2001 BMW 330i

Do not drive

Owners filed 116 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 8 times.

Avoid One of the BMW 330i years to avoid: 2.6× the complaints of a typical 330i year. Which BMW 330i years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
91,453 milesMedian miles at failure

63 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 150,000–200,000 miles.

Most common 2001 BMW 330i problems

34 of the 116 complaints (29%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags19
103
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission15
000
Air Bags › Side/Window · airbags13
001
Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls8
000
Power Train · transmission5
000
Exterior Lighting · headlights5
010
Electrical System5
000
Unknown or Other4
010
Structure › Body · body and frame4
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system4
000

8 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module21V401000
Filed May 27, 20214,511 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC

Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2001 BMW 3 Series (323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci and 330Ci), 1999-2001 323i, 328i, 330i, 330xi, and 2000 323i, 328i stationwagon vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These vehicles are equipped with driver-side air bag inflators that were previously inspected, but not replaced under recall numbers 19V-851, 19V852, or 19V-853. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to explode or the air bag cushion to underinflate.

Risk. The inflator could explode during air bag deployment, resulting in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module20V018000Do not drive
Filed Jan 15, 2020292,948 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC

Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module19V853000
Filed Nov 26, 201974,185 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC

Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 1999-2001 323i, 325i, 328i and 330i and 2000-2001 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, 323iT, and 325iT vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These vehicles may have received a replacement driver air bag as part of a vehicle repair. Due to a manufacturing issue, the replacement NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.

Remedy. BMW notified owners, and Dealers will replace the driver air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began November 10, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Air Bags14V428000Do not drive
Filed Jun 11, 2018574,007 vehiclesBMW of North America, LLC

Defect. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000 323i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sports Wagons; 2000 328i sedans and coupes; 2001-2005 325i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sport Wagons; 2001-2005 325xi sedans and Sports Wagons; 2006 325i coupes and convertibles; 2001-2006 330i sedans, coupes, and convertibles; 2001-2005 330xi sedans; and 2001-2006 M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure that could cause the air bag inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure could cause rupturing of the inflator resulting in metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.

Remedy. Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side frontal air bag, free of charge. An interim notice was mailed to owners in September 2014. A second notice was mailed when an adequate supply of parts became available, on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder07E023000
Filed Mar 29, 200713,128 vehiclesCardone Industries, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.

Risk. LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System › Fan02V138000
Filed May 16, 20021,550 vehiclesBayerische Motoren Werke

Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE ENGINE AUXILIARY/COOLING FAN OPERATION, INCLUDING VARIABLE SPEED, IS ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED. FAILURE OF THE FAN MOTOR CAN CAUSE THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY OF THE FAN CONTROL UNIT TO OVERLOAD AND FAIL, CAUSING THE FAN TO STOP OPERATING.

Risk. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, ENGINE OVERHEATING AND SUBSEQUENT ENGINE DAMAGE COULD RESULT. IN ADDITION, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY TO CAUSE A FIRE IN THE FAN CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FAN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 28, 2001. THIS IS A SUPPLEMENT TO A RECALL THAT BEGAN DURING SEPTEMBER 2001 (SEE RECALL CAMPAIGN 01V206). OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System › Fan01V206000
Filed Jun 21, 200176,469 vehiclesBayerische Motoren Werke

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ENGINE AUXILIARY/COOLING FAN OPERATION, INCLUDING VARIABLE SPEED, IS ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED. FAILURE OF THE FAN MOTOR CAN CAUSE THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY OF THE FAN CONTROL UNIT TO OVERLOAD AND FAIL, CAUSING THE FAN TO STOP OPERATING.

Risk. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, ENGINE OVERHEATING AND SUBSEQUENT ENGINE DAMAGE COULD RESULT. IN ADDITION, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY TO CAUSE A FIRE IN THE FAN CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FAN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 28, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.

Wheels › Rim00V383000
Filed Nov 20, 20001,914 vehiclesBayerische Motoren Werke

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE MACHINE USED TO MOUNT AND INFLATE THE TIRES ON THE WHEELS AT THE ASSEMBLY PLANT MAY HAVE DAMAGED THE INNER RIM FLANGE OF THE WHEELS.

Risk. THIS COULD LEAD TO A SUDDEN LOSS OF AIR FROM THE TIRE AFFECTING HANDLING AND VEHICLE CONTROL.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FIVE WHEELS FOR POSSIBLE DAMAGE. IF DAMAGE FROM THE MOUNTING MACHINE IS FOUND ON ANY WHEEL, ALL FIVE WHEELS WILL BE REPLACED.

All 8 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Air Bags
Filed Jan 28, 2026MD

-My infrastructure system management has been affected overtime—which covers electronic control units (ECUs), software, and network architecture—are driven by the need to manage increasing system complexity, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and electronic malfunctions. -My De-icing fluid management system-Has been affected by potential engine damage, reduced structural integrity, and risk of in-flight failure due to overheating. -My vehicle has been affected sense March 3, 2025 - Major Terminal Outage: A massive power outage, traced to a fire and downed power line near the airport, I [XXX] [XXX] believe my Power failures and component-level are faulty… -My vehicles brake lines are not meeting specifications, which could cause leaks & affect the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), increasing the risk of a crash god forbid… I [XXX] [XXX] believe my brake system is faulty. -My Takata driver-side airbag inflators has been affected that can explode upon deployment, spraying metal shrapnel and causing severe injury or death, (Models affected)~2000-2015 series with urgent "Do Not Drive" warnings requiring free, immediate dealer replacement required by (NHSTA)… I [XXX] [XXX] believe my Takata system is faulty. -My water pump system is electrical connector, authorized by NHTSA. Insufficient sealing allows fluid ingress, posing a short circuit and fire risk to prevent hazards… in conclusion, there has been several major BMW safety recall been mandated by the

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Aug 5, 2025188,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2001 BMW 330I. The contact stated that while attempting to drive into the driveway, the contact attempted to depress the brake pedal however, the accelerator was inadvertently depressed. The engine revved up while depressing the brake pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact shifted into park to stop the vehicle and then engaged the parking brake after stopping the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 188,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 18, 2022CA

The bracket welds on the front of the right side fuel tank support strap pulled out while on the highway, leaving the fuel tank supported by only one strap. The bracket pulled right out of the sheet metal, leaving two holes where it was previously spot welded to. The support strap itself was hanging off its rear mount, dragging behind the car and potentially sparking. This was extremely dangerous, as the tank had just been filled, and if the tank had began to leak, the support strap may have sparked a fire. There was no symptom or warning sign of the impending failure. There are many reports of this issue from other BMW E46 owners. Fuel tanks should not separate from the car under normal driving conditions. The car has been in southern California its entire life, and there is zero evidence of rust or poor maintenance. Records of the car's maintenance history have been meticulously maintained. This is DANGEROUS and has been reported many times. Please make BMW own up to this poor design and potentially save someone's life.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 16, 2022IN

The contact owns a 2001 BMW 330I. The contact stated that an indicator light had appeared on the instrument panel indicating that the rear taillights were inoperable. Upon investigation, the contact discovered a service bulletin (SIB630611) which he linked to the failure. The dealer was then notified of the service bulletin and the dealer informed him that his vehicle was not manufactured during the eligible period for the repair. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and gave the contact the same information as the dealer; he was then referred to the NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Air Bags2 injured
Filed Nov 29, 2021CA

Hi, my name is [XXX] and the owner of the 2001 BMW mentioned with the VIN number above. My airbag deployed for no reason as I was driving with my mother in the car on Tuesday the 26th of November around 5:30 p.m.. , the airbag deployed for no reason at all I was doing the speed limit, driving with the flow of traffic on Paramount Boulevard in the city of Paramount or borderline Downey I'm not sure in California. There was no accidents all the car did not hit any other cars or anything while this incident occurred. I me and my mom really lucky to be alive. Although the injuries from the incident was in catastrophe however we do have a lot of small injuries and side effects that seems to be developing more as time goes by. The seriousness of this incident is at a very high level as it could have caused it for both of us or one of us. I was in shock Mordor though I just dropped the car when it exploded I'm referring to the airbag I was driving and suddenly I feel something should pass my left side touching my ear and my shoulder and exploited almost in my face on my left side. I thought a bomb exploded or someone tried to shoot at my car I did not know what happened until I got my thoughts together and I just asked your mom if she was okay glasses had fell off and she was in a very bad shock more my mother is 74 years old and he did not have to go through this traumatic experience. It was very traumatic for both of us and it took a while for us both to realize and figure out wha

