How many problems does the 2011 BMW 528i have?

The 2011 BMW 528i currently has 198 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2011 BMW 528i?

The most common problems reported for the 2011 BMW 528i are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2011 BMW 528i problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2011 BMW 528i comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2011 BMW 528i Problems

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

30 complaints

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Oct 22, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Recall Campaign Number: 23V707000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING), and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the message "Drive Train Malfunction - Drive Moderately" was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the same dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that faulty spark plugs had caused damage to a cylinder, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 123,568.

May 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528i. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, following the recall repair, the vehicle was stalling with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed back to the same dealer. The contact stated that the dealer had diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the VANOS solenoids had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure of the VANOS solenoids to the recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.

Feb 10, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at or above 50 MPH on several occasions, the vehicle began shaking and running rough. The check engine warning light flashed on and off during one occasion and then remained illuminated. Additionally, on two occasions while stopped at a red light and a stop sign, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle stalled. After two failed attempts to restart the vehicle, the vehicle was restarted several hours later. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact was then advised by the dealer that the vehicle would not start. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

Nov 04, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where the contact was made aware of an oil leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,147. Parts distribution disconnect.

Oct 01, 2024

+ 25 more complaints for this component

TIRES

30 complaints

275R70/20

Jun 07, 2022

Crash: 1

GOODYEAR EAGLE LS TIRES SIDEWALL BUBBLES AFTER DRIVING JUST A FEW THOUSAND MILES. THIS IS THE SECOND TIRE WITH A DEFECT THAT WAS NOT CAUSED BY ANY IMPACT. *TR

Jun 18, 2012

LAST APRIL I PURCHASED A BMW 550IX. IN MARCH OF THIS YEAR WHILE ON THE FREEWAY I DEVELOPED A FLAT TIRE. I WAS ABLE TO RUN THE VEHICLE 40 MILES TO MY HOME WITH THE TIRE FLAT BUT HAD TO FLATBED THE VEHICLE TO MY CAR REPAIR STORE TO REPLACE THE TIRE. THAT TIRE HAD A BUBBLED SIDEWALL AT THE TIME OF THE FLAT ALTHOUGH I CANNOT SAY THAT THE BUBBLED SIDEWALL WAS WHERE THE TIRE FAILED. I HAD THE TIRE REPLACED FOR AROUND $500 AND THE MECHANIC MADE NO MENTION TO ME ABOUT THE BUBBLED SIDEWALL ISSUE WITH THIS TIRE ALTHOUGH, AS IT TURNS OUT, HE WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. AT THE TIME OF REPAIR OF THE ABOVE FLAT, MY MECHANIC INFORMED ME THAT THE PASSENGER-SIDE FRONT TIRE ALSO HAD A BUBBLED SIDEWALL NECESSITATING REPLACEMENT OF THAT TIRE IN ORDER TO PASS MY STATE VEHICLE INSPECTION. SINCE THE REPAIR IN LATE MARCH 2012, I NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER-SIDE FRONT TIRE HAS A BUBBLED SIDEWALL. I MIGHT ADD THAT NO POTHOLES HAVE BEEN HIT, DO ROAD DEBRIS HAS BEEN STRUCK. SO TWO AND POSSIBLY THREE OF FOUR OF THE ORIGINAL TIRES ON THIS VEHICLE, WHICH IS JUST NOW OVER 1 YEAR OLD, HAVE FAILED SIDEWALLS NECESSITATING REPLACEMENT. THE MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE IS AROUND 13,000 MILES. *JS

Apr 21, 2012

GOODYEAR EAGLE LS-2 TIRE FAILURE- BUBBLE IN SIDEWALL WITH LESS THAN 3,000 MILES ON IT. *JS

Mar 30, 2012

TIRES ARE EXTREMELY SUSCEPTIBLE TO BUBBLES IN THE SIDEWALL CAUSED BY ROUTING DRIVING. I'VE REPLACED TWO TIRES IN LESS THAN 6 MONTHS ON A NEW VEHICLE WITH LESS THAN 12,000 MILES. (BMW 550I X-DRIVE). *TR

Feb 27, 2012

+ 25 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

18 complaints

Driving on highway car engine died no warning light nothing There is recall for engine but bmw waiting for part they are denying its over 2 months to fix recall

Jul 05, 2024

I had my car repaired under a recall for VANOS bolts shearing/breaking off causing the engine to stop running. Issue has returned and car is unsafe to drive.

Jun 09, 2024

I was driving on a windy road and my car started making noise from the engine. The car stalled and would not start again, so I had to get a shop to tow my car. BMW has not fixed my car and it’s been broken for 4 1/2 months.

Mar 25, 2024

As I was driving, my car started making a loud clicky noise and then stalled in the middle of the road and I had to call a shop to come and get it into neutral so it could be moved. My car has been broken since November because the engine bolts are unavailable. BMW has taken too long to get this easily fixed.

Feb 22, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle stalled and lost motive power. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Feb 15, 2024

+ 13 more complaints for this component

POWER TRAIN

15 complaints

It feels like someone is hitting me from behind when it downshifts from I believe 2nd into 1st gear. Its a hard down shift. I was told by a mechanic at Bavarian Auto in Bakersfield Ca. His name is Sal and he is the owner. I told him when I took my car in that I wanted the transmission fluid changed. He told me it's a lifetime transmission and it never had to be changed. Now I'm pretty sure I'm having a problem with my transmission because of it needing the oil changed.

Feb 22, 2025

THE VEHICLE SLIPS WHEN ACCELERATING (ESPECIALLY UPHILL). IT LOST POWER TWICE AND I RESET THE MODULES BY TURNING ON THE ELECTRICAL AND STEPPING ON THE ACCELERATOR FOR 30 SECONDS. BUT IT CONTINUES TO SLIP

Jan 07, 2019

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON ROUGH RUNNING, HESITATION AND JERKING WHEN ACCELERATING.

May 25, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND FAILED TO RESPOND. WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES AND REDUCING SPEED, THE VEHICLE JERKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED, BUT A FAILURE WAS NOT FOUND. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.

Apr 12, 2016

TAKATA RECALL MY 528I BMW IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC HAS A VERY HARD JERK WHEN SLOWING DOWN FEELING AS IF IM BEEEING HIT FROM BEHIND I NOTICED IT WHEN I FIRST GOT MY CAR IT WOULD DO IT INTERMIDETLY. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS IT ALSO HAS A THROTTLE RESPONSE DELAY WHICH IS ALSO DANGEROUS WHEN GOING INTO TRAFFIC. A RECALL IS NEEDED FOR THIS FIX IT SEEMS TO BE A SOFTWARE ISSUE TO ME BECAUSE WHEN TURNING OFF THE CAR AND RESTARTING IT HOURS LATER THE PROBLEM STOPS BUT COMES BACK WEEKS LATER. I HAVE SEEN MANY COMPLAINTS DATING BACK TO 2011 OF THIS PROBLEM WHERE IS THE RECALL?

Apr 10, 2016

+ 10 more complaints for this component

STEERING

15 complaints

A FEW DAYS BACK MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED MAKING A SQUEAKY NOISE LIKE ONE OF THE RUBBERS HAVE GONE BAD IN THE STEERING COLUMN. MY CAR HAS APPROXIMATELY 55K MILES ON IT AND IS MAJORLY GARAGE KEPT. I RESEARCHED ONLINE AND THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINS OF THE SAME ISSUE. YOU CAN SEE AN EXAMPLE AT: HTTP://F30.BIMMERPOST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=838504 YOU CAN HEAR THE SQUEAK IF THE CAR IS DRIVING OR IS STATIC.

Apr 05, 2018

POWER STEERING SUDDENLY WENT OUT WITHOUT ANY WARNING, NOISE, ETC. AT SHOP NOW BEING INVESTIGATED.

Jan 02, 2018

I HAVE A NEW BMW 550I WITH SPORT PACKAGE AND 19" WHEELS. THIS CAR IS TRYING TO KILL ME. THE CAR STEERS WHEREVER IT WANTS TO. I HAVE HAD IT TO THE DEALER SINCE DAY ONE AND THEY REFUSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE ANY PROBLEM. THEY HAVE CHANGED THE SOFTWARE AND THE STEERING COLUMN TO APPEASE ME, BUT TO NO AVAIL. THIS CAR WILL PULL YOU TOWARD THE GUARD RAIL AND ONLY A FRANTIC, PANIC, SAVE MY LIFE MOVE CAN KEEP THE CAR FROM CRASHING. I FEAR FOR MY LIFE WHEN I DRIVE THIS CAR. I HAVE NEVER AND I REPEAT NEVER DRIVEN SUCH A HORRIBLE CAR.MAYBE WHEN I A AM KILLED IN THIS CAR BMW WILL PAY FOR MY FUNERAL. THIS IS THE BIGGEST COVER UP IN THE HISTORY OF CARS. THEY HAVE LACK OF CONSCIENCE THAT IS INCONCEIVABLE THAT THEY ARE TORTURING NEW OWNERS OF THIS CAR WHO PAID GOOD IF NOT BLOOD MONEY TO OWN ONE AND NOW DESPERATELY WANT HELP TO FIX OR GET RID OF THIS CAR. I WANT OUT. I AM TALKING TO LAWYERS AND MAYBE THIS IS THE ONLY LANGUAGE BMW UNDERSTANDS. CLASS ACTION SUIT SEEMS LOGICAL. I AM CONTACTING MEDIA AND ANYONE ELSE I CAN.I TRIED TO TRADE THIS CAR IN AT SEVERAL DEALERS. BOTH OF THESE DEALERS SENT ME A LETTER STATING THAT THEY WOULD NOT TAKE MY CAR IN TRADE AFTER TEST DRIVING IT. THEY SAID IT WAS DEFECTIVE AND UNSAFE. THEY WANT NO PART OF IT. IN ALL OF MY LIFE I HAVE NEVER HEARD OF ANYTHING LIKE THIS. A NEW CAR COSTING 75K AND THEY WON'T TAKE IT IN TRADE WITH 6000 MILES. NEVER HAVE I HEARD OF THIS. SO, GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR PIECE OF CRAP F10 550I AND I HOPE YOU LIVE THROUGH IT. *TR

