The vehicle dossier US · 2005

2005 BMW
Z4Problems & recalls

190 distinct owner reports in the NHTSA snapshot. Steering appears in 172 of them. Explore what was reported—and which official actions are on file.

Snapshot Sep 28, 2026Live NHTSA complaint API How this dossier is compiled

01 / Owner-reported evidence

What owners reported.

Categories attached to 190 distinct reports. A report can mention more than one component, so category totals can overlap.

Steering172 reports
Air bags9 reports
Electrical system6 reports
Other components5 reports
Suspension3 reports
Engine3 reports
Fuel system1 reports
Brakes1 reports
Body & structure1 reports
See original component labels
STEERING170
AIR BAGS9
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM6
SUSPENSION3
ENGINE3
STEERING:COLUMN2
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE1
SEAT BELTS1
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:POWER STEERING FLUID1
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL1
WHEELS1
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)1
SERVICE BRAKES1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING1
STRUCTURE1

These are reports made to NHTSA, not verified diagnoses. More reports can reflect more vehicles, more time on the road, or greater reporting activity.

The reporting timeline

When reports arrived.

Reports by year filed, not by the year a problem occurred. Showing the latest 15 years with reports.

Year filed (last two digits)Latest report: Apr 25, 2025
Mileage, where supplied

46,500 miles is the median among 169 reports with usable mileage. The middle half spans 25,133–69,000 miles.

This describes the submitted reports. It does not predict when a vehicle will fail.

02 / Official safety campaigns

0 recall campaigns on file.

A campaign can cover only certain production dates or configurations. The count does not tell you whether an individual car has an open recall.

No campaigns matched this model-year in the imported recall files. This is not confirmation that a particular VIN has no open recalls.
Check this car’s VIN at NHTSA

03 / The manufacturer’s record

Instructions. Updates. Responses.

43 distinct communications list this model-year. Showing the latest 12. A matching model-year does not establish that every engine, trim or reported symptom is covered.

Jan 16, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB510819The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.NHTSA ID 10249437

The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10249437 at NHTSA
Jan 11, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB611305The 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…NHTSA ID 10249027

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 “discharged battery” complaints.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10249027 at NHTSA
Sep 1, 2022 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB662419Vehicle 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 ID 10225126

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.

Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10225126 at NHTSA
Apr 1, 2021 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB340414Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less th…NHTSA ID 10194296

Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles: 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases the likelihood of cracks to form.

Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC · STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10194296 at NHTSA
Oct 1, 2020 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB611305Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: 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 batt…NHTSA ID 10182619

Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: 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 "discharged battery" complaints. In order to properly repair the vehicle the first time in the workshop, it is very important that the diagnostic test plans are performed to completion, with all results taken into consideration. Without performing the energy diagnosis test plan, the root cause of the discharged battery cannot be identified. This increases the chances of a repeat repair.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · EQUIPMENT · EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10182619 at NHTSA
Apr 1, 2020 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB110208Power Reduction FC2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC2 A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Fault: The "Service Engine Soon" (MIL) lamp is illuminated and engine power reduction is perceived. This situation can occur after driving for some time …NHTSA ID 10175267

Power Reduction FC2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC2 A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Fault: The "Service Engine Soon" (MIL) lamp is illuminated and engine power reduction is perceived. This situation can occur after driving for some time with the engine at full operating temperature. If the ignition is cycled the engine then usually performs normally.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · POWER TRAIN. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10175267 at NHTSA
Jul 10, 2019 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions513608"Outside Door Mirror Moves when Locking or Unlocking the Vehicle. The door mirror tilts immediately after unlocking or locking. The mirror position does not correspond to the memory position preset by the customer. Pressing the…NHTSA ID 10162404

"Outside Door Mirror Moves when Locking or Unlocking the Vehicle. The door mirror tilts immediately after unlocking or locking. The mirror position does not correspond to the memory position preset by the customer. Pressing the seat memory button typically will return the mirror to the stored position. Poor electrical contacts of the mirror drive in the mirror housing INFORMATION The problem has been integrated into ISTA diagnostics. Follow the diagnosis test plan using the latest ISTA version. In Information Search, select the "Function Structure"" tab. Select Body, Mirror, Door mirror, Driver's or passenger side, Exterior Mirror Malfunction, and then press "Start Search". Select test plan ""AM5102_00010".

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10162404 at NHTSA
Jun 1, 2018 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB650709NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance:NHTSA ID 10145306

NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance:

Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10145306 at NHTSA
May 1, 2018 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB650709NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance:NHTSA ID 10143564

NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance:

Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10143564 at NHTSA
Jan 1, 2016 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB650709Whistling Noise Coming from the Center Vent - A/C is Off . A very high pitched whistling or beeping noise is heard coming from the center vents. The flow of refrigerant through the expansion valve at certain temperature differe…NHTSA ID 10151023

Whistling Noise Coming from the Center Vent - A/C is Off . A very high pitched whistling or beeping noise is heard coming from the center vents. The flow of refrigerant through the expansion valve at certain temperature differentials.

