2003 BMW X5 Manufacturer communications & TSBs.Page 1
Original record summaries, dates and identifiers for this model-year. Records 1–71 of 71, ordered newest first. Dated records on this page: Oct 1, 2003–Jan 16, 2024.
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.
Jan 16, 2024Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
B510819
NHTSA communication ID: 10249437
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Engine will crank but not start. There is no communication with the integrated fuel module (TFE) whendiagnosing with ISTA. The following two fault codes will be stored in the DME: 032B43 - Low fuel pressure system, electric fuel pump: pressure value too low CDA594 - Message (- 0x33E) missing, receiver DME, transmitter TFE
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING · FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Customers may state that the alarm system (DWA) is not active after locking their unoccupied vehicle. Depending on the vehicleâÂÂs equipment and settings, no acoustic or optical confirmation (folding the mirrors/blinking confirmation) is noticeable. Additionally, the red anti-theft alarm LED in the interior mirror does not briefly flash every 2 seconds, indicating the alarm is armed.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
Second seat row blocking access to third seat row, program seat modules. Visible stitching on first row sport seat. Third seat row backrest Bowden cable routing and length change.
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
Customer is unable to power up or charge accessories through a plug adapter inserted in the front 12-volt power socket plug. Alternatively, it will only operate when constant downward hand pressure is maintained.
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 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
TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL-RELATED SHORT-TERM ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION AND CONSEQUENTIAL REPAIRS This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 31 18 dated October 2018.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL-RELATED SHORT-TERM ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION AND CONSEQUENTIAL REPAIRS This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 31 18 dated October 2018.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
For the above-referenced vehicles with driver?s side airbag modules, BMW of North America, LLC (?BMW NA?) will provide a Customer Support Program as outlined in the Takata Settlement Customer Support Program Overview attachment. This ?component-specific? customer support program applies only if there is a defect in materials or workmanship of the Takata driver?s side airbag module in a listed vehicle.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
In an effort to improve the completion rate on Takata air bag recall affected vehicles; BMW NA has expanded the BMW Ultimate Rewards platform to include a new Recall Support page. This page will allow IRFs to check their customers VINs for open Takata recalls; and get rewarded for helping us with completing repairs.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"REPAIRING TRANSFER CASE ACTUATOR (VTG SERVO-MOTOR). The Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Brakes and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) warnings are on and there may also be a ""Drivetrain Malfunction"" warning on in the Control Display. There is also an audible clicking noise coming from the transfer case actuator when cycling the ignition. The following fault codes may be stored: (DSC) 5F3A - Clutch gearbox-ECU: clutch is open - rear-wheel drive! (VTG) 5463 - Break mechanics (VTG) 5462 - Error actuator or increased power requirements for clutch (VTG) 5461 - Error actuator control Internal wear to the plastic gears of the transfer case actuator."
Source components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL:AUTOMATIC (ASC) · POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE) · SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
