Owner-reported complaints naming the powertrain system, filed with NHTSA
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Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2021 BMW X5 submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 25 reports on file name it.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Shown in the owner’s own words, exactly as filed
The front driveshaft universal joint failed causing the drive shaft to bust a hole in the engine and crack the transmission. There was no knocking noise prior to failure. It suddenly failed, disengaged and caused damage. I was told by service manager the u-bolt must have been defective to have failed without warning.
I am reporting a front differential/front drive axle failure and a separate steering wheel/steering column adjustment issue. The vehicle was brought to an independent BMW/German repair shop for a routine oil change/inspection. The shop advised me that the front differential/front drive axle assembly had failed or was severely damaged and needed repair/replacement. The vehicle/component is currently at the shop and should be available for inspection upon request. I am concerned this could put my safety and others at risk because the front differential is part of the AWD drivetrain. If it fails further while driving, it could affect drivability, traction, or vehicle control, especially at speed or in poor road conditions. The issue has been confirmed by an independent service center. To my knowledge, it has not yet been inspected by BMW, police, insurance, or government reps. A third-party warranty inspector may inspect it before repair. The exact cause is UNKNOWN. I was told BMW appears aware of this issue because the replacement part has a newer/superseded part number. This suggests BMW may have revised or updated the original part. I do not know if BMW has formally acknowledged a defect, but I am concerned this may be a broader issue given the low mileage. Separately, the power-adjustable steering wheel/steering column sometimes makes a grinding/vibrating noise when I start the vehicle and the wheel automatically moves out/down into the driving position. There were no warning lamps or dashboard messages. The exact date it first appeared is UNKNOWN, but it has occurred more than once. I previously raised this type of issue with a BMW dealer and was told it was a known issue. The exact cause is UNKNOWN. I am concerned it could involve the steering column adjustment mechanism or related components. I am reporting both issues because the vehicle is low mileage and I am concerned they may be safety-related defects rather than isolated maintenance items.
The vehicle’s rear differential has developed significant internal "play" (excessive clearance between gears). This defect manifests as abnormal vibration and inconsistent power delivery to the wheels. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized BMW Technician at Passport BMW . Although I reported hitting a curb (low-speed impact), the official diagnostic report from the BMW Technician explicitly stated that the curb impact did not cause the differential failure. The technician identified the issue as a failure of the internal differential components, which is consistent with numerous reports of drivetrain defects in the B MW X5. Despite the vehicle being well under the 50,000-mile warranty threshold and the technician’s own finding that external damage was not the cause, BMW is currently refusing to honor the warranty repair for this critical mechanical component. I purchased the vehicle in March 2025 Certified Pre owned.
2021 BMW X5 xDrive45e PHEV, built October 2020 by BMW AG (Germany). In-service Oct 28, 2021. Vehicle intermittently shows "Drivetrain Malfunction — you can continue driving" warning. DME scan reveals 5 fault codes, all for the conventional 12V pinion starter: 21A50A — Pinion starter: timeout occurred several times in succession 21A511 — Pinion starter: timeout 21611A — Pinion starter: starting torque could not be built up; high counter torque and/or undervoltage 216119 — Pinion starter: line break in starter control (KL50/KL30) 216115 — Pinion starter: attempt to start with blocked starter detected 21A50A and 216115 are protected memory codes that cannot be cleared by standard OBD-II tools. The main 12V AGM battery was replaced and registered; codes continue to recur. This signature matches the B58 pinion starter defect addressed in NHTSA Recall 24V-576 (Aug 2024) and 25V644 (Nov 2025, physical starter replacement). The vehicle's German manufacture date falls inside the production windows of KBA recalls 15630R, 15632R, and 15633R — all covering X5 G05 for short-circuit and fire risk from starter relay corrosion or inadequate mounting. BMW AG has issued an ADAC advisory not to leave affected vehicles running unattended after starting. BMW NA Customer Relations was contacted. Initial verbal response: U.S. recalls don't apply because the xDrive45e PHEV uses a different starter than non-hybrid B58 vehicles. However, codes 216115 and 216119 only exist on vehicles equipped with a conventional pinion starter — confirming this vehicle has the same component. The subsequent written denial pivoted to warranty expiration without addressing the technical or recall-scope questions. Filing so the field record reflects this defect signature for future U.S. recall scope expansion analysis.
