Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

2010 Bmw M3: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

15 owner complaints analyzed

4 distinct recall campaigns

56,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2010 model year. Data updated: . 6 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Air Bags is the most frequently named component, appearing in 8 of 15 complaints (53.3%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Braking behavior320.0%
Transmission and shifting16.7%
Electrical and battery issues16.7%
Steering behavior16.7%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Air Bags
8
Engine
4
Power Train
2
Electrical System
1
Exterior Lighting
1
Seat Belts
1
Service Brakes
1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
1
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Air Bags8
Engine4
Power Train2
Electrical System1
Exterior Lighting1
Seat Belts1
Service Brakes1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic1

Air Bags: 8; Engine: 4; Power Train: 2; Electrical System: 1; Exterior Lighting: 1; Seat Belts: 1; Service Brakes: 1; Service Brakes, Hydraulic: 1

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
1
25,000 to 49,999
1
50,000 to 74,999
4
75,000 to 99,999
0
100,000 to 149,999
0
150,000 and above
0
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,0001
25,000 to 49,9991
50,000 to 74,9994
75,000 to 99,9990
100,000 to 149,9990
150,000 and above0

Under 25,000: 1; 25,000 to 49,999: 1; 50,000 to 74,999: 4; 75,000 to 99,999: 0; 100,000 to 149,999: 0; 150,000 and above: 0

50,000 to 74,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (4). 9 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2012
1
2016
8
2017
5
2023
1
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
20121
20168
20175
20231

2012: 1; 2016: 8; 2017: 5; 2023: 1

Pattern summary

Air Bags leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 3 complaint narratives. Transmission and shifting appears in 1 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 1 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Examples from the source records

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10453724 · 2012-04-01 (April 1, 2012)

WHEN BRAKING HARD AND DOWNSHIFTING SMG SEEMS TO BE CONFUSED AS TO WHAT GEAR YOU WANT. HAPPENS MOSTLY WHEN DOWNSHIFTING AND BRAKING HARD THEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN . ## VIN PASSED ## 2010,BMW,M3 ##. *TR

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10453724 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10821914 · 2016-01-23 (January 23, 2016)

2010 E92 55K MILES (88K KM) THE CAR IS UNMODIFIED. THE CAR HAS A FULL SERVICE HISTORY. THE VEHICLE NEVER TRACKED - ALMOST ALL TRAVEL DURING MY OWNERSHIP WERE HIGHWAY MILES (23K). THE CAUSE OF THE INCIDENT WAS A FAILURE OF THE NUMBER 1 ROD BEARING. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED ON A WET SINGLE LANE ROAD IN POOR WEATHER. I WAS LUCKY TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT WHEN VEHICLES FOLLOWING ME WERE CAUGHT UNAWARES BY MY UNEXPECTED DECELERATION. THE WAS LITTLE OPPORTUNITY TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH SAFETY DUE TO THE CONDITIONS. I LOST POWER STE…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10821914 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10852103 · 2016-03-28 (March 28, 2016)

LOUD KNOCKING NOISE AND A TICKING NOISE THAT WHINED UP WHEN ACCELERATED AND SLOWLY WHINED DOWN WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS RELEASED. IT APPEARS TO BE BAD ROD BEARING AND IT OCCURRED WITHIN AN HOUR OF AN OIL CHANGE AT THE DEALERSHIP. ACCORDING TO ONLINE FORUMS THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON OCCURRENCE.

Owner-reported narrative. 58,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10852103 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10891907 · 2016-07-31 (July 31, 2016)

TAKATA RECALL. I WAS NOTIFIED OF THIS SIGNIFICANT SAFETY RECALL IN MARCH 2016. I HAVE TRIED TO GET THE AIRBAG REPLACED BY MY LOCAL BMW DEALER WHO SAYS PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE AND HAS NO IDEA WHEN THEY WILL BE RECEIVED. I CANNOT DRIVE MY VEHICLE DUE TO THE DANGER OF THIS AIRBAG DEFECT AND AM SEEKING A REMEDY FOR THE DELAY IN REPAIR.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10891907 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10903150 · 2016-09-01 (September 1, 2016)

TAKATA RECALL. I DON'T WANT TO DIE BY EXPLODING AIRBAG PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHEN PARTS ARE AVAILABLE MY BMW DEALER WILL NOT GIVE ME ANY INFORMATION REGARDING A FIX DATE. I WOULD LIKE INFORMATION OR GET ON A LIST FOR MY DEALER TO GET A REPAIR PART.