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Feb 4, 2020150,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330XI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, SHE HEARD A LOUD BANGING SOUND COMING FROM UNDERNEATH HER VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. CONTACT'S REAR LEFT TIRE BROKE OFF FROM HER CAR. THE CONTACT IMMEDIATELY LOST CONTROL OF HER VEHICLE AND VEERED TO LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE AND SPUN OUT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. UPON A VIN SEARCH, THERE WERE TWO RECALLS NHTSA RECALL NUMBER: 17V047000 AND 20V018000(AIR BAGS) ON HER VEHICLE AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE SUSTAINED WHIPLASH AS A RESULT OF THE ACCIDENT; THE OTHER DRIVER DID NOT SUSTAIN INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED [XXX]. AXLE WAS BROKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND TOWED TO A JUNK YARD. THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000. *LN ('PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).')*JB

Structure › Body › Door
Filed Dec 12, 2018140,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ONLY THE DRIVERS SIDE DOORS WOULD OPEN FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE USING THE KEY FOB. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 140,000. *TT*JB CONSUMER STATED FRONT PASSENGER AND REAR DOORS WILL NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE AND OUTSIDE.*JB

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 13, 2018129,000 milesNY

THE STAINLESS STEEL STRAP THAT SUPPORTS THE FUEL TANK CAME OFF OF MY VEHICLE YESTERDAY WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. THE STRAP IS SPOT WELDED AT 4 POINTS ON THE FRONT. THE SPOT WELDS FAILED, LEAVING THE STRAP DRAGGING BEHIND MY CAR AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. AS A RESULT, THE FUEL TANK ITSELF IS SAGGING ABOUT 4" FROM THE SURFACE OF THE ROAD. THE SPOT WELDS DO NOT SUFFICIENTLY SUPPORT THIS STRAP - THIS SEEMS TO BE AN OBVIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. MORE ROBUST MOUNTING POINTS SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED DURING DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING.

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Dec 4, 2017MS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, SMOKE APPEARED FROM THE AIR CONDITIONING VENTS. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHERE IT BURST INTO FLAMES. A LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNKNOWN.

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 20, 2017152,000 milesAZ

VEHICLE WINDOW REGULATORS HAD TO BE REPLACED FOR PASSENGER AND DRIVERS WINDOWS (REGULATORS WERE CHEAP). DRIVER SIDE DOOR LOCK FAILED. PASSENGER DOOR LOCKS FAILING. PASSENGER HEADLIGHT FELL OUT. REAR BRAKE LIGHTS NEED CONSTANT REPAIR. IF ONE COMPLETELY FILLS UP THE GAS TANK, GAS FUMES WILL BE IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. AIR CONDITIONING FAN NEEDED REPLACEMENT. WATER PUMP FAILED. INSTRUMENT PANEL NEEDED REPLACEMENT.

Air Bags
Filed Sep 4, 2017MT

TAKATA RECALL I CALLED 1 877 432 7841. AFTER EXPLAINING THAT I LIVED HUNDREDS OF MILES FROM THE NEAREST BMW DEALER, I WAS TOLD BY THE PHONE REP THAT MY CASE WOULD BE ACCELERATED AND THAT I WOULD BE HEARING BACK BY PHONE. I WAITED DAYS, BUT NO ONE EVER CALLED ME. I THEN CALLED 1-800-831-1117. I GOT BOUNCED AROUND AND WAS FINALLY CONNECTED WITH A BMW DEALER IN IDAHO FALLS, ALMOST 500 MILES FROM MY HOME IN ROSEBUD, MONTANA. THE PERSON WHO SPOKE TO ME WAS VERY YOUNG, HAD A POOR ATTITUDE, AND WANTED TO ORDER ME AROUND. SHE IGNORED ALL MY PLEAS. I AM 65 YEARS OLD AND DRIVE HUNDREDS OF MILES PER WEEK FOR MY USDA JOB. I THUS DO NOT HAVE THE PHYSICAL STAMINA OR TIME TO DRIVE TO IDAHO FALLS. NEVERTHELESS SHE TOLD ME I HAD TO DRIVE TO IDAHO FALLS FOR A SATURDAY APPOINTMENT. SHE INFORMED ME THAT ANY EXPENSES I INCURRED (GASOLINE, LODGING, ETC.) HAD TO COME OUT OF MY OWN POCKET AND THAT I WOULD NOT BE REIMBURSED. I BEGGED HER TO HAVE THE AIRBAGS SENT TO A MECHANIC OR BODY SHOP NEAR ME IN MONTANA. SHE REFUSED. I ENDED THE CONVERSATION AND SENT AN SOS EMAIL TO THE DOT. THE DOT HAS NEVER ANSWERED MY EMAIL.

