RoadVitals

2020 BMW X7 Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
52
Latest Jul 8, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
12
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
5

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2020 BMW X7, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Engine1623.9%
  • Electrical1116.4%
  • Interior & seats57.5%
  • Steering46.0%
  • Suspension46.0%
  • Fuel system34.5%
  • Body & structure34.5%
  • Driver assistance34.5%
  • Brakes23.0%
  • Seat belts11.5%
  • Airbags11.5%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

16
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Low oil sensor continues to light up and says i am low on oil. Found out that my oil pump was the main cause of the issue. At this time I have to have the oil pump replaced. It was also determined there have been numerous reports regarding oil pump failure in the 2020 BMW x7 due to an internal plastic part.

NHTSA ID 11745685 · filed Jun 22, 2026

While driving the vehicle sensor lights began to come on. I assumed it was a dirty outside sensor. Not long after the ABS system lit up and my car said traction even though I was just pulling into my driveway. I quickly turned around and drove to my mechanic. Showed him all the lights and he connected the computer to read the error codes. Found out that my oil pump was the main cause of the issue. Double checked to make sure it wasn't a battery failure causing incorrect error codes and the battery was in good condition. At this time I have to have the oil pump replaced. It was also determined there have been numerous reports regarding oil pump failure in the 2020 BMW x7 due to an internal plastic part.

NHTSA ID 11742175 · filed Jun 4, 2026
All 16 reports naming engine

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

14
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My X7’s front differential went bad at 50k miles. I paid over 100k for a vehicle of this caliber to have something like this fail and have to pay 8k with no help from BMWNA. I’ve been a loyal customer with bmw having owned over 5 bmw vehicles in the past. And for me to get treated like this is unacceptable. I hope we can have a law suit against bmw for this.

NHTSA ID 11744077 · filed Jun 14, 2026

The transfer case on my 2020 BMW X7 failed and had to be replaced. Turning the vehicle became unstable as the vehicle shuttered badly. BMW confirmed the shuttering and first changed the transfer case fluid. However, it only slightly helped at first but the shuttering came fully back shortly thereafter. The vehicle was inspected by BMW twice. I don’t remember any warning lights on the dash. The shuttering first occurred in 2024.

NHTSA ID 11721850 · filed Mar 3, 2026
All 14 reports naming powertrain (other)

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

11
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

We came from [XXX] to [XXX] at night. It was rainy in [XXX]. We parked the vehicle in the front of the garage door of the house and went to sleep. Around 8:00-9:00AM two police cars from [XXX] PD came to our house. The officer said that the vehicle calls to BMW or 911 as an emergency and they forwarder that call to FPD. The officers checked the vehicle and they figured that the vehicle did the emergency call when was parked. Now, the emergency call system is not working, because of the bad factory sealant in the top of the roof and the water leaks exactly to the Telecomunication module (TCM). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11749192 · filed Jul 8, 2026

NHTSA COMPLAINT (VERY IMPORTANT – SAFETY FOCUSED) Subject: Safety Complaint – BMW X7 Electrical Defect and Fire Risk (VIN: [XXX] ) To the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am submitting a formal safety complaint regarding a 2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i affected by Recall No. 24V-576 (Engine Starter Defect). My vehicle has experienced: •Sudden battery failure •Electrical system malfunction •Starter-related issues consistent with recall description BMW’s recall states that the defect can cause: •Electrical overload •Starter overheating •Increased risk of engine compartment fire This is not a theoretical issue—I have already experienced a complete system failure requiring towing and major repair, placing my family and me at risk. Serious Concerns •The defect appears systemic and dangerous •The remedy (software update) does not appear sufficient •The failure occurred without adequate warning Request for Investigation I urge NHTSA to: 1.Investigate the effectiveness of BMW’s recall remedy 2.Determine whether additional defects exist in the electrical system 3.Ensure BMW provides a permanent and safe solution This issue poses a serious public safety risk, and stronger regulatory action may be necessary. Sincerely, DLAA REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT, LLC, [XXX] and [XXX] ), regarding the defective BMW, YEAR 2020, MODEL: X7 xDrive40i | COLOR: OC27 ARCTIC GREY METALLIC VIN: [XXX] | CELL: [XXX] | FAX: [XXX] [XXX] | [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11732890 · filed Apr 21, 2026
All 11 reports naming electrical

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

• Third-row seat in my 2020 BMW X7 failed during normal operation and trapped my [XXX] daughter between the seatbacks. • She sustained injuries to her legs (documented in photos). I injured my arm while trying to free her. • Approximately 10 people witnessed the incident. • Seat would not move or release electronically or manually—no functional emergency release. • Multiple BMW system warnings occurred before the incident, including:  – “Third row seat risk of injury”  – “Right/left rear seat unlocked”  – “Right/left rear seat back unlocked” • BMW’s inspection found the passenger-side third-row seat motor housing broken. • There was no misuse and the failure occurred during normal operation • BMW refuses to repair the defect under warranty and attempted to return the vehicle unrepaired. • BMW suggested an “outside influence,” but evidence does not support this. • This defect creates a serious entrapment and injury hazard with no reliable manual release. • Requesting NHTSA investigation into BMW X7 third-row seat motors, locking mechanisms, and lack of emergency release due to risk of occupant injury or inability to evacuate a trapped passenger. There is an open and unresolved case with the manufacturer. Please help us and others that may be in danger. We still don’t have our vehicle back after 6 weeks and they state they will not fix it and return it to us broken, unsafe, and not usable. Here is the contact at BMW Gabrielle Dorcean Executive Customer Care, Customer Relations and Services BMW of North America, LLC Phone: [XXX] [XXX] Email: [email protected] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11703716 · filed Dec 8, 2025

