response was "the vehicle is operating as designed." further complaints resulted in "custom software" for the transmission which dropped the delay from about 4 seconds to about 3.75 seconds, and allowed the transmission to transfer some power to the wheels as it was working down the gears. it was an extremely limited improvement, still far from safe. a four second delay before a driver can move the car effectively after breaking is unsafe. i am fortunate in that i discovered this problem in a situation where i wanted to accelerate, but didn't have to, in order to avoid a collision. had this happened on the 75 mph freeways in idaho where i live, i could easily been hurt or killed. this was reported to the dealership, and bmw north america. neither entity indicated that they believed there was any safety issue.

Reported in: BOISE ID || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33507P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

have you investigated why bmw has not offered a fix for trapping their customers in the car when a door lock actuator fails and blows a fuse? this is a common event on the 2007 328 model. what happens is a power door lock actuator fails during the unlock process and the increase in amperage causes 2 fuses to blow. this prevents any of the car's door locks from opening, thereby trapping occupants in the vehicle. there is no way to unlock the doors from inside the vehicle. occupants must either climb out of a window or have someone unlock the car using a mechanical key from outside of the car. please advise.

Reported in: BOWIE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93577K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

have you investigated why bmw has not offered a fix for trapping their customers in the car when a door lock actuator fails and blows a fuse? this is a common event on the 2007 328 model. what happens is a power door lock actuator fails during the unlock process and the increase in amperage causes 2 fuses to blow. this prevents any of the car's door locks from opening, thereby trapping occupants in the vehicle. there is no way to unlock the doors from inside the vehicle. occupants must either climb out of a window or have someone unlock the car using a mechanical key from outside of the car. please advise.

Reported in: BOWIE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93577K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2007 bmw 328xi sedan; locked vehicle with key fob. returned to vehicle and key fob would not open locks. used key fob to roll down windows. internal button would not unlock doors. pulling twice on door handle would not open doors. actual key would unlock driver's door only. drove car. tried internal button again, but it did not work. pulling twice on driver's door handle would unlock the door. no way to open any of the passenger doors. only way for passenger to exit is to go out window or through driver's side door. key fob would lock door but not unlock door. car is out of warranty by 2,000 miles. i have not had time to take it to dealer/mechanic or attempt to repair myself.

Reported in: APG MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93527K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2007 bmw 328xi sedan; locked vehicle with key fob. returned to vehicle and key fob would not open locks. used key fob to roll down windows. internal button would not unlock doors. pulling twice on door handle would not open doors. actual key would unlock driver's door only. drove car. tried internal button again, but it did not work. pulling twice on driver's door handle would unlock the door. no way to open any of the passenger doors. only way for passenger to exit is to go out window or through driver's side door. key fob would lock door but not unlock door. car is out of warranty by 2,000 miles. i have not had time to take it to dealer/mechanic or attempt to repair myself.

Reported in: APG MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93527K

WHEELS

i just purchased a 2007 used bmw 328xi with ~45k miles. one week to the date of purchase, the tire pressure warning light came on in the car. i took it to the dealership (still under warranty for 5k more miles) and they told me i had a cracked rim, "likely due to impact." i have driven it only on roads under normal conditions, hitting no significant potholes or other road obstructions. the rim is not covered under warranty and will cost ~$500 to replace. i checked this out incident reports online and it seems that many people have complained about the rims/run-flat tires being defective under normal driving conditions.

Reported in: SAN CARLOS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWR33537P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

i have a 1999 bmw 328i that i purchased in 2005 for $25,000 i just purchased a 2007 bmw 328xi on may with 54k miles on 11/1/10 it turned out that i bought a $35,000 death trap with the doors not opening or the gas tank to take it to the dealership so now it just sits there in my driveway. my 1999 with still does that same problem but off and on not like this 2007 death trap. i'm never ever buying a bmw again.

Reported in: BOSTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93517K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i have a 1999 bmw 328i that i purchased in 2005 for $25,000 i just purchased a 2007 bmw 328xi on may with 54k miles on 11/1/10 it turned out that i bought a $35,000 death trap with the doors not opening or the gas tank to take it to the dealership so now it just sits there in my driveway. my 1999 with still does that same problem but off and on not like this 2007 death trap. i'm never ever buying a bmw again.

Reported in: BOSTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93517K

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

i have a 1999 bmw 328i that i purchased in 2005 for $25,000 i just purchased a 2007 bmw 328xi on may with 54k miles on 11/1/10 it turned out that i bought a $35,000 death trap with the doors not opening or the gas tank to take it to the dealership so now it just sits there in my driveway. my 1999 with still does that same problem but off and on not like this 2007 death trap. i'm never ever buying a bmw again.

Reported in: BOSTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93517K

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

i have a 1999 bmw 328i that i purchased in 2005 for $25,000 i just purchased a 2007 bmw 328xi on may with 54k miles on 11/1/10 it turned out that i bought a $35,000 death trap with the doors not opening or the gas tank to take it to the dealership so now it just sits there in my driveway. my 1999 with still does that same problem but off and on not like this 2007 death trap. i'm never ever buying a bmw again.

Reported in: BOSTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93517K

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact was driving approximately 45 mph when he approached a traffic light and attempted to engage the brakes; the brakes did not respond which resulted in a crash. the contact stated that during the failure, the navigation screen displayed abs and dsc malfunctions. the contact sustained injuries as a result of the crash. the failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

Reported in: NEWPORT BEACH CA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2007 bmw 328xi. locking system failed. unable to unlock passenger doors either with the key or by pulling the door handle from the inside. only the driver door was able to open from the inside. this presents a significant safety issue. i had to have my wife and kids crawl out the windows on christmas eve in the church parking lot so that we could attend church. bmw needs to issue a recall and have this problem fixed properly.

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

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

my automatic door locks failed in october 2010. a fuse was replaced. then they failed again in december 2010. both times i was outside of the car. i used the manual key in the key fob to open the driver's door. if i had been inside of the car when it happened, the only way out would have been through the windows. when the locks failed, all doors were frozen closed and the interior override did not work. this could be serious if there was a need to quickly exit the car. especially if it involved pets, children, the elderly.