Jan 22, 2011

MY 2011 BMW 550I SEDAN HAS HAD STEERING WHEEL GRINDING SENSATIONS AND LOUD NOISES WHEN I TURN THE WHEEL AT LOW SPEEDS. SOMETIMES THERE IS A "THUD" COMING FROM THE STEERING COMPONENT ALSO. BMW STATES THERE ARE NO FIXES FOR THIS AND THAT IT IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE. THIS IS INDEED A SAFETY ISSUE SINCE THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE STEERING WHEEL AREA INDEED HAS A PROBLEM. THE SERVICE DEALERSHIPS IS STATING IT IS A VALVE BLOCK PROBLEM WHICH HAS A CURRENT BACKORDER OF 2 WEEKS. HOWEVER, PEOPLE WHO HAVE REPLACED THE VALVE BLOCK IS STILL HAVING THE SAME STEERING WHEEL PROBLEMS WITH THEIR VEHICLES. I HAVE INCLUDED A LINK TO A BMW FORUM THAT HAS ABOUT 1 IN 3 OWNERS EXPERIENCING THIS PROBLEM- HTTP://WWW.BIMMERFEST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=495019&PAGE=18 IF THERE IS A STEERING WHEEL FAILURE AT HIGHER SPEEDS, IT CAN POTENTIALLY LEAD TO HUGE CATASTROPHIES. *TR

Jan 07, 2011

BMW 2011 535I - VEHICLE PULLS TO RIGHT IMMEDIATELY AFTER LETTING HAND OF STEERING WHEEL. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE ON 12/31/2011 NEW AND IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP SINCE 1/2/11. IT WAS RELEASED TO ME TODAY WITH THE PROBLEM NOT BEING FIXED. ISSUE IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS IT CAN PULL VEHICLE INTO LANE WITH OUT DRIVER TURNING WHEEL. *TR

Jan 04, 2011

+ 10 more complaints for this component

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

13 complaints

IN-TANK FUEL PUMP SAFETY RECALL - NO. 16V-746, LAST UPDATED 10/13/2016. I ATTEMPTED TO GET THIS RECALL ACCOMPLISHED AFTER RECEIVING A LETTER FROM BMW IN MAR 2017 THAT THE PARTS WERE AVAILABLE AND TO CONTACT MY LOCAL DETAILER FOR THE REPAIRS. I SCHEDULED THE REPAIRS AT BMW ANNAPOLIS ON 21 APRIL 2017 BUT WAS INFORMED THE PARTS WERE IN FACT NOT AVAILABLE AFTER AN ALL DAY WAIT. I AGAIN CONTACTED BMW ANNAPOLIS TODAY 9 NOV 2017 AND WAS AGAIN INFORMED THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE WHICH REMAINS CONTRARY TO THE LETTER I RECEIVED FROM BMW BACK IN MARCH 2017. I BELIEVE WAITING 2 YEARS FOR PARTS IS EXCESSIVE. THANK YOU AND HAVE A GREAT DAY.

Nov 09, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. BMW OF HOUSTON NORTH (17730 NORTH FWY, HOUSTON, TX 77090 (281) 305-8901) STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT SENT PARTS TO THE DEALER FOR THE RECALL REPAIR REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO CALL THE SERVICE MANAGER AT THE DEALER TO ORDER THE RECALL PARTS. THE CONTACT FELT THAT HE SHOULD NOT HAVE TO MAKE CALLS TO THE DEALER OR SERVICE MANAGER TO ORDER THE RECALL PARTS. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Aug 03, 2017

I WAS NOTIFIED OF RECALL NUMBER 16V746 BY BMW IN DECEMBER OF 2016. ON 12/20/16 I ATTEMPTED TO GET AN APPOINTMENT AT MY LOCAL BMW DEALER TO REPAIR THE FUEL PUMP, BUT WAS TOLD THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. I ALSO TALKED WITH BMW NA, BUT GOT THE SAME ANSWER. I CALLED DEALER AGAIN IN FEBRUARY & MARCH OF 2017, BUT WAS TOLD THAT PARTS WOULD NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL APRIL 2017. CALLED DEALER (BMW OF ASHEVILLE) ON APRIL 18TH, STILL NO PARTS. CALLED DEALER ON JULY 6 TO REPORT FUEL VAPORS NOTICED WHEN PARKING THE CAR. TOLD THEY WOULD "PURSUE THE REPAIR PARTS". ON JULY 7TH, I RECEIVED AN EMAIL FROM DAVID REIFF, SERVICE MNGR AT BMW OF A WHO STATED IN THE EMAIL: "MR. THERIEN, I WILL SEE WHAT I CAN DO TO ESCALATE THIS CASE. THE FUEL SMELL IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL PART." ON JULY 7TH, I RESPONDED BY EMAIL: "I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW YOU COULD STATE THAT "THE FUEL SMELL IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL PART." IN A STATEMENT ISSUED BY BMW NA (ALSO ON NHTSA'S WEBSITE) I QUOTE: "THIS SAFETY RECALL INVOLVES THE IN-TANK FUEL PUMP. THE FUEL PUMP CONNECTOR MAY BECOME DAMAGED WHICH MAY BE NOTICED BY FUEL ODOR." MY WIFE AND I ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS HAVE NOTICED THE SMELL OF FUEL WHEN PARKING THIS 528I. PLEASE EXPEDITE THIS REPAIR FOR THE SAFETY RECALL ON THIS CAR. THIS HAS BEEN A KNOWN PROBLEM BY BMW SINCE AT LEAST JULY OF 2015. IT HAS FURTHER BEEN BMW'S OBLIGATION PURSUANT TO RECALL CAMPAIGN NO. 16V-746 TO REPAIR THIS DEFECT WITHIN A REASONABLE PERIOD OF TIME. WE ARE NOW AT 9 MONTHS AFTER THE SAFETY RECALL WAS ISSUED & 7 MONTHS FROM MY FIRST REQUEST TO COMPLETE THIS REPAIR. THIS NOT A REASONABLE PERIOD OF TIME. UNLESS THIS IS RESOLVED IN A TIMELY FASHION, I WILL FORWARD MY NOTES, EMAILS AND LETTERS TO THE NHTSA IN WASHINGTON AS A FORMAL COMPLAINT. APPARENTLY, BMW DOES NOT INTEND TO DO THESE REPAIRS. PLEASE HELP ME TO GET THIS SAFETY ISSUE RESOLVED WITH BMW. THANK YOU.

Jul 13, 2017

STILL NO RESOLUTION TO THE SAFETY RECALL ISSUED DECEMBER 2016.

Jun 18, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

May 08, 2017

+ 8 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 complaints

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to start. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the starter was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the starter was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle shut off and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to Pep Boys to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Another dealer, BMW of Tallahassee (1485 Capital Cir NW, Tallahassee, FL 32303); was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Feb 12, 2025

I I SAW THERE WAS A RECALL A WHILE AGO ON 2011 5251 HEATER BLOWERS STARTING FIRES AND I KEEP SMELLING BURNING SMELL INSIDE MY CAR WHEN HEAT IS ON.

Jan 14, 2021

WHILE DRIVING WITH AC ON SMOKE STARTED COMING HEAVILY FOR THE INTERIOR AC VENTS. A VERY TOXIC SMOKE, WITH ELECTRICAL SMELL. I NOTICED THE BMW 3 SERIES HAS A RECALL ON ELECTRICAL BLOWER PROBLEM. I THINK MY CAR HAS THE SAME ISSUE.

Mar 26, 2019

MY AC FAN MOTOR HAS STARTED TO MAKE A WEIRD NOISE WHEN YOU LIFT THE FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR. THIS HAPPENS EVEN WHEN THE CAR IS STATIONARY

Apr 05, 2018

ACCELERATION AFTER SLOWING DOWN HAS A VERY UNSAFE LAG THAT CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. DRIVER HAS TO DEPRESS THE PEDAL ALMOST TO FULL THROTTLE TO GET A RESPONSE THEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATES UNSAFELY. DEALER CHECKED THE CAR FOR 5 DAYS AND COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. IT IS A SOFTWARE FAULT.

Oct 21, 2015

+ 1 more complaint for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

5 complaints

My car started to make a loud clicky sound from under the hood then the car completely stalled and died in the middle of the road and would not restart and had a lot of difficulty moving the car due to not being able to put it in neutral. I have now been without a car since November and BMW has taken way too long to fix this issue.

Feb 21, 2024

MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE COMPLAINING ABOUT THIS BMW TRANSMISSION. THEY ARE VERY NOT RELIABLE, MY CAR WON'T GO REVERSE OR PARK. INVESTIGATING THIS WILL MAKE BMW LEARN FROM HOW TO MAKE RELIABLE CAR.

Nov 20, 2020

AS OF SEPT 2016 ALL BMW CONNECT DRIVE FEATURES HAVE BEEN DISABLED BY BMW OF N AMERICA. THIS MEANS IF YOU HIT YOUR SOS BUTTON IT MAY CALL A LOCAL 911 LINE ??? THERE IS NO WAY TO SEND INFORMATION TO CAR YOU CANNOT LOCATE YOUR CAR REMOTELY DRIVER IS UNABLE TO SEND LOCATION OF CAR TO ANYONE AND BMW HAS NO UPGRADE FOR A 2011 BMW 528I

Sep 03, 2016

ENGINE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING FROM UPLAND CA IN ROUTE TO LAS VEGAS NV USING HIGHWAY I15 FRWY. TIME WAS AROUND 700 AM THE TEMP OUTSIDE WAS APPRX 12 DEGREES.

Jan 27, 2016

THE DRIVER DOOR DOES NOT SHUT INTERMITTENTLY THE DOOR RELEASE, DOOR UNLOCK/LOCK, DOOR HANDLE DOES NOT RELEASE THE STATE. THE CAR WON'T MOVE BECAUSE THE DOOR IS NOT LOCKED, IT CAN TAKE UPWARDS OF A FEW HOURS OF TINKLING TO GET THIS GOING AGAIN. THE DEALER HAS DILIGENTLY CHANGED SO MANY PARTS AND ITS NOT THAT THEY ARE NOT TRYING TO REMEDY THE SITUATION. IS ANYONE ELSE EXPERIENCING THIS OUT THERE. MY 4 YR WARRANTY WILL END IN JUNE AND I AM VVERY CONCERNED HOW I AM GOING TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE.

Feb 26, 2015

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

4 complaints

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WOULD RECEIVE A SECOND LETTER IN JUNE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Apr 24, 2017

VEHICLE DID NOT ACCELERATE AS I WAS PULLING OUT OF A GAS STATION. THIS IS NORMAL FOR THIS CAR (THROTTLE DELAY). I USUALLY PLAN FOR THE POOR PERFORMANCE, HOWEVER, BECAUSE OF HEAVY TRAFFIC I PULLED OUT IN WHAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN AMPLE TIME TO MERGE IN. NO ACCIDENT OCCURRED BUT IF I DID NOT KNOW HOW TO REACT IT VERY EASILY COULD HAVE. I DO NOT LET OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS DRIVE THIS VEHICLE DUE TO THIS ISSUE VERY UNSAFE!! THANKS FOR YOUR TIME. *TR

Jun 10, 2013

WAS PARKING 2011 BMW 550 AUTOMATIC.CAR SUDDENLY TOOK OFF AND HIT VERY HARD ON STONE WALL.ALL AIRBAGS DEPLOYED INCLUDING LOWER PASSENGER WINDOWS.CAR ELECTRIC SYSTEM FAILED.LOTS OF DAMAGE TO CAR. ALSO TAKEN CAR TO DEALER BEFORE DUE TO PULLINGOF CAR ON RIGHT WHILE DRIVIG AND ON APPLYING BRAKES.

Mar 29, 2011

THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED, MY WIFE DROVE OUR 2011 BMW 535I TO WORK AND THE FUEL GAUGE WAS READING HALF TANK. IT'S ONLY APPROX. 20 MILES TO WORK ROUND TRIP TO OUR HOUSE BUT WHEN SHE CAME BACK HOME THE FUEL GAUGE WAS ALMOST EMPTY AND FLASHING WARNING LIGHT FUEL REFILL IS SHOWING. I DROVE THE CAR FOR THE PAST FEW DAYS AND I NOTICED THAT THE FUEL GAUGE INDICATOR SEEMED TO BE STAYING ALL THE TIME AT HALF TANK READING. I DROVE IT THIS MORNING TO OUR FAMILY PHYSICIAN AND TO THE MALL AND I STILL NOTICED THE FUEL GAUGE INDICATOR IS NOT MOVING AND WAS READING HALF TANK. WHEN I WENT TO THE LOCAL GROCERY STORE TO BUY BOTTLED WATER, I DECIDED TO LEAVE THE CAR IDLE AND THE ENGINE ON. WHEN I DROVE IT AGAIN, THAT'S WHEN I NOTICED THE FUEL GAUGE NEEDLE MOVED SLOWLY BUT STEADILY FROM HALF TANK READING TO ALMOST 1/4 TANK. THEN MY WIFE DROVE THE SAME VEHICLE AGAIN TO WORK WITH THE FUEL GAUGE READING 1/4 TANK. 10 MINUTES LATER SHE CALLED BACK BY PHONE BECAUSE FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS WAS SHOWING THAT THE CAR NEEDS TO REFUELED AND SHE SAID THE FUEL GAUGE IS READING ALMOST EMPTY. *TR

Sep 02, 2010

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

3 complaints

I have a 2011 SIX-cylinder BMW 528i. I was driving down the road and had a yellow engine light come on and my car lost all power and I coasted into a parking area and then had my vehicle towed to the BMW Service Center. They determined the problem was that the VANOS UNIT BOLTS had broken off and they repaired the vehicle charging me $6678.11. I found out about a recall for 2010-2012 5 series BMW’s and my service advisor told me that I didn’t qualify for is because the recall had expired in 2021. I called BMW North America and they referred me to NHITSA. I have a video sent to me from the service technician showing me where the bolts had sheared off. I feel that this should have been repaired by BMW at no charge to me.

Feb 03, 2023

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND FAILED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHERE THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE REPLICATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 14V176000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AND THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED TIMEFRAME FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.

Jul 29, 2014

FROM A COMPLETE STOP, WHEN ACCELERATING, THERE IS A LAG OR HESITATION BEFORE THE CAR TAKES OFF. WHEN IT DOES TAKE OFF, THERE IS A HARD JERK. IT MAKES IT VERY HARD TO GAUGE THE DISTANCE BETWEEN YOU AND OTHER CARS WHEN IT LUNGES VERY QUICKLY. IF YOU'RE PULLING INTO TRAFFIC, AS IN MY CASE, IT CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS. ALSO IF IT'S WET, AND THIS HAPPENS, IT COULD CAUSE YOU TO LOSE CONTROL OF YOUR VEHICLE. THIS NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED, AS IT CAN BE A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

Feb 22, 2013

VISIBILITY

3 complaints

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 5-SERIES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION IN WHICH THE VENT CONTROLS FAILED TO FUNCTION FOR THE AIR CONDITIONER AND HEATER. DUE TO THE EXTREME TEMPERATURES, THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. BMW OF WILMINGTON (4920 NEW CENTRE DR, WILMINGTON, NC 28403, (910) 392-2700) STATED THAT THE BLOWER MOTOR MAY NEED TO BE REPLACED AND WAS TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TESTED AND DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE, BUT THE DETAILS WERE UNKNOWN. VOLVO CARS NEW BERN (3405 DOCTOR M.L.K. JR BLVD, NEW BERN, NC 28562, (252) 638-6161) DIAGNOSED THAT THE BLOWER MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000. *JS

Jun 19, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE SUN ROOF INDEPENDENTLY SHATTERED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 65,000.

May 09, 2016

AS I WAITED FOR MY WIFE IN MY APARTMENT PARKING SPACE, MY REAR WINDSHIELD SHATTERED COMPLETELY WITH A LOUD BANG. I WAS COMPLETELY TAKEN BY SURPRISE AND FRIGHTENED BY THE NOISE. I WAS LUCKY NOT TO BE IN MOTION AT THE TIME OF THE SHATTERING. NO FOREIGN OBJECTS IMPACTED MY VEHICLE OR THE REAR WINDSHIELD. *TR

Aug 08, 2013

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

3 complaints

THERE IS HESITATION OR DELAY WITH THIS VEHICLE UPON INITIAL ACCELERATION AND WHEN IT FINALLY DOES ACCELERATE IT ALMOST GIVES YOU WHIP LASH. THIS IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE YOU ARE AT INTERSECTION AND UNABLE TO PROCEED THROUGH IT INITIALLY AND THEN YOU ACCELERATE AT A SIGNIFICANT RATE. IT IS SO FRUSTRATING. AND I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR. I HOPE I DO NOT GET A NECK INJURY FROM TAKING OFF SO SUDDENLY AND I PRAY THAT WHEN I DO ACCELERATE, IT IS NOT INTO THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. *TR

Feb 13, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 5 SERIES. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE CONTACT APPROACHED A STOP SIGN AND DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL WHEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHERE THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED DUE TO DRIVER ERROR. THE FAILURE RECURRED THREE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. AN ENGINEER WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND PERFORMED SOFTWARE UPDATES. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000.

Nov 07, 2011

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD HESITATE WHENEVER HE ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS ENGAGED. THE DEALER WAS INFORMED ABOUT THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT IT WAS NORMAL; HOWEVER, SHIFTING INTO SPORT MODE WOULD PREVENT THE FAILURE FROM OCCURRING. THE FAILURE OCCURRED EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 500 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 1575.

Oct 05, 2010

SUSPENSION

3 complaints

IN JULY OF 2013 WE BEGAN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLES STEERING. IT WOULD PULL VERY HARD TO THE RIGHT, MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO STEER, CAUSING CONSTANT ADJUSTMENTS WITH THE STEERING WHEEL, TO KEEP IT FROM RUNNING OFF OF THE ROAD. WE TOOK IT TO OUR BMW DEALER FOR REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS STILL UNDER MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY. WE WERE CHARGED $1773.14 TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE UPPER CONTROL ARMS WERE BENT, ACCORDING TO THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT.THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT TOLD US THAT IT WAS NOT A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT AND THAT WE MUST HAVE HIT A "POTHOLE", WHICH WE HADN'T. WE LIVE IN AN URBAN AREA WITH WELL MAINTAINED ROADS. I WAS ALSO NOT CLEAR ON HOW HITTING A POTHOLE, PRESUMABLY WITH ONE WHEEL, COULD BEND BOTH CONTROL ARMS. I SPOKE WITH AN INSURANCE ADJUSTER, TO SEE IF THE "DAMAGE" MIGHT BE AN INSURANCE CLAIM. I WAS TOLD "NO". THE ADJUSTER ALSO TOLD ME THAT HE HAD OWNED SEVERAL BMW'S HIMSELF, AND THEY WERE KNOWN TO HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE UPPER CONTROL ARMS. HE STATED THAT MY VEHICLE'S UPPER CONTROL ARMS, HAVE 3 DIFFERENT PART NUMBERS, AS THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM THEY CAN'T SEEM TO FIX. BY MARCH OF 2014 THE VEHICLE AGAIN STARTED TO PULL TO THE RIGHT. I TOOK IT BACK TO BMW TO HAVE IT RE-ALIGNED AND THEY ADVISED THAT MY TIRES, WERE TO WORN TO DO THE ADJUSTMENT. ON APRIL 19 2014 WE TRADED THE VEHICLE, AS WE WERE CONCERNED ABOUT FUTURE PROBLEMS. I REQUESTED AND SAVED THE UPPER CONTROL ARMS, AND VISUAL INSPECTION SHOWS NO DEFINITIVE BENT PARTS TO THE NAKED EYE. I BELIEVE THAT BMW HAS A SAFETY CONCERN WITH THOSE UPPER CONTROL ARMS, THAT SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED. I CHECKED A FEW BMW BLOGS ONLINE, AND IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM. I WILL GIVE MY CONTROL ARMS TO YOUR AGENCY FOR INVESTIGATIVE PURPOSES IF YOU DESIRE. I DO FEEL THAT THIS PROBLEM MAY RESULT IN FUTURE ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THESE VEHICLES AND DO REQUEST YOU INVESTIGATE. *TR

May 29, 2014

THE VEHICLE MAKES A GRINDING NOISE AT LOW SPEEDS ON RIGHT TURNS. THIS HAPPENS BOTH IN COLD AND WARM WEATHER AND IS HEARD ABOUT 80-90% OF THE TIME. I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER TO ASSESS THE ISSUE, HOWEVER THEY WERE UNABLE TO REPRODUCE THE NOISE OR IDENTIFY ANY PROBLEMS. *TR

Jan 09, 2011

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 550I. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A RATTLING NOISE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE STEERING WHEEL BEGAN TO VIBRATE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHENEVER ENCOUNTERING A SLIGHT IMPERFECTION IN THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FRONT END SUSPENSION FAILURE. THE TECHNICIAN TEST DROVE A SIMILAR MODEL YEAR VEHICLE WHICH EXHIBITED THE IDENTICAL FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS AT THE DEALER FOR A MONTH AND REMAINED THERE FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,100.

Dec 23, 2010

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

2 complaints

Again I write about 2011 bmw 528i, the vanos bolts were recalled and when bmw was fixing them they showed a video , there was belt and metal pieces in the engine oil. Whoever had this car before me did fix the belt and other issues but they said they didn't take off the bottom of the engine pan for the oil to get out .. the vanos bolt recall when I looked it up was June 1st . I had bmw fix the missing bolts June 7th it had to be towed there and back to my house. They said they made a decision that it did not happen because of the recall . Which it stated in the recall paperwork that it can affect the engine and to not drive it ! So as of today I have a bmw that was recalled and I do believe other recalls on this car as well had everything to do with me not having a car now because the engine misfiring and stalls and brake light and sensors are all no good. Does not add up . They refused to give a new engine because the car is worth way less than a new engine.

Jul 11, 2024

POSITIVE CRANKCASE VENTILATION PCV VALVE HEATER THIS IS A RECALL BMW STATES REMEDY NOT AVAILABLE YET.

Nov 04, 2017

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and made unusual sounds. The contact stated that the gear shifter failed to shift as intended and was seized in park(P). The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 148,582.

Jan 18, 2024

THE CAR HAS ACCELERATION ISSUES WHEN NOT ONLY ADDING ADDITIONAL SPEED WHILE DRIVING BUT WHEN BEGINNING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP SIGN OR TRAFFIC LIGHT, AS WELL. THE CAR HESITATES WHEN ACCELERATING AND THERE IS OFTEN A LAG IN ACCELERATING WHILE THE CAR IS STOPPED OR AT A LOW SPEED, CREATING A SAFETY CONCERN. NOT ONLY IS THERE A SAFETY ISSUE, BUT IT IS NOT HOW A $51,000 LUXURY SEDAN SHOULD DRIVE -- IT IS RATHER ROUGH AND ANNOYING TO DRIVE THE CAR. THE CAR ALSO IDLES AT AN EXTREMELY LOW SPEED OR NO SPEED WHEN THE CAR IS STARTED AFTER SITTING FOR A LONGER PERIOD OF TIME. IN THIS CASE, I HAVE TO APPLY A DECENT AMOUNT OF PRESSURE ON THE ACCELERATOR EVEN TO BACK OUT OF MY GARAGE. *TR

Sep 13, 2011

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

2 complaints

CAR STALLS, AND A BUNCH OF MALFUNCTIONS ARISE, ULTIMATELY LEAVING THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON

Aug 07, 2019

WHILE MAKE TURNS WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AXEL MAKES POPPING NOISE AND STEERING WHEEL JERKS VIOLENTLY. TOOK TO SHOP THEY SAID NOTHING FOUND WRONG WITH CAR. CV AXEL REPLACED ON BOTH SIDES PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS.ALSO NOT EVEN 10K MILES THE CAR WENT THRU 2 BELT TENSIONER CAUSING THE DRIVE BELT TO SNAP/TEAR.

Dec 01, 2018

STEERING,POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND POPPED OUT OF GEAR WENT INTO NEUTRAL. AND STALLED

Sep 25, 2018

TWO SAFETY ISSUES WITH MY 2011 BMW 535I: 1- STEERING: THE STEERING WHEEL PULLS TO THE RIGHT. IT ALSO CANNOT BE CONTROLLED IF ANY WIND IS BLOWING. I HAVE TO SLOW DOWN JUST TO KEEP IT CENTERED. 2- TRANSMISSION: THE THROTTLE IS INITIALLY NON-RESPONSIVE FROM STOP OR LOW SPEEDS, THEN SUDDENLY IT JERKS TO THE FRONT, ALMOST HITTING THE CAR INFRONT OF ME. *TR

Apr 22, 2011

AIR BAGS

2 complaints

TROUBLE CODE READING

Aug 21, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED ON, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE DRIVER RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED; HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO PRODUCE A FAULT CODE OR DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.

Oct 07, 2016

WHEELS

2 complaints

WHEELS / RIMS FAILED. CRACK CAUSED THEM TO NOT HOLD AIR. ONLY DRIVEN FOR PLEASURE AND NO EXCESSIVE DRIVING OR EVENTS. FAILED UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS IN GEOGRAPHY. DEALER REFUSED TO WARRANTY.

Jul 21, 2015

WHEELS / RIMS FAILED. CRACK CAUSED THEM TO NOT HOLD AIR. ONLY DRIVEN FOR PLEASURE AND NO EXCESSIVE DRIVING OR EVENTS. FAILED UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS IN GEOGRAPHY. DEALER REFUSED TO WARRANTY.

Jul 21, 2015

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

I am filing a complaint regarding the recall work performed on my 2011 BMW 528i for the VANOS bolt safety recall. The recall notice stated the vehicle was unsafe to drive until repaired. I arranged towing to Jackie Cooper BMW in Edmond, Oklahoma because of this safety warning. The dealership performed the recall repair and released the vehicle back to me. Immediately after picking it up, the vehicle experienced a failure and became inoperable. The vehicle had to be towed again. This time, the dealership covered the towing cost and had the vehicle returned to my residence. Staff present at the time included a technician named Luke and the Service Drive Manager, Tayler Hawkins. Staff statements indicated that diagnostic charges would have applied if issues outside the recall were found, but no diagnostics were ultimately billed. There were also inconsistencies regarding the availability of the service manager. I am filing this complaint because the vehicle failed immediately after recall service and required towing. I am concerned that the recall work may not have been performed correctly or that the vehicle was released in a condition that was not suitable for operation. I am requesting that this incident be documented as part of the recall and safety record for this vehicle.

Nov 17, 2025

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The contact pulled over, and after several attempts, the vehicle restarted. The contact was able to restart the vehicle, and the message "Drivetrain Malfunction" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure started recently and had occurred several times. Additionally, the vehicle was vibrating intermittently and lost motive power. The contact stated that occasionally the vehicle failed to accelerate above 15 MPH. The contact smelled the odor of gasoline inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

Sep 24, 2025

STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

on February 1,2025 Pushed the trunk release at Autozone to take battery out of vehicle. And, trunk spring/release was so strong the trunk broke my back windshield again. This would be the second time I've had this happen. the first was on August9.2023. Ever since I've purchased the vehicle the trunk ring/release has been real strong. This really needs to be looked into!

Feb 11, 2025

STEERING,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

I noticed all of a sudden when I would turn my steering wheel it would make a clicking sound. Then none of my controls were working on the steering wheel. The horn wouldnt work none of the buttons and the air bag malfunction light was on. I researched and quite a few people had the same problem and I found out it was the ribbon wire inside the steering wheel had snapped and broke. The clock spring i guess might have failed or something. So now i have no horn or airbag and it's very dangerous. To ha e it replaced will be a few hundred dollars. This car just keeps having one problem after another. This seems like a really bad design and it is easily broken. I think they should recall this.

Nov 09, 2022

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528i. The contact stated that the driver’s side headlight housing had an excessive amount of moisture inside. The vehicle failed to start. The daytime and parking light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Jun 15, 2021

AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

1 complaint

I HAVE A F10 2011. I HAVE BEEN WAITING ON SOME REIMBURSEMENT FROM BMW SINCE 2017! NOW I CAN'T FIND ANY RECORD OF THEIR PROMISES M. I BOUGHT MY 528I IN 2015. REPLACES WATER PUMP TWICE, PULLY, TENCH-NOR, MORE THAN 5 TIMES, AND SOME BELTS. IT LAGGED ON THE FWY AND OTHER TIMES IT ACCELERATES ON ITS OWN. EVERY TIME I DROVE IT, IT SMELLED LIKE IT WAS ON FIRE. OH, LET'S NOT FORGET THE FAULTY CRANK SHAFT AND THE AIRBAG ARE BOTH BROKEN. AND NOW, SINCE 2018 IT SITS IN THE DRIVEWAY LOOKING BRAND NEW. STUCK PAYING MY NOTE @ $700. AND HAVE TO RENT FROM AVIS $1,000 A MONTH. THIS IS NOT FAIR. THE LAST TIME I HAVE HEARD FROM BMW NORTH WAS OVER A YEAR AGO.