I am filing this complaint because the third-row passenger seat in my 2020 BMW X7 has a serious defect that poses an immediate safety risk to children and passengers. The third-row seat malfunctioned while my child was exiting the vehicle. The powered seat began moving unexpectedly and trapped my child’s leg, and we had extreme difficulty getting the seat to release. This is an extremely dangerous failure for any powered seat, especially one that is frequently used by children. This is not normal wear and tear — this is a mechanical and electrical failure of a safety-critical seat system. BMW Fresno has had the vehicle for more than six weeks and cannot fix the problem. BMW North America reviewed the case but denied responsibility and closed it, even though the defect affects a powered safety-critical seat. We still have no repair, no explanation, and no assurance that the seat is safe. I am filing this because the powered seat poses a clear risk of injury, and BMW has not resolved or acknowledged the safety defect. I request that NHTSA investigate the 2020 BMW X7 third-row seat system for potential entrapment hazards. Actions Taken •BMW Fresno inspected the vehicle and kept it for 6+ weeks. •BMW NA conducted a review but has refused to cover cost of repair or acknowledge a defect. •I am seeking NHTSA’s involvement because this is a clear safety problem that BMW has not corrected.

NHTSA ID 11703170 · filed Dec 5, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Hello , I would like to report a failed front differential on my vehicle. This issue was diagnosed by an independent BMW shop and is currently being repaired. Mine made it to 69k miles but many others have had theirs failed before 50k miles. My main goal is to bring light to this issue since it seems to be a design flaw. There's also numerous reports for failed transfer cases since they aren't normally serviced by BMW dealers. I've attached both repair invoices.

NHTSA ID 11702895 · filed Dec 4, 2025

I was driving and as I parked on my driveway a message popped up on my dash board saying " " Increased Steering efforts" then I wasn't able to move the steering wheel at all, it feel like it got locked.

NHTSA ID 11677519 · filed Jul 31, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Suspension

Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The front thrust arm bushing was previously replaced on December 19, 2023, at 34,750 miles (after three years of ownership). It has now failed again at 57,203 miles, lasting only about 22,500 miles. This repeat failure within a relatively short timeframe and mileage interval suggests an underlying issue or defective part. The dealer wants me to replace both Front Thrust Arm bushings again.

NHTSA ID 11744300 · filed Jun 15, 2026

Hello , I would like to report a failed front differential on my vehicle. This issue was diagnosed by an independent BMW shop and is currently being repaired. Mine made it to 69k miles but many others have had theirs failed before 50k miles. My main goal is to bring light to this issue since it seems to be a design flaw. There's also numerous reports for failed transfer cases since they aren't normally serviced by BMW dealers. I've attached both repair invoices.

NHTSA ID 11702895 · filed Dec 4, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2020 BMW X7. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the fuel pump module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

NHTSA ID 11680649 · filed Aug 14, 2025

Engine shut off after a brief warning message on the dash while highway driving. I don't remember the exact words but it was a "drivetrain" problem. After the the message came on the car sputtered 2 or 3 times and then the engine shut down without warning. The car would not re-start. The car was stuck in the middle of the highway dead in it's track, in real danger of being rear ended by oncoming traffic driving at highway speeds. The car was towed to a nearby dealership that said the fuel pump failed. The odometer on the car was at 48,000, well below the typical mileage associated with fuel pump failure.

NHTSA ID 11535937 · filed Aug 1, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I have noticed that the engine light on my BMW X7 keeps turning on after long rides but then disappears after some time. Upon inspection, I was informed that the issue is related to the active grille shutter, which is located in the front part of the body. While researching to see if others have experienced the same issue, I discovered that many BMW X5 and X7 owners have reported similar problems. It appears to be a common issue with these models. I believe BMW should consider issuing a recall for this problem since it seems to affect a significant number of vehicles in this range.

NHTSA ID 11629930 · filed Dec 10, 2024

DRIVING NEW BMW X7 (LESS THAN 1000 TOTAL MILES) ON MARYLAND INTERSTATE & PANORAMIC SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY CRACKED AND PIECES FELL INTO THE CAR. NO INDICATION OF SOMETHING FALLING ONTO THE ROOF - SUNNY, CLEAR DAY, VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND NOT UNDERNEATH A BRIDGE OR ANY OTHER STRUCTURE. *TR

NHTSA ID 11328054 · filed Jun 9, 2020

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Without warning the vehicle came to an abrupt stop while going about 25 mph. I got out and checked and noticed a liquid dripping from underneath the front area of the vehicle. Later determined it was the front transfer case. I really would hate to think what could have happened at higher speeds. Again, no warning at all.