SI B12 08 08 Engine Electrical Systems December 2015 Technical Service This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B12 08 08 dated April 2008. The vehicle's NOx emissions may exceed the legally mandated limits. By completing this Service Action, the DME is programmed with revised software to correct this situation.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: SOME VEHICLES, WITH 552 OPTION, ARE EXPERIENCING A MALFUNCTION OF LED HEADLIGHT ON ONE WHERE IT FLICKERS ON AN DOFF DURING DRIVING AND THE CONTROL CHECK MESSAGE IS INDICATING DEFECTIVE DRIVING LIGHT OR PARKING LIGHT. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
State Inspection and Emission (I/M) Test Fails Due To an Invalid VIN Number. The customer of an affected vehicle may fail to pass an I/M test due to a non-compliant 17digit vehicle identification number (VIN) stored in the DME (Digital Motor Electronic). The VIN read out and displayed on the state test printout does not match the actual VIN of the vehicle. If the DME was reprogrammed using the previously available BMW service equipment (e.g., Progman, GT1), it is possible that only the last 7 digits of the VIN were entered into the DME, and positions 4 through10 may only contain default characters. For example: The state I/M tester or OBD scan tool may read out WBAAA00000A123456 instead of the correct full 17-digit VIN, WBAZZ03492A123456.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: OIL LEAKS FROM THE AIR HOSE ON TURBOCHARGER. THIS IS DESIGNATED FOR E70, AND E90 MODELS WITH M57Y DIESEL ENGINES. SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP MAY BE ILLUMINATED. *KB
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"?Panoramic Sunroof Repair Instructions. INFORMATION Sunroof Repair Instructions: The panoramic sunroof contains several ""mechanism sets"" which can be repaired and/or replaced independently in the event of a mechanical failure. When performing such a repair to any of these sets, the TIS/ISTA Repair Instructions (REP) should always be consulted. Due to the complex nature of these repairs, a set of complementary instructions with additional detail, explanation, and photos has been developed. The attached Repair Instructions should always be used in conjunction with the TIS/ISTA REP. "
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
"Panoramic Sunroof Repair Instructions. INFORMATION Sunroof Repair Instructions: The panoramic sunroof contains several ""mechanism sets"" which can be repaired and/or replaced independently in the event of a mechanical failure. When performing such a repair to any of these sets, the TIS/ISTA Repair Instructions (REP) should always be consulted. Due to the complex nature of these repairs, a set of complementary instructions with additional detail, explanation, and photos has been developed. The attached Repair Instructions should always be used in conjunction with the TIS/ISTA REP. Refer to the following repair attachments: Front Glass Mechanism repair E53, E61, E70, E83, E91.pdf Rear Glass Mechanism repair E53, E61, E70, E83, E91.pdf Wind Deflector Mechanism repair E53, E61, E70, E83, E91.pdf Sunshade Mechanism repair E53, E61, E83.pdf Sunshade Mechanism repair E70, E91.pdf All panoramic roofs for the above-listed models are conceptually similar and utilize similar repairs. NOTE: An E83 (X3) sunroof cassette is used for demonstration of the repairs. Some differences may exist between this and other models. The following prerequisite work is required in order to replace the following kits (in addition to removing the cassette from the car and glass from the cassette): Front Glass Mechanism - None. Rear Glass Mechanism - Remove the front glass mechanism. Wind Deflector Mechanism - Remove the front glass mechanism; remove the rear glass mechanism. Sun shades and Shade Mechanism - None Sunroof Mechanical 3D Animation: A 3D animation has been developed in order to clarify how the sunroof mechanism operates, as well as how it is assembled and disassembled. To view this animation, open Interactive Career Pathways (ICP) and select ""Replace Front and Rear Glass Panel Mechanic"" from the Technical Service Information section of the home page. This animation allows you to: * Operate the mechanism and view from any angle; * Add or remove parts and then cycle the sunroof; * S