Mar 29, 2021

POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

1 complaint

WAS AT MY FIANC GRANDADS FUNERAL SATURDAY 02/06/2021 AND THE CAR STARTED ACTING STRANGE IMMEDIATELY I HEARD STRANGE NOICE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE GOT A DIAGNOSIS AND MECHANIC TOLD ME VVT ISSUES GOT IF FIXED AT A CERTIFIED BMW TECH AND ON HIS BULLETIN I SEEN THE RECALL AND HE TOLD ME ABOUT THIS RECALL AND THAT HE GETS MANY CARS EVERY WEEK FOR THIS JOB HE TOLD ME I WOULD BE REIMBURSED FROM BMW OF NORTH AMERICA I HAVE ALL THE RECITES FOR THE LABOR AND PARTS AND I REALLY NEED YOUR HELP IN GETTING THIS RESOLVED

Feb 13, 2021

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

THE VEHICLE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON EVERYTIME THE ENGINE HEATS UP TO NORMAL OPERATION. TEMPARETURE AND THE REVS UP TEMPORARILY MAKING IT DIFFICULT EVERY YEAR TO DO EMISSIONS TESTING

Mar 21, 2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

THERE ARE A FEW RECALLS FOR MY CAR BUT WEN I PUT IN MY VIN TO SEARCH ,IT SAYS 0 RECALLS BUT I SEEN ONLINE THAT THERE ARE MANY RECALLS

Oct 09, 2019

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

HEADLIGHT WIRING IS SHORTING OUT DUE TO THE PLASTIC COATING ON THE WIRING DEGRADING. THIS ISSUE IS CURRENTLY ONLY AFFECTING THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS BUT HAS CAUSED A SHORT IN THE HEADLIGHT SYSTEM WHICH, WITHOUT REPAIR, WILL EVENTUALLY AFFECT THE HEADLIGHTS. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN BECAUSE A SHORT IN ONE HEADLIGHT CAN LEAD TO A FAILURE OF THE ENTIRE SYSTEM LEAVING ME WITHOUT HEADLIGHTS. THIS ISSUE IS APPARENTLY CAUSED BY WIRING WHICH DEGRADES IN HIGHER HEAT WHICH SHOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN INSTALLED IN A HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY.

Mar 22, 2019

SEATS

1 complaint

THE DRIVER SEAT REQUIRED CALIBRATION. I TRIED TO DO IT MYSELF AND STILL HAVE THE MESSAGE ON THE BOARD THAT REQUIRED CALIBRATION.

Oct 05, 2018

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

THE THROTTLE BODY OF THE 2011 MODEL OF THE BMW 528I HAS BEEN FAULTY SINCE DAY 1. THE CAR JERKS AT LOW RPM MAKING IT DANGEROUS DURING DRIVING SITUATIONS. THE SLOW RESPONSE TIME OF THE THROTTLE CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTS. THERE IS ABOUT THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS THAT BMW RECEIVED OVER THE YEARS AND THEY STILL ARE NOT ISSUING A RECALL ON IT.

May 28, 2017

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE STILL NOT AVAILABLE AND THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 02/03/17*LJ

Dec 19, 2016

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE STREET AT 40 MPH I HEARD A LOUD EXPLOSION TYPE SOUND. I PULLED OVER AFTER MAKING SURE IT WAS SAFE AND NOTICED MY SUNROOF GLASS HAD SHATTERED INTO A MILLION PIECES. IT LOOKED AS IF IT HAD EXPLODED FROM WITHIN THE CAR OUTWARDS. I CONTACTED THE DEALER AND BMW OF AMERICA AND BOTH SAID THAT IT WAS NOT RECALLED AND THEY HAD NOT HEARD OF ANY INCIDENTS SUCH AS THAT. BMW OF AMERICA SUGGESTED I TAKE MY CAR INTO THE DEALER AND HAVE THEM EXAMINE IT AT MY EXPENSE.

Jul 15, 2016

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE

1 complaint

THIS MALFUNCTION LIGHT HAS BEEN COMING ON SINCE I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE. IT IS EXTREMELY FRUSTRATING BECAUSE EVERY TIME I HAVE THAT THIS CAR SERVICED THEY HAVE NEVER TRULY FIXED THE PROBLEM. IT MAY STOP FOR A MOMENT AND THEN ANY RANDOM DAY IT WILL GIVE ME THIS WARNING AS YOU SE IN THE PICTURE PROVIDED. A BIGGER PROBLEM THAT IS UNEXCEPTABLE IS THAT THE CAR KEEPS FLASHING A WARNING ABOUT THE COOLENT IS NEEDED AND THAT IT NEEDS TO BE FIXED OR THERE COULD BE ENGINE DAMAGE. THIS WARNING HAS BEEN THE MAIN CONCER. I HAVE HAD THE COOLENT GO INTO THE ENGINE WHICH CAUSED MY CAR TO SHUT DOWN ON A BUSY HWY 3 SEPERATE TIMES, RISKING A DANGER TO MYSELF AND OTHERS ON THE ROAD. I HAVE NOT HEARD A WORD FROM BMW OF NORTH AMERICA THAT THEY CARE ABOUT MY CONCERNS AND I FEEL THAT THIS PROBLEM HAS LITERALLY AFFECTED MY HEALTH AND WELL BEING. I HAVE HUGE ANXIETY ISSUES BECAUSE OF THIS CAR. I HOPE MY LETTER IS HEARD SO THAT I MAY HAVE JUSTICE FOR THIS CAR. I AM OVERWHELMED WITH NERVOUSNES EVERYTIME I DRIVE IT. I FEEL LIKE SOMETHING BAD WILL HAPPEN TO ME ORCSOME ELSE. PLEASE HELP THIS MATTER BECOME RES OLVED!

Jul 05, 2016

STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

WE BOUGHT A 2011 BMW 528I WHILE IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY. WE STARTED TO HAVE ISSUES RIGHT AFTER THAT. PULLING RIGHT, ELECTRONICS FREEZING, CAN NOT UNLOCK THE DOORS WITH KEY FOB, CAN NOT GET OUT FROM CAR BECAUSE DOOR HANDLES DO NOT WORK TIME TO TIME AND OUR 2 YEAR OLD SON GOT LOCKED INSIDE(CAR LOCKED BY IT SELF) AND WE HAD TO BREAK THE WINDOW WHICH TOOK ALMOST 30 MINUTES. BMW SAID THEY COULD NOT FIND ANY PROBLEM AND WENT EVEN FURTHER SOME OF THE ISSUES ARE FEATURES OF THE CAR. OUR KIDS GETTING LOCKED IN THE CAR IS A SERIOUS ISSUE, CAN NOT GETTING FROM THE CAR IS ANOTHER SERIOUS ISSUE. WHAT IF CAR CATCHES A FIRE IN AN ACCIDENT AND WE GET STUCK IN THE CAR. PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT IT. I DO HAVE VIDEO RECORDINGS IN MULTIPLIABLE OCCASIONS. EVEN BMW SERVICE TOOK THE CAR FOR THE SAME ISSUES AND CONFIRM IT WAS AN ISSUE. BUT COULD NOT PROVIDE ANY SOLUTION. IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO SOMEONE BECAUSE OF THE ISSUES, IT WILL BE ON YOU GUYS IF YOU DO NOT TAKE ACTION IN THE ISSUE.

Jun 03, 2016

Injuries: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS

1 complaint

WHILE DRIVING FOR 15 MINUTES WITH SEAT WARMERS ON MY HUSBAND (DRIVER) TURNED IT OFF. WE WERE TRAVELLING ON SUBURBAN ROADS AROUND 40 MPH. THEN AT A STOP LIGHT HE NOTICED A BURNING SMELL. WE CONTINUED DRIVING WHEN LIGHT TURNED GREEN. THEN I NOTICED THE SMELL A FEW SECONDS LATER, SO I OPENED A WINDOW EXPECTING TO FIND SMELL A FIRE NEARBY OR HEAR SIRENS. AT THAT POINT WE SAW A PLOOM OF SMOKE COME FROM UNDER HIS SEAT TOWARDS THE PASSENGER SIDE OPEN WINDOW. HE IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER, JUMPED OUT OF THE CAR AND TURNED EVERYTHING OFF. THE SMOKE TOOK SOME TIME TO CLEAR BUT DID STOP. SEVERAL MINUTES LATER WE DROVE 1 MILE TO THE BMW DEALERSHIP. WE WERE TOLD ITS NOT UNDER WARRANTY, AND WOULD COST $1,700 TO FIX. I DECLINED TO PAY $1,700 TO FIX AND REQUESTED THEY DISCONNECT SEAT HEATER. BMW PERSONNEL INFORMED ME IT COULD NOT DISCONNECT POWER TO SEAT HEATER WITHOUT DISCONNECTING THE ENTIRE AC/HEAT SYSTEM. THIS IS A PERSONAL SAFETY ISSUE, NOT A WARRANTY ISSUE. FOR A SEAT HEATER TO CAUSE SMOKE IT CAUSED A FIRE AND THIS IS A DEFECT. THE CAR WILL CATCH ON FIRE IF THE SEAT WARMER IS ACTIVATED. I ASKED DEALERSHIP WHAT IF I LOAN MY CAR TO SOMEONE WHO DOES NOT KNOW ABOUT THE DEFECT, THEY SUGGESTED PUTTING TAPE OVER THE BUTTON. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE SAFETY MEASURE TO PREVENT BURNS, FIRE, OR EVEN DEATH. CONSIDER FOR A MOMENT PEOPLE HAVE SMALL CHILDREN THAT RIDE IN THIS VEHICLE. ON A COLD MORNING I COULD HAVE BUCKLED KIDS IN, TURNED ON CAR, SEAT HEATER, AND TALK TO A NEIGHBOR FOR 2 MINUTES, OR TEACHER AT THE CARPOOL LINE.... WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED TO THE CHILDREN? THERE IS NO VISIBLE DAMAGE TO VEHICLE BUT BMW PERSONNEL DID AGREE THERE WAS SMOKE SMELL IN VEHICLE CAUSED BY SEAT WARMER.

May 24, 2016

Fire: 1

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE SEAT BELT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT SEAT BELT WARNING LIGHT DEVICE NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.

Jul 23, 2015

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

DAY AFTER RAINING, PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR MAT GETTING WET. WE ALSO FOUND WATER LEAKING FROM OUT SIDE TO PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR. WE COMPLAINED TO DEALER AND MAKER FOR SEVERAL TIMES. THEY ARE NOT FIXING VEHICLE. WHEN THEY SAID FOUND PROBLEM AND FIXED, IT HAS SAME PROBLEM OVER AND OVER. *TR

Mar 02, 2015

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

1 complaint

THIS WAS THE 1ST OUT OF 3 TIMES MY VEHICLE STALLED WHILE DRIVING. I WAS VERY NERVOUS,SCARED AND UPSET BEING THAT I HAD TOLD BMW THAT THE COOLANT WAS CONSTANTLY SHOWING ME LOW COOLANT LIGHT ALONG WITH POSSIBLE ENGINE DAMAGE. BUT THEY WOULD ALWAYS TRY TO ERASURE ME THE PROBLEM WAS FIXED.I FELT THAT ALL THE GENTLEMAN AT CARMAX CHUCKLED QUIETLY TO THEMSELVES AS I STOOD BEFORE THEM TIRELESSLY REQUESTING THAT THE SERVICE MANAGER LOOK AT THE CAR TO PROVE THAT I'M NOT A JOKE AND JUST BECAUSE I'M A GIRL DOESN'T MEAN I DON'T KNOW HOW CARS WORK. *TR

Feb 10, 2015

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

PRIOR TO ANY KNOWLEDGE OF A SAFETY RECALL ON MY CAR I REPORTED AN ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM MY ENGINE. I HAD CALLED BMW ROADSIDE ABOUT THE NOISE I HEARD. I ASKED FOR THEM TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT. EVER SINCE THAT FIRST TIME OF ME HEARING A STRANGE NOISE THERE HAS BEEN 3 SEPARATE ENGINE SHUT OFFS WHILE DRIVING ON THE FRWY. EACH TIME THOSE INCIDENTS HAVE OCCURRED I WOULD CALL ROADSIDE AND TRY EXPLAINING MYSELF BUT HAVING THE MOST DIFFICULT TIME DUE TO ME BEING DIAGNOSED WITH PTSD,ANXIETY DISORDER AND COPD. IT WOULD BE SERVICED AND GIVEN BACK TO ME WITH CERTAINTY THAT THE PROBLEM WAS FIXED. THERE WERE TWO MORE TIMES AFTER THAT WHILE DRIVING ON FRWY. I AM APPALLED BY THE UTTER LACK OF CONCERN FOR MY LIFE OR THE LIVES OF OTHERS. I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO CONTROL MY ANXIETY EVERY SINCE. THIS CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP MORE THAN I HAVE DRIVEN IT. I DEMAND THE ATTENTION TO THESE NEGLIGENT UNACCEPTABLE OUTCOMES. I EXPECT A REMEDY TO THIS HORRIFIC EXPERIENCE I HAVE ENDURED. I EXPECT ULTIMATELY THAT I BE COMPENSATED IN THE HIGHEST WAY POSSIBLE. MY LIFE WILL NEVER BE THE SAME. I HOPE THAT YOU WILL LOOK DEEPLY INTO MY SPECIFIC CONCERNS, AND HOLD THIS MANUFACTURER ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR LACK OF CARE IN MAKING ME BE PUT IN LIFE THREATENING SITUATIONS 3 XS. THANK YOU NHTSA SINCERELY, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Jan 12, 2015

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. OTHER VEHICLE GOING SOUTHBOUND CROSSED OVER MEDIAN STRIP OF HIGHWAY, HIT THREE CARS GOING NORTHBOUND, MINE WAS THIRD CAR TO BE STRUCK. OFFENDING CAR DID A 360 IN FRONT OF ME, I SLOWED TO ABOUT 25 AND HE MOVED INTO ME. I STRUCK HIS REAR PASSENGER SIDE CORNER. I HAD FRONT END DAMAGE OVER $5K. NO AIRBAG, BUT DEFAULT MESSAGES AND AN AIRBAG ICON CAME ON THE VIDEO SCREEN AND THE FRONT INSTRUMENT PANEL. IT STATES "DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIRBAG OR RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION." *JS

Dec 03, 2014

Crash: 1

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

THIS VEHICLE HAS A HESITATION OF THROTTLE ACCELERATION FROM IDLE AND SHIFTING BETWEEN GEARS.PRESENTS A REAL SAFETY ISSUE FROM IDLE POSITION TO ACCELERATION. A 1-2 SECOND DELAY CONSISTENTLY HAPPENS. THE BMW DEALER REPORTED TO ME THAT THEY ARE AWARE OF THIS SITUATION BUT DO NOT HAVE A SOLUTION YET. IF ENOUGH REPORTS OF THIS INCIDENT WERE HANDED IN THEN IT MAY NECESSITATE A CURE FROM BMW. APPARENTLY NOT ENOUGH SQUEAKY WHEELS PER SAY FOR BMW TO ACT.HOPEFULLY THIS ALONG WITH HUNDREDS OF THESE COMPLAINTS ALREADY ON YOUR WEB SITE ABOUT THIS VERY SAME ISSUE IS ENOUGH TO GET BMW TO ACT ON THIS SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

Aug 05, 2014

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

PURCHASED A BRAND NEW 528I BMW AND WITHIN MONTHS I HAD A COOLANT SIGNAL INDICATING LOW COOLANT. SUBSEQUENTLY, THE COOLANT SIGNAL CAME ON EVERY SIX WEEKS, DESPITE HAVING IT TOPPED OFF AT DEALERSHIP. CAR HAD INADEQUATE POWER AND FELT LIKE IT DRAGGED. BMW SERVICE CENTER REPEATEDLY FAILED TO IDENTIFY A PROBLEM. EVENTUALLY, THE SIGNAL CAME ON AND AN INTOLERABLE FUEL ODOR EMERGED UPON TURNING ON THE CAR. FUEL AND CHEMICAL ODORS REMAIN. I HAVE READ OF OTHER SIMILAR COMPLAINTS ONLINE AND BELIEVE THERE IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT MAKES THE CAR UNSAFE. THE EXPOSURE TO CARCINOGENIC COOLANT FUMES AND THE GAS FUMES ARE DANGEROUS. COOLANT MAY BE LEAKING INTO THE ENGINE. OTHER MECHANICAL ISSUES MAY BE CAUSING THE DRAG AND CONTINUED LOSS OF POWER. IN ONE INSTANCE I LEFT THE VEHICLE AT THE BMW SERVICE CENTER WITH A FULL TANK AND WHEN IT WAS RETURNED TO ME, THE FUEL LEVEL HAD DROPPED SIGNIFICANTLY DESPITE HAVING BEEN DRIVEN A VERY SMALL AMOUNT OF MILES BY THE SERVICE PEOPLE. I AM VERY CONCERNED THAT THESE PROBLEMS POSE A SAFETY HAZARD TO NOT ONLY MYSELF, BUT THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND OTHER BMW OWNERS WHO MAY BE UNAWARE OF THESE ISSUES. I FEEL THE CAR IS COMPROMISED BY THE MANUFACTURING DEFECTS AND THAT EFFORTS TO REPAIR THE PROBLEMS CONTINUE TO EXIST. I FEEL THE CAR IS UNSAFE AND POSES A SAFETY AND HEALTH HAZARD AND THAT BMW IS UNWILLING TO INVESTIGATE HOW PERVASIVE THE PROBLEM MAY BE. I WANT AN INVESTIGATION AND FEEL THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THIS IS NOT "THE ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE." PLEASE INVESTIGATE THESE PROBLEMS AND HELP PREVENT OTHERS FROM BEING UNNECESSARILY SUBJECTED TO TOXIC FUMES AND CHEMICALS WHICH MAY COMPROMISE THE PUBLIC'S HEALTH AND THE SAFETY OF PEOPLE ON THE ROAD.

May 21, 2014

Injuries: 1

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

WHEN I PRESS THE ACCELERATOR TO START DRIVING, THERE IS A VERY DISTINCT AND UNCOMFORTABLE LAG OF ABOUT 2 SECONDS. THIS HAPPENED WHEN I WAS MAKING A RIGHT TURN INTO A TWO-WAY DIVIDED ROAD FROM A RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX. THE VISIBILITY TO THE LEFT IS LIMITED TO ABOUT 200 FT DUE TO A CURVE IN THE DIVIDED ROAD. WHEN I START MOVING FROM THE STOP SIGN, I HAVE TO ACCELERATE QUICKLY IN ORDER TO AVOID ANY TRAFFIC THAT MAY BE COMING AT SPEED BEHIND ME. THIS ACCELERATOR LAG MAKES FOR A SAFETY CONCERN. I IMAGINE THIS CAN ALSO BE A SAFETY CONCERN DURING MERGING INTO FREEWAYS WITH VERY SHORT ON RAMPS AND THE RAMP METER ON. *TR

Nov 19, 2013

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

AS MY CAR WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT, I FELT A QUICK JERK FORWARD AND THOUGHT I WAS REAR-ENDED. I LOOKED BACK AND THERE WASN'T A CAR. AS I PULLED INTO MY PARKING SPACE, I WAS SWITCHING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE, THE CAR JERKED AGAIN, LIKE I WAS BEING REAR ENDED. IT FELT LIKE THE CAR WAS SKIPPING A GEAR (I DRIVE AN AUTOMATIC). THEN AS I WAS LEAVING THE PARKING LOT, I PUSHED THE GAS DOWN AND FOR ALMOST 2 SECONDS THE CAR DID NOTHING, THEN JERKED HARD FORWARD AND STARTED TO DRIVE. *TR