NHTSA ID 11653163 · filed Apr 7, 2025

Cross traffic alert system does not work. When backing out of drive ways or parking spots there are no audible warnings or automatic braking. I've almost hit people walking behind my car while backing out of a parking space. Additionally, myself and others have complained about this on automobile forums. You can read one of many threads about this issue here. https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1920194. BMW just keeps stating the Cross Traffic Alert system is working as designed. Anyone who even considers relying on this safety feature will surely get into an accident that could cause serious injury or even death if they put any faith in this system.

NHTSA ID 11463359 · filed May 4, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

NHTSA COMPLAINT (VERY IMPORTANT – SAFETY FOCUSED) Subject: Safety Complaint – BMW X7 Electrical Defect and Fire Risk (VIN: [XXX] ) To the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am submitting a formal safety complaint regarding a 2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i affected by Recall No. 24V-576 (Engine Starter Defect). My vehicle has experienced: •Sudden battery failure •Electrical system malfunction •Starter-related issues consistent with recall description BMW’s recall states that the defect can cause: •Electrical overload •Starter overheating •Increased risk of engine compartment fire This is not a theoretical issue—I have already experienced a complete system failure requiring towing and major repair, placing my family and me at risk. Serious Concerns •The defect appears systemic and dangerous •The remedy (software update) does not appear sufficient •The failure occurred without adequate warning Request for Investigation I urge NHTSA to: 1.Investigate the effectiveness of BMW’s recall remedy 2.Determine whether additional defects exist in the electrical system 3.Ensure BMW provides a permanent and safe solution This issue poses a serious public safety risk, and stronger regulatory action may be necessary. Sincerely, DLAA REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT, LLC, [XXX] and [XXX] ), regarding the defective BMW, YEAR 2020, MODEL: X7 xDrive40i | COLOR: OC27 ARCTIC GREY METALLIC VIN: [XXX] | CELL: [XXX] | FAX: [XXX] [XXX] | [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11732890 · filed Apr 21, 2026

WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT 70MPH, MY STEERING AND BRAKE SYSTEM BECOME LESS RESPONSIVE. COULD NOT BRAKE FULLY. ELECTRONIC CONSOLE GAVE A NUMEROUS WARNING ALERTS, INCLUDING: CROSS TRAFFIC WARNING, FOUR WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM TEMPORARILY NOT AVAILABLE, RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION, AND POSSIBLE CHASSIS MALFUNCTION. I WAS TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF AN OFFRAMP, AND NEEDED ABOUT 100-200 FEET FOR THE CAR TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP, DESPITE PUMPING THE BRAKES.

NHTSA ID 11406356 · filed Apr 4, 2021

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

The failed component was observed when the Restraint warning icon appeared. There was no accident because the vehicle was taken to the BMW dealership for investigation. There is a warning not to drive because the Restraint system may not work properly. This is a safety issue with no work around to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. After reviewing multiple threads online, it appears that my situation is not uncommon with BMW. I took the vehicle to BMW service and they confirmed there is a fault in the harness that allows the airbag, seat belt and tensioner to not operate properly in the case of a collision. The service advisor admitted they have seen this before and knew how to repair it. The repair is too costly to investigate the harness where the defect in the wiring occurred, so the opt to replace the harness in a parallel manner, which still takes 7 hours and over $2200. The vehicle is only a few months out of warranty and has less than 18,000 total miles. They is no way that the harness experienced normal wear over the years to cause this with such low miles. They attempted to blame the Arizona heat as possible cause, but the vehicle was in Illinois to 2 of the 4 years and while in Arizona, it is parked in my air conditioned garage. Heat is not the cause. This situation is a design defect during assembly or a defective harness at manufacturer. BMW would not accept any responsibility for the issue, which is a safety liability to passengers.

NHTSA ID 11620951 · filed Oct 21, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

The failed component was observed when the Restraint warning icon appeared. There was no accident because the vehicle was taken to the BMW dealership for investigation. There is a warning not to drive because the Restraint system may not work properly. This is a safety issue with no work around to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. After reviewing multiple threads online, it appears that my situation is not uncommon with BMW. I took the vehicle to BMW service and they confirmed there is a fault in the harness that allows the airbag, seat belt and tensioner to not operate properly in the case of a collision. The service advisor admitted they have seen this before and knew how to repair it. The repair is too costly to investigate the harness where the defect in the wiring occurred, so the opt to replace the harness in a parallel manner, which still takes 7 hours and over $2200. The vehicle is only a few months out of warranty and has less than 18,000 total miles. They is no way that the harness experienced normal wear over the years to cause this with such low miles. They attempted to blame the Arizona heat as possible cause, but the vehicle was in Illinois to 2 of the 4 years and while in Arizona, it is parked in my air conditioned garage. Heat is not the cause. This situation is a design defect during assembly or a defective harness at manufacturer. BMW would not accept any responsibility for the issue, which is a safety liability to passengers.

NHTSA ID 11620951 · filed Oct 21, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

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.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .