2011 BMW X3 Manufacturer communications & TSBs.Page 4
Original record summaries, dates and identifiers for this model-year. Records 301–360 of 360, ordered newest first. Dated records on this page: Jun 1, 2010–Apr 1, 2013.
Read the applicability before drawing a conclusion.
This archive includes service bulletins, warranty notices, software instructions and other communications. Records may repeat or supersede earlier instructions. A model-year association is not proof that a document covers every engine, trim, VIN or reported symptom, or that a repair is free.
NHTSA download snapshot: Sep 28, 2026. These are communication associations for this vehicle, not unique defects. How records are joined and counted.
Apr 1, 2013Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
120912
NHTSA communication ID: 10149338
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Intermittently, the engine idle speed may fluctuate up and down or cut off under any of the following circumstances, without any relevant faults stored in the DME memory: * While driving off throttle (coasting) and braking at speeds below approx. 10 mph * While idling, low-speed maneuvering such as parking, or if the steering is turned to the full-lock position Unfavorable DME software
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"Transmission Intermittently Goes into ""P"" or ""N"" after MSA Engine Start. The transmission can intermittently go into the Park (P) or Neutral (N) position after an MSA engine start without any customer influence. This problem is very sporadic, difficult to reproduce, and no relevant faults are stored. Unfavorable DME/EGS software"
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
PDC: Complete Failure of Front and/or Rear Sensors. When reverse gear is selected or the PDC button is pressed, neither the front and/or rear PDC sensors work. One or more of the following fault codes are stored: * 0x803200 - Voltage supply for ultrasonic sensors * 0x80320A - Rear outer left ultrasonic sensor * 0x803210 - Rear centre left ultrasonic sensor * 0x803216 - Rear centre right ultrasonic sensor * 0x80321C - Rear outer right ultrasonic sensor * 0x80322E - Front outer left ultrasonic sensor * 0x803234 - Front centre left ultrasonic sensor * 0x80323A - Front centre right ultrasonic sensor * 0x803240 - Front outer right ultrasonic sensor CAUSE Short circuit in the wiring harness for the PDC ultrasonic sensors
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The vehicle position is missing or incorrect on the navigation map. The navigation system integrated in the Car Information Computer (CIC) is not calibrated correctly.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"CHAMP2: Stored Radio Stations Deleted After Ignition Off. After ignition off, the stored radio stations (AM/FM and Satellite) are no longer available in: * Menu ""PRESETS"" * Functional bookmarks (buttons on the head unit) Error in the CHAMP2 head unit"
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL · EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC..
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Water Leaks from Center Console. Water leaks from the console into the left and right footwell. CAUSE Condensation is leaking from the HVAC housing water drain connection (not fitted correctly).
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Stress Cracks in Headlight Lens Cover. CAUSE Premature failure in the front headlight lens cover material, caused by damaged hood bump stops or old design hood sealing.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
?100A Fuse in Rear Power Distribution Box Failed, Causing Electrical System Failure. Various functions of the electrical system fail. In rare cases, the vehicle cranks but may not start. The 100-amp fuse (F502) in the rear power distribution box (Z3), mounted on the battery, has failed.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · POWER TRAIN.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Advanced Onboard Battery Diagnostics. INFORMATION Starting with the introduction of the F10 (5 Series), an advanced intelligent battery sensor has been used. This now makes it possible for the vehicle to monitor the condition of the battery in order to determine if the battery needs to be recharged or replaced, along with the remaining capacity of the battery. The analysis and testing of the battery's SoC (State of Charge) and SoH (State of Health) is now performed using ISTA (Integrated Service Technical Application) diagnosis. A separate test using a battery tester is no longer needed.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Water Leaks into Cargo Area. Water leaks into the cargo area and corrodes/damages electrical components. Note: In most cases, the customer is not aware of any water in the lower compartments of the cargo area, but complains of an electrical malfunction or failure, as a result of water intrusion. CAUSE ??Body seam sealer application inadequate ??The rear sunroof drains are dislodged.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Oil Leak from Transfer Case. Oil is leaking from the transmission area, or oil seepage is noticed from the transmission/transfer case area during a service. CAUSE The leak can be misdiagnosed as a transmission fluid leak from either the mechatronics sleeve or transmission oil pan. The leak is actually coming from the transfer case (input or output shaft seal).
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
N55 Engine Failsafe - FC 120308 Boost Pressure Control, Plausibility: Pressure Too Low Stored in DME Fault Memory. INFORMATION The customer complains the SES is illuminated and the engine has reduced power (engine failsafe mode).
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: BATTERY HAS AN INCREASED DEMAND DUE TO DEVELOPEMENTAL PROCESS OF THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THIS IS CAUSING THE BATTER TO NEED TO UNDERGO AN ENERGY DIAGNOSIS. *KB
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: DUE TO WIRING HARNESS SHORT CIRCUIT, THE FRONT AND/OR REAR PDC SENSORS FAILS TO WORK WHEN REVERSE GEAR IS SELECTED OR BUTTON (PDC) IS PRESSED. MODEL 2011-2013 F25. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW:VARIOUS FUNCTIONS OF THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAIL. IN RARE CASES, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT START. ONE OF THE 100-AMP FUSES IN THE REAR POWER DISTRIBUTION BOX (X3) MOUNTED ON THE BATTERY HAS FAILED. *JS UPDATED ON 4/25/2013. *KB
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Telephone: Phonebook Does Not Transfer to the Vehicle. The telephone book does not transfer to the vehicle after the pairing process is completed. CAUSE Software error in the head unit.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Advanced Onboard Battery Diagnostics. Starting with the introduction of the F10 (5 Series), an advanced intelligent battery sensor has been used. This now makes it possible for the vehicle to monitor the condition of the battery in order to determine if the battery needs to be recharged or replaced, along with the remaining capacity of the battery. The analysis and testing of the battery's SoC (Stateof Charge) and SoH (State of Health) is now performed using ISTA (Integrated Service Technical Application) diagnosis. A separate test using a battery tester is no longer needed.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Wind Whistle Noise from the Exterior Rearview Mirror. A whistling wind noise can be heard from either the left or right exterior rearview mirror, especially when traveling at highway speeds. CAUSE An excessive gap exists between the mirror base and acoustic triangular sealing gasket.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
N20 Engine: Engine Oil Filter Application. INFORMATION The current version of EPC does not provide all available options for the engine oil filters that are used in the N20 engine. The illustrations below will help identify the proper engine oil filter application until the EPC is corrected. Vehicles produced prior to 6/2012 will be equipped with a black plastic oil filter housing (1). In this case, engine oil filter kit P/N 11 42 7 634 291 should be used. Vehicles produced as of 6/2012 and later will be equipped with a silver aluminum oil filter housing (1). In this case, engine oil filter kit P/N 11 42 7 640 862 should be used.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Basic Instrument Cluster: Display Is Intermittently Inoperative. The display in the basic instrument cluster is intermittently inoperative. The following fault codes are stored in the instrument cluster: * B7F6B4 "Instrument cluster: Error in the display unit when switching off (NO SIGNAL)" and/or * B7F6AA "Display switch-off error when starting up" Software error in the instrument cluster
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Incorrect Remaining Service Life from CBS Data for Brake Pads. The calculated remaining service life for the brake pads (front and/or rear axle) from the CBS data does not match the actual brake pad thickness. The customer notices implausible remaining distances (too high or too low) on the front and/or the rear axle brake system. Software calculation of the brake pad wear model
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
N51, N52K, N52T and N55 Engine: Various Faults Stored in DME Related to VANOS and Camshaft Position. A rattling noise can be heard from the engine compartment; the engine has a loss of power; and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. One or more of the following faults may be stored. E70, E71, E82, E88, E90, E92 and E93: 2D5A - VANOS, intake: control fault, camshaft sticking 2D5B - VANOS, intake: control fault, position not reached 2D60 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, camshaft sticking 2D61 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, position not reached 2D9F - camshaft input sensor: signal implausible 2DA1 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal implausible 300C - Camshaft input sensor: signal high 300D - Camshaft input sensor: signal low 300E - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal high 300F - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal low F07, F10, F12, F13 and F25: 130104 - VANOS, intake: control fault, camshaft sticking 130108 - VANOS, intake: control fault, position not reached 130304 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, camshaft sticking 130308 - VANOS, exhaust: control fault, position not reached 130E11 - Camshaft input sensor: signal implausible 130F11 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal implausible 164020 - Camshaft input sensor: signal high 164021 - Camshaft input sensor: signal low 164030 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal high 164031 - Camshaft exhaust sensor: signal low CAUSE One or both (intake and/or exhaust) of the VANOS gear assemblies have failed; the attaching bolts may have also loosened and/or broken.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