Air Bags
Filed Sep 4, 2017MT

TAKATA RECALL THIS IS A FOLLOW-UP TO THE COMPLAINT I SUBMITTED EARLIER TODAY, # 11021353. I BOUGHT MY BMW FROM THE SHARPEST RIDES CAR DEALERSHIP OF ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO. THE DATE OF SALE WAS APRIL 10, 2015. BUT IT WAS NOT UNTIL I READ THE FLYERS THE NHTSA SENT TO MY POST OFFICE BOX IN 2017 THAT I KNEW ANYTHING ABOUT ANY TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL. THE NHTSA WEBSITE CLEARLY SHOWS THAT THERE HAVE BEEN TWO MANUFACTURER RECALLS ON MY BMW. THE FIRST RECALL WAS JULY 15, 2014, WELL BEFORE I BOUGHT MY BMW FROM THE SHARPEST RIDES ON APRIL 10, 2015. WHILE NEGOTITATING THE PURCHASE OF MY BMW, I HAD NUMEROUS TELEPHONE CONVERSATIONS, AND EXCHANGED MYRIAD EMAILS, WITH SHARPEST RIDES PERSONNEL. NO ONE AT THE SHARPEST RIDES EVER WARNED ME OF A DANGEROUS AIRBAG. NO ONE AT THE SHARPEST RIDES EVER WARNED ME OF AN UNSAFE, HAZARDOUS CONDITION IN MY CAR.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 28, 2017CA

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) AND 17V047000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE, BUT INDICATED THAT IT COULD BE FOUR MONTHS OR LONGER. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Exterior LightingFire
Filed Apr 13, 2017208,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED FOR THE EXTERIOR LIGHTING. THE CONTACT OBSERVED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE TAIL LIGHT FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO SWITCH THE LIGHT BULB AND OBSERVED A BURN HOLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO SUBMIT A COMPLAINT THROUGH NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 208,000.

Air Bags
Filed Mar 24, 2017VA

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 17V047000 (AIR BAGS), 13V172000 (AIR BAGS), AND 14V028000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUES. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE AND PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 3, 201695,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STATIONARY, ALL OF THE DOORS LOCKED FROM THE INSIDE AND THE CONTACT AND HIS FAMILY COULD NOT EXIT THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT AND HIS FAMILY REQUIRED TO EXIT THE VEHICLE FROM THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 95,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 28, 2016OH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL FOUR TIRES RANDOMLY LOST TIRE PRESSURE AND THAT THERE WAS AN INTERNAL FAILURE ASSOCIATED WITH THE RIMS AND TIRES. THE CONTACT HAD A REPAIR SHOP REPLACE ALL FOUR TIRES THREE TIMES. WHEN THE AIR PRESSURE WAS LOW, THE TPMS WARNING LIGHT WAS NOT ILLUMINATED TO INDICATE A FAILURE. IN ADDITION, THE FAN FAILED TO WORK PROPERLY AND THE VEHICLE WAS RUNNING HOT TO THE POINT THAT IT COULD OVERHEAT. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 02V138000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING), 01V206000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING), AND 00V383000 (WHEELS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED TO DETERMINE IF THEY MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE A REPAIR SOLUTION TO PREVENT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Air Bags
Filed May 25, 2016CA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V613000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 14, 201660,000 milesFL

MY HEADLIGHTS ARE VERY DIM DUE TO A A PLASTIC REFLECTOR IN THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING MANUFACTURED BY ZKW THAT BURNS OUT PREMATURELY. THIS CAUSES A VERY SERIOUS ROAD HAZARD AS VISIBILITY IS GREATLY DIMINISHED. I HAVE NEARLY STRUCK SEVER PEDESTRIANS, OTHER VEHICLES AND DARK OBJECTS AT NIGHT ON THE HIGHWAY SUCH AS LARGE TIRE DEBRIS.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 6, 2015GA

