Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
2 RecallsThese are official manufacturer recalls ordered by NHTSA for safety defects. If you own this vehicle, contact your dealer immediately for free repairs.
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Safety Issue:
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019 i3 BEV, i3 REx, and i8 vehicles. A circuit board problem within the Electric Motor Electronics (EME) module may shutdown the supply of high-voltage electrical power.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Recall Date: Aug 14, 2019
Consumer Complaints
17 ComplaintsBmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Corrective Action:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Additional Notes:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Mfg Campaign: 11671462
Recall Date: Jul 6, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Corrective Action:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Additional Notes:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Mfg Campaign: 11671462
Recall Date: Jul 6, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Corrective Action:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Additional Notes:
We were sitting at a traffic light for a few minutes behind another vehicle. Suddenly, our car accelerated very quickly. My foot was on the brake when the car accelerated. I felt the brake pedal depress further as it accelerated. I initially thought a car had hit us from behind and propelled us forward, but there was no car behind us. We were moving as though we had just started a drag race - full acceleration - and the brakes did not respond. We crashed into the car in front of us at full acceleration despite me pumping the brakes at least twice. It was surreal. We drive a 2019 BMW i3. It’s an electric vehicle and I wondered if there was som electrical failure. The car stopped only because of the car we ran into.
Mfg Campaign: 11671462
Recall Date: Jul 6, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2019 BMW I3. The contact stated that while stopped in traffic on a bridge, the vehicle stalled, and independently shifted to park(P). The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The Police arrived on the scene and directed traffic around the vehicle until a tow truck arrived to take the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the Encrypted Media Extensions (EME) module had failed and short circuited the safety box inside of the high voltage battery and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V599000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 43,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2019 BMW I3. The contact stated that while stopped in traffic on a bridge, the vehicle stalled, and independently shifted to park(P). The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The Police arrived on the scene and directed traffic around the vehicle until a tow truck arrived to take the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the Encrypted Media Extensions (EME) module had failed and short circuited the safety box inside of the high voltage battery and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V599000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 43,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2019 BMW I3. The contact stated that while stopped in traffic on a bridge, the vehicle stalled, and independently shifted to park(P). The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The Police arrived on the scene and directed traffic around the vehicle until a tow truck arrived to take the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the Encrypted Media Extensions (EME) module had failed and short circuited the safety box inside of the high voltage battery and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V599000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 43,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11646562
Recall Date: Mar 5, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2019 BMW I3. The contact stated that while stopped in traffic on a bridge, the vehicle stalled, and independently shifted to park(P). The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The Police arrived on the scene and directed traffic around the vehicle until a tow truck arrived to take the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the Encrypted Media Extensions (EME) module had failed and short circuited the safety box inside of the high voltage battery and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V599000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 43,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2019 BMW I3. The contact stated that while stopped in traffic on a bridge, the vehicle stalled, and independently shifted to park(P). The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The Police arrived on the scene and directed traffic around the vehicle until a tow truck arrived to take the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the Encrypted Media Extensions (EME) module had failed and short circuited the safety box inside of the high voltage battery and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V599000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 43,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2019 BMW I3. The contact stated that while stopped in traffic on a bridge, the vehicle stalled, and independently shifted to park(P). The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The Police arrived on the scene and directed traffic around the vehicle until a tow truck arrived to take the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the Encrypted Media Extensions (EME) module had failed and short circuited the safety box inside of the high voltage battery and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V599000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 43,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11646562
Recall Date: Mar 5, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Potential Consequences:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Corrective Action:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Additional Notes:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Mfg Campaign: 11638411
Recall Date: Jan 24, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Corrective Action:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Additional Notes:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Mfg Campaign: 11638411