Reported in: RENO NV || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93587K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

this is a safety issue that nhtsa has learned of through several complaints. why hasn't anything been done? my 2007 bmw 328xi door lock actuators have failed at 52,660 miles: the key fob will not unlock the doors (the door handles will light up). i have to use the valet key to unlock the door, but only the driver and rear passenger doors will unlock. each of these doors (driver and rear passenger) can only be unlocked from the inside by pulling on the handle. the other two doors cannot be unlocked at all. this issue is obviously a safety concern: suppose i were in an accident and the only way out of the car was one of the two doors which are not unlockable?

Reported in: SPRAKS NV || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93537K

STEERING

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. while driving approximately 25 mph and attempting to make a right hand turn, the contact stated that the steering wheel became stuck, causing him to hit a wall. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who filed a report with the manufacturer. the manufacturer conducted an investigation which was inconclusive. they were unable to duplicate the failure. the current and failure mileages were unknown. a police report was available. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: STATE COLLEGE PA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

STEERING

red steering wheel lock warning light came on one day. i never had an issue with my car starting even with the warning light on. i had my car checked out and it was recommended to replace the whole steering wheel column. not because it was bad, but because the sensor was bad and the only way to fix it was replacing the whole steering column. total cost was over $700. my car was 3 months and 5,000 miles out of warranty. after researching on the internet i found that the steering column warning light sensor is a very common problem. hopefully enough people complain and bmw recalls this part that is obviously defective.

Reported in: ELKHART IN || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33587P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2007 bmw 328xi. the doors will not open utilizing remote nor open/close lock button in the car. this is a safety issue because only the driver side door can open even from the inside.

Reported in: WEST ORANGE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC935X7K

STEERING

car died out of no where who not start would not jump start had to have it towed for big money on a flat bed with skates. i was hours away from home. steering column and a new battery over $1600.

Reported in: DUNSTABLE MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

car died out of no where who not start would not jump start had to have it towed for big money on a flat bed with skates. i was hours away from home. steering column and a new battery over $1600.

Reported in: DUNSTABLE MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

none of my doors will unlock in my 2007 328xi with only 52,000 miles. i have to roll down the window and use the manual key and then it only unlock my driver door...all other doors and the gas tank will not unlock....not even pulling the handles from the interior. this is a very bad design flaw and a major safety hazard. i have a 5 and a 2 year old. what if i were to have an emergency where my battery were to die and the windows were up. i and my children would perish in the heat of our georgia summer. the engineers need to fix this safety hazard immediately otherwise a life is going to die!

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

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

sib 51 19 07, car door locks failed and was forced to exit through window.

Reported in: MILWAUKEE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93537K

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact was driving 65 mph when the vehicle exhibited an abnormal grinding noise while decelerating independently. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the fuel line was disconnected and the entire fuel system would need replacing. there were no recalls for the failure. the manufacturer was contacted who offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 59,000. updated 08/31/11 *bf the consumer stated while driving down the parkway at 65 mph, the engine abruptly shut down. when the consumer attempted to restart the vehicle, the starter turned over, but the engine would not start. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and they determined the fuel pump failed. the fuel lines had disconnected from the fuel pump. the dealer ten stated the only way to replace the lines, was to replace the entire fuel tank. updated 09/12/11

Reported in: RIDGEFIELD PARK NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWV53547P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the vehicle was parked when he noticed that none of the power locks were functioning. in order to enter the vehicle, the contact had to open the front passenger side door manually by using the key. when the contact entered the vehicle he noticed that none of the doors, except the front passenger side door would open from the interior. the front passenger side door was the only door that could be opened from the interior or exterior. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed that the main fuse box needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 65,000.

Reported in: WOODSIDE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73537K

STEERING

dashboard indicates, "electric steering lock engaged". car is currently drivable, however the dealer has informed me that this has happened often in this year and model of bmw, and will continue to worsen until the car will no longer turn on. the malfunctioning feature (steering wheel lock) has been removed from subsequent models, indicating that the manufacturer recognizes the malfunction. repair includes replacement of the entire steering column, cost to repair is approximately $1300.

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the power locks in my 2007 bmw 328xi suddenly stopped working. the alarm arms/disarms with the usual button presses, but there is otherwise nothing that takes place. obvious safety issue. while valet key unlocks front, driver-side door -- didn't test passenger's -- the fuel door remains locked. i have a business trip planned early in the morning. the saving grace is that i didn't encounter this fuel door fiasco on i-95 in some backwoods town, but wow... how is this not a recall?!?!?! i see several complaints about this same issue! does someone need to die first? wow! *kb

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

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

the power locks in my 2007 bmw 328xi suddenly stopped working. the alarm arms/disarms with the usual button presses, but there is otherwise nothing that takes place. obvious safety issue. while valet key unlocks front, driver-side door -- didn't test passenger's -- the fuel door remains locked. i have a business trip planned early in the morning. the saving grace is that i didn't encounter this fuel door fiasco on i-95 in some backwoods town, but wow... how is this not a recall?!?!?! i see several complaints about this same issue! does someone need to die first? wow! *kb

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

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2007 328xi currently at 65700mi. unable to unlock car using key fob or inside button on dash. windows work, handles light up. can hear an audible sound when car is trying to unlock. cannot open without using valet key. can exit from driver side only using handle. all other doors cannot unlock as well as gas cap. safety hazard if passengers cannot exit vehicle for any reason.

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

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i have a 2007 328xi that currently has 51,000 miles. it is the second time that my locks in the vehicle have failed. the locks previously failed around 30,000 miles and were replaced under warranty, but now out of warranty i will be left to foot the bill myself. in the most recent incident, i was unable to unlock the car using the key fob or the button on the dash. i found myself locked in the vehicle and had to exit through the driver's window. luckily, i was able to unlock the car from the outside using the valet key. the windows and trunk works, but the locks do not. when i press the lock and unlock button on the key fob and dash, i hear an audible sound as the car is trying to lock/unlock but the actuators in the doors do not function. it is a serious safety hazard if passengers cannot exit the vehicle for any reason. please initiate an investigation and recall immediately. bmw engineers must design new locking system components that are not defective and do not fail every 20,000 miles. *tt