Front Differential - Repair/Replacement on 2021 BMW X5 M50i. Extreme safety issue. Ironically failed right after 50k warranty. Currently at 50742 miles. Brought vehicle in 6 different occasions in the last year and a half. One time for a similar issue (approx. 1 year ago) and instead of addressing the problem at the time they just replaced the transfer case, masking the root issue and pending complete failure of the system.
I am writing to formally file a complaint and request an expansion of recall coverage regarding a starter motor failure on my 2021 BMW X5, which occurred at approximately 38,000 miles. Recently, my vehicle experienced a sudden failure to start. After inspection, the issue was diagnosed as a starter malfunction. I am aware that BMW has issued a recall addressing starter-related defects for certain vehicles of the same model year and configuration. However, I was informed that my vehicle’s VIN is not included in the current recall list. Given the relatively low mileage, the nature of the failure, and the existence of an official BMW recall for the same defect, I believe this issue represents a manufacturing or design defect rather than normal wear and tear. A starter motor failure at 38,000 miles is both unexpected and unacceptable for a premium vehicle such as a BMW X5
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal grinding and clanking sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front differential was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 36,400.
The vehicle shakes at low speeds with a jolt and vibration when turning. When I pressed the accelerator from a standstill, the gas pedal broke off from its floor mounted bracket.
The front differential on my BMW failed at just 47,000 miles. There were no warning lights—only a faint grinding noise that gradually worsened. After inspection, the dealership confirmed the failure and quoted $9,000 for replacement. In speaking with other BMW owners, I’ve discovered this issue isn’t isolated. Many have experienced front differential failures around the 50,000-mile mark, suggesting a troubling pattern. This raises serious concerns about the reliability of this component and whether BMW is adequately addressing what appears to be a recurring problem.
Around September, 2025 several small puddles was under the vehicle. Made an appointment with BMW to have a 2021, X5 inspected. The BMW dealership technicians diagnosed the problem as a Water pump -Engine coolant. There was no previous warning messages notifying a problem with the vehicle cooling system. Vehicle total mileage was around 58,000 miles at the time of problem found.Cost of damage was over $2,000 to fix at dealership.
Steering the vehicle in a low gear causes the vehicle to tremble or shudder. The dealership identified the problem to be the transfer case fluid. In manufacturing, BMW put a fluid which did not meet the specifications of the vehicle. The transfer case fluid is documented in the manual of BMW X5 M50i (2021) to be something which does not require replacement in the lifetime of the vehicle. I raised this issue when the vehicle was under warranty, but the dealership ignored the issue. After the warranty period was over (62,000 miles), the dealer recommended that I replace the fluid to fix the shudder issue. It is a very well known issue, and there is a service bulletin issued to the dealerships to deal with this particular case (SIB 27 02 20). After the fluid replacement, the issue went away. This issue is widely known by the dealership, and it is a safety issue. I had to pay for the fluid replacement, and I believe BMW should have recalled this issue to replace the fluid for ALL X5s manufactured in 2020 and 2021. This is a safety issue.
Component Failed: Water pump (engine cooling system) - Part has been superseded by BMW with upgraded version, indicating manufacturer awareness of defect. Failed component retained and available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: Complete water pump failure at 56,611 miles created immediate risk of catastrophic engine overheating and potential engine seizure while driving. BMW-certified mechanic warned that driving vehicle even short distances could result in total engine failure, creating risk of: Sudden loss of power on highways/intersections Engine fire from overheating Being stranded in dangerous locations/conditions Complete loss of steering assist if engine stops Confirmation: BMW-certified independent mechanic (formerly employed by BMW) confirmed water pump failure and identified it as "common B58 engine issue." BMW dealer (Silver Spring) immediately quoted exact repair cost of $2,300, indicating familiarity with this failure pattern. Mechanic documented that BMW has superseded the original part with an upgraded design, suggesting manufacturer acknowledgment of defect. Inspection Status: Failed part preserved by mechanic with full documentation including BMW's superseded part number from their system. Vehicle not inspected by BMW due to dealer network failure - three dealers failed to respond, one took 5+ hours to return call, none could provide service in reasonable timeframe. Warning Signs: No prior warning symptoms. Failure was sudden and catastrophic. Temperature gauge spiked without warning during normal driving conditions. No previous cooling system issues or warning lights. Regular maintenance performed per BMW specifications. Additional Pattern Evidence: Research reveals extensive documentation of identical B58 engine water pump failures between 40,000-60,000 miles across multiple BMW models (X5, X3, 3-series, 5-series) on owner forums. BMW's decision to supersede the part without issuing a recall suggests they are aware of the defect.