Recall Date: Jan 24, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Corrective Action:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Additional Notes:
The range extender did not turn on while I was driving the car. When the range extender failed to work the car slowed down from 70+ mph to as low as 7 mph in minutes. The car then limped along for several minutes at this dangerously slow speed until the range extender turned on. Once the range extender began working, the car took off like a rocket, going from 7 mph to 70 in seconds. There are no warning lights or indicators in the car that show if the range extender is going to turn on or if it will fail to turn on. This has happened four times while I was driving on a a highway and once while I was driving on a road with heavy traffic. The first instance happened in [XXX] on my ride back from a conference. The car seemed fine for a bit until it began happening regularly in the summer of 2024*. Each time the range extender should have turned on, it failed to do so and the car came to a dramatic instant slow down posing a danger for me and the drivers nearby. The danger was once again realized when the range extender would finally turn on the car car would dramatically propel forward within a matter of seconds. I took the car to the dealership on 10/1. I intentionally ran the battery down because I wanted the mechanic to experience the problem. The shop foreman was able to experience the problem that day and he also caught it on video so he could show it to the BMW engineers. My car remains at the dealership awaiting a new battery. I am told this will fix the problem but I am concerned this will happen again. I am also equally concerned this has or will happen to others. This dangerous situation comes on without warning and could cause a major accident and possibly death to the people in the vehicle and people in vehicles nearby should the range extender fail to start. * While I experience this five times, I can only provide two exact dates this occurred. The first date of [ZZZ] and the final date (before taking the car to the dealer) on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
Mfg Campaign: 11638411
Recall Date: Jan 24, 2025
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
The drivetrain system malfunctioned while increasing from 60 MPH to 70 MPH. The vehicle lost all propulsion mid-journey. This put myself as well as other drivers around me at risk while I coasted to a stop on the freeway. The vehicle's warning system stated: “Drivetrain Malfunction: Stop carefully and turn off engine. Do not continue driving. Call Roadside Assistance.” There are error codes that were considered by the manufacturer's nearest service center. And while certain reduction in efficiency of the High Voltage battery were identified, the vehicle was re-initialized and test-driven multiple times, successfully moving of its own power. Notably, the vehicle's battery capacity was noted to be at 70%, not below the federally-mandated capacity for manufacturer-covered repair.
Corrective Action:
The drivetrain system malfunctioned while increasing from 60 MPH to 70 MPH. The vehicle lost all propulsion mid-journey. This put myself as well as other drivers around me at risk while I coasted to a stop on the freeway. The vehicle's warning system stated: “Drivetrain Malfunction: Stop carefully and turn off engine. Do not continue driving. Call Roadside Assistance.” There are error codes that were considered by the manufacturer's nearest service center. And while certain reduction in efficiency of the High Voltage battery were identified, the vehicle was re-initialized and test-driven multiple times, successfully moving of its own power. Notably, the vehicle's battery capacity was noted to be at 70%, not below the federally-mandated capacity for manufacturer-covered repair.
Additional Notes:
The drivetrain system malfunctioned while increasing from 60 MPH to 70 MPH. The vehicle lost all propulsion mid-journey. This put myself as well as other drivers around me at risk while I coasted to a stop on the freeway. The vehicle's warning system stated: “Drivetrain Malfunction: Stop carefully and turn off engine. Do not continue driving. Call Roadside Assistance.” There are error codes that were considered by the manufacturer's nearest service center. And while certain reduction in efficiency of the High Voltage battery were identified, the vehicle was re-initialized and test-driven multiple times, successfully moving of its own power. Notably, the vehicle's battery capacity was noted to be at 70%, not below the federally-mandated capacity for manufacturer-covered repair.
Mfg Campaign: 11629361
Recall Date: Dec 6, 2024
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The drivetrain system malfunctioned while increasing from 60 MPH to 70 MPH. The vehicle lost all propulsion mid-journey. This put myself as well as other drivers around me at risk while I coasted to a stop on the freeway. The vehicle's warning system stated: “Drivetrain Malfunction: Stop carefully and turn off engine. Do not continue driving. Call Roadside Assistance.” There are error codes that were considered by the manufacturer's nearest service center. And while certain reduction in efficiency of the High Voltage battery were identified, the vehicle was re-initialized and test-driven multiple times, successfully moving of its own power. Notably, the vehicle's battery capacity was noted to be at 70%, not below the federally-mandated capacity for manufacturer-covered repair.
Corrective Action:
The drivetrain system malfunctioned while increasing from 60 MPH to 70 MPH. The vehicle lost all propulsion mid-journey. This put myself as well as other drivers around me at risk while I coasted to a stop on the freeway. The vehicle's warning system stated: “Drivetrain Malfunction: Stop carefully and turn off engine. Do not continue driving. Call Roadside Assistance.” There are error codes that were considered by the manufacturer's nearest service center. And while certain reduction in efficiency of the High Voltage battery were identified, the vehicle was re-initialized and test-driven multiple times, successfully moving of its own power. Notably, the vehicle's battery capacity was noted to be at 70%, not below the federally-mandated capacity for manufacturer-covered repair.
