NHTSA Owner Complaint Log
This page lists owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2020 BMW X5. Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA and do not by themselves prove a defect or defect rate.
Safety Hazard: Oil Pump Failure Leading to Sudden Engine Stall (BMW B58TU engines) Description of Defect: The oil pump module in the 2020 BMW X5 (G05) contains internal plastic components that are prone to thermal degradation and premature failure. These plastic parts can crack or disintegrate, causing a sudden loss of oil pressure. Safety Risk: A failure of the oil pump leads to insufficient lubrication of critical engine components, which can result in a sudden and complete engine seizure while the vehicle is in motion. This causes an immediate loss of propulsion and power steering assist, significantly increasing the risk of a high-speed collision or being stranded in dangerous traffic conditions. Additional Note: This is a known mechanical defect where a critical engine component (oil pump) relies on non-durable plastic materials, creating an unreasonable safety risk for drivers and passengers due to potential catastrophic engine failure without prior warning.
Failure of front differential
Safety Hazard: Oil Pump Failure Leading to Sudden Engine Stall (BMW G05 X5) Description of Defect: The oil pump module in the 2020 BMW X5 (G05) contains internal plastic components that are prone to thermal degradation and premature failure. These plastic parts can crack or disintegrate, causing a sudden loss of oil pressure. Safety Risk: A failure of the oil pump leads to insufficient lubrication of critical engine components, which can result in a sudden and complete engine seizure while the vehicle is in motion. This causes an immediate loss of propulsion and power steering assist, significantly increasing the risk of a high-speed collision or being stranded in dangerous traffic conditions. Additional Note: This is a known mechanical defect where a critical engine component (oil pump) relies on non-durable plastic materials, creating an unreasonable safety risk for drivers and passengers due to potential catastrophic engine failure without prior warning.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a dealer for routine maintenance and it was discovered that there was a coolant leak and that there was a failure with the front differential failure, and that the A/C unit was leaking. The leaking valve was replaced but the differential was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Please read file attached
I am reporting a safety concern involving BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine, commonly found in model years 2019–2021. These vehicles utilize a variable-displacement engine oil pump containing an internal thermoplastic adjusting component responsible for regulating oil pressure. Field failures are increasingly being reported in which this internal component fractures, resulting in sudden loss or instability of engine oil pressure. The failure frequently occurs during cold-start operation in low ambient temperatures. When the component fails, oil pressure regulation becomes erratic or is lost entirely. In many cases, drivers receive little or no actionable warning prior to engine damage or vehicle disablement. Reported precursor symptoms include inability to electronically measure engine oil level, abnormal oil pressure behavior, or sudden drivetrain malfunction warnings. Failures may rapidly progress to engine shutdown or severe mechanical damage caused by oil starvation. Loss of lubrication can cause the vehicle to become disabled without warning while driving or shortly after startup. This creates a safety hazard, particularly when vehicles become immobilized in active traffic or during winter conditions the cold is when they fail the most, where occupants may be exposed to freezing temperatures while awaiting assistance. Replacement of the oil pump requires extensive disassembly of the vehicle and repairs commonly exceed $6,000–$8,000 for just the pump, assuming the motor is unharmed. Owners are currently unable to determine whether their vehicles contain the original thermoplastic oil pump design or a later revised version utilizing metal internal components, as VIN-based parts information now identifies updated components in the car even when no replacement has occurred and the old components are actually in the car. Also, BMW has actively removed the plastic part number out of all dealer networks as well. Failures have be
I'm reporting a safety issue with BMW vehicles equipped with the B58TU engine (primarily 2019–2021 models). These vehicles use an oil pump containing an internal plastic component that regulates oil pressure. This plastic part is fracturing in the field, leading to sudden loss or instability of oil pressure. Failures commonly occur during cold starts in low temperatures. When the component fails, oil pressure becomes erratic or is lost entirely, often with little to no warning before engine damage or vehicle disablement. Warning signs, when present, include inability to measure oil level electronically, abnormal oil pressure behavior, or sudden drivetrain malfunction warnings. These can quickly progress to engine shutdown or severe engine damage due to oil starvation. My vehicle is currently experiencing all of the described oil pump-related symptoms, including inconsistent electronic oil level readings and drivetrain malfunction warnings consistent with oil pressure instability. This condition creates a serious safety risk. The vehicle can become disabled without warning while driving or shortly after startup. Oil starvation can lead to catastrophic engine failure, especially at highway speeds, where sudden engine shutdown or seizure increases the risk of a crash. Failures are particularly dangerous in winter conditions, when vehicles may become immobilized in traffic or freezing temperatures. Replacement of the pump requires major disassembly and typically costs $6,000–$8,000, assuming no engine damage. Owners cannot determine whether their vehicle has the original plastic component or a revised metal version. BMW’s VIN-based parts lookup now shows only updated components even when original plastic parts remain installed, and the original plastic part number has been removed from dealer systems. Because this defect can cause sudden vehicle disablement and potential catastrophic engine failure without adequate warning.