A drivetrain malfunction warning, chassis warning, auto level suspension was locked, and check engine light was on while driving on the freeway. We made it home safely and parked the BMW X5 45e inside the garage. I plugged in my charger and was not able to charge. Went to start on electric mode/hybrid mode but was not able to turn on. Then I switched to sport mode via gas and engine started but stuttered, and was unable to switch gears from parking to reverse or to forward. Engine continued to shut studded and then engine and electrical completely shut down. I will contact BMW Riverside on Monday.
Started car and 2 error messages popped up, one for powertrain warning and one for battery charging system. contacted dealer and was informed as long as vehicle drives it is ok to bring it in however on the way to the dealer car died and would not start. Dealer mentioned they charged the battery and reset system however could not find any other faults with the car. approximately 1 month has gone by and the exact same warning appeared. Had vehicle towed to a different dealer and they said they will once again be resetting the system to see if that fixes the issue. Car is still under warranty but near expiration
Drivetrain - A drivetrain malfunction message came-up a few weeks back on the high-way indicating “It is safe to drive but with reduced power” and the vehicle suddenly slowed down on the highway with less power to drive putting us in unsafe condition. The vehicle has less than 25,000 miles. The incident was reported to a BMW dealer for reporting to BMW and with a request for investigation and fixing prior to warranty expiration. Unknown - After a long drive (some times after a short drive) when the vehicle (PHEV) is parked and plugged-in, a loud noise can be heard. The noise goes away once its unplugged and locked. The incident was reported to a BMW dealer for reporting to BMW and with a request for investigation and fixing prior to warranty expiration.
The contact owned a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while sitting in the vehicle and with the vehicle running, it suddenly accelerated on its own. As a result, the vehicle jolted into traffic and collided first with a bicyclist before continuing on to collide with the rear of another vehicle. The bicyclist sustained minor injuries. A pedestrian later reported that they were also struck by the vehicle, but the contact stated that she was skeptical of the validity of their claim. The air bags did deploy. A police report was filed, and injuries were reported. The driver and passenger were both treated on scene by EMS and later evaluated at an area hospital for injuries resulting from air bag deployment. The bicyclist and a pedestrian were both treated at an area hospital for unknown injuries. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and declared a total loss. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 36,000.
While driving on highway/turnpike with cruise control on at 70 mph, drivetrain malfunction warning appeared and lost power. After turning off cruise control and playing around with buttons, could only get car to go about 35-40 mph, top speed with peddle to the floor. Very scary situation in traffic on busy highway. This happened twice about a month apart. First time, had to drive about 10+ miles in right lane with blinkers on to get to an exit. It was late at night and I didn't want to stop on my own. Once turned the car off and on a couple of time seemed to clear the error and I was able to drive city roads at minimal speed limit. Next day car was back to normal. Second time, drove about 2 miles to the exit with the blinkers on. This time when I restarted the car there was still not a lot of power. Drove for a bit but wasn't able to make it to speed limit of 45 mph. Made it home and turned car off again, next day it was okay. After restarting car a couple of times problem seems to go away. Took it to the dealer and all they did was "reset the system" which does not seem like anything is fixed. Will wait and see.
Car was parked in fairly level spot with engine off, gear selector in park position, , key fob not near vehicle. Approx 30 minutes later, I returned to find vehicle approx 30 feet behind parking spot, having apparently drifted into another car in parking lot. No idea how car moved. I believe some electronic release of parking selector allowed car to roll.
