The problem
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 8 and 12 cylinder engines, the digital engine management control (emc) units were not produced according to specifications.
The risk
As a result, engine stalling will occur after a short period of operation. The vehicle May not be able to restart. Also, a loss of power steering and, after repeated actuation of the brake pedal, a loss of brake power assist will occur. These conditions could result in a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will install a new digital engine management control unit. The recall began on July 16, 2004. Owners should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-344 (04V344000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Control module (TCM/PCM/tecm) |
| Report date | July 14, 2004 |
| Owners notified | July 16, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 4,102 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-344 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a new digital engine management control unit. The recall began on July 16, 2004. Owners should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 4,102 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.