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was fluid and lubricant on the ground underneath the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a detached front differential shaft bearing. In addition, the contact was informed that the front differential shaft bearing caused excessive play in the propeller shaft. The contact was informed that the front differential shaft bearing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was serviced by the dealer seven weeks prior to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
I am submitting this correspondence as a formal notification of a potential safety-related defect affecting BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine platform, most commonly model years 2019–2021. The purpose of this communication is to request immediate review under BMW’s vehicle safety defect evaluation process due to an increasing number of oil pump failures capable of causing sudden loss of engine lubrication, unexpected vehicle disablement, and occupant exposure to hazardous conditions. The original B58 engine (B58B30M0, 2015–2017) utilized a conventional mechanically robust gerotor oil pump with predominantly metallic internal construction and demonstrated strong reliability in field operation. This component, constructed from reinforced thermoplastics including PA66-GF materials, operates within a chemically aggressive and thermally cyclic environment involving continuous exposure to engine oil additives, fuel dilution, condensation, and repeated heat cycling. While acceptable under accelerated validation testing, real-world operating conditions increasingly demonstrate premature degradation consistent with polymer embrittlement and fracture. Documented owner and technician reports indicate that under cold-start conditions — particularly in sub-freezing climates — elevated oil viscosity and startup load impose increased mechanical stress on the thermoplastic carrier. Fracture of this internal component allows debris intrusion into the pump mechanism, resulting in unstable oil pressure regulation. Commonly reported precursor symptoms include: • Inability to perform electronic oil level measurement via iDrive • Erratic or oscillating oil pressure behavior • Intermittent lubrication warnings or absence of warning prior to failure • Rapid progression to bearing damage and engine seizure Given the potential for sudden vehicle disablement without adequate warning, I respectfully request BMW of North America initiate a formal inquiry
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V644000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Was driving at normal interstate speed when I received a warning on my dashboard to pull over and turn off engine —- low engine pressure, immediately. Call a tow. I immediately pulled over, turned off my car and contacted a tow. My vehicle was towed to the BMW dealership. I received an update that my oil pump failed. It’s almost $6k to replace and then stated not sure if that’ll truly fix the problem and to change the engine $28k. I began to do research and this is a known problem. Many owners have this problem- BMW is aware and began change the plastic part to metal in the subsequent years. I received no warning that it was beginning to fail and it is a safety hazard as I was on the interstate at the time.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign: 25V644000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair not available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue; however, no assistance was provided. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Vehicle has excessive condensation in driver headlight. Garage kept only. Problem discovered because of parking vehicle outside on driveway while the garage hosted moving boxes. This was the only time this vehicle has spent the night outside.
While driving through west Los Angeles, the vehicle suddenly began emitting white smoke from the engine compartment. There were no prior warning lights, messages, or symptoms indicating a problem. The smoke quickly intensified and turned dark. Thick smoke filled the air, and the cockpit, with the smell of toxic fumes. I safely maneuvered to the shoulder and exited the vehicle with my passenger. Flames erupted from the front of the vehicle. We called 911, which dispatched the fire department. The LAFD responded, cutting open the hood in order to extinguish the fire. The vehicle was towed to a yard following the incident. The vehicle and its contents were declared a total loss. BWM North America dispatched a technician to inspect the vehicle. After inspection, the manufacturer indicated that the starter was the source of the fire. At the time of the incident, the vehicle was subject to a safety recall related to the starter with no remedy available. The failure occurred without warning. Both occupants were exposed to heavy smoke.
Sunroof - explosion of glass while driving down the road. No other cars or anything that would cause flying debris. I decided to file this report after reading of multiple accounts being reported.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V644000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. After several attempts, the vehicle started. The check control master warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Starter can malfunction and start fire. Unable to park in garage due to potential fire risk. BMW is aware of the problem. Care was serviced at BMW dealer and said that they have no remedy. This recall is over 15 months old.
The safety risk arises from inaccurate federal recall records maintained by BMW of North America. My vehicle had a safety recall for starter replacement (Recall 25V-644). This recall repair was already completed by an authorized BMW dealer, and the starter was replaced under warranty. However, BMW continues to list the recall as OPEN with “Remedy Not Available.” This creates a safety risk because inaccurate recall records may lead to improper vehicle safety status, incorrect regulatory reporting, and potential refusal of assistance if a starter-related failure or no-start condition occurs in the future. The problem has been confirmed by an authorized BMW dealer, and I have official service documentation showing that the recall repair was completed. The vehicle was inspected and repaired by BMW of Gwinnett Place. No warning lights were present after the repair. This complaint is not about a new mechanical failure, but about BMW’s failure to accurately update and close a completed safety recall, which misrepresents the vehicle’s safety status.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the message "Low Oil Pressure - Stop Vehicle Immediately" was displayed, and the oil warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and turned off. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the oil pump was inoperable and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 81,000.
Recall 19v-631, I am experiencing a faulty steering issue as reported in the recall. My vehicle was in production around the same time as the recall vehicles.
My 2020 BMW X5 (VIN available upon request) is subject to safety recall 25V-644 due to a fire risk. The recall has been open since November 2025. BMW has confirmed there was no available remedy for an extended period, and a BMW-coordinated service visit on January 15, 2026 could not be completed due to dealership issues. Despite repeated follow-ups with BMW North America, there has been no confirmed repair date and no consistent transportation support while the safety recall remains unresolved. I am concerned about the prolonged delay in addressing this safety issue.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light, after the light changed, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the vehicle stalled. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the starter had failed. The mechanic advised the contact that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V644000 (Electrical System). The contact was advised to have the vehicle towed to a dealer for the recall repair. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the recall remedy was not available. The contact called the manufacturer and was informed that the remedy was not available, and there was no ETA for parts availability. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V644000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to immediately start. There was a timer displayed notifying the contact when to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to start. The contact's husband inspected the vehicle and noticed that the engine was running hot despite the vehicle not being driven. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The dealer determined that the battery had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the belts and motor mounts were damaged and might need to be replaced or repaired. The dealer also informed the contact that the part was not expected until November 2025. The starter was replaced, and a software update needed to be performed. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 73,285.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that while stopped at a red traffic light, the vehicle lost power. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the starter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The vehicle was previously repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 48,000.
engine hesitates on startup and doesn't turnover. plenty of power, battery is fine. other models have been recalled, but for some reason, this model is not included. please extend this recall to include more models as the problem exists in other 2020 models not on the current recall list.
I was having intermittent starting issues. After a starter recall was done, things got worse. Idrive will not turn off and car wont start draining battery. Battery was replaced and car still having idrive and start issues. It would not start after being hot. I was told extended warranty is not covered and that the center console was the problem after diagnostic. They want approximately $3000 to repair. The car will not start at all and the idrive will not shut off. They said it will continue until repaired.
My 2020 BMW X5 experienced starter failure after completing recall campaign 24V-576 for starter electrical overload risk. The vehicle was subject to this recall which acknowledged a defect causing electrical overload to the starter system. I completed the required software update in late 2024, approximately 4 years after the vehicle was manufactured and exposed to the acknowledged defect. Following the recall repair, the starter system failed on three separate occasions over a six-week period. The most recent failure occurred while traveling with family, creating a safety risk by nearly stranding us in a remote location. The vehicle would not start despite multiple attempts, requiring emergency roadside assistance. The failing starter component has been diagnosed and confirmed by an authorized BMW dealership service center. The dealership provided a repair estimate of approximately $3,000 for starter replacement. The component is available for inspection upon request at the dealership. Prior to complete failure, there were intermittent starting issues with the engine occasionally requiring multiple start attempts. No warning lamps or dashboard messages appeared before the failures. The vehicle has low mileage for its age, making this a premature component failure. The timeline strongly suggests the starter damage resulted from prolonged exposure to the electrical overload defect acknowledged in the recall, as the failure occurred shortly after the 4-year delayed software remedy was applied. The manufacturer has not inspected the failed component despite the clear connection to their acknowledged safety defect.
Car would randomly not start and went dead at red stop lights on occasion. Had to have the car towed to BMW dealership where they diagnosed it as a bad starter. Car only has 35,000 miles and this appears to be a know problem by BMW and BMW owners.
I purchased a used and well serviced, one owner, BMW 2020 X5 on [XXX] from Acura of West Chester, PA. After driving the vehicle for a week the car began jerking and shuttering forward. I live in Philadelphia where space is limited and pedestrians, children included walk close to cars at stop lights and stop signs. I almost had an accident while just parking the car due of the shuttering and additionally the car unexpectedly jerked towards a pedestrian when I was stopped at a stop sign. I researched and discovered that this is a known issue concerning my year and model due to a manufacturer error when the vehicle was assembled. The incorrect oil was place into the transfer case which ultimately causes damage leading to the unsafe driving condition that I am currently experiencing. There are no warning or check engine lights to make the driver aware of the issue. Below is the direct from BMW's notice on the issue, SIB 27 02 20. To my surprise, there was never a recall to fix this issue for the make and models affected . I am asking for the NHTSA to investigate and issue are recall for repair and replacement of the transfer case that was damaged prior to consumer purchase for the models outlined in the service bulletin. BMW replaces the oil as the first level repair at the cost of the owner which seems to only be temporary. Some owners say the problem goes away and other owners the problem returns requiring replacement as the true option. I would like for BMW to recall and replace to the vehicle safe to drive. SIB 27 02 20 JERKING OR SHUDDERING FROM THE DRIVELINE (XDRIVE TRANSFER CASE ATX13 SITUATION There is a jerking or shuddering during either or both of the following: Cornering or accelerating from low speeds Driving with low to medium loads There are no warning lights or Check Control messages. CAUSE Unevenly worn or incorrect fitment tires are installed on the vehicle, or the factory-filled transfer case oil does not meet BMW specifications. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the contact attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact made several attempts, and after approximately an hour, the vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle failed to start and was towed to a local dealer. The contact stated that there were no warning lights illuminated. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the starter motor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact called the manufacturer and asked about the recall for the starter motor and was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
When it rains water comes into the drivers side from the roof (sun visor area), and under the dashboard. Depending on how much rain, it leaves a puddle on the floor mat, and constantly drips on the driver as I drive.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, the message that the engine had overheated, and the vehicle was disabled was displayed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the starter motor. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 80,000.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that while at a complete stop, the START/STOP feature failed to operate as designed, and the engine failed to restart while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that a "Starting Engine Possibly Shortly: System Overheated. Restarting Engine Possible After Cooling" message was displayed on the instrument panel. After the contact allowed the engine to cool down, the vehicle failed to restart with the same messages displayed. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the dealer where it remained. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact also discovered and linked the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: B120424. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.
I own a 2020 BMX X5 S40i. Car was parked and turned off. When I tried to turn the car ON, the car refused to start and smoke and fire smell started coming from engine compartment. I opened the hood and could smell a burning smell. Waited for smell to disappear and tried starting the car again. Car would not start and burning smell appeared again. Got a warning on the dashboard that engine compartment was overheated and car would be ready to start after 180 seconds. Called AAA to jump start car and same behaviour was observed and car refused to start. Technician also stated that battery was completely dead. Took car to dealer and replaced main and start/ stop battery. Car still would not start. On inspection dealer observed started mechanism was shorted and needed to be replaced. After replacement, car starts fine without burning smell. Going through recall database, this issue with fire hazard from starter assembly is documented for my make, model and year but when I enter the VIN number it doesnt apply to ny vehicle VIN number. 4 year old child and me were occupants of the vehicle when burning incident happened originally.
Headlights continually fog up and puddle water in them. It takes a major effort to dry them out. Dealer says they are vented and that they will clear themselves but don't. This is a continual problem and poses a safety issue because of headlight failure.
Fuel pump failure. Resulted in car losing speed and power and car coming to a halt. Car went into park. Had to be towed from the road but the car had to be dragged onto the flatbed due to no parking selector release accessible from the side of the road. Resulting in total destruction of the front differential resulting in $10000 repair bill.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the message that the vehicle was overheating was displayed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine, and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the failure was due to the starter. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
The contact owned a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated while the contact's mother was driving at an undisclosed speed, another vehicle attempted to make a left turn and crashed head-on into the front driver and passenger side of the vehicle. The driver's air bag did not deploy. During the impact, the driver's head hit the windshield causing it to crack. The police and paramedics arrived on the scene. The contact and the contact's mother were transported to the local medical center. The contact's mother was treated for a severe concussion and severe cuts and bruises. In addition, the contact's mother had broken glass in her hands which was removed. The contact sustained cuts and bruises. The contact's mother received additional testing because of the impact of the steering wheel on the chest, however the test results were negative. A police report was filed, however, the information was unavailable. In addition, the police officer inspected the vehicle and noticed the driver's seat belt had a lot of play, which could have contributed to the contact's mother's head injury. The vehicle was towed to the local tow yard and condemned as a total loss. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,327.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that START/STOP warning light was illuminated. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle but was unable. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer who diagnosed that the starter motor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 31,000.
A code for check engine came on and the code is say active grille shutter. I also see there is a safety issue for the same issue on other models of bmw. I'm not seeing one for X5 which needs to be added to the list.
2020 BMX X5 xDrive40i experienced recall issue 24V-104. Year of vehicle is not included in recall 24V-104. I did not receive a notice of recall issue 24V-104. This recall should be extended to additional Years of this model of vehicle. Was driving in traffic on a state highway. Utilized breaks to stop the vehicle and brakes failed. Received warning notices through the cars system that aligned exactly with the errors expected to be received in Recall 24V-104. If I had been driving at a higher speed, I would not have been able to stop the vehicle and would have crashed into the vehicle in front of me at a high rate of speed, causing grave harm to myself and any individuals in the car ahead of me - and potentially any other car/individuals that were around me. The vehicle was inspected by an independent service center, which confirmed that brake failure was identical to current recall 24V-104. Auto shop only found out about the recall because they attempted to order new part and was informed that part could not be sold due to recall. Recall did not appear when VIN was searched. The problem was confirmed by the independent service center. There were no prior warnings, messages, or other systems of this problem prior to the failure and this is the first time it was experienced.
A few months ago there was a recall on my car (some problem with starter engine) and after few month I started the engine by pressing the brake pedal and pressing the start button. But the engine did not start, I saw smoke from under the hood, then I opened the hood and saw fire near the engine on the right (driver's) side. People in the parking lot helped put out the fire with a fire extinguisher while I called 911 for fire department, they came and recorded it (fire slip -[XXX]), [XXX}., Houston, Texas, 77043 (place where it happened). I have pictures and videos this incident. We were afraid that we would die in this car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated while at a stop light, the gear shifter independently shifted into neutral. The contact stated after several attempts, the gear shifter was shifted into park. The contact stated that the gear shifter had seized in park(P). The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with internal starter motor shortage. The contact was informed that the starter motor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure had occurred at night, while the four minor children were inside the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
On February 14, 2025, my 2020 BMW X5 unexpectedly failed to restart after engaging the Auto Start/Stop function while waiting at a traffic light. Despite multiple attempts, the vehicle would not turn back on, leaving me stranded in active traffic and creating a significant safety hazard. This failure occurred only three months after BMW applied a recall fix (software update) to address a known issue with the starter system. BMW initially issued a nationwide recall in July 2024 related to the starter function, with official letters sent to owners in September 2024. I purchased this vehicle in October 2024 and, upon learning of the recall, took it to an authorized BMW dealership in November 2024, where the recall remedy was applied (software patch). Despite this fix, the vehicle has now suffered a complete starter failure at just 50,250 miles, which is extremely premature for a modern luxury vehicle. BMW technicians at the dealership have confirmed that the starter motor itself has failed and requires full replacement. However, they claim it is unrelated to the recall, despite the failure occurring directly in line with the recall-related system. This issue is not an isolated incident—multiple BMW owners have reported similar failures following the recall fix, suggesting that the software update did not fully resolve the underlying defect. Given that the failure occurred under normal driving conditions and shortly after the recall repair, this raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of BMW’s recall remedy and the reliability of the Auto Start/Stop system. To date, BMW corporate has not yet provided a resolution, and I am seeking answers regarding whether this failure will be covered under an extended recall or goodwill repair. A premature starter failure caused by a known defect is unacceptable and presents a severe safety risk—had this occurred in a more dangerous situation, such as on a highway or at a railroad crossing, the consequences could have been
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that on several occasions the vehicle failed to immediately start. Additionally, while the vehicle was idling the vehicle shut off and had to be restarted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the starter was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were informed of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 60,000.
The car caught on fire spontaneously when it was parked and locked. The fire started approximately 5 minutes after it was driven for 20 minutes. The fire started under the hood. There was light smoke to begin with which got worse after around 13 minutes and then flames started spewing out at the opening between the hood and the windshield. The car was fully engulfed in flames 5 minutes later with flames going as high as 2 floors. It was finally extinguished by the fire department. The car is currently with my insurance company in their tow yard.
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X5. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The message "System Overheating - Restarting Engine Possible After Cooling" was displayed. The contact called AAA, who attempted to start the vehicle and shift to neutral(N), but the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The vehicle was towed to the residence with a special tow truck. The vehicle was able to be jumpstarted by AAA the following day. The vehicle was then driven to the dealer, where it was parked and turned off. The contact stated that the failure recurred at the dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the starter had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling), which the contact linked to the failure; however, the dealer informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Shark fin antenna - Telematic control module malfunctioning. Seems to have a leak issue causing modules inside/under antenna to get wet from rain or car washes. This is causing an error message "SOS emergency call system malfunctioning", you will not be able to make calls under an emergency. Other issues include GPS, remote start, lane assist, adaptive cruise control etc... not working properly and potentially causing an accident on the road.
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to report an issue with my vehicle, VIN: [XXX] , which appears to be related to a recall program. My dealer, BMW of Sherman Oaks #488, refuses to acknowledge the connection between the starter failure and the recall despite clear indications of this connection. I kindly request your assistance in investigating this matter and ensuring that the dealer complies with the recall requirements and provides the necessary corrective action. Thank you for your prompt attention to this issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Vehicle Purchase from BMW of Devon Dear BMW Customer Relations Team, I am writing to express my deep disappointment and frustration regarding my recent experience with a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle purchased from BMW of Devon. As a loyal BMW customer, I expected a higher standard of quality and service than what I have experienced. I purchased a 2020 BMW X5 (VIN: [XXX] in October 2023 with the confidence that it had undergone a rigorous inspection process, as advertised under your CPO program. However, after driving the vehicle for only 5,000 miles within a single year of ownership, I have been informed that the following costly repairs are required: 1. Brake pads replacement 2. RPLC both LW ctrl ar 3. Rear brake rotars 4. Front thrust arms 5. 4wa integral alignment The estimated total cost for these repairs exceeds $5,000, which is entirely unacceptable given the short duration and low mileage since the purchase. This indicates either a lack of proper inspection and servicing by BMW of Devon or a failure to disclose critical information about the vehicle’s condition at the time of sale. As a consumer, I relied on the assurances provided by the BMW CPO program, which is marketed as delivering “ultimate peace of mind” and a vehicle of premium quality. This experience has instead been stressful and costly, undermining my trust in the BMW brand. I demand that BMW of Devon and BMW of North America take full responsibility for these shortcomings by covering the cost of all necessary repairs immediately and free of charge. Anything less would not only fail to rectify this issue but also tarnish BMW’s reputation for quality and customer satisfaction. I hope this matter can be resolved promptly and amicably. Please respond within 10 days to confirm your commitment to addressing this issue. Should I not receive a satisfactory resolution, I will have no choice but to escalate this matter further, including but not limited to contact INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Data synced from NHTSA on May 4, 2026