?N20 Engine: Repeated Juddering or Surging While Accelerating. The vehicle judders or surges repeatedly while accelerating in hot ambient temperatures between 3,000 RPM and 5,000 RPM. The Service Engine Soon lamp is not illuminated, and no fault codes are stored in the vehicle memory related to this complaint. CAUSE The EPDW (electropneumatic pressure convertor) for the turbocharger wastegate valve is binding internally.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Service Action: CIC - Install Navigation Road Map Database 2013. The Car Information Computer (CIC) road map database 2013 must be installed onto the CIC internal Hard Disc Drive (HDD).
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"Service Action: Program Control Units (CAS). After programming/coding the vehicle with ISTA/P 2.48.1 or earlier, the Car Access System (CAS) was incorrectly coded. This causes the anti-theft alarm system panic button on the remote control to not function. AFFECTED VEHICLES This Service Action involves F01, F02, F04, F06, F07, F10, F12, F13 and F25 vehicles which were produced August 2010 to June 2012. In order to determine whether a specific vehicle has had this Service Action completed or is affected by this Service Action, first check the B-pillar label for code number 637. If code number 637 has been punched out, the campaign has already been performed. If code number 637 has not been punched out, it will be necessary to utilize the ""Service Menu"" of DCSnet (Dealer Communication System) or the Key Reader. Based on the response of the system, either proceed with the corrective action or take no further action. Important Note: A campaign can be reserved in ISPA Light as ""Pending"" prior to submission of a claim. If you find this campaign reserved, please verify the reason before attempting to perform this repair."
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Wind Noise: Helpful Diagnostic Hints. Wind noise may be heard from doors, windows, and mirrors, as well as all A, B and C-pillar support trim and the Panoramic sunroof. CAUSE Poor fitment of the seals and trim in the areas mentioned above
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
DSC Warning Light is On. The warning lamps for DSC, ABS and brake warning are illuminated. There may also be a warning in the control display for 'Chassis Control System failure' One or more of the following fault codes are stored: DSC ??D36D44 - Signal error longitudinal torque distribution (LMV) ??48097D - Transfer Case clutch position open CAUSE Software calibration error in the LMV
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Vehicle Drifts to the Right when Traveling Straight Ahead. The customer complains the vehicle drifts to the right when traveling straight ahead, on an even road surface, without braking. This procedure does not apply for a steering wheel that is not centered when driving straight ahead. 1. Tires 2. Tolerance in the coil springs of the front axle
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"DSC Warning Light Is On. The warning lamps for DSC, ABS and brake warning are illuminated. There may also be a warning in the control display for ""Chassis Control System failure."" One or more of the following fault codes are stored: DSC: ??D36D44 - Signal error longitudinal torque distribution (LMV) ??48097D - Transfer Case clutch position open CAUSE Software calibration error in the LMV"
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"N51, N52K and N52T: Idle Fluctuation During Engine Warm-up Phase. After a cold engine start, the idle speed may be unstable or start fluctuating up and down slightly while the vehicle is stopped. On vehicles with automatic transmissions, roughness or shuddering may be felt during this warm-up period when diving away slowly in ""D"" or in ""R"" without depressing the accelerator pedal. No relevant errors are stored in the DME fault code memory, and these symptoms are no longer present once the engine is at operating temperature (> 90C). Unfavorable DME software"
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: DSC WARNING LIGHT IS ON. THE WARNING LAMPS FOR DSC, ABS AND BRAKE WARNING ILLUMINATED. THERE MAY ALSO BE A WARNING IN THE CONTROL DISPLAY FOR CHASSIS CONTROL SYSTEM FAILURE. *JS
Source components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"Service Action: CIC - Install Navigation Road Map Database 2013. Before delivering affected vehicles to the customer, the Car Information Computer (CIC) road map database 2013 must be installed onto the CIC internal Hard Disc Drive (HDD). Note: The INITIAL enabling code ""FSC CIC map, N. America 2013 INITIAL"" is necessary to start the installation process and to activate the road map database."
