Dec 26, 2025AirbagsCrash2 injuries
During a recent auto collision my airbags did not deploy. I swerved to avoid another vehicle entering the intersection from my left, he hit my rear left driver's side quarter panel and I subsequently hit a tree. This was noted by the paramedics first on scene as well as by the firemen and police when they arrived. I have notified BMW of North America, USAA insurance (my insurance company), and now you. The vehicle is a total loss and was towed to Leesburg Virginia by roadrunner wrecker service.com
NHTSA ODI 11707095
Nov 22, 2025Electrical systemAirbagsBackup camera & sensors
Because of this water intrusion, the following safety systems have malfunctioned or failed: • ABS and DSC (stability control) warnings • Chassis stabilization warning • Frontal collision and pedestrian warning malfunction • Airbag system warning • Loss of audible warning tones • MOST bus communication failure • Electrical modules intermittently shutting down or throwing codes These failures affect braking, stability control, crash avoidance, and driver alerts, creating a significant safety risk while driving. This is not normal wear or maintenance. Many BMW owners have reported the same issue: clogged or poorly designed sunroof drains that route water directly into areas containing critical electronics. Once water reaches these modules, it causes electrical shorts and safety system failures that require expensive repairs. BMW dealerships typically diagnose this as “water damage,” but the location of the drains and the placement of the electronics indicate a design flaw that allows a simple drain issue to disable major safety systems. I am filing this complaint because the water intrusion should not be able to cause total failure of ABS, DSC, collision warning, and airbag-related systems. This is a safety-related design defect, not wear and tear. I request NHTSA review and investigate BMW sunroof drain failures and their impact on essential vehicle safety functions.
NHTSA ODI 11700942
Feb 29, 2024Airbags
Passenger restraint system malfunction light comes on.
NHTSA ODI 11574790
Jan 24, 2023Airbags
"Driver restraint malfunction" appeared on the vehicle's dashboard. Brought car to dealership for investigation,and they suggested replacing the unused airbag with a new airbag.
NHTSA ODI 11503357
Mar 14, 2020Airbags
WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY THE AIR BAG MALFUNCTION LIGHT CAME ON AFTER A LOUD POP NOISE WAS HEARD ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE DASHBOARD. WE THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO BMW FOR A SAFETY INSPECTION. PLEASE SEE ATTACHED INITIAL REPORT WHERE THEY CLAIM THE AIRBAG HAS FAILED AND WANT US TO PAY $3000 TO REPLACE IT.
NHTSA ODI 11318029