Reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers, shown in full
Data refreshed
Our database holds 42 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2021 BMW X7. Each one is a report filed by an owner or driver and published by NHTSA without most of them being verified. A complaint is not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. Narratives are shown exactly as filed.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Showing 1–25 of 42 · page 1 of 2
ERROR MESSAGE ON SCREEN STATING RIGHT 3RD ROW SEAT NOT LATCHED. THE SEAT WORKS PROPERLY BUT IT POPS UP EVERY TIME YOU START THE CAR. THE DEALER SAID THIS IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE APPARENT RECALL FOR OTHER LIKE VEHICLES. SEE (NHTSA Recall 22V670000) for 2019–2022 models). THIS IS REALLY SAD.
Just over 50k miles and barely out of warranty, the pinion bearing in the front differential failed. This is a known issue with many people on BMW forums reporting the same failure in 8 cylinder X7's. Some failures occurred in vehicles with less than 30k miles, but most seem to happen in the 40-50k mile range. This is a $10k repair and BMW does not offer an upgraded replacement part, they just replace it with the same part so the issue will reoccur. BMW should be made to replace the failing part with an upgraded part or do the repairs under warranty.
The IP cluster (gauges that display speedometer, fuel levels and other ADAS features) was blanking intermittently, BMW service center suggested software update as they believed it to be a software bug. Later, when the software update did not work, they suggested we replace the battery even though we tested it months ago and it was fine. After the battery replacement when the IP cluster was still inoperable, BMW recommended i pay another $3k for the IP replacement. I am seeing Hyundai have a similar issue but they have shared a proper recall and repair notice to consumers at NO COST. Many BMW X7 owners have faced a similar issue to mine. I am hoping to gather the complaints and pursue a national recall bulletin as the IP cluster blanking out mid drive can lead to a catastrophic scenario
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X7. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start after several attempts, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who was initially unable to determine the cause of the issue. The contact reached out to a BMW-certified technician who inspected the vehicle and confirmed a starter failure. The manufacturer was notified of the issue and denied a request for Goodwill assistance. The contact to paid for the repair out of pocket. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,400.
On [XXX], while traveling at highway speeds on a public roadway, the vehicle suffered a sudden, violent, and catastrophic mechanical explosion in the front drivetrain. Without any prior warning lights, dashboard messages, or operational symptoms, the front differential and driveshaft structurally shattered. The physical violence of the drivetrain components exploding at high speed sent metallic shrapnel directly into the engine compartment. This flying shrapnel pierced the structural engine block, completely destroying the engine and causing immediate, total power loss while surrounded by highway traffic. This sudden loss of propulsion and mechanical locking created an extreme, life-threatening hazard to myself and surrounding motorists. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership (Motorwerks BMW, Bloomington, MN). The service department confirmed the mechanical sequence: the front differential structurally failed first, and its catastrophic disintegration directly caused the secondary destruction of the engine block. The formal repair estimate is $66,124.76. BMW of North America Executive Care has formally reviewed the case and issued a written admission of fault regarding the drivetrain components, offering to cover the differential and driveshaft repairs. However, they are refusing to remedy the catastrophic engine destruction caused directly by their failed safety component. This component failure represents a severe, systemic structural safety risk that warrants an immediate federal safety investigation into 2019–2022 BMW X7/X5 front differential assemblies before an explosion results in a fatal highway collision. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
My vehicle only have 60k miles my starter is acting up. I’m getting a repeat start message at some start ups. 2017-2020 has a starter recall. I feel like this may be the same recall but not recognized yet
I am writing to report a critical safety concern regarding BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine, specifically including my 2021 BMW X7. While my vehicle has not yet experienced a failure, I am filing this report due to the severe safety hazard and widespread nature of the variable-displacement engine oil pump defect. This pump contains an internal thermoplastic adjusting component that is prone to sudden fracture, resulting in an erratic or complete loss of engine oil pressure. According to widespread field reports, when this component fails—often during cold starts in low ambient temperatures—drivers receive little to no actionable warning before engine damage or complete vehicle disablement occurs. This sudden loss of lubrication can cause the vehicle to stall in active traffic or leave occupants stranded in freezing conditions, creating a serious and potentially life-threatening safety risk. Out of deep concern for my family's safety, I recently inquired with my local BMW dealership about preemptively replacing this pump and was quoted a staggering $21,000. It is unacceptable to place this massive financial and safety burden on consumers, especially since BMW has actively removed the plastic part number from dealer networks, making it impossible for owners to verify whether their vehicle contains the defective plastic component or the updated metal design. Given the sudden nature of these failures and the extreme safety risks involved, I strongly urge the NHTSA to open an investigation into this defect and compel BMW to issue a formal recall. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent safety matter.
