2020 BMW X3 Manufacturer communications & TSBs.Page 1
Original record summaries, dates and identifiers for this model-year. Records 1–100 of 286, ordered newest first. Dated records on this page: May 1, 2022–Aug 28, 2026.
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.
Aug 28, 2026Other
B010226DCS
NHTSA communication ID: 11036453
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW Notice of the Court’s Final Approval for Shark-Fin Antenna Settlement (X3, X4, X5, X6, X7)
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The NVLD limited emissionrelated warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years/150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service date.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The manual starting of electronic engine oil level measurement from inside the vehicle, usually afterperforming an engine oil service task, is inoperative or it may lock up at between a 15% to 30% completionrate.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Once the Telematics Module (TCB2) enters sleep mode, a BMW Data Services trigger for Remote Services(remote engine start, lock/unlock/climate conditioning) will not be able to reactivate the TCB2. Due to this issue, Remote Services will not function in the vehicle when parked and locked.
NHTSA source summary · Document-reviewed explainer available below
The EVAP systems purge (vent) valve limited warranty for defects in materials and / or workmanship has been extended to 15 years / 150,000 miles as determined from the original first in-service / delivery date.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The EVAP systems purge (vent) valve limited warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years / 150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service date.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The vehicle applies the brakes on its own when reversing onto an inclined roadway or driveway. This appliesonly to the situation where the Active PDC option is activated via the iDrive.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The limited warranty for the Knee Air Bag wire harness repair cable procedure for defects in materials and / or workmanship has been extended to 10 years / 120,000 miles as determined from the original first in-service / delivery date.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
the NVLD limited emissionrelated warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years/150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service date.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The NVLD limited emission related warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years/150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service date.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The NVLD limited emission related warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years/150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service date
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The customer states that one or more of the following situations may occur: 1. The availability of the Steering and Lane Control Assistant is deteriorating, and/or that the function allows thevehicle to move from side to side within the lane markings. 2. The parking space detection is less effective or hardly ever receives any parking space recommendations fromthe PMA.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
An interference noise (groaning noise) can be heard from within the heating and air-conditioning unit in thecenter of the instrument panel. The groaning noise always occurs when either a ventilation flap, air stratification flap or the recirculated airflap moves to a different position. Due to the complex design of the heating and air-conditioning unit, the kinematics causing it (top or bottom,left or right) may not be able to be precisely located. Depending on the vehicle model, the number of servomotors (and the associated kinematics unit) varies.Various models use either 2 or 3 servomotors.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The Check Control message below appears even though the coolant level is not below minimum when theengine is cold. Check Control message (ID 166): Top up coolant.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle âÂÂdischarged batteryâ complaints.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
With the vehicle is on a lift and the front struts are in the extended position, there may be a cracking and orclicking type noise when turning the steering wheel left/right. See attached video V31 01 24. The sound can reoccur when the vehicle is lowered, and the wheels are once again under load. The noise might also be heard for a short time while driving.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This bulletin outlines known areas of possible water entry, operational noise, or wind noise for the vehicles listed above. It serves only as a diagnostic resource in troubleshooting complaints from the roof area. This bulletin and the associated attachments are designed to provide one single diagnostic resource for troubleshooting all known issues related to the panoramic sunroof of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles which have quality improvement measures already in place.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
At low outside temperatures (below 40 degrees F) and slow driving speeds (i.e. when parking, maneuvering)with a large steering angle, the front end can be slightly axially misaligned. This can be felt (jerking)/ heard via an acoustic acknowledgement (clunk) as seen at the 11 second mark of the video. See attached video V36 01 21.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The Central Information Display goes black intermittently due to resets of the Head Unit (HU-H3). FaultB7F8F9 ÃÂâÃÂÃÂÃÂàÃÂâÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂHU-H: ResetÃÂâÃÂÃÂÃÂàwill be stored in the HU-H3.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A vehicle arrives at your center to be diagnosed for a micro-leak in the fuel evaporative (EVAP) system(NVLD natural vacuum leak detection). For this condition, the following fault is stored in the DME: 190302 - fuel tank ventilation and scavenging air system, micro-leak: leakage more than 0.5mm For: Model vehicles other that the ones listed above, or for EVAP faults related to a âÃÂÃÂlarge leak,âÃÂàafter confirming that the fuel filler cap is fitted properly, then, proceed to follow the corresponding test plan
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A noise can be heard from underneath the seat while the seat is being moved either forwards or backwards. This can occur to the driverâÂÂs and/or the passengerâÂÂs front seat.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A check control message (CCM) for the restraint system (Air bag) appears. In the instrument cluster, the red air bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes is stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, driver: short circuit to negative terminal 93094F - Knee airbag, front passenger: short circuit to negative terminal 93094C - Knee airbag driver's side: Resistance too great 930952 - Knee airbag, front passenger: Resistance too great
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A groaning noise is present from the door frame of any door, most commonly when driving over rough roadsor during body flex. This situation may be worse in vehicles which are regularly waxed in the area of the door jamb. Note: This service information bulletin contains diagnostic and repair information which was previouslyincluded in an NED test plan that has been removed.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Customers may be experiencing one or more of these following issues with Bluetooth operation: Bluetooth cannot be switched on or off in the head unit (HU-H4) Paired mobile devices cannot be deleted Customer is unable to make phone calls or stream music with mobile device Customer is unable to connect a new mobile device via Bluetooth Mobile device does not automatically reconnect via Bluetooth in the next drive cycle (after short sleep cycle)
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The customer states that one or more of the following situations may occur: 1. The availability of the Steering and Lane Control Assistant is deteriorating, and/or that the function allows thevehicle to move from side to side within the lane markings. 2. The parking space detection is less effective or hardly ever receives any parking space recommendations fromthe PMA.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
?When driving over uneven pavement or cobblestones, a knocking noise is present from the passenger side front area (A pillar). Once the vehicle is driven on a flat, even surface; the noise is no longer present.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A check control message (CCM) for the restraint system (Air bag) appears. In the instrument cluster, the red air bag warning light lights up permanently.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Headlight check control (CC) message 128 "High beam headlight failure" is displayed. The following fault codes are stored during a vehicle test: 80419A - Left high-beam headlight: Short circuit and/or 8041A5 - light outputs: Number of permitted short circuit cycles exceeded
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · EXTERIOR LIGHTING.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A vehicle arrives at your center to be diagnosed for a micro-leak in the fuel evaporative (EVAP) system (NVLD natural vacuum leak detection). For this condition, the following fault is stored in the DME: 190302 - fuel tank ventilation and scavenging air system, micro-leak: leakage more than 0.5 mm.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop effective June 6, 2023 on certain Model Year 2023 - 2024 BMW vehicles that were produced between October 26, 2022 and May 8, 2023.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
With the introduction of the BMW Remote Software Upgrade, all Service Pack 18 vehicles and partial Service Pack 15 vehicles may receive new functionality or modifications in their features.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop (effective October 15, 2021) on certain Model Year 2022 BMW vehicles that were produced between September 28, 2021 and October 8, 2021. The issue involves the Active Crash Safety Module (ACSM) sensor.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Check Engine Light is illuminated, check control message indicates ""bring in for service"". The faults themselves and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) have no functional effect on the vehicle. There are multiple missing message fault codes (DTC) stored in the integrated automatic heating/air conditioning system (IHKA) control unit."
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM).
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Due to a software error, the vehicle sporadically does not achieve sleep mode. As a result, the 12-volt battery becomes discharged and may cause a no-start condition.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Due to the semiconductor supply, the Local Interconnect Network module in either of the exterior mirrors was switched to another controller. That one provides an imprecise voltage measurement, which the main controller interprets as a fault.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Upon opening or closing (i.e., folding in or out) the exterior mirror assembly, a creaking sound is heard from either the driver and/or passenger side.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Issues with the various functions of the camera-based driver assistance systems (KAFAS system) can possibly lead to following customer complaints: KAFAS camera system deactivates itself, due to system restrictions that are not clear to the customer KAFAS camera system cannot be activated due to system restrictions that are not clear to the customer Road signs are sporadically not detected.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
In hot ambient conditions, if the engine was running for a prolonged time while the vehicle is stationary, a jolt may be experienced while lightly accelerating.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via the Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an IMS registration in the mobile communication network. Due to a production error, the telematics control units were delivered without an IMS configuration. The Connected Drive voice services (Concierge Call, BMW Assistance, and emergency call voice) can no longer be used regionally in the US in vehicle with telematics control units ATM-1 and TCB-4G. Voice control of the vehicle and all other telephone (paired mobile devices) functions are not affected. Emergency call location data is unaffected.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Customer states there is no audio playback (telephony, navigation, radio) and system sounds (PDC, turn indicators, acoustic signals) may also have failed.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The gear selector switch (GWS) consists of the control electronics circuit and the selector lever. The sensors for recording the gearshift lever position and for inhibiting inadvertent gearshifts are integrated in the control electronics.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Due to a software error, the vehicle sporadically does not achieve sleep mode. As a result, the 12-volt battery becomes discharged and may cause a no-start condition.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32 F (0 C) or lower.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32 F (0 C) or lower. The noise goes away as the vehicle/driveline reaches operating temperature.
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING · POWER TRAIN.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32F (0C) or lower.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A check control message for the restraint system appears. In the instrument cluster, the red air bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes is stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, driver: short circuit to negative terminal 93094F - Knee airbag, front passenger: short circuit to negative terminal 93094C - Knee airbag driver's side: Resistance too great 930952 - Knee airbag, front passenger: Resistance too great.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
After programming, the customer may complain that the Sport Mode display is not fully displayed in the instrument cluster. Instead of a red background in sport mode, the background is displayed in blue (like ECO PRO mode).
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Due to the semiconductor supply, the Local Interconnect Network module in either of the exterior mirrors was switched to another controller. That one provides an imprecise voltage measurement, which the main controller interprets as a fault. For the driving cycle, the customer may lose the display in either mirror and the Lane Change Warning function and, if installed, other functions such as- Side collision warning; Lane Change Assistant; Steering and Lane Control Assistant; Emergency Lane Assistant Hands Off 60 Assistant.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE · LANE DEPARTURE · STEERING · VISIBILITY.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The Check Engine Light is on (MIL). After checking faults and diagnosis there is raw fuel found in the charcoal canister and the NVLD pressure switch (in R/R wheel well). Possible faults stored in the DME: 190F08 - Fuel tank venting system: Malfunction 191C02 - Fuel tank venting system,2. discharge point: Malfunction The vent line inside the fuel tank is disconnected.
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM · FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The Lane Change Warning (LCW) yellow triangle symbol on either one, or both the exterior side view mirrors does not illuminate to alert the driver when it should.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Component-Specific Limited Warranty Extension. For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Radiator Grille Upper and Lower Active Air Flaps to: 15 years/150,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date. 1. Air flap control (link) active, upper (G12, G30 and G32) 2. Air flap control (drive), active, upper 3. Air flaps, upper (assembly) 4. Air flaps, lower (assembly) For eligible MY 2017 BMW 530i (B460) vehicles that are currently registered in the State of California (CA) or a State that has fully adopted the State of California PZEV/SULEV regulation (CT, ME, MD, MA, NJ, NY, RI, and VT), the standard emission-related coverage for the Radiator Front Grille Air Vent Flaps is15 years/150,000 miles. This component-specific limited warranty extension applies to defects in materials or workmanship.' This coverage is subject to the same vehicle eligibility requirements, limitations, and exclusions that apply to the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. A check control message or MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) may be illuminated with faults stored related to the upper and/or lower active air flap(s). Potential causes include: Faulty upper air flap link (G12, G30, G32) Faulty upper air flap actuator (G01, G02, G12, G30, G32) Faulty upper flap assembly (G01, G02, G12, G30, G32) Faulty lower air flap assembly (G01, G02, G12, G30, G32) Software error in the DME affecting the upper flap (G01, G02 only) Or: Upon visual inspection, the passenger side upper active air flaps are either stuck open or closed, and they will not move and there are no faults stored for the active air flaps (With no check control message or check engine light or displaying)
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Component-Specific Limited Warranty Extension. For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Leak Diagnosis Module with hose assembly (NVLD, shown) to: 15 years/150,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date. For eligible MY 2017 BMW 530i Sedan and xDrive (B460) vehicles that are currently registered in the State of California (CA) or a State that has fully adopted the State of California PZEV/SULEV regulation (CT, ME, MD, MA, NJ, NY, RI, and VT), the standard component-related coverage for the NVLD is 15 years/150,000 miles. This component-specific limited warranty extension applies to defects in materials or workmanship. This coverage is subject to the same vehicle eligibility requirements, limitations, and exclusions that apply to the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. Over time, the Leak Diagnosis Module (NVLD) (with connected hose) component material may fail, this can create a fine leak to develop in the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP). Should this occur, corresponding fault codes will be stored in the DME memory and the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) will illuminate.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose the SIM card must perform an IMS registration in the mobile communication network. Due to a production error, the telematics control units were delivered without an IMS configuration. The Connected Drive voice services (Concierge Call, BMW Assistance and emergency call voice) can no longer be used regionally in the US in vehicle with telematics control units ATM-1 and TCB-4G. Voice control of the vehicle and all other telephone (paired mobile devices) functions are not affected. Emergency call location data is unaffected.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop (effective March 28, 2022) on certain Model Year 2022 BMW vehicles that were produced between March 1, 2022 and March 8, 2022 because the torsion struts may not have been installed at the plant. Do not deliver to a customer, a New, Certified Pre-Owned or Used vehicle subject to a Delivery Stop, until the vehicle is repaired. Do not use or sell replacement equipment/parts subject to a Delivery Stop.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column. Note: Opening, closing and starting via the BMW Digital Key or the Digital Key Card are not affected.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
A check control message for the restraint system appears. In the instrument cluster, the red air bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes is stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, driver: short circuit to negative terminal 93094F - Knee airbag, front passenger: short circuit to negative terminal.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The Check Control message below appears even though the coolant level is not below minimum when the engine is cold. Check Control message (ID 166): Top up coolant.
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING · EQUIPMENT.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW offers a new special ISTA Installation made available for Roadside Assistance / Mobile Service technicians. The new ISTA Version is also able to be used in case of a Remote Software Upgrade (RSU) programming failure to get the customer car reprogrammed on site. In case of a Remote Software Upgrade failure, the engine start is prevented for safety reasons until the vehicle is programmed correctly. Most of the errors occur when only one control unit fails to program correctly.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE · ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called NBT-EVO, superseded the NBT HU and was introduced in 3/2014. This uses map North America EVO. The Headunit High 4 (HU-H4, also called MGU21) superseded the MGU starting with certain MY2021 vehicles with option code 6U3 Live Cockpit Professional. This uses map North America JOY. The ENTRY Media/Navigation (HU-B) is the low line business version of the navigation system and was introduced in 3/2014. This uses map North America ROUTE. The ENTRY NAV EVO (HU-B2) replaced Entry Media/Navigation as the low-line business version and was introduced in certain MY2018 vehicles. This uses map North America WAY.