Reported in: MERCER ISLAND WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

i have a 2007 328xi that currently has 51,000 miles. it is the second time that my locks in the vehicle have failed. the locks previously failed around 30,000 miles and were replaced under warranty, but now out of warranty i will be left to foot the bill myself. in the most recent incident, i was unable to unlock the car using the key fob or the button on the dash. i found myself locked in the vehicle and had to exit through the driver's window. luckily, i was able to unlock the car from the outside using the valet key. the windows and trunk works, but the locks do not. when i press the lock and unlock button on the key fob and dash, i hear an audible sound as the car is trying to lock/unlock but the actuators in the doors do not function. it is a serious safety hazard if passengers cannot exit the vehicle for any reason. please initiate an investigation and recall immediately. bmw engineers must design new locking system components that are not defective and do not fail every 20,000 miles. *tt

Reported in: MERCER ISLAND WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

doors remained in locked position and would not respond to remote on fob or central door control internally. driver, passenger, and rear doors would not open manually once door latch depressed. driver door only opened through window to allow passengers in front and rear seats to exit. obviously, very difficult to exit. after initial incident, no passengers could ride in car until issue was resolved. *kb

Reported in: LANCASTER NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93587K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

doors remained in locked position and would not respond to remote on fob or central door control internally. driver, passenger, and rear doors would not open manually once door latch depressed. driver door only opened through window to allow passengers in front and rear seats to exit. obviously, very difficult to exit. after initial incident, no passengers could ride in car until issue was resolved. *kb

Reported in: LANCASTER NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93587K

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

when the cruise control arm is pushed forward to accelerate mile by mile, the arm sticks causing the car to accelerate uncontrollably until the cruise control is turned off or the brake is used to disengage.

Reported in: WEST LONG BRANCH NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93557K

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

rear/and or front brakes are needed on this car approximately every 6 months at least.

Reported in: WEST LONG BRANCH NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93557K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

car locks but then will not unlock, i have to manually unlock the driver door. passenger doors will not unlock at all. this has happened to me twice, the fuse keeps blowing out. i have changed the fuse twice in 3 months. i have looked this problem up online and this seems to be a major problem for the 2007 bmw 328xi. this is obviously a huge safety problem and needs to be addressed. i have two children and the thought of something happening where we are unable to get out of the car frightens me.

Reported in: ERIE CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

car locks but then will not unlock, i have to manually unlock the driver door. passenger doors will not unlock at all. this has happened to me twice, the fuse keeps blowing out. i have changed the fuse twice in 3 months. i have looked this problem up online and this seems to be a major problem for the 2007 bmw 328xi. this is obviously a huge safety problem and needs to be addressed. i have two children and the thought of something happening where we are unable to get out of the car frightens me.

Reported in: ERIE CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the recall announced in the new york times today (http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/26/bmw-recalls-nearly-1-3-million-vehicles-worldwide-for-battery-cable-flaw/?nl=automobiles&emc=edit_ws_20120327) announcing a recall of 6-series and 5-series bmws also potentially affected 2007 3-series bmws as well. at about 31000 miles, i began experiencing flickering headlights. the dealer diagnosed as a loose battery connection. the battery had never been changed/removed, so it should not have had a connection issue. just thought you should know so if 3-series complaints are common you open up the investigation to explore the issue in 3-series designs.... i was lucky, caught it before damage/fire occurred.

Reported in: SUMMIT NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC935X7K

AIR BAGS

airbag system failure light came on. bmw refuses to fix the problem for free although this problem seems to be widespread.

Reported in: CORNELIUS NC || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33507P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

the power locks do not work. the locks on the driver and passenger front doors were locked but the back doors were not locked. i could not open the door on the front passenger at all. i could open the driver door manually and thats pretty much it.

Reported in: BALLWIN MO || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

dashboard displays "electronic steering lock" alert. no other outward symptoms. car is drivable. dealer says wheel could lock up at any time and says a steering column replacement ($1400) is required. this seems to be a very pervasive problem on many bmw models. i understand that it is so bad that bmw replaces the steering column with one without the steering wheel lock. therefore, the manufacturer acknowledges the problem with the part. many people are being forced to pay for an expensive repair that is obviously due to an inherent and pervasive problem that the manufacturers will not acknowledge. bmw should make this repair at no charge to the customer. *js

Reported in: DENVILLE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

vehicle displays moderate overheat warning and within minutes displays high temperature overheat warning and goes into failsafe mode which make the car come to a halt. this could cause a dangerous situation in a busy highway. problem was identified as failed water pump.

Reported in: HENDERSON NV || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the vehicle was equipped with a keyless ignition start and the engine would not start. in addition, the battery failed to jump start. after waiting forty eight hours the engine started upon engaging the push button ignition. the failure occurred six times. on a separate occasion when driving the engine stalled without warning and restarted immediately. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis. there was no trouble detected. the vehicle had not been repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 85,000.

Reported in: HOCKESSIN DE || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73567K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

91 year old person could not get out of the car, fuse 57 failed and all doors were locked and also door handles and key fob were inoperative. bmw should have a mandatory recall for this dangerous safety issue. if an accident occurs, people could be trapped in the car. what a disgrace bmw!

Reported in: HAMILTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

91 year old person could not get out of the car, fuse 57 failed and all doors were locked and also door handles and key fob were inoperative. bmw should have a mandatory recall for this dangerous safety issue. if an accident occurs, people could be trapped in the car. what a disgrace bmw!

Reported in: HAMILTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVA33517K

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

i own a 07 bmw 328xi, on 10/03/12 i got out of my car and tried locking it and only two doors locked. the doors would not unlock with the fob or the door switch located in the car. in order to get into car i had to climb over the passengers seat and when it was time to get out the same had to happen. i called my local dealer and they told me that it was a actuator problem, so asked if there was anything i could do to get the doors unlocked till my appt. i made. he proceeded to tell me no and upon reading some forums he could have said use the key hidden in the fob to unlock the door or check the #57 fuse which controls the locks. unfortunately, i pretty disappointed with my dealer because he could have potently put me in a dangerous situation, he could have told me these things but he choice to say nothing to get me in there. this is a know problem with bmw's and could be a dangerous problem if the car was to run off the road in a body of water and the person has to over seats to get because of the drivers door not being able to open.

Reported in: AUBURN MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i own a 07 bmw 328xi, on 10/03/12 i got out of my car and tried locking it and only two doors locked. the doors would not unlock with the fob or the door switch located in the car. in order to get into car i had to climb over the passengers seat and when it was time to get out the same had to happen. i called my local dealer and they told me that it was a actuator problem, so asked if there was anything i could do to get the doors unlocked till my appt. i made. he proceeded to tell me no and upon reading some forums he could have said use the key hidden in the fob to unlock the door or check the #57 fuse which controls the locks. unfortunately, i pretty disappointed with my dealer because he could have potently put me in a dangerous situation, he could have told me these things but he choice to say nothing to get me in there. this is a know problem with bmw's and could be a dangerous problem if the car was to run off the road in a body of water and the person has to over seats to get because of the drivers door not being able to open.

Reported in: AUBURN MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

my 2007 bmw 328xi completely powered down while i was driving. i was forced to "coast" into a side lane on a busy road during the first occurrence. since this first incident my car has been having this same exact issue - recently, much more frequently. i feel as if this is an incredibly dangerous issue since this has happened while i have been driving on incredibly busy streets and i could have easily gotten into some form of an accident.

Reported in: SILVER SPRING MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

my 2007 bmw 328xi completely powered down while i was driving. i was forced to "coast" into a side lane on a busy road during the first occurrence. since this first incident my car has been having this same exact issue - recently, much more frequently. i feel as if this is an incredibly dangerous issue since this has happened while i have been driving on incredibly busy streets and i could have easily gotten into some form of an accident.

Reported in: SILVER SPRING MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

my 2007 bmw 328xi completely powered down while i was driving. i was forced to "coast" into a side lane on a busy road during the first occurrence. since this first incident my car has been having this same exact issue - recently, much more frequently. i feel as if this is an incredibly dangerous issue since this has happened while i have been driving on incredibly busy streets and i could have easily gotten into some form of an accident.

Reported in: SILVER SPRING MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i was leaving my place of employment when the vehicle cut out with no electrical power and the engine died. it restarted and i went home. the next morning the vehicle had no power and would not start. upon investigation, the battery in the trunk had 12.60 volts and the fuses at the power distribution center/box had only 2.80 volts. with a screw driver i moved the large red battery cable going to the back of the pdc and all the lights came on. i subseqeuntly removed the pdc and inspected the main power lead. the terminal was corroded has a relatively loose fit and just clips to the back of the pdc, even though it is a large gauge wire.

Reported in: GUNNISON CO || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93527K

STEERING

on the way to work that morning a red warning light "steering wheel with a pad lock on the top left corner" came on, after parking at work i got the manual out and found that this is an electric steering-wheel lock fault , the car might not start if shut off. took it to the dealer a few days later, and they cleared the code saying there was nothing wrong. got the warning again in december, went back to the dealer, and now they say a sensor is bad. they need to replace the steering column for $1000.00.

Reported in: EDWARDSVILLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33567P

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328 xi. the contact stated that while parked, the remote key fob failed to unlock all of the doors and the key had to be used to manually unlock the doors. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact that the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure and current mileage was 48,000.

Reported in: BROOKFIELD KY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73587K

STEERING

a red steering wheel and lock appeared on the dash of my 2007 328xi which displays "steering wheel lock" alert and reads that the car should not be turned off or engine may fail to start. this appears to be an ongoing issue with this model which is quite expensive to fix. the manufacturer should be held responsible to fix this known defect as it is quite common in this model and there are many similar complaints regarding the same issue.

Reported in: BOXFORD MA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWC33597P

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE

i was driving at highway speeds when i hit a small bump in the road which caused my scalding hot coffee to get ejected from the hop holder onto my leg. the cup holders in this car are dangerous because they are spring loaded from underneath. when you have a drink in the holder it (cup holder) exerts upward force on the cup. when the cup is light enough or you hit a bump hard enough it will eject whatever beverage in the holder onto the driver and / or passenger. i had a can of soda come out one and land on the drivers side floor. it wedged under the back of the brake pedal and i almost had an accident. this problem is widespread as i have spoken with other 3 series owners and they have had the same problem.

Reported in: SCRANTON PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that he attempted to open the door but it failed to open since there was no power in the vehicle. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included on any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 96,000.

Reported in: ROCKVILLE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWV53527P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

for a few months prior to june, vehicle electronics were flickering and key fobs were not working all the time. thought it might be battery in key fob (replaced) but that didn't work so i replaced car battery. still having issues took car to the dealership and they couldn't find any issues. a few weeks went by and on my way to work, car just shut off on the highway, i had to get over two lanes of traffic with dead car. i had the car towed to dealership. they found burnt power cable and fuse box. $1800 later car was repaired and there has been no electrical issues since. i heard from another dealership that the repair is something that started happening lately. yesterday 19 feb 2013 the recall notice came out on news, i hope i am reimbursed for repairs. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: GREENFIELD WI || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

the engine stalled while driving on freeway and would not start after that. dealer replaced fuel pump but it happened again after a week. this time dealer replaced the fuel sensor. first time the car stalled on local street but 2nd time on the freeway. had to tow to dealer both the times. losing engine power at highway speed is dangerous and could cause fatal accident. after a week the engine suddenly lost most of the power at highway speed and now drives at max 50mph or so. dealer is still trying to troubleshoot the car, root cause unknown. all this happened just after 10 days of car going out of warranty.

Reported in: STAMFORD CT || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73507K

ENGINE

i was driving on highway georgia 400, which is one of the most traveled highway's in atlanta, georgia. cars frequently travel 20-30 mph above the speed limit and if you do not go at least 75 mph, then you are obstructing the flow of traffic. my 2007 bmw 328xi sedan was traveling at about 80 mph until an orange engine overheat light came on, then quickly turned red. immediately the safety mechanism kicked in which restricts my speed and i could no longer accelerate. i was in the fast left lane and tried to pull over on the left hand shoulder but there is not enough space. i was trying to accelerate to at least pull over to the right hand lane, but could not. luckily the flow of traffic was not it's usual busy nature and cars behind me were honking as i kept trying to get over to the right shoulder (as cars were traveling high speeds). the engine noise was getting louder and louder. i limped over to the right hand shoulder and shut off the engine as it sounded like it would explode. i could smell smoke as well. the water pump ended up quitting on me, causing the engine overheat. however, no warning at all and no indication that allowed me to take pre-caution before i traveled in my car. this is simply outrageous and a design flaw. this is an extreme safety issue. your engine suddenly quitting on you, with no warning on a major highway system? cars in every lane traveling at least 75 mph or greater while you are quickly reducing in speed trying to pull over? on top of that, there is no reading in my car for engine temperature. bmw needs to fix this or someone will die because of it. many may get lucky they are on a side road or in a safe location when their water pump goes out. however, many are on the highway when this happens! three people worked on my car the last month and all say no way to determine when your water pump will blow. no excuses for this!

Reported in: ATLANTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93537K

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was driving on highway georgia 400, which is one of the most traveled highway's in atlanta, georgia. cars frequently travel 20-30 mph above the speed limit and if you do not go at least 75 mph, then you are obstructing the flow of traffic. my 2007 bmw 328xi sedan was traveling at about 80 mph until an orange engine overheat light came on, then quickly turned red. immediately the safety mechanism kicked in which restricts my speed and i could no longer accelerate. i was in the fast left lane and tried to pull over on the left hand shoulder but there is not enough space. i was trying to accelerate to at least pull over to the right hand lane, but could not. luckily the flow of traffic was not it's usual busy nature and cars behind me were honking as i kept trying to get over to the right shoulder (as cars were traveling high speeds). the engine noise was getting louder and louder. i limped over to the right hand shoulder and shut off the engine as it sounded like it would explode. i could smell smoke as well. the water pump ended up quitting on me, causing the engine overheat. however, no warning at all and no indication that allowed me to take pre-caution before i traveled in my car. this is simply outrageous and a design flaw. this is an extreme safety issue. your engine suddenly quitting on you, with no warning on a major highway system? cars in every lane traveling at least 75 mph or greater while you are quickly reducing in speed trying to pull over? on top of that, there is no reading in my car for engine temperature. bmw needs to fix this or someone will die because of it. many may get lucky they are on a side road or in a safe location when their water pump goes out. however, many are on the highway when this happens! three people worked on my car the last month and all say no way to determine when your water pump will blow. no excuses for this!

Reported in: ATLANTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93537K

STRUCTURE:BODY

on february 6, 2013, at around 7am, i was driving south on the taconic state parkway near pleasantville, ny on my way to work . my electrical systems suddenly started to fail, and i heard a crackling noise from the backseat. i looked in my rear-view mirror and i saw flames in the backseat. i pulled over on the right shoulder right before the pleasantville exit. i struggled to exit my car because the seatbelt was stuck as the entire backseat of my car was engulfed with me inside. after it finally released , i exited the burning car in a daze. a good samaritan stopped to help me, whose name and contact information can be provided. she put me in her car and we each called 911. a nys trooper created a police report, which can be provided. as we waited for firemen, the car was engulfed in flames and blew up twice. one of my co-workers stopped to help me and witnessed the car blow up. i have pictures showing the car completely engulfed and the entire car charred and unrecognizable after the fire was extinguished. i am now aware that, after the incident took place, bmw issued its largest recall ever in the u.s. of approximately 504k vehicles, including the same year, make and model as my car. the recall stems from a faulty battery connection. importantly, the battery and the battery connection for bmws are in the trunk, which is where i believe the fire started in my car. as a result of numerous complaints and case studies, bmw had been aware of this battery-related defect on my car since 2010. i'm also aware that bmw has recalled other bmw models for a very similar battery issue that resulted in charring or fires in the bmws. the car is currently being held by traveler's insurance company and is available for your immediate inspection.

Reported in: MOHEGAN LAKE NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: WBAWV53517P

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

on february 6, 2013, at around 7am, i was driving south on the taconic state parkway near pleasantville, ny on my way to work . my electrical systems suddenly started to fail, and i heard a crackling noise from the backseat. i looked in my rear-view mirror and i saw flames in the backseat. i pulled over on the right shoulder right before the pleasantville exit. i struggled to exit my car because the seatbelt was stuck as the entire backseat of my car was engulfed with me inside. after it finally released , i exited the burning car in a daze. a good samaritan stopped to help me, whose name and contact information can be provided. she put me in her car and we each called 911. a nys trooper created a police report, which can be provided. as we waited for firemen, the car was engulfed in flames and blew up twice. one of my co-workers stopped to help me and witnessed the car blow up. i have pictures showing the car completely engulfed and the entire car charred and unrecognizable after the fire was extinguished. i am now aware that, after the incident took place, bmw issued its largest recall ever in the u.s. of approximately 504k vehicles, including the same year, make and model as my car. the recall stems from a faulty battery connection. importantly, the battery and the battery connection for bmws are in the trunk, which is where i believe the fire started in my car. as a result of numerous complaints and case studies, bmw had been aware of this battery-related defect on my car since 2010. i'm also aware that bmw has recalled other bmw models for a very similar battery issue that resulted in charring or fires in the bmws. the car is currently being held by traveler's insurance company and is available for your immediate inspection.

Reported in: MOHEGAN LAKE NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: WBAWV53517P

ENGINE

upon trying to start car, control message came on said steering wheel locked, engine will not start. turn wheel to start engine. this did not work, many tries!. car is not running. in checking the internet, for a solution, i find many with the same complaint for the same model & even year bmw. something sounds fishy. there was just a recall on the 3 series for some short involving fuse box to back of car written up in my local newspaper. bmw said my car is not involved. could these two issues be related? i have maintained my car per recommended schedule! bmw of north america said the wheel lock problem is not warranteed nor is it a recall issue. sounds like too many people having this same problem for this not to be a defect that should be fixed by bmw at no charge to the customer. please investigate and advise!

Reported in: FLUSHING NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

upon trying to start car, control message came on said steering wheel locked, engine will not start. turn wheel to start engine. this did not work, many tries!. car is not running. in checking the internet, for a solution, i find many with the same complaint for the same model & even year bmw. something sounds fishy. there was just a recall on the 3 series for some short involving fuse box to back of car written up in my local newspaper. bmw said my car is not involved. could these two issues be related? i have maintained my car per recommended schedule! bmw of north america said the wheel lock problem is not warranteed nor is it a recall issue. sounds like too many people having this same problem for this not to be a defect that should be fixed by bmw at no charge to the customer. please investigate and advise!

Reported in: FLUSHING NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

door locks do not open, doors not able to open. fuel door trapped closed.

Reported in: WAUKESHA WI || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

door locks do not open, doors not able to open. fuel door trapped closed.

Reported in: WAUKESHA WI || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

at approximately 4:15 pm on 4/18/13 i was driving on a busy roadway at approx 35mph in my 2007 bmw 328xi coupe, 65540 miles. all of a sudden the vehicles indicator light flashed orange for coolant temperature warning. within 5 sec the indicator flashed red and the engine shut down as i proceeded through an intersection. there was no acceleration and i was left to coast out of the intersection. luckily the intersection was slightly down hill so i was able to coast to the curb without being t-boned. apparently this engine shut down is a designed feature in this model bmw (2007 328xi) to save the engine in the case of overheating. while this feature means well it is an extreme safety issue as other bmw customers have reported similar events while traveling on interstates and speeds up to 80mph (see bimmerforums and aboutautomobile). this type of event in certain situations could absolutely lead to loss of property and/or life. the air temp was approx 85f and i had been driving the car for more than a 30min in pre-rush hour traffic before the event. at the time,traffic was not stop and go and i was moving at a fairly consistent 30mph. there was less than 10-15 sec between the first coolant warning flashing orange, proceeding to red, and engine shut down. these were the only indicative warnings of a problem. the oil temperature was around 230f. after letting the car cool for several hours i checked the coolant which was in the normal range. i was then able to drive the car the remaining 1.5 miles to my home. at home, i was able to replicate this overheating shut down event by turning the ac on and revving the engine from 2000 to 3000 rpm at a standstill. after about 5min, once again the indicator panel flashed orange, 5 seconds later red, leading to engine shut down almost immediately. this yet again replicated the short 10 sec warning before complete engine shut down.

Reported in: BETHEL PARK PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE

at approximately 4:15 pm on 4/18/13 i was driving on a busy roadway at approx 35mph in my 2007 bmw 328xi coupe, 65540 miles. all of a sudden the vehicles indicator light flashed orange for coolant temperature warning. within 5 sec the indicator flashed red and the engine shut down as i proceeded through an intersection. there was no acceleration and i was left to coast out of the intersection. luckily the intersection was slightly down hill so i was able to coast to the curb without being t-boned. apparently this engine shut down is a designed feature in this model bmw (2007 328xi) to save the engine in the case of overheating. while this feature means well it is an extreme safety issue as other bmw customers have reported similar events while traveling on interstates and speeds up to 80mph (see bimmerforums and aboutautomobile). this type of event in certain situations could absolutely lead to loss of property and/or life. the air temp was approx 85f and i had been driving the car for more than a 30min in pre-rush hour traffic before the event. at the time,traffic was not stop and go and i was moving at a fairly consistent 30mph. there was less than 10-15 sec between the first coolant warning flashing orange, proceeding to red, and engine shut down. these were the only indicative warnings of a problem. the oil temperature was around 230f. after letting the car cool for several hours i checked the coolant which was in the normal range. i was then able to drive the car the remaining 1.5 miles to my home. at home, i was able to replicate this overheating shut down event by turning the ac on and revving the engine from 2000 to 3000 rpm at a standstill. after about 5min, once again the indicator panel flashed orange, 5 seconds later red, leading to engine shut down almost immediately. this yet again replicated the short 10 sec warning before complete engine shut down.

Reported in: BETHEL PARK PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

my 2007 328xi bmw driver's side door will not unlock or lock. seems to be a common issue and a recall needs to be done with these...

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

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

my 2007 328xi bmw driver's side door will not unlock or lock. seems to be a common issue and a recall needs to be done with these...

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

POWER TRAIN

my 2007 328xi transfer case on the drive train failed at approximately 65 mph on sunday 6/16/2013. this caused an immediately loss of all wheel drive and abs in the rear of the vehicle. with some simple research online it is evident that this is a common problem amongst similar models and year groups. the x3 and x5 are notorious for the issue. a whole aftermarket industry and developed on replacing the gears with newer, high heat and stress gears so this issue doesn't happen and there are retailers who market to people with these vehicles to replace them. the fact that a secondary market has appeared and it has not been acknowledged as a serious issue is confusing. the interior of the transfer case shows the gears are made from plastic which degrade overtime and eventually cause all wheel drive to fail to engage or to disengage and causing severe brake and handling issues. i was fortunate enough to maintain control but others may not be.

Reported in: OXFORD PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES

my 2007 328xi transfer case on the drive train failed at approximately 65 mph on sunday 6/16/2013. this caused an immediately loss of all wheel drive and abs in the rear of the vehicle. with some simple research online it is evident that this is a common problem amongst similar models and year groups. the x3 and x5 are notorious for the issue. a whole aftermarket industry and developed on replacing the gears with newer, high heat and stress gears so this issue doesn't happen and there are retailers who market to people with these vehicles to replace them. the fact that a secondary market has appeared and it has not been acknowledged as a serious issue is confusing. the interior of the transfer case shows the gears are made from plastic which degrade overtime and eventually cause all wheel drive to fail to engage or to disengage and causing severe brake and handling issues. i was fortunate enough to maintain control but others may not be.

Reported in: OXFORD PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN

i was driving home on the highway during a rainstorm when the 4x4, brakes warning came on. the handling immediately was affected. i didn't feel the traction i was used to and braking became dangerous. i wanted to pull over but the brakes made the car stop too abruptly, causing me to skid on the wet road. had the highway been busier i'm sure i would've been in a serious accident. i consider myself very lucky. i took my car to a local mechanic. i was told that it was the transfer case actuator gear. it's plastic and the intense heat causes it to fail. i was told this problem is very common....so much that the replacements are made of a different composite and more heat resistant. my question is why do i have to pay for a gear that is recognized as faulty. if the replacements are better than the original then obviously bmw recognizes that too. this is becoming way to common for bmw not to react.

Reported in: BUDD LAKE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC735X7K

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was driving home on the highway during a rainstorm when the 4x4, brakes warning came on. the handling immediately was affected. i didn't feel the traction i was used to and braking became dangerous. i wanted to pull over but the brakes made the car stop too abruptly, causing me to skid on the wet road. had the highway been busier i'm sure i would've been in a serious accident. i consider myself very lucky. i took my car to a local mechanic. i was told that it was the transfer case actuator gear. it's plastic and the intense heat causes it to fail. i was told this problem is very common....so much that the replacements are made of a different composite and more heat resistant. my question is why do i have to pay for a gear that is recognized as faulty. if the replacements are better than the original then obviously bmw recognizes that too. this is becoming way to common for bmw not to react.

Reported in: BUDD LAKE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC735X7K

VISIBILITY/WIPER

i was driving home on the highway during a rainstorm when the 4x4, brakes warning came on. the handling immediately was affected. i didn't feel the traction i was used to and braking became dangerous. i wanted to pull over but the brakes made the car stop too abruptly, causing me to skid on the wet road. had the highway been busier i'm sure i would've been in a serious accident. i consider myself very lucky. i took my car to a local mechanic. i was told that it was the transfer case actuator gear. it's plastic and the intense heat causes it to fail. i was told this problem is very common....so much that the replacements are made of a different composite and more heat resistant. my question is why do i have to pay for a gear that is recognized as faulty. if the replacements are better than the original then obviously bmw recognizes that too. this is becoming way to common for bmw not to react.

Reported in: BUDD LAKE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC735X7K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that while starting the vehicle the entire electrical system malfunctioned, locking all of the windows and doors. the vehicle would not start once the system malfunctioned. the contact had to wait 48 hours in order to restart the vehicle. the contact did not take the vehicle to a dealer. the failure mileage was 85,000. the vin was not available.

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

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated while driving 30 mph, the vehicle stalled and the check engine light was illuminated on three occasions. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnosis where it was stated there was a leak in the engine. the vehicle was repaired and the manufacturer was notified. the approximate failure mileage was 85,000.

Reported in: GERMANTOWN MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93577K

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated while having an oil change performed at a local mechanic, the mechanic notice the head bolts to the engine were fractured. the mechanic advised the contact that the vehicle was not safe to drive. the mechanic replaced the head bolts. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the manufacturer stated that there was nothing they could do to assist. the failure mileage was 60,000. the vin was not available.

Reported in: WEST FEILD NJ || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. the vehicle was towed to the dealer where the technician diagnosed that the electronic steering lock (elv) in the steering column malfunctioned and the steering component needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 46,000.

Reported in: PRINCETON JUNCTION NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

passenger turn signal bulb was thought to be out. brought to local bmw dealer and had them tell me i need a whole headlight since the turn signal burned inside.

Reported in: LATHAM NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73577K

STEERING

the car fortunately was not in motion however the steering column lock is not allowing the steering wheel to move as well as preventing the car to start. it seems to be a common inherent problem with bmw. in which costs the consumer ~$1800 to fix even though it's a most likely a software issue and not a parts issue. i have found numerous similar complaints online.

Reported in: TEMPLE HILLS MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign number: 13v564000 (air bags) but was advised by the manufacturer that the vin was not included in the recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 30,000.

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

STEERING

i had just exited off of the freeway and was making a left turn at a light when the steering "locked up". i couldn't get the car to steer and the "service engine soon" light came on. luckily, the car "coast" to the side of this non-busy road. i turned the car off and restarted and everything was back to normal. i was also able to drive back home without any issues a couple of hours later. however, this incident has me and my family freaked out as we frequently travel with our children. i cannot imagine the consequences if this lock up were to happen on a freeway at speeds in excess of 60mph. i have seen several folks complain of this issue and am afraid it may resurface anytime without warning. i'll have my car taken to a service shop near my home and have them diagnose, but having read so many complaints it appears to be along similar lines of the steering column issue. has bmw owned up to this and are they issuing a recall?

Reported in: SAN JOSE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93517K

ENGINE

the car has a serious oil leak at the head gasket. this has been a very well maintained car, with all services being completed in a timely manner, and just regular commuting in mild traffic and mild weather. the oil leak is occurring due to a manufacturing defect -- there is no serviceable portion due to which this leak could have happened. as the car keeps leaking oil, it is creating a potential fire hazard.

Reported in: SUNNYVALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT73527F

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

the door locking mechanism failed, making all of the passenger doors unusable, even from the inside. if there are people in the vehicle, they cannot get out except through the driver's door, representing a major safety hazard. in the case of fire or other emergency, passengers in my car would have been trapped, unable to escape the vehicle because there is no mechanical lock release on the inside of the car. bmw has released a service bulletin to replace fuse 57 with a 20 amp fuse instead of a 15 amp fuse, but this does not fix the basic problem of having no escape from the inside of the vehicle. even after replacing the fuse with a 20a, it blew again and would have trapped passengers again. i feel very unsafe transporting my family in this vehicle knowing that this safety hazard has persisted so long without a recall.

Reported in: ANN ARBOR MI || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the door locking mechanism failed, making all of the passenger doors unusable, even from the inside. if there are people in the vehicle, they cannot get out except through the driver's door, representing a major safety hazard. in the case of fire or other emergency, passengers in my car would have been trapped, unable to escape the vehicle because there is no mechanical lock release on the inside of the car. bmw has released a service bulletin to replace fuse 57 with a 20 amp fuse instead of a 15 amp fuse, but this does not fix the basic problem of having no escape from the inside of the vehicle. even after replacing the fuse with a 20a, it blew again and would have trapped passengers again. i feel very unsafe transporting my family in this vehicle knowing that this safety hazard has persisted so long without a recall.

Reported in: ANN ARBOR MI || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93507K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the automatic door locking function in my car has gone out twice in the last 8 months. the buttons inside the car and on the key fob did not open or lock the doors. the safety issue is that when this occurred, there was no way to open any of the doors from the inside of the car. the driver's side door is the only one that has a physical key slot. the car can only be unlocked from the outside when the automatic door locks fail. a person cannot open the doors using any of the handles, including the driver's side door handle when the locks fail. there is no way to exit the car from the inside when this fails. i had to pull a back seat passenger out the window to remove him from the car when the automatic locks failed the second time. both times i was able to fix the problem by replacing first one, then two fuses in the box. bmw service departments do not consider this an emergency, so i had to do the repairs myself. i did not feel safe at all being unable to open any of the doors, and having to drive with the driver's side door unlocked. it is not easy to replace a fuse when the box is in the back of the glove box on the far side when it is impossible to open the passenger door. bmw said there may be something in the car that is causing this to fail for me and has quoted almost $200 for an assessment. this issue is a major safety problem. one can easily be stuck in the car as my passenger was with no way to get out besides the window. this car is not large enough to easily jump over consoles or seats. i called bmw and said this has to be a safety recall since you cannot exit the car when the system fails. there was no promise to make any changes to the cars or to assist me in any way.

Reported in: UNION NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93517K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated while the vehicle was parked and unoccupied, it unexpectedly ignited into flames. the fire department extinguished the fire and disconnected the battery. the fire originated in between the front windshield and upper hood area near the air bag housing. the fire was deemed as electrical. the vehicle was completely destroyed and towed to a savage facility. the manufacturer was notified of the defect. the approximate failure mileage was 133,000.

Reported in: POTOMAC MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC935X7K

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passengers side floor mat sensor needed to be replaced. the vehicle was scheduled to be repaired. the vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign id number: 13v564000 (air bags) but the contact stated that the vehicle exhibited the same failure. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 78000.

Reported in: STONY POINT NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAWV535X7P

AIR BAGS

passenger seat airbag sensor is on. there are other 2007 with the same symptoms but my bmw dealership is telling me that my car wasn't part of the recall.

Reported in: GLEN ARM MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73587K

ENGINE

i am an owner of a 2007 bmw 328xi. two months ago, i brought my car to a bmw dealership for check engine light issue. they told me that cylinder 6 was the problem. so they fixed cylinder 6 and replaced all spark plugs. on 24-apr-2014, my wife drove the car to work and came home. that evening she took the kids to an event at their school and parked the car. after the event, she tried backing the car and the car won't go into reverse. so, i dropped the car off to the dealer ship and after they completed their dagnostic test, they told me that i have transmission problem which will cost $6000 to fix.

Reported in: DOWNINGTOWN PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73557K

SUSPENSION

i am an owner of a 2007 bmw 328xi. two months ago, i brought my car to a bmw dealership for check engine light issue. they told me that cylinder 6 was the problem. so they fixed cylinder 6 and replaced all spark plugs. on 24-apr-2014, my wife drove the car to work and came home. that evening she took the kids to an event at their school and parked the car. after the event, she tried backing the car and the car won't go into reverse. so, i dropped the car off to the dealer ship and after they completed their dagnostic test, they told me that i have transmission problem which will cost $6000 to fix.

Reported in: DOWNINGTOWN PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73557K

POWER TRAIN

i am an owner of a 2007 bmw 328xi. two months ago, i brought my car to a bmw dealership for check engine light issue. they told me that cylinder 6 was the problem. so they fixed cylinder 6 and replaced all spark plugs. on 24-apr-2014, my wife drove the car to work and came home. that evening she took the kids to an event at their school and parked the car. after the event, she tried backing the car and the car won't go into reverse. so, i dropped the car off to the dealer ship and after they completed their dagnostic test, they told me that i have transmission problem which will cost $6000 to fix.

Reported in: DOWNINGTOWN PA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73557K

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the passenger side air bag warning indicator illuminated in the vehicle. the dealer stated that the air bag sensor needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified. the failure mileage was 112,000. updated 8/28/14*cn

Reported in: CATONSVILLE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC935X7K

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the passenger side air bag warning indicator illuminated in the vehicle. the dealer stated that the air bag sensor needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified. the failure mileage was 112,000. updated 8/28/14*cn

Reported in: CATONSVILLE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC935X7K

STEERING

steering column lock failed and stranded consumer. this is a well known issue in the 2007 328xi and the manufacturer has done nothing other than force the consumer to make expensive repair/replacement of an obvious manufacturing/engineering flaw.

Reported in: THETFORD CENTER VT || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93527K

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated. the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure and stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 13v564000 (air bags). the failure mileage was 40,000.

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73527K

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

i have a complaint/situation with my 2007 bmw 328ix sedan. bmw refuses to repair at their cost a significant life safety fuel problem. on august 1st, 2014 while driving along a paved street in pullman washington, the car’s engine abruptly shut down without warning. i was barely able to get the vehicle off the road. i had the vehicle towed to camp bmw in spokane washington for examination and repair. the following monday i received a call from the service department and was told the fuel pump went out and the repair would cost about $700 and would be repaired that day. shortly thereafter i received a call from the service rep who said they discovered the problem to be worse than expected. the fuel pump has a draw tube that draws fuel to the fuel pump and i was told it fell off and they were trying unsuccessfully to fish it out of the fuel tank - and that the vehicle would not be ready that day. i started and internet search and found this is happening to other bmw’s of approximately the same age/model. what was alarming was that comments i was seeing indicated that the draw tube that fell off in other bmw’s had done so because the fuel grade required for bmw’s was corrosive to the draw tube and the fuel ate away at the tubes until they fell off with the same result of immediate engine shut down. indications from others with this problem indicated that dealerships told them the only solution was to replace the fuel pump, tank and draw tube for upwards of $3,000. a replacement tank and fuel tank will have the same problem in another 7 years or less and it's a very expensive repair not to mention a life safety issue. my service rep contacted bmw about this issue and bmw told him they would credit my repairs for the sum of $500 bring my cost for the repairs in excess of $1,900.

Reported in: PULLMAN WA || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC73587K

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

both rear light housings have melted from some sort of short or grounding issue.

Reported in: BUFFALO NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT735X7F

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

both rear light housings have melted from some sort of short or grounding issue.

Reported in: BUFFALO NY || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVT735X7F

AIR BAGS

tl- the contact owns a 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the air bag sensor and seat belt sensor illuminated and stayed lit. the seatbelt sensor was illuminating for the front passengers side. the vehicle was taken to the authorized dealer who diagnosed that the front passenger side occupant detection mat needed to be replaced. the contact was not included in nhtsa campaign id number: 13v564000 (air bags). the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 85,000. dyd

Reported in: KELLER TX || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93527K

AIR BAGS

tl-the contact owns 2007 bmw 328xi. the contact stated that the passenger's side air bag warning light remained illuminated. the dealer diagnosed that the passenger's air bag side sensor had failed. the vehicle was repaired with a new sensor. the manufacturer was notified. the approximate failure mileage was 81,000. ne

Reported in: SOUTH RIVER NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: WBAVC93557K