Components: EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10151023 at NHTSA
May 1, 2015 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsB360215Valve Stem Replacement with Wheel Electronics. INFORMATION The valve stems are single-use only, and must be replaced every time the wheel electronics are replaced. If you loosen the nut (1), you must replace the valve stem. Fai…NHTSA ID 10147136

Valve Stem Replacement with Wheel Electronics. INFORMATION The valve stems are single-use only, and must be replaced every time the wheel electronics are replaced. If you loosen the nut (1), you must replace the valve stem. Failure to replace the valve stem will lead to a pressure leak. The proper repair procedure can be found in REP 3611533. Not applicable. [ Copyright (c)2015 BMW of North America, Inc. ] Page 1 of 3 Page 1 of 1 https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/232...6/4/2015 https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/232...6/4/2015 Page 1 of 3 https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/232...6/4/2015

Components: TIRES:VALVE · WHEELS. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10147136 at NHTSA
Sep 1, 2014 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions010914"?SI B01 09 14 September 2014 WarrantiesWarranties This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 09 14 dated August 2014. Please read this Service Information bulletin in its entirety, the content has been completely upda…NHTSA ID 10148018

"?SI B01 09 14 September 2014 WarrantiesWarranties This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B01 09 14 dated August 2014. Please read this Service Information bulletin in its entirety, the content has been completely updated. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor (OC3) Mat: Limited Warranty Extension to 15 years Without Mileage Limitation. INFORMATION BMW of North America, LLC (""BMW NA"") is extending the limited warranty for the Supplemental Restraint System's (SRS) front passenger air bag seat occupancy sensor (OC3) mat on certain model BMW vehicles to: 15 years without mileage limitation as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date. This ""component-specific"" limited warranty extension applies to defects in materials and workmanship. This bulletin is notice of a ""limited warranty extension."" This is NOT a notice of a Recall or Service Action. No immediate repair is required unless the BMW vehicle is currently experiencing this problem. This extended limited warranty coverage does not apply to vehicles affected by the following Recall Campaign: Recall 13V-564: E90, E91 Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor MatRecall 13V-564: E60, E61,E65, E66 Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor MatSI B65 08 14Recall Campaign 13V-564: Replace Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor (E60, E61, E65, E66)Recall 13V-564: E65,E66 Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor Mat (E65, E66)Recall 13V-564: Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor Mat for Sport Seat (E60, E61, E65, E66)Recall 13V-564: E53 Repair Front Passenger Air Bag Seat Occupancy Sensor MatThe extended limited warranty coverage also does not apply to: ??Vehicles with other seat options, and ??E60 (M5) vehicles Note: Please refer to SI B65 75 06 for the limited warranty extension information that applies to previous models. Customer Notification Letter - VIN and Component-specific Warranty Extension Even tho

Components: AIR BAGS · EQUIPMENT · EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10148018 at NHTSA
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Records below contain the NHTSA bulk summary unless a document-reviewed explainer is linked. A service bulletin is not a safety recall or a promise of a free repair. Records may be revised or superseded; verify the current document with the manufacturer.

04 / Agency investigations

Official inquiries.

An investigation is an inquiry into a potential concern. Its presence does not establish a defect, and a closed case does not certify a car’s condition.

Opened Jun 28, 2010 ClosedSticky SteeringPE10020

ODI has evaluated the sticky steering condition, which included reviews of complaints and warranty claims, interviews and surveys of owners of complaint vehicles, road tests of complaint vehicles, and a review of BMW's engineering and test data.ODI found the sticky steering condition does not result in a significant steering effort, thus the impact on the driver's ability to control the vehicle does not appear to be significant.A safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists.The agency will monitor the issue and reserves the right to take future action if warranted by the circumstances.See the attached report for additional information.In addition, during this investigation, ODI became aware of allegations of failure or loss of electric power-assisted steering on the subject vehicles.As a result, ODI is separately reviewing this issue to determine whether additional agency action is needed.

Recorded closure: Jun 28, 2011

Find investigation PE10020
Opened Jan 4, 2008 ClosedBMW AIRBAG LIGHT ILLUMINATIONEA08001

BMW IS CONDUCTING A SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN ON APPROXIMATELY 200,000 MY04 THROUGH MY06 SUBJECT VEHICLES BUILT THROUGH 11/30/05 TO CORRECT THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG OCCUPANT DETECTION MAT. THE SPECIFIC VEHICLES INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AREMY04- 06/ 5-SERIES WITH STANDARD AND SPORT SEATS, MY04-06/ X3-SERIES AND MY06/ 3-SERIES WITH SPORT SEATS. IN ADDITION, BMW WILL EXTEND THE WARRANTY COVERAGE OF THE PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG OCCUPANT DETECTION MAT TO 10-YEAR/UNLIMITED MILEAGE ON APPROXIMATELY 120,000 REMAINING MY04-06 SUBJECT VEHICLES BUILT THROUGH 11/30/05. THE SPECIFIC VEHICLES INCLUDED IN THE EXTENDED WARRANTY ARE MY 06/ 6 SERIES, MY 06/ 3-SERIES WITH STANDARD SEATS, MY04-05/ Z4, MY04-06/ 7 SERIES, MY 06/ X5, AND MY04-06/ 5-SERIES WITH COMFORT SEATS.THE AVERAGE FREQUENCY OF FAILURES AMONG THE EXTENDED WARRANTY GROUPS WAS LESS THAN 1/7TH OF THE RECALL VEHICLE GROUPS.PLEASE SEE BMW'S 08V-384 RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR FURTHER DETAILSDEPENDING ON SEAT CONFIGURATION AND VEHICLE GEOMETRY, THE OCCUPANT DETECTION MAT CAN FATIGUE DURING USE DEPENDING ON THE MANNER AND FREQUENCY OF THE FRONT PASSENGER'S ENTRY AND EXIT.SPECIFICALLY, OVER TIME, MICRO-CRACKS COULD DEVELOP IN THE SIDE FLANKS OF THE MAT CAUSING A BROKEN CIRCUIT.A BROKENCIRCUIT CAN LEAD TO THE DEACTIVATION OF THE PASSENGER AIR BAG AND THE ILLUMINATION OF BOTH THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT AND THE PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT.

Recorded closure: Dec 31, 2008

Campaign reference in the source: 08V384000

Find investigation EA08001

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