Dear NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline Team, I am writing to formally report a serious safety concern regarding my 2021 BMW X7. My vehicle is exhibiting a dangerous condition where it fails to start on the initial attempt, displays a "Repeat Start Attempt" warning message on the dashboard, and then heavily strains to turn over on the second attempt.While I am aware that BMW issued a safety recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-576) regarding starter motor overheating and engine fire risks for certain 2019–2021 models, I believe the current remediation or scope may not fully protect consumers from the immediate hazards of this failure.When the vehicle demands a second start attempt, it forces a high electrical draw that risks severely overheating the starter mechanism. This creates an immediate risk of electrical thermal overload and potential engine compartment fires while trying to get the vehicle moving.Below are the specific details of my vehicle and the safety incident:Vehicle Make and Model: 2021 BMW X7 Vehicle Identification Number: [XXX] Current Mileage: 57226 Incident Description: The vehicle consistently fails its initial ignition sequence. It prompts a "Repeat Start Attempt" notification, forcing a high-stress second startup sequence that poses an immediate electrical fire hazard.I request that the NHTSA review this ongoing issue, ensure that BMW's remedy effectively eliminates the fire risk during these secondary start cycles, and hold the manufacturer accountable for immediate component replacement.Thank you for your prompt attention to this safety matter. I look forward to your investigation. Sincerely, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Front Differential Fail at 42K Miles.
A failed front differential on my 2021 BMW X7 M50i, which currently has approximately 59,000 miles. BMW of Wesley Chapel has diagnosed the front differential as failed and provided an estimated repair cost of approximately $11,500. The Service Manager Stevon Budhu has also submitted a goodwill request on our behalf to BMW I have two young daughters whom I transport daily, and safety is a key reason we selected the BMW X7 as our family vehicle. This type of drivetrain failure at this mileage is unexpected for a premium BMW SUV and is understandably concerning.
The left-side 3rd-row seat on my 2021 BMW X7 is stuck upright and won't fold down to open up cargo space. You can hear the motor trying to work, but the physical latch inside the seat gets completely stuck and won't release. The seat mechanism is available for inspection. This is a major safety hazard because the seat latch is failing. If the seat cannot lock or unlock properly, the structural integrity is compromised. In a crash or under hard braking, the seat back could collapse forward and injure passengers in the back rows. The problem started out as an intermittent glitch a few months ago where it would eventually work after a few tries, but now it is permanently stuck. There were never any warning lights or messages on the dashboard. I called my local BMW dealership about this known, well-documented manufacturing issue, but they refused to offer any warranty coverage or assistance since the standard 4-year factory warranty just expired. It has not been inspected by police or insurance.
While driving my 2021 BMW X7 at approximately 32,000 miles, the vehicle suddenly displayed a drivetrain malfunction warning along with a low engine oil pressure warning. At the same time, I noticed excessive heat and a strong burning smell coming from the vehicle. I also heard abnormal mechanical noises coming from the engine, which sounded like knocking or grinding. The engine failure occurred unexpectedly at relatively low mileage and required extensive repairs, with estimated costs of approximately $15,000. A sudden loss of oil pressure and abnormal engine noises while driving creates a serious safety risk because it can lead to engine damage, loss of power, or the vehicle becoming disabled in traffic without warning. Based on the diagnosis and information from the repair facility, the failure may be related to an internal engine or oil pump issue affecting lubrication. I am reporting this incident because similar failures have been reported by other BMW owners, and I believe this condition warrants investigation as a potential safety-related defect.
very known issue of catastrophic failure to the oil pump, made in Italy with plastic component, used in my vehicle. The part has been updated to metal components on bmw side without any knowledge to the customers with same part number. Faulty xdrive tranfer case, wheel jerks on low speed turning. Currently in class action lawsuit.
Front differential complete fail. 56k miles. Replaced with new part, not an improved one but the same as factory at BMW dealership. My vehicle is 2021 x7 m50i. Reading other forums this is common if not standard on same models of this year. Very upset to have had to come out of pocket $9k to replace. Just outside of warranty. Was told will likely happen again in 50k miles. I wanted to keep this car like I have my other cars well into 170k miles. Looking to sell. Don’t understand how BMW doesn’t recall this.
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X7. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The message "Pull Over and Turn Off Your Car - You Have Lost All the Water In the Radiator" was displayed. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was able to restart, but was towed to Hawkeye Motorsports LLC, where it was diagnosed that the water pump pulley had shattered. The mechanic replaced the coolant pump, coolant lines, and belts. Additionally, the coolant lines were tested. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed that reimbursement assistance could only be provided if the VIN was included in a related recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.
Front differential needing completely replaced at 44,000 miles. Might need a transfer case replacement as well. Original quote of $8,300 and if the transfer case is needing replaced, another $8,000-$10,000 job. I have done research online that a lot of other people with X7's are having this issue. Autobahn BMW in Fort Worth, Texas confirmed the issue and that it needs complete replacement done. There were no warnings, no lights on the dash, and nothing that would indicate there was an issue until leaking starting and I could smell the oil burning.
Front Differential it is available for inspection
Wheel/Tire makes shudders during a turn at low acceleration or going up a hill leading to uncontrolled acceleration. I have brought the car in for inspection and service and the issue could not be replicated by the techs, however the problem occurs with daily driving. An online search shows that this is a very common problem with the transfer case.
Infotainment stopped working, no backup cam no safety features working
The transfer case in my BMW X7 began making grinding, jerking, shuttering around 65,000 miles. The dealer failed to diagnose the issue at that time when I brought it in at 71,000. (approximately $9,000–$10,000). Transfer cases "should be" designed to last well over 150,000miles. Maybe my car was a lemon but it seems to be a common theme/legal suite for BMW X7 owner.s This issue connitued causes sudden loss of power delivery, shuddering, and unpredictable handling—especially during acceleration or turning—which can increase the risk of an accident. Many BMW X7 owners have reported similar premature transfer case failures online, suggesting a widespread defect that may affect vehicle safety. BMW should investigate these failures and take accountability for transfer case defects that appear to occur prematurely and often shortly after warranty expiration. Consumer forums (like Bimmerpost and CarComplaints.com) show multiple reports of X7 transfer cases failing between 50K–90K miles.
two fan blades came off and punctured my radiator. I replaced the radiator/fan for 4300 and when I picked it up, it said the power was limited and to get it to a BMW dealership right away and when I took it to BMW, they told me the engine was shot and cylinder four was completely destroyed. Then both through BMW corporate and the dealership that I bought the car at new in 2022 I was told there was nothing that they would do at all. In fact I was told it would cost $46,500 plus tax to replace the engine. The car is only worth 40 and I owe 29 I have been without a car for many months and I don’t know what to do with this card is essentially become a paperweight. I bought it brand new at arrowhead BMW for almost $115,000 with 3000 miles on it. Someone had purchased it new and brought it back and I’m not sure why exactly. It just doesn’t feel right that I should only be able to drive a car for 65,000 miles until it’s completely valueless furthermore, my attorney informed me that there was a class action lawsuit around my engine that was closed and it just doesn’t seem right that they would continue to make this engine. I’m hoping there’s some sort of resolved because it’s a very costly situation for me and my family
Second row seats went down and locked, would not move. If my child had been in the seat, she would’ve been suffocated.
The vehicle experiences a recurring drivetrain shuddering or slipping sensation at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop or while cornering. The issue originates from the transfer case, which has been identified as the malfunctioning component. The transfer case was previously serviced according to the manufacturer's official technical bulletin, but the problem returned after the prescribed post-repair evaluation period. The condition compromises vehicle stability and creates a potential safety risk, particularly when merging into traffic, turning at intersections, or navigating tight spaces — where unexpected hesitation or loss of traction can lead to a collision. The issue has been confirmed by authorized dealership technicians, and acknowledged by service personnel as a commonly recurring defect in this vehicle model. The manufacturer has not issued a recall but has documented the issue in an official service bulletin. The component is still installed in the vehicle and available for inspection upon request. There were no dashboard warning lights or fault codes present prior to or during the symptoms. The only observable indication is the physical sensation of shuddering/slipping, which persists intermittently and without system alerts
After purchasing this vehicle I took the car in for PA state inspection at Joel Confer BMW in State College, PA to find out that he passenger side front headlight needs to be replaced. The reason for the replacement is because the LED running light has burnt out. Not only has the daytime running light burnt out but it was has burned out the module for the light. Because the module is also burned the entire headlight needs to be replaced at a cost of $8000. BMW will not cover this repair. My car is has approx 28k miles on it. My car is out of warranty as of October of 2024, but well within the mileage warranty. This is a safety hazard as the headlight needs to fully operable to pass PA state inspection. There were not any indicators of the problem before taking the vehicle in for state inspection.
Car had an error message "drivetrain malfunction" car was drivable. Car has 87000 purchased in 2021. Car needs a new engine. Other Car owners having similar issues with the drivetrain malfunction
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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