BMW has announced a recall affecting 40,736 of its X3 crossover SUVs due to a potential safety issue concerning the rear door locks. This recall impacts the models from 2022 to 2024, specifically the sDrive30i (which is rear-wheel drive) and the xDrive30i (the all-wheel drive variant).
The concern arises from the rear door-lock mechanisms of these vehicles, which may malfunction by allowing both unlock and unlatch functions to occur with a single action. This is a violation of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, which mandates that door unlocking and un-latching are two separate actions. If both functions occur together when unlocking the door, it poses a significant safety risk, particularly for any passengers seated in the back—an unintended opening could lead to serious accidents or injuries.
In what may feel like a case of fortunate timing, BMW uncovered this issue during their routine internal testing before it could escalate to any reported warranty claims or accidents. It’s a relief to many that there have been no injuries linked to this problem so far.
For impacted vehicle owners, the good news is that BMW is stepping up to resolve the issue quickly and at no cost. Dealers will replace the affected rear door lock modules free of charge, ensuring that owners are not financially burdened by this recall. Additionally, if any owners had related work performed prior to receiving this recall notification, rest assured it will still be covered under warranty. Therefore, BMW does not foresee the need to reimburse customers for any out-of-pocket expenses they may have incurred related to this issue.
Sending out notifications to owners will begin on April 14. For those anxious for more information, BMW encourages you to reach out to their customer service team at 800-525-7417. Alternatively, additional details can be found on their [recall website](https://www.bmwusa.com/safety-and-emission-recalls.html).
Interestingly, the recalled X3 SUVs are one of the last iterations of the previous generation of this popular model. Starting with the 2025 model year, a redesigned X3 will hit the market, along with an exciting first-ever electric version expected to arrive in 2026. These new updates are something many BMW enthusiasts are looking forward to, fostering anticipation for the exciting developments ahead.
In the wake of this recall, BMW’s proactive approach not only emphasizes their commitment to customer safety but also aims to maintain the trust that car owners place in their vehicles. It’s reminders like this that prompt us all to stay vigilant and informed about the safety of our cars, ensuring that we and our loved ones are protected on the road.
Image Source: OB production / Shutterstock