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: BATTER DISCHARGED BECAUSE OF UNFAVORABLE DRIVING PROFILE. THIS IS CAUSED ON SHORT TRIPS (LESS THAN 3 MILES) OR WHEN THE TELEPHONE OR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM IS USED FOR UP TO 30 MINUTES WHILE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY. MODELS X5, X6 ALL MODEL YEARS AFFECTED. *KB
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: SERVICE ACTION: REPLACE THE LEFT AND RIGHT FUEL LEVEL SENSOR. DUE TO HIGH PROPORTION OF ETHANOL IN THE FUEL, THE INTERNAL MECHANISMS OF THE FUEL LEVEL SENSORS MAY SWELL. THIS MAY INHIBIT THE MOVEMENT OF ONE OR BOTH OF THE FUEL LEVEL SENSORS. *JS
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. N52K ENGINE DMTL PUMP: EMISSIONS WARRANTY EXTENSIONS TO 10 YEARS/120,000 MILES. BMW HAS BECOME AWARE OF A POTENTIAL PROBLEM WITH THE DURABILITY OF THE TANK LEAK DIAGNOSTIC MODULE (DMTL) PUMP ON MY 2007,2008, AND 2009.*JS
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE XENON HEADLAMP OFTEN HAVE NO TROUBLE FOUND WHEN RETURNED AND TESTED THRU WARRANTY PARTS SYSTEM. THE ROOT CAUSE IS NOT POSSIBLE TO BE IDENTIFY. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. THE AIRBAG WARNING LAMP (AWL) IS ILLUMINATED, TOGETHER WITH THE PASSENGER AIRBAG STATUS LAMP (POL). THE PROBLEM MAY BE INTERMITTENT. MICROCRACKS IN THE OC3 SEAT MAT. *PE UPDATED 9/30/11. *PE
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.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: THERE IS A ROUGH ENGINE IDLE AND "SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT" WHEN DRIVING DOWNHILL IN HIGH ALTITUDES DURING COLD WEATHER. THERE MAY BE SIX DIFFERENT FAULT CODES. *RM
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: WARNING MESSAGE ON ABOUT LOW DIESEL EXHAUST FUEL LEVEL AND THAT THE ENGINE WILL NOT RESTART WITHIN 999 MILES. THE LIGHT COMES ON A FEW THOUSAND MILES EARLIER THAN A RECOMMENDED OIL CHANGE. *RM
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL · FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: VARIOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. ON THE VEHICLE, VARIOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS ARE POSSIBLE. WARNING LAMPS ILLUMINATED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER; CHECK CONTROL MESSAGES; SYSTEMS INOPERATIVE; FUSE BLOWN; WIPERS IN DEFAULT MODE (PERMANENTLY ON); AND FAULT CODES FFFF AND F-CAN FAULTS IN ARS AND DSC. SHORT CIRCUIT OF THE WIRING HARNESS TO SHARP SHEET METAL IMMEDIATELY BEHIND THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLES: VARIOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS ARE POSSIBLE ON THE VEHICLE: WARNING LAMPS ILLUMINATED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER; CHECK CONTROL MESSAGES; SYSTEMS INOPERATIVE; FUSE BLOWN; WIPERS IN DEFAULT MODE (PERMANENTLY ON); AND FAULT CODES FFFF AND F-CAN FAULTS IN ARS AND DSC. SHORT CIRCUIT OF THE WIRING HARNESS TO SHARP SHEET METAL IMMEDIATELY BEHIND THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT. MODEL E70 (X5) NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE UPDATED 11/17/10. *PE
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLES: FUEL LEVEL SENSOR REPAIRS. WHERE IT IS NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE RIGHT OR THE LEFT SIDE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR DUE TO A FAILURE, THE ENTIRE PUMP AND HOUSING OR DELIVERY UNIT (SUCTION JET ASSEMBLY) DO NOT NEED TO BE REPLACED AS WELL. IN SOME CASES, EPC DOES NOT SHOW THAT THE REPAIR KIT IS AVAILABLE SEPARATELY IN THE ILLUSTRATION, BUT IT IS AVAILABLE IN THE PARTS DESCRIPTION. ALL MODELS. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLES: DIAGNOSIS FOR LOW PRESSURE FUEL SUPPLY FAULTS. THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP IS ILLUMINATED (A FUEL PUMP MALFUCTION MESSAGE IS DISPLAYED IN THE CC), AND A COMBINATION OF THE FOLLOWING FAULT CODES MAY BE STORED IN THE DDE CONTROL MODULE: 4BED/4BDD FUEL PRESSURE CONTROL, CONTROL DEVIATION (PRESSURE TOO HIGH/TOO LOW); 4BDB FUEL PRE SUPPLY PRESSURE CONTROL, CONTROL DEVIATION/NEGATIVE AND 6292 CONTROL VOLTAGE TOO LOW, IMPLAUSIBLE SIGNAL CURRENTLY PRESENT. *PE
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLES: DSC WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED. THE DSC (DYNAMIC STABILITY CONTROL) WARNING LAMP IS ILLUMINATED AND SOME OR ALL OF THE FOLLOWING FAULT CODES ARE STORED: 6E58; 6E04; 53BA; D36F; 55C3; 6ECA; AND THE WIPERS MAY ALSO BE OPERATING IN DEFAULT MODE. *PE
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING · ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) · VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: REPLACEMENT OF FRONT OUTER CV JOINT. COMPLAINTS OF CLICKING OR GRINDING NOISES COMING FROM THE FRONT AXLE AREA WHEN MAKING A TURN. THE FRONT OUTER CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT BOOT IS SPLIT OPEN AND THE JOINT IS ALREADY DAMAGED. *PE
Source components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: DIESEL: DIAGNOSIS FOR LOW PRESSURE FUEL SUPPLY FAULTS. SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP IS ILLUMINATED (A FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTION MESSAGE IS DISPLAYED IN THE CC) AND A COMBINATION OF THE FOLLOWING FAULT CODES MAY BE STORED IN THE DDE CONTROL MODULE. MODEL YEARS UNKNOWN. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: SMALL NUMBER OF VEHICLES EXPERIENCE PROBLEMS RANGING FROM LEAKING OIL FILLER CAPS, LEAKING OR BROKEN VALVE COVERS, TO COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE IN EXTREMELY COLD CLIMATE CONDITIONS. MOISTURE ACCUMULATING IN ENGINE CRANKCASE VENTILATION VALVE OR HOSES CAN FREEZE DUE TO LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURES. *PE
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE · ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL · ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV).
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW: HEADLAMP MOISTURE: FAULT DIAGNOSTICS. WATER OR CONDENSATION IN ONE OR BOTH HEADLAMPS. MODELS 5 SERIES, 6 SERIES, 7 SERIES, X5, X6, 1 SERIES, AND 3 SERIES. MODEL YEARS 2000-20008. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLE: DRIVEABILITY COMPLAINTS DUE TO COOLING FAN RELAY FAILURE. THE CUSTOMER MAY COMPLAIN OF INTERMITTENT DRIVEABILITY PROBLEMS, DESCRIBED AS-ENGINE IS LACKING POWER WHEN ACCELERATING UPHILL; TRANSMISSION WILL NOT UPSHIFT UNDER HEAVY ACCELERATION; DISTINCT HESITATION WHEN ACCELERATING FROM 30-45MPH. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLE: ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION CC MESSAGE CAUSED BY SHORTED WIRING. THE ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION CHECK CONTROL MESSAGE MAY BE DISPLAYED; THE SOUNDS SYSTEM EMITS A STATIC NOISE FROM THE SPEAKERS; THE RFK (REAR VIEW CAMERA) DOES NOT PAN; THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT MAY BE ILLUMINATED; KCAN COMMUNICATION, KCAN LINE AND KCAN WIRE FAULTS ARE STORED IN VARIOUS CONTROL MODULES. SHORTED WIRING AT THE LEFT OR RIGHT SUBWOOFER SPEAKER MOUNTED UNDER THE FRONT SEATS. NO MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLE: MISSING CLIP ON POWER CABLE CAUSES VARIOUS ELECTRICAL COMPLAINTS. VEHICLE WILL NOT START. INSTRUMENT CLUSTER OR DISPLAYS ARE FLICKERING. REMOTE CONTROL WILL NOT UNLOCK VEHICLE. VARIOUS CONTROL MODULES CANNOT BE ACCESSED USING THE DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM. THE CLIP(1) ON THE POWER SUPPLY TERMINAL(2) (X16825 INTHE REAR POWER DISTRIBUTION BOX, OR X16824 INTHE FRONT JBE [JUNCTION BOX ELECTRONICS]), IS EITHER LOOSE OR MISSING. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BMW VEHICLE: FC 2EF4 CHARACTERISTIC MAP THERMOSTAT. COMPLAINTS THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP IS ILLUMINATED. FAULT CODE 2EF4 CHARACTERISTIC MAP THERMOSTAT IS STORED IN DME FAULT MEMORY. DME SOFTWARE CALIBRATION RELATED TO HIGH HEATING REQUIREMENTS DURING SUBZERO DRIVING CONDITIONS. REPROGRAM VEHICLE WITH V27.1 (I LEVEL E070-07-09-520) OR HIGHER. *PE