Jun 17, 2013

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

1 complaint

AFTER PURCHASING MY 2011 528I I NOTICED THE CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE SMOOTHLY FROM A STOP OR AFTER SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A TURN, IT ACTUALLY FELT LIKE IT WAS APPLYING THE BREAKS UNTIL YOU APPLIED CLOSE TO HALF THROTTLE THEN IT WOULD LURCH FORWARD. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO DEALER AND RECEIVED A PATCH AND PROGRAMMING WHICH MADE NO CHANGE. TO TOP ALL OF THIS OFF IT PICKS AND CHOOSES WHEN ITS GOING TO DRIVE "NORMAL" SO YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT....THIS IS UNSAFE...... ON THE FREEWAY IT WONT DOWNSHIFT TO PASS UNLESS PRESSED TO THE FLOOR, THE MOTOR JUST LUGS AND WONT GIVE YOU THE EXPECTED RESPONSE CAUSING CARS AND TRUCKS ALIKE TO BE CUT OFF BECAUSE YOU DIDN'T ACCELERATE AS EXPECTED.... I CANT BELIEVE BMW IS ALLOWING ITS FLAGSHIP MODEL THE 5 SERIES TO HAVE THESE ISSUES AND NOT ADDRESS THEM.... THE CAR PULLED TO THE RIGHT AS DESCRIBED BY MANY, I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND LEFT AT THE END OF THE DAY WITH A $300.00 ALIGNMENT????? I'M CONCERNED WITH GETTING STUCK WITH A LEMON $50,000 CAR THAT I WONT BE ABLE TO SELL, ATLEAST OFFER A BUY BACK PROGRAM??? HELP!!!!! *TR

Mar 22, 2013

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

THE VEHICLE HAS A SIGNIFICANT DELAY IN ACCELERATION THAT OCCURS PRIMARILY AFTER (I) THE VEHICLE HAS SLOWED DOWN TO A SPEED BETWEEN 18 MPH AND 24 MPH; (II) A FULL STOP (ALTHOUGH IT IS INTERMITTENT FOLLOWING A FULL STOP) AND (III) SUDDEN SURGES OF ACCELERATION. THE ACCELERATION DELAY IS MOST NOTICEABLE WHEN MODERATE ACCELERATION IS DESIRED. THE PEDAL CAN BE DEPRESSED NEARLY FULLY WITH NO NOTICEABLE ACCELERATION FOR A SHORT PERIOD. AFTER THE DELAY THE CAR WILL ACCELERATE, OFTEN IN A SURGE. FROM A FULL STOP ACCELERATION IS OFTEN A JERKY AFFAIR. THE ACCELERATION ISSUES SIGNIFICANTLY COMPROMISE SAFETY DUE TO THE UNEXPECTED VEHICLE PERFORMANCE, BOTH WITH THE ACCELERATION DELAY AND THE SUDDEN SURGE OF ACCELERATION THAT OCCURS AFTER ABOUT A SECOND TO A SECOND AND A HALF AFTER THE ACCELERATOR HAS BEEN DEPRESSED. OFTEN TIMES WHEN MERGING INTO TRAFFIC THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN NEARLY HIT AS A RESULT OF THE ACCELERATION DELAY. LIKEWISE, IT IS NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO MAKE A LEFT TURN UNTIL A ROAD IS EMPTY AS I HAVE NO IDEA HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE TO CROSS OPPOSING TRAFFIC. *TR

Mar 22, 2013

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A COMPLETE STOP OR DRIVING AT HIGHER SPEEDS (50-80MPH), THE VEHICLE CONSISTENTLY PULLS TO THE RIGHT. I'VE HAD ALIGNMENTS PERFORMED, BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. THE DEALER SAID IT'S WITHIN SPECIFICATION, AND THEY COULDN'T DO ANYTHING ELSE ABOUT IT. AFTER MORE PERSISTENCE, MY SERVICE ADVISER CAME BACK WITH: THE STOCK CAMBER SETTINGS ON BMW'S ARE PRETTY AGGRESSIVE, AND THEY CAN'T ADJUST THE CAMBER ANYMORE ON MY CAR TO RESOLVE THE PULLING TO THE RIGHT ISSUE. HE SAID THERE IS ANOTHER BMW SUSPENSION PART (CONTROL ARM) THEY CAN USE THAT WILL ALLOW THEM TO ADJUST THE CAMBER MORE, WHICH WILL RESOLVE THE PULL ISSUE. THE ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT BMW WON'T COVER THE COST TO HAVE THE PART REPLACED, WHICH IS JUST UNDER $1100.00, AND I'LL HAVE TO PAY FOR IT OUT OF POCKET. I ADVISED MY ADVISER THAT WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE, WHICH PROMPTED HIM TO CONTACT THE SERVICE MANAGER. THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID THEY WOULD COVER THE COST OF THE ALIGNMENT (~$185), BUT I WOULD HAVE TO PAY THE REMAINING AMOUNT (~$900). AFTER QUESTIONING THE DEALER FURTHER, THEY CONTACTED THE REGIONAL MANAGER ON MY BEHALF. THE REGIONAL MANAGER SAID BECAUSE THE MILEAGE ON MY CAR WAS SO HIGH (~40K), HE WOULD ONLY COVER THE COST OF THE PART, NOT LABOR. WHILE I APPRECIATE THE DEALER'S EFFORTS, I DON'T FEEL I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY ANYTHING OUT OF POCKET TO FIX MY CAR SO IT WILL DRIVE IN A STRAIGHT LINE WITHOUT PULLING, ESPECIALLY WHEN MY CAR IS STILL WITHIN MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY. BOTTOM LINE IS THAT BMW NOW HAS A FIX FOR A KNOWN ISSUE WHICH PRESENTS A SAFETY HAZARD. BMW SHOULD FIX THE PROBLEM AT NO EXPENSE TO THE CUSTOMER, SINCE THIS HAS BEEN A DOCUMENTED ISSUE FOR SEVERAL CUSTOMERS STARTING AT 10 MILES, AFTER PURCHASING NEW. *TR

Feb 22, 2013

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

THE VEHICLE HAS AN ACCELERATION PROBLEM AND HESITATES AND PAUSES WHEN STARTING FROM A STOP OR WHILE IN LOW SPEED CONDITIONS. IT IS DANGEROUS TO, FOR EXAMPLE, PULL OUT IN TRAFFIC WHEN ONE DOES NOT KNOW IF YOUR VEHICLE IS GOING TO ACCELERATE PROPERLY. THERE IS A DEFINITE LAG AND PAUSE THAT IS A PROBLEM WHEN ACCELERATING. *TR

May 10, 2012

TIRES,WHEELS

1 complaint

ORIGINAL VEHICLE EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPORT PACKAGE OR M-PACKAGE; TIRE SIZE: 245/40/19 FAILURE OF MULTIPLE TIRES MANUFACTURED BY GOOD YEAR. TIRE BRAND: LS2 RUN FLAT, ALL SEASON TIRES. TWO FRONT TIRES FORMED "BUBBLES" ON THE OUTSIDE; AS A RESULT VEHICLE VIBRATES AT HIGHER SPEEDS. DEFECTIVE TIRES ALSO CAUSED SLIGHT BENDS ON TWO WHEELS (ONE FRONT ONE REAR). VEHICLE ALWAYS DRIVEN VERY CAREFULLY AND ON GOOD SURFACES. NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE TIRE HAS OCCURRED. *TR

Sep 07, 2011

STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

THERE ARE TWO MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH MY 2011 528I AUGUST10 BUILD. THE FIRST IS THE PULLING TO THE RIGHT THAT THE CAR HAS HAD SINCE DAY ONE. I TOOK IT TO THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND THEY WERE COMPLETELY OBLIVIOUS TO THE PROBLEM. AFTER SOME PERSISTENCE THEY DECIDED TO CHECK THE CAR OUT. THE STRUTS WERE ROTATED AND SOFTWARE UPDATED AND NOW "DRIVES STRAIGHT". THE CAR DRIVES STRAIGHT FOR MAYBE 25 FEET BEFORE THE CAR STARTS TUGGING HARD RIGHT EVERYTIME. I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE SHOP AND THEY SAID THAT THERE WAS NOTHING MORE THEY CAN DO AND IT IS ALL "WITHIN TOLERANCE". THIS IS A POTENTIALLY VERY DANGEROUS ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE SERIOUSLY ADDRESSED. THE SECOND ISSUE IS THE INITIAL LAG IN ACCELERATION WHEN PRESSING THE GAS PEDAL. WHEN AT A DEAD STOP OR CRUISING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, YOU HAVE TO FLOOR THE CAR TO FINALLY GET IT TO DECIDE WHICH GEAR TO START IN. THIS ACCELERATION LAG CAN BE A COUPLE OF SECONDS AND WHEN PULLING OUT IN TRAFFIC A COUPLE OF SECONDS CAN MEAN ALOT. I HOPE BMW ADDRESSES THESE ISSUES OR I WILL BE FORCED TO SELL MY CAR AND NEVER LOOK BACK. *TR

Aug 10, 2011

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

THERE ARE 3 MAJOR ISSUES. 1. VEHICLE TENDS TO VEER TO THE RIGHT. FEELING IS QUITE LIKE A VEHICLE THAT HASN'T BEEN ALIGNED FOR A WHILE. 2. THE MOST DANGEROUS. UPON ACCELERATION AND/OR AT LOW SPEED, THE VEHICLE RANDOMLY JERKS FORWARD WITHOUT ANY NOTICE- MAKING IT TOO LATE FOR THE DRIVER TO SLAM THE BRAKES. IF YOUR VEHICLE IS STANDING THREE FEET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC, YOU CAN EASILY CRASH AND REAR END INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF YOU. AND OF COURSE, YOU WILL BE SUED FOR NOT KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE. THIS CAN EASILY CAUSE SOME SERIOUS INJURIES. 3. VEHICLE WOBBLES AS IF THE TIRES WERE NOT BALANCED. THERE ARE CLEARLY UNKNOWN DEFECTS THAT CAN NOT BE LOCATED. TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL BMW DEALER, THEY KEEP ASCRIBING IT TO "NORMAL" CHARACTERISTICS AND THEY KEEP INFORMING ME THAT BMWS ARE BUILT THAT WAY, THEY ARE NOW SPORTIER. HOWEVER, TO ANY NEW OWNER, IT IS NOW DEADLIER. THE LOCAL BMW DEALER ALSO STATE UNLESS THEY VEHICLE DOESN'T INFORM THEM ABOUT THE ISSUE THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING. ITS MORE LIKE, UNTIL SOMEONE DOESN'T SUE THEM IS WHEN THEY WILL DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT. BMW SERIOUSLY NEEDS TO LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE IMMEDIATELY BEFORE A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT BEGINS AGAINST THEM.

Aug 06, 2011

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

STEERING,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

I PURCHASED MY 2011 550I IN JANUARY OF 2011. TWO WEEKS AFTER ACTUALLY GETTING THE CAR ON THE ROAD I NOTICED THE VEHICLE VEERS TO THE RIGHT. I TOOK THE CAR BACK IN AND THE DEALERSHIP STATED THEY PERFORMED AN ALIGNMENT. CAR STILL PULLS TO THE RIGHT IN ADDITION TO NOW I HAVE A LOUD WHINING NOISE AT 2000 RPMS. THE CHIEF MECHANIC HAS HAD MY CAR FOR TWO WEEKS NOW AND CANNOT IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM. ADDITIONALLY, THERE WAS A LOT OF LOUD CREEKING NOISES COMING FROM MY ROOFTOP LINER. THE ENTIRE HAD TO BE REPLACED TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE ACCORDING TO THE DEALERSHIP BUT I DON'T HAVE MY CAR BACK YET DUE TO THE WHINING ISSUE BEING UNRESOLVED. THE VEERING RIGHT ISSUE SEEMS MOST COMMON AMONG ALL COMPLAINTS AND IS WHY I DECIDED TO LOG A COMPLAINT. *TR

Jun 14, 2011

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

1 complaint

I BOUGHT A 2011 BMW 535I ON NOVEMBER 30, 2010. ON DECEMBER 4, 2010, I EXPERIENCED CAR TROUBLE. THE ENGINE MALFUNCTION, AND REDUCE POWER WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. THE CAR SHUTDOWN COMPLETELY, BUT NOT BEFORE SHAKING VERY SHARPLY. THIS ALL OCCURRED IN ABOUT 15 SECONDS, WHILE I WAS DRIVING. BMW RESPONSE WAS "SAFE MODE". ON DECEMBER 9, 2010 THE VEHICLE WAS BEING REPAIRED AGAIN FOR THE SAME ISSUES, THEY REPLACED A FUEL SENSOR. ON DECEMBER 30, 2010, THE CAR WAS BEING SERVICED AGAIN, THEY REPLACED THE HIGH AND LOW FUEL PUMPS. AFTER BEING DRIVEN HOME BY THE SERVICE MANGER OF BMW JUST TO INSURE THAT THE CAR WAS FIXED, IT BROKE DOWN AGAIN ON HIM ON DECEMBER 31, 2010. THEY REPLACED THE LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AGAIN, THE SECOND TIME IN TWO DAYS. THEY RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO ME ON JANUARY 13, 2011. ON MARCH 17, 2010 THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED AGAIN FOR LONG CRANK TIME, AND FOR NOT START SOMETIMES AT ALL. I AM ALSO A PREVIOUS OWNER OF RECALLED 335, WHICH I TRADED FOR THIS VEHICLE. OUT OF THE FIVE TIMES THAT THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN SERVICE, TWO OF THOSE TIMES IT BROKE DOWN WHILE IN TRAFFIC COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, ONCE WHILE ON A FREEWAY. THIS VEHICLE IS DANGEROUS. I WOULD ASK THAT THE NHTSA TAKE THIS MATTER SERIOUSLY. THERE ARE MANY MORE COMPLAINTS LIKE THIS ON BIMMERFEST.COM, AND ALSO THE INTERNET. BMW WILL NOT RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. THEY ARE PLAYING WITH MY FAMILY'S LIFE, OTHER BMW OWNERS, AND OTHER MOTORIST THAT OCCUPY THE ROADS WITH BMW CUSTOMERS. THIS VEHICLE IS A HAZARD. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN OCCURRING FOR ALMOST FIVE YEARS NOW. MY OPINION AS A MULTIPLE BMW OWNER IS THAT BMW IS OPERATING WITH MALICE AT THIS POINT. PLEASE YOU ALL ARE OUR ONLY HOPE! *TR

Mar 23, 2011

EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

2011 BMW 335I CONVERTIBLE. NAVIGATION SYSTEM CONSTANTLY ALMOST ALWAYS TAKES YOU TO THE WRONG PLACE. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS IN THAT IT CAN TAKE ME TO VERY DANGEROUS AND DEADLY PLACES. BMW SHOULD BE MADE TO MAKE THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM WORK ACCURATELY OR REPLACE THE SYSTEM WITH ONE THAT WORKS. IT FAILS TO FIND LOCATIONS WHICH ARE EVEN IN THEIR OWN PROVIDED "POINTS OF INTEREST"!!! THIS NAVIGATION SYSTEM IS TOO DANGEROUS FOR US TO USE. WE DON'T WANT TO RISK OUR LIVES IN MIAMI, FL AND ALL OTHER UNKNOWN PLACES WHICH YOU MAY ENTER INTO THE EQUIPMENT. AFTER ALL THAT IS WHAT THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM IS FOR - TO FIND PLACES YOU DON'T KNOW WHERE THEY ARE!! I HAVE CONTACTED MY MIAMI DEALER (SOUTH BMW MOTORS) AND IG BURTON BMW DEALER IN MILFORD, DE. IG BURTON SAID THEY FIXED IT BUT IT WAS NOT FIXED AND I NOTIFIED THEM IMMEDIATELY. NEITHER DEALER CARES ABOUT THIS PROBLEM, IT SEEMS. THANK YOU FOR MAKING BMW CORRECT THIS DANGEROUS SITUATION WITH THEIR EQUIPMENT. *TR

Sep 30, 2010

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

I PURCHASED 2011 MODEL BMW 535I IN AUGUST 2010. THERE ARE 3 CIGARETTE LIGHTER POWER OUTLETS INSIDE THE CAR AND ELECTRICITY IS SUPPLYING ALL THE TIME REGARDLESS OF WHETHER VEHICLE IS BEING LOCKED OR NOT. IF I USE ACCESSORIES LIKE GPS, CHARGER, COFFER WARMER ETC. AND LEFT IN THE LOCKED VEHICLE UNDER SUMMER SUN COULD REALLY BE A FIRE HAZARD. I HAVE CONTACTED TO BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND LOCAL SERVICE ASKING TO REWIRE TO STOP POWER SUPPLY WHILE ENGINE IS STOPPED OR/AND VEHICLE IS LOCKED BUT THEY REFUSED TO FIX THE PROBLEM. I HAVE ANOTHER COMPLAINT REGARDING THE STEERING LIKE OTHER OWNERS WHICH IS THAT VEHICLE IS PULLING TO THE RIGHT ALL THE TIME AT ALL SPEED. I'D LIKE TO REQUEST NHTSA TO ORDER BMW TO FIX THOSE PROBLEMS ASAP AS A RECALL! *TR

Sep 14, 2010

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

1 complaint

I BOUGHT A 2011 BMW 535I 3 WEEKS AGO. UPON DRIVING ON LOCAL STREETS, THE CAR STOPPED ABRUPTLY FROM 30MPH TO 0MPH. MY CAR HAS UNDER 2000 MILES ON IT. STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION, WITH "FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTION", AND "ENGINE MALFUNCTION" ON THE ONBOARD DASH. I HIT MY HEAD ON THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN THIS OCCURRED. I WAS ALSO CARRYING A 5 GALLON SQUARE CONTAINER OF WATER THAT WAS CAPPED AND SEALED IN THE TRUNK. DURING THE ABRUPT STOP OF THE CAR, ABOUT 1/2 A GALLON OF WATER SPILLED INTO THE TRUNK. AFTER BEING TOWED TO SHELLY BMW AND TALKING TO THEM THE NEXT DAY, THEY SAID IT WAS MY FAULT AND THAT THE WATER SHORTED OUT THE COMPONENTS IN THE TRUNK. #1. THE WATER SPILLED INTO THE TRUNK AFTER THE CAR ABRUPTLY STOPPED. #2. I WAS ALMOST REAR-ENDED BY THE CARS BEHIND ME WHEN THE CAR WENT FROM 30MPH TO 0MPH. THE CAR DID NOT STALL AND SLOWLY COME TO A STOP....IT BASICALLY LOCKED UP AND STOPPED....CAUSING ME TO HIT MY HEAD ON THE STEERING WHEEL. SHELLY BMW IS NOW TELLING ME THAT I HAVE TO PAY $2600 TO REPAIR/REPLACE THE MODULES THAT ARE DAMAGED. #3. THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED ON JULY 26, 2010. #4. IRVINE POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS DISPATCHED TO THE SITE TO MAKE SURE THAT I WAS NOT HIT FROM OTHER CARS AS I SAT IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION FOR 1.5 HOURS WAITING FOR A TOW TRUCK. I AM CONSIDERING SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE. THIS ISSUE IS ALSO FILED WITH BMW NORTH AMERICA IN WHICH I AM STILL WAITING FOR THEM TO CONTACT ME. *TR

Jul 29, 2010

2011 BMW 528i Problems & Complaints

Complaints by Component

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