THE THREE PASSENGER DOORS ON MY 4 DOOR CAR WILL NOT UNLOCK USING EITHER THE KEY FOB OR THE CENTER CONSOLE DOOR LOCK BUTTON. I ONLY HAVE A MANUAL DOOR LOCK KEY HOLE ON MY DRIVER DOOR. SO THE ONLY DOOR THAT WILL UNLOCK AND OPEN IS THE DRIVER DOOR. THIS IS BECAUSE OF A FAULTY GM5 MODULE. ITS A VERY REGULAR THING ON BMWS AND I CANT BELIEVE IT HASNT BEEN RECALLED ALREADY. IF THERE IS AN EMERGENCY, AN ACCIDENT OR CAR GOES INTO A BODY OF WATER, THE PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE WILL BE STUCK AND WILL NOT BE ABLE TO GET OUT. EMERGENCY SERVICES WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO GET THE DOORS OPEN IF NEED BE WITHOUT USING THE JAWS OF LIFE TO CUT THEM OFF WHEN THEY SHOULD SIMPLY BE ABLE TO PULL THE DOOR HANDLES. THE DOORS WILL NOT UNLOCK AT ALL. I HAVE TRIED EVERYTHING. READING ONLINE, THIS IS A HUGE ISSUE WITH BMWS AND THE DEALERSHIP CHARGES $750+ TO FIX IT. LUCKILY, THERE IS SOMEONE ONLINE THAT WILL REPAIR THE MODULES FOR A FRACTION OF THAT BUT WITH THIS BEING AN ON GOING ISSUE WITH MOST MODEL BMWS, THERE SHOULD BE SOMETHING DONE ABOUT IT. I AM SENDING MINE OFF TO GET REPAIRED BECAUSE I WANT MY DOOR LOCKS OPERATING PROPERLY JUST IN CASE THERE IS AN EMERGENCY. CAN WE DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS THOUGH?

Air Bags
Filed May 22, 2015AR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 28, 2015PA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE DRIVER SIDE CURTAIN AND THE DOOR AIR BAGS INADVERTENTLY DEPLOYED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 30, 2015117,331 milesTX

WHEN STOPPED AFTER DRIVING, I ATTEMPTED TO EXIT THE VEHICLE FROM THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR. THE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN. THE DOOR WAS UNLOCKED. I CRAWLED OUT THE PASSENGER SIDE. I TRIED TO OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE. SAME RESULT. THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR NOW DOES NOT OPEN BY ANY MEANS. DIVER SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN UTILIZING KEY FOB, FROM THE INSIDE AND FROM THE OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. FROM READING ONLINE POSTS, IT SEEMS TO BE AN ISSUE WITH OTHERS IN DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS. IT COULD BE THE DOOR HANDLE CABLE OR DOOR ACTUATOR. REGARDLESS, THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION, DUE TO THE FACT THAT IF THE DRIVER NEEDED TO EXIT THE CAR IMMEDIATELY, DRIVER WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DO SO. *TR

Power Train
Filed Feb 18, 2015100,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT INTO THE REVERSE GEAR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 5, 2015IL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 28, 2015CA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO INFORM WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls
Filed Jan 20, 201580,000 milesRI

I'VE REPLACED THE WINDOW REGULATORS IN MY CAR SEVERAL TIMES DUE TO THE MATERIAL BEING CHEAP. THE GEARS WEAR OUT AND/OR BREAK APART. EACH TIME IT'S BETWEEN $150 AND $300 TO REPAIR. THE WINDOW STOPS HALF-WAY DOWN AND CAN'T BE MOVED. THIS PRESENTS ISSUES WITH SAFETY DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER AND MAKES IT VERY EASY TO GET INTO THE CAR TO TAKE VALUABLES AND POTENTIALLY STEAL THE VEHICLE. *TR

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 15, 2015135,000 milesAZ

WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY I SUDDENLY HEARD A THUMP OR POP FOLLOWED BY A GRINDING NOISE. I PULLED OVER AT THE NEXT EXIT AND DISCOVERED THAT THE BRACKET HOLDING THE STRAP THAT HOLDS THE FUEL TANK ON THE PASSENGER SIDE HAD TORN OFF THE BODY AND THE FUEL TALK WAS LEFT HANGING A FEW INCHES ABOVE THE GROUND. THE SHOP WHERE I NORMALLY TAKE MY CAR FOR SERVICE COULDN'T FIX IT AND RECOMMENDED A BODY SHOP WHERE THE BRACKET COULD BE WELDED BACK ON TO THE BODY. *TR

Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls
Filed Jan 15, 2015150,000 milesAZ

I'VE HAD UPWARDS OF 10 WINDOW REGULATORS REPLACED IN MY CAR OVER THE LAST 12-13 YEARS. THEY HAVE CHEAP PLASTIC GEARS THAT WEAR OUT OR BREAK APART BECAUSE THEY'VE BECOME SO BRITTLE BECAUSE OF THE HEAT. EACH TIME IT'S BETWEEN $100 AND $250 TO FIX DEPENDING ON WHO FIXES IT AND IT'S A PAIN IF THE WINDOW STOPS HALF-WAY DOWN AND CAN'T BE MOVED. *TR

Air Bags
Filed Jan 8, 2015CA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO REMEDY THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 2, 2015GA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 03/30/15. *JB

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 9, 2014168,000 milesCA

I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 70MPH WHEN I HEARD A POP SOUND FOLLOWED BY A GRINDING OF SOME SORT. I PULLED OFF THE NEXT EXIT AND COULD HEAR THE CONTINUOUS SCRAPING NOISE. I PARKED MY CAR AND COULD SEE THAT THE GASOLINE TANK STRAP HAD SEPARATED FROM THE FRAME AND IT WAS JUST HANGING FROM THE BACK. THE GAS TANK WAS 4 INCHES FROM THE CONCRETE. I HAD IT TOWED HOME, AND NEEDLESS TO SAY I AM GLAD THE TANK DID NOT HIT THE GROUND AND EXPLODE. I SEE THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH ALL E46 BMWS. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED. *TR

Air Bags
Filed Nov 18, 2014FL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR REPAIR. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS ON BACK ORDER NATIONWIDE AND DECLINED TO PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED TIMEFRAME FOR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE DELAY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE.

Structure › Body › Door
Filed Sep 19, 2014GA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO EXIT THE VEHICLE, BUT THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO OPEN. THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE COULD BE PULLED, BUT THE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN. THE CONTACT HAD TO CLIMB OVER TO THE PASSENGER SIDE IN ORDER TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Air Bags
Filed Aug 25, 2014110,000 milesWA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAGS INADVERTENTLY DEPLOYED AND THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

Air Bags
Filed May 8, 201474,700 milesNJ

I WAS DRIVING MY BMW 2001 330I ON DOVER CHESTER RD CROSSING THE INTERSECTION OF MORRIS TPKE IN RANDOLPH, NJ WHEN I HIT A POT HOLE AND PATCH WORK ON THE ROAD. THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR AND WINDOW AIRBAGS DEPLOYED CUTTING THE POWER TO THE ENGINE AND TURNING ON THE EMERGENCY HAZARD LIGHTS. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OFF THE ROAD AND SAW THAT I HAD A FLAT TIRE BUT NO DAMAGE TO TIRE RIM AND NO DAMAGE TO THE BODY OF THE CAR. THERE WAS NO IMPACT OR REASON FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM TO DEPLOY. *TR

Air Bags
Filed Mar 18, 2014182,000 milesNJ

ON SATURDAY 03/01/2014 AT AROUND 10:30PM I HAD JUST PASSED THE TAPPAN ZEE BRIDGE GOING TO CONNECTICUT SO I WAS ON THE 287 WEST OR NORTH HIGHWAY (NOT SURE BECAUSE AT SOME POINT 287 CHANGES FROM WEST TO NORTH). IT WAS ABOUT 1-2 MILES AFTER WHEN I HIT A HUGE POTHOLE THAT MADE AIR BAG OR SIDE CURTAIN FELL OFF. THE ENTIRE BAG DID NOT DEPLOY, JUST THE SIDE CURTAIN FELL OFF AND STAYED HANGING. INSURANCE COMPANY CONSIDERED IT A COLLISION AND TOTALED MY CAR. I FEEL UPSET BECAUSE THE AIR BAG DID NOT OPEN PROPERLY AND YET MY CAR WAS TOTALED BECAUSE OF IT. *TR

Power Train
Filed Feb 1, 201370,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL ATTEMPTS TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE D-G CLUTCH DRUM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE BUT DID NOT PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE DUE TO THE VEHICLE NOT BEING INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000.... UPDATED 03/08/13 *BF UPDATED 03/27/2013 *JS UPDATED 04/18/13*LJ

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 16, 2013IA

DRIVERS SIDE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY IS DEFECTIVE. NO BRAKE LIGHT, TAIL LIGHT OR TURN SIGNAL. GROUND WIRE IN CONNECTOR MELTED. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Nov 26, 201290,000 milesGA

MY DOORS WILL LOCK BUT NOT UNLOCK. I CANNOT UNLOCK THEM WITH MY KEY FOB, CENTER CONSOLE, OR WITH THE DOOR HANDLES. RIGHT NOW THE ONLY TWO DOORS THAT WILL OPEN ARE MY DRIVERS AND DRIVERS REAR DOOR. I CAN ONLY UNLOCK THE DRIVERS REAR BY THE INSIDE DOOR HANDLES. PASSENGERS HAVE TO CLIMB IN THE DRIVERS SIDE OR WINDOW. *TR