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that as her husband was stopped at a stop light, the vehicle began to rev after he had taken his foot off the brake pedal without warning. Once her husband placed his foot back on the brake pedal, the revving stopped, and her husband was able to resume normal driving. On a separate occasion, her husband was waiting for a vehicle to move out of a parking spot; the same failure occurred as her husband took his foot off the brake pedal. Her husband was forced to slam on the brakes as the engine continued to rev and the vehicle lurched forward. The contact who was seated in the passenger’s seat, shut off the vehicle to avoid hitting the vehicle in front. Her husband restarted the vehicle and drove it home; he then had the vehicle towed to the dealer the next day. The dealer inspected the vehicle but could not duplicate the failure. The service tech was not satisfied with the results and decided to call the manufacturer to approve more testing of the vehicle. The vehicle had yet to be repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000. The VIN was not available.
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated while his wife was reversing the vehicle into the main road when shifting gears into drive, the vehicle began to reverse independently while still depressing on the brake pedal. The contact stated the vehicle ran into two different trees and slashed the front driver's side tire. The contact stated the Park Distance Control (PDC) malfunction warning light was illuminated. No air bags were deployed. The driver did not have any injuries or seek medical attention. A police report was not filed. The contact was able to park the vehicle back into his residence. The contact towed the vehicle to a local dealer, who called the manufacturer. The manufacturer sent their engineers to diagnose the failure. The manufacturer called the contact and was informed it was a human error. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.
After stopping for a red light for a right turn vehicle does not accelerate in hybrid mode when commanded to do so. No alarms are present. Car is shown to be in Drive. After numerous attempts to switch transmission gears and restart the engine, switched to gas (sport) mode and was able to accelerate the car. Occurred on at least 3 occasions. A dangerous event because drivers behind the car could accelerate thus causing an accident. The incident could also cause driver rage from drivers behind my car attempting to make the left turn.
UNKNOWN CAR STARTED SHAKING ON THE HIGHWAY AND SUDDENLY LOST POWER. SHOWN ERROR 'POWER TRAIN MAILFUNCTION'
Vehicle was being driven and showed power supply issue and then flashed a drive train warning and lost propulsion power. The vehicle started hopping / jerking. The A/C stopped working and the center console became intensely hot to the touch; so much so it was uncomfortable to keep you hand on the center console. The vehicle is currently at the dealership stating they believe a software update was needed. The issues mirror those that occurred when the car failed as a result of a previous EV battery recall. Issue concerns me as the intense heat created makes me concern about of potential electrical fire or failure when driving at higher speeds. Occurred on July 10, 2021.
DROVE AT THE SPEED OF 75 MPH IN THE HIGHWAY ALL IN A SUDDEN THE CAR LOST POWER UNTIL ITS SPEED DROPPED TO 62 MPH. IT IS A HYBRID. DASH BOARD SHOWED SOME RESERVED BATTERY POWER AND HALF TANK OF GASOLINE. IT IS A BIG SAFETY ISSUE. NEED TO FIND THE CAUSE OF IT.
CAR HAD 2 ALERTS 2.5 HRS INTO JOURNEY, HAVING GONE I-675 TO 16: 1. DRIVETRAIN MALFUNCTION 2. POWER SUPPLY. I HAD STOPPED FOR FOOD. I GOT BACK IN, TURNED ON THE ENGINE, AND THESE ALERTS CAME ON IMMEDIATELY. I CALLED BMW, THEY SAID CAR SHOULD NOT BE DRIVEN. HAD IT TOWED TO HILTON HEAD BMW. THEY'VE HAD IT TWO DAYS AND SAY THIS IS RELATED TO THE RECALLED BATTERY AND THEY HAVE NO IDEA AS OF TODAY HOW TO FIX IT. THEY SAID THIS PROBLEM IS HAPPENING ALL OVER. I ALSO GOT A THIRD MESSAGE ABOUT DRIVING ASSISTANCE SUPPORT LAST WEEK THAT I WAS TOLD TO IGNORE.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Categories with enough reports to have a page of their own
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