Additional Notes:
The drivetrain system malfunctioned while increasing from 60 MPH to 70 MPH. The vehicle lost all propulsion mid-journey. This put myself as well as other drivers around me at risk while I coasted to a stop on the freeway. The vehicle's warning system stated: “Drivetrain Malfunction: Stop carefully and turn off engine. Do not continue driving. Call Roadside Assistance.” There are error codes that were considered by the manufacturer's nearest service center. And while certain reduction in efficiency of the High Voltage battery were identified, the vehicle was re-initialized and test-driven multiple times, successfully moving of its own power. Notably, the vehicle's battery capacity was noted to be at 70%, not below the federally-mandated capacity for manufacturer-covered repair.
Mfg Campaign: 11629361
Recall Date: Dec 6, 2024
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The 12V battery and EME module failed/malfunctioned on Sep 10, 2024. The original 12V battery was replaced by BMW of Wesley Chapel after it was towed by BMW roadside assistance. They should have it and the EME model for inspection upon request depending on their disposal procedures for the battery. My safety was put at risk due to the fact that the EME could shut down electrical power, lead to a loss of propulsion, and increase the risk of a crash. There was a recall for this component for my year make and model but my VIN was not included but possible should have given the related issue and no wear and tear. The dealer reproduced the errors I received when the car started failing during a diagnostic. The vehicle/component has only been inspected by the dealer and is still in their possession. I have not yet filed an insurance claim. There were warning lamps/messages/symptoms a few days before the failure that cleared upon starting the vehicle until it eventually failed.
Corrective Action:
The 12V battery and EME module failed/malfunctioned on Sep 10, 2024. The original 12V battery was replaced by BMW of Wesley Chapel after it was towed by BMW roadside assistance. They should have it and the EME model for inspection upon request depending on their disposal procedures for the battery. My safety was put at risk due to the fact that the EME could shut down electrical power, lead to a loss of propulsion, and increase the risk of a crash. There was a recall for this component for my year make and model but my VIN was not included but possible should have given the related issue and no wear and tear. The dealer reproduced the errors I received when the car started failing during a diagnostic. The vehicle/component has only been inspected by the dealer and is still in their possession. I have not yet filed an insurance claim. There were warning lamps/messages/symptoms a few days before the failure that cleared upon starting the vehicle until it eventually failed.
Additional Notes:
The 12V battery and EME module failed/malfunctioned on Sep 10, 2024. The original 12V battery was replaced by BMW of Wesley Chapel after it was towed by BMW roadside assistance. They should have it and the EME model for inspection upon request depending on their disposal procedures for the battery. My safety was put at risk due to the fact that the EME could shut down electrical power, lead to a loss of propulsion, and increase the risk of a crash. There was a recall for this component for my year make and model but my VIN was not included but possible should have given the related issue and no wear and tear. The dealer reproduced the errors I received when the car started failing during a diagnostic. The vehicle/component has only been inspected by the dealer and is still in their possession. I have not yet filed an insurance claim. There were warning lamps/messages/symptoms a few days before the failure that cleared upon starting the vehicle until it eventually failed.
Mfg Campaign: 11614361
Recall Date: Sep 13, 2024
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
STRUCTURE:BODY
Potential Consequences:
Paint bubbling concerns on carbon fiber roof of i3.
Corrective Action:
Paint bubbling concerns on carbon fiber roof of i3.
Additional Notes:
Paint bubbling concerns on carbon fiber roof of i3.
Mfg Campaign: 11590720
Recall Date: May 25, 2024
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
On July 4, 2021, I realized that the charge port on my BMW i3 would not accept a charge plug - it appeared to be blocked. I took the car to the dealer and they informed me that the charge port had been damaged (melted) by heat from a defective charger. In addition to public charging, I had typically been using a home charger - a MUSTART Level 2 40-amp charge cable purchased from Amazon on February 4, 2019. The BMW technician requested to see the cable and it was confirmed to be damaged also. BMW attributed this incident to the charger rather than the vehicle, so the repair (over $2400) was not covered under warranty. I feel this represents a serious safety concern, as the overheated charger/charge port could have caused a fire in my garage. I have retained the parts associated with this incident, including the charge cable and the damaged charge port from the vehicle.
Corrective Action:
On July 4, 2021, I realized that the charge port on my BMW i3 would not accept a charge plug - it appeared to be blocked. I took the car to the dealer and they informed me that the charge port had been damaged (melted) by heat from a defective charger. In addition to public charging, I had typically been using a home charger - a MUSTART Level 2 40-amp charge cable purchased from Amazon on February 4, 2019. The BMW technician requested to see the cable and it was confirmed to be damaged also. BMW attributed this incident to the charger rather than the vehicle, so the repair (over $2400) was not covered under warranty. I feel this represents a serious safety concern, as the overheated charger/charge port could have caused a fire in my garage. I have retained the parts associated with this incident, including the charge cable and the damaged charge port from the vehicle.
Additional Notes:
On July 4, 2021, I realized that the charge port on my BMW i3 would not accept a charge plug - it appeared to be blocked. I took the car to the dealer and they informed me that the charge port had been damaged (melted) by heat from a defective charger. In addition to public charging, I had typically been using a home charger - a MUSTART Level 2 40-amp charge cable purchased from Amazon on February 4, 2019. The BMW technician requested to see the cable and it was confirmed to be damaged also. BMW attributed this incident to the charger rather than the vehicle, so the repair (over $2400) was not covered under warranty. I feel this represents a serious safety concern, as the overheated charger/charge port could have caused a fire in my garage. I have retained the parts associated with this incident, including the charge cable and the damaged charge port from the vehicle.
Mfg Campaign: 11425977
Recall Date: Jul 22, 2021
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
On July 4, 2021, I realized that the charge port on my BMW i3 would not accept a charge plug - it appeared to be blocked. I took the car to the dealer and they informed me that the charge port had been damaged (melted) by heat from a defective charger. In addition to public charging, I had typically been using a home charger - a MUSTART Level 2 40-amp charge cable purchased from Amazon on February 4, 2019. The BMW technician requested to see the cable and it was confirmed to be damaged also. BMW attributed this incident to the charger rather than the vehicle, so the repair (over $2400) was not covered under warranty. I feel this represents a serious safety concern, as the overheated charger/charge port could have caused a fire in my garage. I have retained the parts associated with this incident, including the charge cable and the damaged charge port from the vehicle.
Corrective Action:
On July 4, 2021, I realized that the charge port on my BMW i3 would not accept a charge plug - it appeared to be blocked. I took the car to the dealer and they informed me that the charge port had been damaged (melted) by heat from a defective charger. In addition to public charging, I had typically been using a home charger - a MUSTART Level 2 40-amp charge cable purchased from Amazon on February 4, 2019. The BMW technician requested to see the cable and it was confirmed to be damaged also. BMW attributed this incident to the charger rather than the vehicle, so the repair (over $2400) was not covered under warranty. I feel this represents a serious safety concern, as the overheated charger/charge port could have caused a fire in my garage. I have retained the parts associated with this incident, including the charge cable and the damaged charge port from the vehicle.
Additional Notes:
On July 4, 2021, I realized that the charge port on my BMW i3 would not accept a charge plug - it appeared to be blocked. I took the car to the dealer and they informed me that the charge port had been damaged (melted) by heat from a defective charger. In addition to public charging, I had typically been using a home charger - a MUSTART Level 2 40-amp charge cable purchased from Amazon on February 4, 2019. The BMW technician requested to see the cable and it was confirmed to be damaged also. BMW attributed this incident to the charger rather than the vehicle, so the repair (over $2400) was not covered under warranty. I feel this represents a serious safety concern, as the overheated charger/charge port could have caused a fire in my garage. I have retained the parts associated with this incident, including the charge cable and the damaged charge port from the vehicle.
Mfg Campaign: 11425977
Recall Date: Jul 22, 2021
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
LOST POWER STEERING AS I WAS LEAVING MY HOUSE, MAKING CAR VERY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. THINKING I HAD A FLAT TIRE, I TURNED AROUND AND RETURNED HOME. SHUT DOWN THE CAR, CHECKED THE TIRES (THEY WERE FINE), RESTARTED IT, AND POWER STEERING RETURNED. THIS HAPPENED TWICE WITHIN A FEW DAYS.
Corrective Action:
LOST POWER STEERING AS I WAS LEAVING MY HOUSE, MAKING CAR VERY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. THINKING I HAD A FLAT TIRE, I TURNED AROUND AND RETURNED HOME. SHUT DOWN THE CAR, CHECKED THE TIRES (THEY WERE FINE), RESTARTED IT, AND POWER STEERING RETURNED. THIS HAPPENED TWICE WITHIN A FEW DAYS.
Additional Notes:
LOST POWER STEERING AS I WAS LEAVING MY HOUSE, MAKING CAR VERY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. THINKING I HAD A FLAT TIRE, I TURNED AROUND AND RETURNED HOME. SHUT DOWN THE CAR, CHECKED THE TIRES (THEY WERE FINE), RESTARTED IT, AND POWER STEERING RETURNED. THIS HAPPENED TWICE WITHIN A FEW DAYS.
Mfg Campaign: 11390882
Recall Date: Jan 31, 2021
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
ON THE WAY BACK HOME FROM WORK, STEERING FELT QUITE HEAVY AND IT KEPT PULLING TOWARDS THE RIGHT SIDE. I INITIALLY THOUGHT I HAD A FLAT TIRE BUT THE TIRE PRESSURE WAS NORMAL. DRIVING BACK HOME ON FREEWAY FELT VERY UNSAFE AS IT WAS QUITE UNSTEADY AT SPEEDS GREATER THAN 30MPH
Corrective Action:
ON THE WAY BACK HOME FROM WORK, STEERING FELT QUITE HEAVY AND IT KEPT PULLING TOWARDS THE RIGHT SIDE. I INITIALLY THOUGHT I HAD A FLAT TIRE BUT THE TIRE PRESSURE WAS NORMAL. DRIVING BACK HOME ON FREEWAY FELT VERY UNSAFE AS IT WAS QUITE UNSTEADY AT SPEEDS GREATER THAN 30MPH
Additional Notes:
ON THE WAY BACK HOME FROM WORK, STEERING FELT QUITE HEAVY AND IT KEPT PULLING TOWARDS THE RIGHT SIDE. I INITIALLY THOUGHT I HAD A FLAT TIRE BUT THE TIRE PRESSURE WAS NORMAL. DRIVING BACK HOME ON FREEWAY FELT VERY UNSAFE AS IT WAS QUITE UNSTEADY AT SPEEDS GREATER THAN 30MPH
Mfg Campaign: 11354047
Recall Date: Sep 9, 2020
Bmw Of North America, Llc
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
STEERING HAS BEEN NORMAL UNTIL NOW. SUDDENLY ON TWO OCCASIONS AFTER STOPPING AT A LIGHT IT WAS HARD TO MAKE A LEFT TURN. STEERING FELT AS IF TIRE PRESSURE WAS LOW. PRESSURE WAS NOT LOW. THIS IS FIRST TIME THIS HAS OCCURRED. DISCOVERED THIS IS A COMMON COMPLAINT ON INTERNET SEARCHES. HAVE NOT DRIVEN I3 AGAIN SINCE INCIDENT.
Corrective Action:
STEERING HAS BEEN NORMAL UNTIL NOW. SUDDENLY ON TWO OCCASIONS AFTER STOPPING AT A LIGHT IT WAS HARD TO MAKE A LEFT TURN. STEERING FELT AS IF TIRE PRESSURE WAS LOW. PRESSURE WAS NOT LOW. THIS IS FIRST TIME THIS HAS OCCURRED. DISCOVERED THIS IS A COMMON COMPLAINT ON INTERNET SEARCHES. HAVE NOT DRIVEN I3 AGAIN SINCE INCIDENT.
Additional Notes:
STEERING HAS BEEN NORMAL UNTIL NOW. SUDDENLY ON TWO OCCASIONS AFTER STOPPING AT A LIGHT IT WAS HARD TO MAKE A LEFT TURN. STEERING FELT AS IF TIRE PRESSURE WAS LOW. PRESSURE WAS NOT LOW. THIS IS FIRST TIME THIS HAS OCCURRED. DISCOVERED THIS IS A COMMON COMPLAINT ON INTERNET SEARCHES. HAVE NOT DRIVEN I3 AGAIN SINCE INCIDENT.
Mfg Campaign: 11290836
Recall Date: Dec 23, 2019
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Barry Edzant
Edzant Price LLC
Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
Focus: Lemon Law, Personal Injury
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