Owner-reported narrative. 37,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10903150 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10907696 · 2016-09-19 (September 19, 2016)

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW M3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V071000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. UPDATED 12/13/16*LJ UPDATED 12/15/16.*JB

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10907696 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10908512 · 2016-09-21 (September 21, 2016)

TAKATA RECALL WANT TO RECORD AND LINK MY VIN TO ME VIN: [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10908512 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10909857 · 2016-09-27 (September 27, 2016)

TAKATA RECALL BMW NOTIFIED US IN MARCH 2016 THAT IT WAS DOING A RECALL. SINCE THEN THEY HAVE NOT CONTACTED US. I SENT THEM AND EMAIL TODAY AND GOT AN AUTOMATED RESPONSE SAYING, IN ESSENCE, THEY WOULD GET TO IT SOME TIME IN THE FUTURE. GIVEN THE DANGER AND RISK INVOLVED A SIX MONTH (AND PROBABLY MUCH LONGER) WAIT FOR A REPAIR IS UNREASONABLE AND INCONSISENT WITH THE LAW., PLEASE URGE THEM TO MOVE FORWARD.

Owner-reported narrative. 22,400 miles reported. Look up ODI 10909857 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

4 distinct campaigns affect this selection. Announcement dates below are different from vehicle model years. A campaign may cover multiple years.

16V071000 · Air Bags:Frontal:Driver Side:Inflator Module

Reported: 2016-02-05 (February 5, 2016)

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 128i and 135i coupes and convertibles and 1 Series M coupes, 2006-2011 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive Sedans, 2009-2011 335d sedans, 2006-2012 325xiT, 328i and 328xi sports wagons, 2007-2013 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive, 335is and M3 Coupes and Convertibles, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i SAVs, 2007-2010 X3 xDrive30i SAVs, 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M SAVs, 2009-2013 BMW X5 xDrive35d SAVs, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M SACs, 2010-2011 BMW X6 xDrive50i SACs and 2008-2011 M3 Sedan vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module or inflator depending on the vehicle model, free of charge. The recall began March 9, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
17V676000 · Electrical System:Wiring

Reported: 2017-10-25 (October 25, 2017)

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi and M3, 2007-2011 328i xDrive, 335i xDrive and 335is and 2009-2011 335d vehicles. The wiring and electrical connectors for the system that controls air flow for the heating and air conditioning system may overheat.

Consequence: Wiring that overheats could cause the electrical connectors to melt, and increase the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is unattended.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiring and electrical connectors, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
19V472000 · Electrical System:Wiring:Fuses And Circuit Breakers | Electrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery:Cables | Electrical System

Reported: 2019-06-19 (June 19, 2019)

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009 328i and 328xi, 2009-2011 335d, 2008-2012 M3 Coupe and M3 Convertible, and 2008-2011 M3 Sedan vehicles. The connection of the positive battery cable at the fuse box terminal may degrade, resulting in an intermittent loss of electrical power.

Consequence: A loss of electrical power can cause the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace and secure the positive battery cable connector, free of charge. The recall began August 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall is an expansion of a previous recall, number 18V-314.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
20V017000 · Air Bags:Frontal:Driver Side:Inflator Module

Reported: 2020-01-15 (January 15, 2020)

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver air bag. On X5 and X6 vehicles, only the inflator will be replaced. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

15 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

40.0%Usable mileage6 / 15 records
100.0%Valid incident date15 / 15 records
100.0%Valid filing date15 / 15 records
100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates15 / 15 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component201120122013201420152016201720182021202220232025
Air Bags
619.4%
ODI 10654689

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW M3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG LIGHT FLICKERED WHILE THE SEAT WAS OCCUPIED OR UNOCCUPIED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V428000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT DID NOT EXPERIENCE A FAILURE. …

Look up ODI 10654689 at NHTSA ↗

466.7%
ODI 10934302 · 63,000 mi

TAKATA RECALL IS TAKING TOO LONG TO REPLACE MY DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG IN MY 2012 BMW M3 CONVERTIBLE. I CALLED RUSNAK BMW IN WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA IN NOVEMBER 2016 FOR A STATUS UPDATE AS TO WHY THEY STILL HAVE NOT CONTACTED ME TO REPLACE MY DRIVER'S SIDE TAKATA AIRBAG DESPITE A RECALL NOTICE IN MARCH OF 2016. THEY INDICATED THEY HAVE NOT GOTTEN TO MY MODEL YEAR AND THAT REPLACEMENT TAKATA AIRBAGS ARE NOT COMING AS QUICKLY AS THEY SHOULD.

Look up ODI 10934302 at NHTSA ↗

753.8%
ODI 10873743 · 9,000 mi

TAKATA RECALL AIRBAG BMW TOLD ME NOT TO DRIVE CAR TO PARK IT AND THEY WANT TO GIVE ME RENTAL. UNKNOW HOW LONG FOR REPAIR I LEASE CAR AT $1245 PER MONTH WAY SHOULD I GET A LESSER CAR AND CONTINUE MY PAYMENTS .I HAVE 2 YEARS LEFT I WANT TO TRADE IT IN FOR THE SAME VALUE ON A M4 SHOULDNT THEY GIVE ME THE SAME DEAL TO GET ME OUT OF MY LEASE.. FLORIDA HAS A HIGHER RISK BECAUSEOF THE HEAT FOR THE AIR BAG TO EXPLODE. IM 5FT 1 AND IM AFRAID TO DRIVE MY CAR... I HAVENT DRIVEN IT SINCE THEY TOLD ME ABOUT RECALL ..I HAPPEN TO BRING CAR FOR SERVICE OR I WO…

Look up ODI 10873743 at NHTSA ↗

0Unavailable

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133.3%
ODI 11611304

Unknown. I was driving home when I get a message stating “passenger restraint system malfunction”

Look up ODI 11611304 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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00.0%

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00.0%

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Engine
1651.6%
ODI 10626663 · 35,150 mi

TICKING NOISE IN THE ENGINE GRADUALLY GOT LOUDER. OIL WARNING THAT IT WAS LOW ON OIL. ADDED OIL, STILL SAID IT WAS LOW, THEN SAID IT WAS TOO MUCH. THEN SAID IT WAS LOW (PARTICLES FROM BEARINGS WERE CLOGGED IN OIL SENSOR GIVING FALSE READING). FINALLY PARKED CAR WHEN NOISE WAS SO GREAT THAT I THOUGHT IT WAS GOING TO BLOW UP. ROD BEARS DISINTEGRATED ON CYLINDERS 2 AND 5. HAD TO REPLACE THE ENGINE. *TR

Look up ODI 10626663 at NHTSA ↗

233.3%
ODI 10779100 · 24,600 mi

DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT, SHIFTED FROM 1ST GEAR TO SECOND GEAR AND AT 4000 RPMS, THE CAR STOPPED. IT WOULD NOT RESTART. TOWED CARD TO DEALER AND IT NEEDED AN ENGINE REPLACEMENT WHICH WAS COVERED UNDER MY WARRANTY.

Look up ODI 10779100 at NHTSA ↗

430.8%
ODI 10821362 · 3,100 mi

VEHICLE HAS 3,100 MILES ON IT. I STOPPED TO GET FUEL AND ON THE WAY BACK HOME THE ENGINE STARTED TO MISFIRE HEAVILY, THEN STALL OUT IN HEAVY TRAFFIC ALMOST CAUSING ME TO GET REAR ENDED. LUCKILY THE CAR STARTED BUT FELT LIKE IT HAD ONLY 10% OF THE POWER, BMW TOLD ME TO DRIVE IT TO THE NEAREST SERVICE CENTER TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT. THEY CALLED ME THE NEXT DAY TO TELL MY MY ENGINE HAS FAILED. IM NOT SURE HOW IN 3,100 WELL CARED FOR MILES THE ENGINE WOULD FAIL, ALMOST CAUSING ME TO GET REAR-ENDED IN TRAFFIC. I AM DISAPPOINTED THAT BMW COULD RELEASE …

Look up ODI 10821362 at NHTSA ↗

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

125.0%
ODI 11289890 · 95,000 mi

CRANK HUB SPUN TIMING SPROCKET CAUSING VALVES TO IMPACT PISTON AND CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. QUOTED MORE THAN $10K OUT OF POCKET TO REPAIR. THIS IS CAUSED DUE TO POOR CRANK HUB DESIGN. CAR COMPANIES HAVE BEEN USING KEYED CRANKHUBS FOR GENERATIONS BUT BMW DECIDED TO NOT USED A KEYED HUB.. THIS IS VERY NEGLIGENT CONSIDERING HOW MANY OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO THIS.

Look up ODI 11289890 at NHTSA ↗

360.0%
ODI 11289880 · 28,000 mi

THE CRANKHUB ON THESE CARS ARE TICKING TIME BOMBS AND IS LIKELY TO FAIL JUST OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY FORCING HUGE REPAIR BILLS. IN SOME CASES, A "LUCKY" FEW JUST NEED TO BE RETIMED AND ONLY REQUIRE 18 HOURS OF LABOR. HOWEVER, OTHERS HAVE NOT BEEN SO LUCKY AND HAVE REQUIRED AN ALL-NEW ENGINE. THIS IS AN ISSUE BMW IS FULLY AWARE OF BUT HAS NOT TAKEN RESPONSBILITY FOR THEIR INSUFFICIENT ENGINEERING.

Look up ODI 11289880 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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222.2%
ODI 11289976 · 8,000 mi

CRANK HUB WILL BE PRONE TO SPIN AND THEREFORE WILL DESTROY ENGINE WHICH WILL REQUIRE A FULL ENGINE REPLACEMENT. *TR

Look up ODI 11289976 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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00.0%

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00.0%

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Power Train:Automatic Transmission
00.0%

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00.0%

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Power Train
412.9%
ODI 10438472 · 10,000 mi

CLUNKING NOISE AND VIBRATION WHEN TURNING RIGHT FROM A STOP IN COOLER TEMPERATURES. *TR

Look up ODI 10438472 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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323.1%
ODI 11000438 · 7 mi

TAKATA RECALL. REASONABLE TIME HAS PASSED SINCE THE AIRBAG RECALL. BUT I HAVE NOT HEARD AS TO WHEN THIS SAFETY ISSUE WILL BE RESOLVED.EVERY TIME I DRIVE THE CAR I FEEL I AM RISKING MY LIFE OR CHANCE FOR SERIOUS INJURY. BMW HAS BEEN COMPLETELY NEGLIGENT WITH REGARDS TO RESOLVING THIS ISSUE. BMW SHOULD TEMPORARILY REMEDY THE SITUATION BY REPLACING THE CAR WITH A SIMILAR VEHICLE. I NEED THIS TO BE RESOLVED NOW!!!. ALSO THE DRIVE TRAIN HAS A CLUNKING NOISE OF WHICH I HAVE BEEN COMPLAINING SINCE NEW. THEY HAVE MADE TEMPORARY ADJUSTMENT BUT THE PROB…

Look up ODI 11000438 at NHTSA ↗

0Unavailable

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00.0%

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120.0%
ODI 11232137 · 48,234 mi

KEEP HEARING A KNOCKING SOUND ON DRIVER SIDE WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS. FEELING VIBRATION UNDER CAR UNDER ACCELERATING AND BREAKING. CARBON FIBER ROOF LAMINATE PEELING OFF.

Look up ODI 11232137 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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111.1%
ODI 11289976 · 8,000 mi

CRANK HUB WILL BE PRONE TO SPIN AND THEREFORE WILL DESTROY ENGINE WHICH WILL REQUIRE A FULL ENGINE REPLACEMENT. *TR

Look up ODI 11289976 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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1100.0%
ODI 11714063

I am reporting a safety-related failure involving the clutch system on my 2022 BMW M3. At approximately 26,000 miles when I purchased, I began experiencing clutch-related issues, including slipping and abnormal engagement. I brought the vehicle to the BMW dealership on two separate occasions to report these concerns, but the dealership dismissed the issue and did not document or inspect the clutch. At approximately 33,000 miles, while driving on the freeway, the clutch failed to properly engage and would not catch gears, creating an unsafe dr…

Look up ODI 11714063 at NHTSA ↗

1100.0%
ODI 11669571

Car was parked and turned off in our driveway and it rolled backwards down the driveway and into the street

Look up ODI 11669571 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System
722.6%
ODI 10661151 · 44,000 mi

2011 BMW DCT M3 ENGINE TURNS OFF BY IT SELF WHILE DRIVING THROUGH INTERSECTION. TRANSMISSION GOES INTO NEUTRAL. "N" POPS UP ON THE CENTER COCKPIT. STEERING WHEEL LOCK. BRAKES WORK. HAD TO MAINTAIN FOOT ON BRAKES. HAVE TO PUSH "ENGINE START" BUTTON. CAR STARTS UP AGAIN. ENGINE STALLING AND SHUTTING OFF IS A SAFETY HAZARD, ESPECIALLY IF THE CAR IS IN MOTION. COULD CAUSE DEATH TO END USERS OR OTHER PEOPLE. CAN CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGES AS WELL. THIS HAS HAPPEN TWICE WITHIN A 8 WEEK PERIOD. MOST RECENTLY ON NOV 26,2014 APPROXIMATELY 430…

Look up ODI 10661151 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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215.4%
ODI 10910460 · 20,000 mi

WHEN I ACCELERATE QUICKLY AT AN INTERSECTION WHEN I GET A GREEN LIGHT, THE ENGINE LOOSES ALL POWER BUT KEEPS RUNNING. BMW HAS NO IDEA AS NO CODES ARE BEING SAVED WHEN THIS HAPPENS. THE GENERAL MANAGER SAID IT PROBABLY COMPUTER PART BUT WE MAY NEVER KNOW.

Look up ODI 10910460 at NHTSA ↗

0Unavailable

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00.0%

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00.0%

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133.3%
ODI 11301469 · 6,352 mi

VEHICLE IS A 2017 BMW M3 WITH 6352 MILES. IN THIS PARTICULAR CASE THE VEHICLE HAD STARTED AND HAD BEEN OPERATING NORMALLY THE DAY PRIOR. THE FOLLOWING DAY THE CAR WAS STATIONARY AND WOULD NOT START.IT WAS CLEAR THERE WAS NO POWER GETTING TO THE ELECTRONICS EVEN THOUGH THE BATTERY WAS FULLY CHARGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TRANSPORTED BY FLATBED TRUCK TO THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP TO DIAGNOSE THE ISSUE. THE DEALERSHIP INVESTIGATED THE ROOT CAUSE AND FOUND THE PRIMARY BATTERY CABLE CONNECTOR TO THE ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION BOX HAD FAILED WHERE THERE WAS NO LONG…

Look up ODI 11301469 at NHTSA ↗

111.1%
ODI 11759039

While driving, suddenly, with no warning smoke came from under the hood. I got off the road and turned off car immediately. Luckily, since I did turn off the car so quickly, it did not burst into flames but did create a fire within the engine. I have video of fire damage and BMW quote on repair stating fire damage. As in the past with BMW, there is a documented history of PCV-heater fires. NHTSA Recall 22V-119 states the BMW PCV valve heaters can short circuit, overheat and cause a fire.

Look up ODI 11759039 at NHTSA ↗

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00.0%

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Power Train:Manual Transmission
00.0%

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Unknown Or Other
00.0%

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00.0%

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0Unavailable

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125.0%
ODI 11341883

REAR VIEW CAMERA STOPPED WORKING, SCREEN DISPLAYS "NO SIGNAL". FUSE DID NOT BLOW.

Look up ODI 11341883 at NHTSA ↗

120.0%
ODI 11099977 · 3,000 mi

I'VE TAKEN MY VEHICLE IN TO THE SERVICE DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES SINCE I'VE PURCHASED THE CAR BACK IN NOV. 2016. I NOTICED A CLUNKING AND JOLTING SENSATION FROM MY REAR AXLE WHICH I KNEW WAS NOT NORMAL. THE DEALER AFTER DIAGNOSING THE ISSUE TOLD ME IT IS NORMAL AND THERE ISN'T AN ISSUE AT ALL. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH ONLINE AND PERSONAL FRUSTRATION KNOWING I'M PAYING FOR A NEW CAR WHICH DOESN'T FEEL NEW AT ALL, I FOUND THE ATTACHED RECALL NOTICE. MY CAR HAS A PRODUCTION DATE OF MAY 20, 2016 WHICH FALLS IN BETWEEN THE TIMELINE MENTIONED IN THE AT…

Look up ODI 11099977 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

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222.2%
ODI 11193822 · 13,500 mi

HELLO, I HAVE A 2018 BMW M3 THAT IS ABOUT 12 MONTHS OLD. THERE WAS A SIRIUS XM (SATELLITE RADIO) TRIAL PERIOD OF 1 YEAR, AND NOW THAT IT IS ABOUT TO EXPIRE, THERE IS AN ADVERTISEMENT IN MY NAVIGATION WINDOW THAT COMES UP EVERY TIME I TURN ON THE CAR, THAT HAS TO BE CLEARED VIA PRESSING "OK" OR ELSE IT DOESN'T GO AWAY. THE SAFETY CONCERN IS THAT IF I TURN ON THE CAR AND GO INTO REVERSE, THE REVERSE CAMERA WILL SHOW BUT GETS INTERRUPTED BY THE SIRIUS XM ADVERTISEMENT, AND DOESN'T COME BACK UNTIL THE ADVERTISEMENT TO RENEW IS MANUALLY CLEARED O…

Look up ODI 11193822 at NHTSA ↗

133.3%
ODI 11728419

Sunroof shattered while driving, no impact from outside.

Look up ODI 11728419 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 11733289

I just did a software update for my 2025 M3 and all settings were lost. Most of this is a customer inconvenience, but brake auto hold was turned off so imagine my surprise when I took my foot off the brake and my car rolled forward. Thankfully I was paying attention or there could have been an accident. I rely on auto hold to keep my car stopped even when my foot is off the brake.

Look up ODI 11733289 at NHTSA ↗

Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Air BagsToo few reports for a range29,700 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10903150 · 37,000 mi

TAKATA RECALL. I DON'T WANT TO DIE BY EXPLODING AIRBAG PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHEN PARTS ARE AVAILABLE MY BMW DEALER WILL NOT GIVE ME ANY INFORMATION REGARDING A FIX DATE. I WOULD LIKE INFORMATION OR GET ON A LIST FOR MY DEALER TO GET A REPAIR PART.

Look up ODI 10903150 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10909857 · 22,400 mi

TAKATA RECALL BMW NOTIFIED US IN MARCH 2016 THAT IT WAS DOING A RECALL. SINCE THEN THEY HAVE NOT CONTACTED US. I SENT THEM AND EMAIL TODAY AND GOT AN AUTOMATED RESPONSE SAYING, IN ESSENCE, THEY WOULD GET TO IT SOME TIME IN THE FUTURE. GIVEN THE DANGER AND RISK INVOLVED A SIX MONTH (AND PROBABLY MUCH LONGER) WAIT FOR A REPAIR IS UNREASONABLE AND INCONSISENT WITH THE LAW., PLEASE URGE THEM TO MOVE FORWARD.

Look up ODI 10909857 at NHTSA ↗

EngineToo few reports for a range63,000 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10852103 · 58,000 mi

LOUD KNOCKING NOISE AND A TICKING NOISE THAT WHINED UP WHEN ACCELERATED AND SLOWLY WHINED DOWN WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS RELEASED. IT APPEARS TO BE BAD ROD BEARING AND IT OCCURRED WITHIN AN HOUR OF AN OIL CHANGE AT THE DEALERSHIP. ACCORDING TO ONLINE FORUMS THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON OCCURRENCE.

Look up ODI 10852103 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11002582 · 63,000 mi

ROD BEARINGS FAILED DUE TO A MANUFACTURER DEFECT. MANY BMW M3'S SUFFER THIS ISSUE BECAUSE IF THE TIGHTNESS OF THE ENGINE WHICH LEADS TO OIL STARVATION AND METAL SHAVINGS BEGIN TO DESTROY THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, AFTER SITTING FOR A FEW HOURS, I START THE CAR TO DISCOVER A TICKING NOISE IN THE ENGINE. UPON CHECKING THE OIL, I HAVE FOUND METAL SHAVINGS IN THE OIL.

Look up ODI 11002582 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11045838 · 69,024 mi

HEY MY NAME IS [XXX] , I JUST RECENTLY PURCHASE A USED BMW M3 FROM A BMW DEALERSHIP ON 06/11/17. AFTER A FEW MONTHS OF USING THE CAR MY MOTOR GAVE A ROD KNOCK WHICH IS A COMMON KNOWN PROBLEM ACCORDING TO THE DATABASE. I REALLY NEED HELP WITH THIS SITUATION. THIS HAPPENED TO BE ON THE WAY FROM FLORIDA WHICH WAS 500 MILES FROM MY HOUSE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Look up ODI 11045838 at NHTSA ↗

Power TrainToo few reports for a range58,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10852103 · 58,000 mi

LOUD KNOCKING NOISE AND A TICKING NOISE THAT WHINED UP WHEN ACCELERATED AND SLOWLY WHINED DOWN WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS RELEASED. IT APPEARS TO BE BAD ROD BEARING AND IT OCCURRED WITHIN AN HOUR OF AN OIL CHANGE AT THE DEALERSHIP. ACCORDING TO ONLINE FORUMS THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON OCCURRENCE.

Look up ODI 10852103 at NHTSA ↗

Electrical SystemToo few reports for a range54,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11000488 · 54,000 mi

THE OEM WIRING INSULATION IN THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING HAS FLAKED OFF. THE BARE WIRES CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHEN I REPLACED A LIGHT BULB. BMW SAYS THAT THE ONLY REPAIR IS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE HOUSING FOR $2100. THIS WILL NEED TO BE DONE ON THE OTHER SIDE EVENTUALLY, AS THE INSULATION IS DETERIORATING IN THAT HOUSING AS WELL. I HAVE READ ONLINE THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM IN MANY DIFFERENT MODELS BECAUSE OF THE TYPE OF WIRING THAT WAS SPECIFIED BY BMW JUST DOES NOT HOLD UP UNDER HIGHER TEMPERATURES. KNOWING THAT IT WILL BE SUBJECT TO HI…

Look up ODI 11000488 at NHTSA ↗

Exterior LightingToo few reports for a range54,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11000488 · 54,000 mi

THE OEM WIRING INSULATION IN THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING HAS FLAKED OFF. THE BARE WIRES CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHEN I REPLACED A LIGHT BULB. BMW SAYS THAT THE ONLY REPAIR IS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE HOUSING FOR $2100. THIS WILL NEED TO BE DONE ON THE OTHER SIDE EVENTUALLY, AS THE INSULATION IS DETERIORATING IN THAT HOUSING AS WELL. I HAVE READ ONLINE THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM IN MANY DIFFERENT MODELS BECAUSE OF THE TYPE OF WIRING THAT WAS SPECIFIED BY BMW JUST DOES NOT HOLD UP UNDER HIGHER TEMPERATURES. KNOWING THAT IT WILL BE SUBJECT TO HI…

Look up ODI 11000488 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-112026-10

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-10 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 21 reports

2022: 0 complaints · 2023: 1 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2022000
2023001
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
2022100
2023100

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentAir BagsEnginePower TrainElectrical SystemExterior LightingSeat BeltsService BrakesService Brakes, Hydraulic
Air Bags—0000000
Engine0—
1
ODI 10852103 · 58,000 mi

LOUD KNOCKING NOISE AND A TICKING NOISE THAT WHINED UP WHEN ACCELERATED AND SLOWLY WHINED DOWN WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS RELEASED. IT APPEARS TO BE BAD ROD BEARING AND IT OCCURRED WITHIN AN HOUR OF AN OIL CHANGE AT THE DEALERSHIP. ACCORDING TO ONLINE FORUMS THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON OCCURRENCE.

Look up ODI 10852103 at NHTSA ↗

00000
Power Train0
1
ODI 10852103 · 58,000 mi

LOUD KNOCKING NOISE AND A TICKING NOISE THAT WHINED UP WHEN ACCELERATED AND SLOWLY WHINED DOWN WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS RELEASED. IT APPEARS TO BE BAD ROD BEARING AND IT OCCURRED WITHIN AN HOUR OF AN OIL CHANGE AT THE DEALERSHIP. ACCORDING TO ONLINE FORUMS THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON OCCURRENCE.

Look up ODI 10852103 at NHTSA ↗

—0000
1
ODI 10453724

WHEN BRAKING HARD AND DOWNSHIFTING SMG SEEMS TO BE CONFUSED AS TO WHAT GEAR YOU WANT. HAPPENS MOSTLY WHEN DOWNSHIFTING AND BRAKING HARD THEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN . ## VIN PASSED ## 2010,BMW,M3 ##. *TR

Look up ODI 10453724 at NHTSA ↗

Electrical System000—
1
ODI 11000488 · 54,000 mi

THE OEM WIRING INSULATION IN THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING HAS FLAKED OFF. THE BARE WIRES CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHEN I REPLACED A LIGHT BULB. BMW SAYS THAT THE ONLY REPAIR IS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE HOUSING FOR $2100. THIS WILL NEED TO BE DONE ON THE OTHER SIDE EVENTUALLY, AS THE INSULATION IS DETERIORATING IN THAT HOUSING AS WELL. I HAVE READ ONLINE THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM IN MANY DIFFERENT MODELS BECAUSE OF THE TYPE OF WIRING THAT WAS SPECIFIED BY BMW JUST DOES NOT HOLD UP UNDER HIGHER TEMPERATURES. KNOWING THAT IT WILL BE SUBJECT TO HI…

Look up ODI 11000488 at NHTSA ↗

000
Exterior Lighting000
1
ODI 11000488 · 54,000 mi

THE OEM WIRING INSULATION IN THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING HAS FLAKED OFF. THE BARE WIRES CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHEN I REPLACED A LIGHT BULB. BMW SAYS THAT THE ONLY REPAIR IS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE HOUSING FOR $2100. THIS WILL NEED TO BE DONE ON THE OTHER SIDE EVENTUALLY, AS THE INSULATION IS DETERIORATING IN THAT HOUSING AS WELL. I HAVE READ ONLINE THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM IN MANY DIFFERENT MODELS BECAUSE OF THE TYPE OF WIRING THAT WAS SPECIFIED BY BMW JUST DOES NOT HOLD UP UNDER HIGHER TEMPERATURES. KNOWING THAT IT WILL BE SUBJECT TO HI…

Look up ODI 11000488 at NHTSA ↗

—000
Seat Belts00000—
1
ODI 11533410

Parked on a slight hill, shifted out of drive and applied the ebrake by pulling up firmly. Unbucked my seat belt, opened the door, and got out of the vehicle. Left the door open to go in my house, grab my wallet, and come back. The car stayed in neutral instead of shifting into park which should have happened but multiple components of the car failed to detect me exiting (door latch sendor, software, seat sensor, seat belt sensor). Leaving the car in neutral meant the parking brake was all that was available to hold the car. As it turns ou…

Look up ODI 11533410 at NHTSA ↗

0
Service Brakes00000
1
ODI 11533410

Parked on a slight hill, shifted out of drive and applied the ebrake by pulling up firmly. Unbucked my seat belt, opened the door, and got out of the vehicle. Left the door open to go in my house, grab my wallet, and come back. The car stayed in neutral instead of shifting into park which should have happened but multiple components of the car failed to detect me exiting (door latch sendor, software, seat sensor, seat belt sensor). Leaving the car in neutral meant the parking brake was all that was available to hold the car. As it turns ou…

Look up ODI 11533410 at NHTSA ↗

—0
Service Brakes, Hydraulic00
1
ODI 10453724

WHEN BRAKING HARD AND DOWNSHIFTING SMG SEEMS TO BE CONFUSED AS TO WHAT GEAR YOU WANT. HAPPENS MOSTLY WHEN DOWNSHIFTING AND BRAKING HARD THEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN . ## VIN PASSED ## 2010,BMW,M3 ##. *TR

Look up ODI 10453724 at NHTSA ↗

0000—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

2 patterns with matching reports.

Stalling or loss of power

1 mentions · 6.7% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 10821914

2010 E92 55K MILES (88K KM) THE CAR IS UNMODIFIED. THE CAR HAS A FULL SERVICE HISTORY. THE VEHICLE NEVER TRACKED - ALMOST ALL TRAVEL DURING MY OWNERSHIP WERE HIGHWAY MILES (23K). THE CAUSE OF THE INCIDENT WAS A FAILURE OF THE NUMBER 1 ROD BEARING. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED ON A WET SINGLE LANE ROAD IN POOR WEATHER. I WAS LUCKY TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT WHEN VEHICLES FOLLOWING ME WERE CAUGHT UNAWARES BY MY UNEXPECTED DECELERATION. THE WAS LITTLE OPPORTUNITY TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH SAFETY DUE TO THE CONDITIONS. I LOST POWER STE…

Look up ODI 10821914 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Steering assistance concerns

1 mentions · 6.7% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 10821914

2010 E92 55K MILES (88K KM) THE CAR IS UNMODIFIED. THE CAR HAS A FULL SERVICE HISTORY. THE VEHICLE NEVER TRACKED - ALMOST ALL TRAVEL DURING MY OWNERSHIP WERE HIGHWAY MILES (23K). THE CAUSE OF THE INCIDENT WAS A FAILURE OF THE NUMBER 1 ROD BEARING. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED ON A WET SINGLE LANE ROAD IN POOR WEATHER. I WAS LUCKY TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT WHEN VEHICLES FOLLOWING ME WERE CAUGHT UNAWARES BY MY UNEXPECTED DECELERATION. THE WAS LITTLE OPPORTUNITY TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH SAFETY DUE TO THE CONDITIONS. I LOST POWER STE…

Look up ODI 10821914 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b