BMW 740I

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY

BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2019-2020 X5, X7, 2020 3 Series Sedan, X6, 2020-2021 7 Series Sedan, 2020 8 Series Convertible, 8 Series Coupe, and 2020 8 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. In the event the starter motor fails, repeated attempts to start the vehicle can cause the starter motor to overheat from an electrical overload.

Risk: A starter motor that overheats can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, X5, X6, X7, XM, 530i, i5, 740i, 760i, i7, and 750e vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.

Risk: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2025 BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.

Risk: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

BMW of North America (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, 2024-2025 X5, 2025 X6, 2023-2025 X7, 740i, 760i, 2024 XM, 530i, 540i, i7, 750e, X2, 2024-2025 i5, 2024 Rolls Royce Spectre, 2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4, JCW Countryman ALL4, and 2025 MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, Cooper S) vehicles. Please refer to the recall report for the complete list of models. The welds in the servomotor of the integrated brake control module may break, causing a loss of power brake assist and rear brake function. In addition, the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system may not function.

Risk: A loss of brake power assist or rear brake function can result in extended stopping distance. A loss of ABS or DSC can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:DRIVER MONITORING:CAMERA/SENSOR

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 740i, 740i xDrive, 760i xDrive, i7 eDrive50, i7 xDrive60, i7 M70, 2024 750e xDrive, 530i, 530i xDrive, i5 eDrive40, and i5 M60 vehicles. The ground connection to the steering wheel may not have been attached correctly, resulting in an inoperative hands-on detection system.

Risk: An inoperative hands-on detection system may fail to detect when the driver's hands are not on the steering wheel and therefore not engage the emergency stopping assistant system, increasing the risk of a crash.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 740i, 760i xDrive and i7 xDrive60 vehicles. The windshield wipers may fail during certain weather conditions.

Risk: Windshield wiper failure can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

SEATS

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 740i, 760i xDrive, and i7 xDrive60 vehicles. The front seat length adjustment system may not have been welded properly.

Risk: An improperly welded front seat may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 740i, 760i xDrive and i7 xDrive60 vehicles equipped with an Interaction Bar. The Interaction Bar, located on the dashboard, may not activate the windshield defrosting/defogging system and/or the hazard warning lights. In addition, those control buttons may not illuminate when pressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems", and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: The inability to operate the defrost or hazard warning lights can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 BMW 740i, 760i xDrive, and i7 xDrive60 vehicles. The telematics control unit may not transmit the vehicle location information to emergency responders.

Risk: Emergency response may be delayed without the vehicle location information, increasing the risk of injury.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Excessive rain condensation is blocking the front drivers headlights. This is a known issue which BMW refuses to repair under my OEM warranty. This is a known issue with many BMW’s leading to safety issues and electrical issues. The water is pooling in my headlight.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

I am filing this complaint regarding an ongoing safety issue with my 2021 BMW 740i involving the lane departure warning system, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, all of which have stopped functioning properly. These features are critically tied to the windshield-mounted KAFAS camera, which I’ve now been told needs to be replaced. Initially, the BMW dealership attributed the issue to a software problem and charged me $500 for a software update. After the update, the driver assist systems remained non-functional. The dealership then diagnosed a failure with the front camera assembly and is now quoting me approximately $3,000 for replacement of the windshield and camera module. I have reviewed NHTSA Technical Service Bulletin SIB 66 08 23 (NHTSA ID: MC-10236236-9999), which outlines this exact issue, suggesting that BMW is aware of system limitations and hardware failures in this critical safety feature. However, this has not resulted in a recall or manufacturer-paid repair, despite the significant safety risk involved. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue for the 2021 BMW 740i and similar BMW models equipped with the same KAFAS camera system. The sudden failure of key driver assistance systems—especially lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control—can lead to dangerous driving conditions, particularly on highways. I believe a recall or service campaign should be initiated requiring BMW to cover the cost of diagnosis and camera replacement due to the safety-critical nature of these systems. Please consider this complaint as a formal petition for further investigation and potential recall.

LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING

I am filing this complaint regarding an ongoing safety issue with my 2021 BMW 740i involving the lane departure warning system, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, all of which have stopped functioning properly. These features are critically tied to the windshield-mounted KAFAS camera, which I’ve now been told needs to be replaced. Initially, the BMW dealership attributed the issue to a software problem and charged me $500 for a software update. After the update, the driver assist systems remained non-functional. The dealership then diagnosed a failure with the front camera assembly and is now quoting me approximately $3,000 for replacement of the windshield and camera module. I have reviewed NHTSA Technical Service Bulletin SIB 66 08 23 (NHTSA ID: MC-10236236-9999), which outlines this exact issue, suggesting that BMW is aware of system limitations and hardware failures in this critical safety feature. However, this has not resulted in a recall or manufacturer-paid repair, despite the significant safety risk involved. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue for the 2021 BMW 740i and similar BMW models equipped with the same KAFAS camera system. The sudden failure of key driver assistance systems—especially lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control—can lead to dangerous driving conditions, particularly on highways. I believe a recall or service campaign should be initiated requiring BMW to cover the cost of diagnosis and camera replacement due to the safety-critical nature of these systems. Please consider this complaint as a formal petition for further investigation and potential recall.

LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST

I am filing this complaint regarding an ongoing safety issue with my 2021 BMW 740i involving the lane departure warning system, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, all of which have stopped functioning properly. These features are critically tied to the windshield-mounted KAFAS camera, which I’ve now been told needs to be replaced. Initially, the BMW dealership attributed the issue to a software problem and charged me $500 for a software update. After the update, the driver assist systems remained non-functional. The dealership then diagnosed a failure with the front camera assembly and is now quoting me approximately $3,000 for replacement of the windshield and camera module. I have reviewed NHTSA Technical Service Bulletin SIB 66 08 23 (NHTSA ID: MC-10236236-9999), which outlines this exact issue, suggesting that BMW is aware of system limitations and hardware failures in this critical safety feature. However, this has not resulted in a recall or manufacturer-paid repair, despite the significant safety risk involved. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue for the 2021 BMW 740i and similar BMW models equipped with the same KAFAS camera system. The sudden failure of key driver assistance systems—especially lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control—can lead to dangerous driving conditions, particularly on highways. I believe a recall or service campaign should be initiated requiring BMW to cover the cost of diagnosis and camera replacement due to the safety-critical nature of these systems. Please consider this complaint as a formal petition for further investigation and potential recall.

TIRES

November 2023 we purchased 4 new Continental PURECONTACT LS 245/45/R19 from Discount Tire in Evansville Indiana. We’ve driven almost 17,000 miles on the tires. Noticed 2 tires are splitting on the sidewall near the tread. The one I’m reporting is dangerously split (resembles a re-tread tire).

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

My car is about 1.5 yers old, bmw 740i. I have been towed back to the dealer twice now for the same issue.i live in Illinois and work in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, so I drive on the expressway a lot. I received the following message on my display while driving at 75-80 mph. The message is “ inability to drive.” I have received this 3 times. When it occurs the steering is more difficult and, I am told starts to shut down major systems, so needlessly to say quite unnerving and I had difficulty getting onto the shoulder. The first occurrence was last year in October (2024). I was afraid to drive the car when everyone else was travelling at high speeds. So had it towed to dealer. The dealer did not seem to understand this message and why it happened, and even what would happen. They did a software upgrade and told me it was fixed. On [XXX] it happened again, same message although different look with the software upgrade, and had to be towed. I don’t trust the car since no one can tell me why this is happening and what it does. The dealer said they are not familiar with it. I told them we have read online that others have had this happen, but no recalls or information. If this message is in the software there has to be a data dictionary that explains, 1) what triggers it, 2) why, 3) what does it do, and 4) can it be disabled. No one seems to know, and it is putting me at risk of an accident, that no one understands. I am afraid to drive the car. If I am in an accident because of this bmw should libel. Please help! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

POWER TRAIN

Component/System that failed: The rear differential failed internally, causing the left rear axle to separate from the differential housing. BMW’s own service center confirmed there was no external damage or outside force involved. The defective parts are currently with BMW of Manhattan and can be made available for inspection. Safety risk posed: This failure created a significant safety hazard, as drivetrain separation while in motion can lead to loss of vehicle control, wheel lock, or a collision — especially at highway speeds. Fortunately, no accident occurred, but the risk was high. Was the problem confirmed by a dealer? Yes. BMW of Manhattan confirmed the failure in service invoice #1201464. Their technician wrote: “Found left rear axle is popped out of differential. No signs of damage or outside influence. Differential is internally faulty.” The dealership replaced the rear differential and associated components under warranty. Was the vehicle inspected by others? The vehicle was only inspected and repaired by BMW of Manhattan, an authorized dealership. No police or insurance inspection occurred. Warning signs before failure? Yes. The vehicle was brought to the dealership on four separate occasions before the failure due to: •Loud noises from the rear axle area, •causing the abnormal wear and tear of tires , and •Erratic driving behavior. Each time, BMW’s service team stated the vehicle was “in healthy shape.” Additional context: Despite this failure being documented as internal and not customer-induced, BMW North America has refused to accept responsibility or honor a buyback request. The vehicle is used for business purposes under Cuatro Sons Inc. and has now been taken off the road due to the safety risk and unresolved concerns about reliability. We are seeking NHTSA’s investigation and intervention.

STEERING

failure of the Thruster bushings are seeping and starting to crack in the Steering If the thrust arm bushings (or thrust rod bushings) on a BMW 7 Series are seeping fluid and beginning to crack, there are some potential risks to be aware of. These bushings are critical components in the suspension system that absorb impacts, reduce vibrations, and maintain proper alignment. Here's a breakdown of potential risks: 1. **Reduced Ride Comfort** - Cracked or seeping bushings lose their ability to effectively dampen vibrations, leading to a harsher and less comfortable ride. 2. **Steering Instability** - Damaged bushings can affect the alignment and cause the car to feel unstable during steering, especially under braking or during sharp turns. You may notice wandering or pulling to one side. 3. **Increased Tire Wear** - Faulty bushings may alter the suspension geometry, leading to uneven tire wear, which can become expensive if not addressed promptly. 4. **Noise and Vibrations** - You might hear clunking or creaking noises when going over bumps or during braking. Vibrations may also become more noticeable. 5. **Safety Concerns** - In extreme cases, if the bushings deteriorate significantly, they can fail entirely, causing loss of control during braking or sudden maneuvers. This is a serious safety risk. 6. **Accelerated Wear of Other Components** - Compromised bushings can place additional stress on adjacent suspension components, such as ball joints, control arms, and even the shocks or struts, leading to premature failure. The vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer /dealer repair Order PETER PAN BMW 1625 Adrian Rd Burlingame, CA 94010-2103 Service: 650-457-8897 01/10/2025 Repair Order #:[XXX] Vehicle Make:7 SERIES VIN:[XXX] PETER PAN BMW 1625 Adrian Rd Burlingame, CA 94010-2103 Service: 650-457-8897 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

SUSPENSION

The contact owns a 2018 BMW 740i. The contact stated when he was starting his vehicle a warning for "chassis" was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was leaning. The contact stated that the driver side of the vehicle was raised from the road by about 4 inches and the passenger side of the vehicle was almost touching the road surface. The contact stated that turning the vehicle to the left or the right was difficult due to the lean of the vehicle. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000.