Power Train
Filed Sep 29, 2012153,400 milesCA

NO WARNING LIGHT. PUT IN REVERSE AND I HEARD A POP NOISE. I THOUGHT MY STUFF WAS MOVING IN TRUNK. PUT IN GEAR AND DROVE. WHEN I CAME TO FULL STOP AND TRY TO REVERSE. IT DOESN'T WORK. MORE LIKE REVERSE WAS IN NEUTRAL. ALL OTHER GEAR IS FINE EXCEPT REVERSE. I HAVE A BMW 330I SEDAN, 2001 3L. I TAKE GOOD CARE OF MY CAR. I BEEN DRIVING ON AND OFF WITH THIS CAR FOR 4 YEARS SINCE GAS IS EXPENSIVE. NOW IT COMPLETELY DIED. THEY SHOULD HAVE A RECALL ON FAULTY TRANSMISSION. I HEARD SEPTONIC TRANSMISSION ARE MADE BY GM. *TR

Power Train
Filed Aug 12, 2012169,500 milesTX

THE METAL STRAP THAT SUPPORTS THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE FUEL TANK JUST BROKE OFF. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE STREET AND HEARD A POP SOUND AND THEN METAL GRINDING AND JUMPING AROUND (LIKE A NEEDLE ON A SCRATCHED RECORD/ A CD) THE BRACKET TO WHICH THE FORWARD END OF THIS STRAP MOUNTED TO THE UNDERBODY BROKE FREE LEAVING A GASH LIKE TEAR ON THE UNDERBODY. I AM HAVING THE CAR SERVICED FOR REPAIRS, BUT WHEN I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP THE PARTS DEPARTMENT DIDN'T HAVE ANY FIXABLE SOLUTION FOR THE MISHAP. THEY TOLD ME THAT THE ONLY THING THAT I COULD DO WAS TAKE IT TO A BODY SHOP TO HAVE A FABRICATED PIECE MADE. I'VE RESEARCHED THIS INCIDENT AND FOUND THAT THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL OTHER BMW OWNERS WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME INCIDENT. I AM ALSO EXPERIENCING THE LOSS OF REVERSE. THE DRIVE GEAR SEEMS TO BE FINE; HOWEVER, THE REVERSE IS NOT OPERATING. I AM NOW LOOKING INTO HAVING IT SERVICED FOR THAT ISSUE AS WELL. WHEN I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP, THEY DID TELL ME THAT THERE WAS AN OPEN CAMPAIGN ON THE TRANSMISSION (THOUGH THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID THAT IT WAS ONLY FOR PROGRAMMING ISSUES). I HAD ALSO FOUND THAT THERE HAS BEEN OTHER BMW OWNERS THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS ISSUE AS WELL. I KNOW THAT THEY HAD MENTIONED THAT THERE WERE TWO TYPES OF TRANSMISSION (THE GM AND THE ZF TRANSMISSION). THERE WAS A MENTION THAT IT COULD BE A FAULTY SOLENOID OR THE REVERSE DRUM HAS BROKEN/ SHREDDED. NONE THE LESS YOU CAN PLACE INTO "REVERSE" AND GIVE IT GAS AND NOTHING HAPPENS NO MOVEMENT UNLESS YOU PLACE INTO "

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jul 25, 2012117,500 milesWA

MY 2001 BMW 330I IS EXPERIENCING TAIL LIGHT PROBLEMS. THE RIGHT REAR TURN SIGNAL LIGHT DOES NOT WORK AND WHEN ACTIVATING IT, IT BLINKS TWICE AS FAST ON THE FRONT AND SIDE MARKER. ON THE DISPLAY PANEL IT SHOWS THE REAR RIGHT SIGNAL IS OUT. THE LEFT REAR BRAKE LIGHT IS ALSO OUT. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR A FEW MONTHS NOW AT LEAST. THE CAR DISPLAY ON THE DASH INDICATES THAT THE REAR RIGHT BRAKE LIGHT IS OUT. I HAVE CHANGED EVERYBULB IN THE REAR OF THE CAR WHICH FIXED NOTHING. I THEN DISCONNECTED THE THE TAILIGHT CONNECTOR ON EACH SIDE TO REVEAL THAT SOME OF THE PINS INSIDE OF THE CONNECTION HAVE MELTED AWAY. I AM POSITIVE THAT IS THE PROBLEM AS IT IS WITH THE 2002-2005 MODEL 3 SERIES. I CALLED BMW ABOUT THE RECALL AND OF COURSE 2001 IS NOT INCLUDED YET! I HOPE THIS GETS FIXED SOON. IT IS EXTREMELY INCONVENIENT AND DANGEROUS. *TR

Exterior Lighting
Filed Apr 25, 2012TX

THERE IS A CURRENT RECALL FOR 2002-2005 BMW (VARIOUS MODELS) REGARDING THE REAR LIGHTS. WE ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS IN OUR 2001 330I. THE RIGHT REAR TAIL LIGHTS DO NOT WORK AND THE TURN SIGNAL BLINKS AND THE TURN SIGNAL SOUND IS TWICE AS FAST AS NORMAL. I AM WRITING TO MAKE YOUR DEPARTMENT AWARE THAT THE MODEL YEARS SHOULD BE EXPANDED TO INCLUDE THE 2001 BMW 330I. *TR

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jan 19, 2012171,330 milesCA

UPON EXITING THE FREEWAY A HORRIBLE, CONTINUOUS METALLIC SCRAPING NOISE BEGAN. I HAD HEARD THIS PERIODICALLY ON MY DRIVE, BUT UNTIL NOW IT WAS NOT CONTINUOUS. LOOKING UNDER THE CAR, I COULD SEE THE METAL GAS TANK STRAP HANGING AND RESTING ON THE GROUND. IT WAS THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT THAT FAILED, SO THE STRAP WAS POINTING FORWARD. I ASSUME IT WAS ONLY PERIODICALLY AT FIRST BECAUSE IT TOOK SOME TIME FOR MY ACTUAL GAS TANK TO SLIP DOWN FORCING THE STRAP AGAINST THE ASPHALT. KNOWING THAT A METAL STRAP WAS SCRAPING AND POSSIBLY SPARKING AGAINST THE ASPHALT NEXT TO MY SAGGING GAS TANK, THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE NEAREST MECHANIC. *TT

Power Train
Filed Dec 15, 2011NC

2001 330I BMW. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEMS WITH REVERSE IN TRANSMISSION. *TGW

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Nov 28, 201189,200 milesWA

MY 2001 BMW 330I STOPPED GOING IN REVERSE LAST WEDNESDAY. APPARENTLY, THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE, AS I WAS VERY SUPRISED TO SEE DOZENS OF WEBSITES DEDICATED TO THIS NO REVERSE ISSUE. HOW COME THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR THIS COMMON FAILURE? *KB

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Oct 24, 201191,453 milesCT

THE FUEL PUMP/TANK SENDING UNIT BEHIND PASSENGER'S SEAT IS LEAKING FUEL WHEN THE TANK IS FULL. STRONG GASOLINE VAPORS ARE PRESENT IN THE CABIN AFTER THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN SITTING A FEW MINUTES AFTER A FILL UP. THESE VAPORS POSE A SIGNIFICANT EXPLOSION/FIRE HAZARD SHOULD SOMEONE BE SMOKING AS THEY ENTER THE VEHICLE OR SHOULD THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MALFUNCTION AND BECOME AN IGNITION SOURCE. WHEN THE FUEL PUMP/SENDING UNIT ASSEMBLY IS VIEWED FROM THE TOP, THERE IS AN ENCLOSED PLASTIC CYLINDRICAL PIECE APPROXIMATELY 1/4 OF AN INCH IN DIAMETER WITH A BALL SHAPED END, THAT IS LEAKING AT THE TOP. FAILURE OF THE FUEL/PRESSURE RETAINING PLASTIC COMPONENTS ON FUEL PUMPS AND SENDER UNITS APPEARS TO BE A COMMON MANUFACTURING DEFECT AS SIMILAR (UNREPORTED) LEAKING PROBLEMS ARE FOUND WHEN RESEARCHING SIMILAR VEHICLES ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB. REFERENCE : ODI 10426736. *TR

Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls
Filed Sep 1, 2011RI

BMW 3 SERIES (E36-E46) 1991-2005 WINDOW REGULATORS BREAK CONSTANTLY. *TR

Air Bags › Frontal
Filed Jun 20, 201165,000 milesIN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BWI 330I. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SPONTANEOUSLY DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WAS REPLACED. THE TECHNICIANS WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 116, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2006
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20261000Routine
20256110Routine
20246200Routine
20234200Routine
20226300Routine
202129730Routine
2020531120Routine
201941950Routine
201832130Routine
201742000Routine
20110300Routine
20100300Routine
20090300Routine
20080300Routine
20070300Routine
20062197100Do not drive
200528520Do not drive
2004113540Do not drive
200377742Do not drive
200245710Do not drive
2001 — this page116830Do not drive
20000300Do not drive
19990200Routine

Compare every 330i year →

Reading this record

NHTSA has issued a do-not-drive warning for a recall on this vehicle.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 27, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.