The problem
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with front seat heating systems, upon entering and exiting the vehicle, excessive contact with the side bolster that is contained in the seat's backrest May damage the heating mat located in this area. If such damage were to occur, with the system turned on, the vehicle occupant May feel excessive heat from this area.
The risk
It is possible that the heating mat in the backrest's side bolster could overheat and damage, or melt a small hole in, this area of the seat cover. If this happened, it could lead to an occupant being burned.
The fix
Dealers will modify the seat heating circuit. The recall is expected to begin during December 2004. Owners should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-575 (04V575000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Seats › Front assembly › Seat heater/cooler |
| Report date | December 6, 2004 |
| Owners notified | December 14, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 17,905 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the a/c & heater
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-575 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will modify the seat heating circuit. The recall is expected to begin during December 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 17,905 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.