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: HEAVY CONDENSATION ON XENON HEADLIGHTS. IN HEAVY RAIN CONDITIONS OR HIGH HUMIDTY, CONDENSATION MAY BUILD UP INSIDE ONE OR BOTH HEADLIGHT(S). THE CONDENSATION IS STILL PRESENT EVEN AFTER A FEW DRY DAYS. *JS
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: FUEL GAUGE SENSOR IS NOT REGISTERING CORRECT FUEL LEVEL OF FULL OR NEAR EMPTY PROPERLY. IMPROVEMENT TASK FORCE AVAILABLE TO HELP WITH DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR OF FUEL LEVEL SENSOR. *PE UPDATED 4/23/12. *PE UPDATED 5/1/2012. *KB
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
THE TRANSMISSION WARNING LIGHT IS ON AND THE VEHICLE WILL NOT MOVE FORWARD OR BACKWARDS. ENGINE SPEED ONLY INCREASES WHILE IN NEUTRAL OR PARK. *RM UPDATED ON 5/1/2012. *KB
Source components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: GAUGE NEEDLES RANDOMLY STOP IN WRONG POSITION ON INSTRUMENT CLUSTER, MOVING THE WRONG WAY, SHOWING INCORRECT VALUES AND REMAIN IN WRONG POSITION AFTER IGNITION IS SWITCHED OFF.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: DUE TO ELECTROCHEMICAL REACTIONS, ON SOME VEHICLES, THE HEATING CONDUCTORS AND FOIL CONNECTORS, THE REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER MAY FAIL TO OPERATE PROPERLY. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. INFORMATION REGARDING THE DEFECT IN THE REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER THAT FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: THERE MAY BE MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTIONS SUCH AS: HIGH-BEAM HEADLIGHT SWITCHES ON WHEN USING THE ONE-TOUCH DIRECTIONAL. TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR WORKS ONLY WHEN THE HIGH-BEAM HEADLIGHT IS ON. TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR CANNOT BE SWITCHED OFF. GLOVE COMPARTMENT BUTTON IS NOT WORKING. INTERIOR LIGHT DIMMING IS INOPERATIVE. HORN IS NOT WORKING. CENTRAL LOCKING FOR FUEL FILLER DOOR IS INOPERATIVE. *RM
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: THE EMERGENCY PARK RELEASE CABLE HAS BEEN REMOVED IN THESE MODELS AND THERE IS A PROCEDURE TO DISENGAGE THE PARK LOCK. 2011 E70/E71. UPDATED ON 06/08/2011. *KB UPDATED ON 06/21/2011. *RM
Source components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: SIX DIFFERENT MODELS EQUIPPED WITH THE M54 ENGINE COULD HAVE VALVE COVERS BREAK IN COLD WEATHER AND RUIN THE ENGINE. THIS IS DUE TO MOISTURE ACCUMULATION. *RM
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE.