BMW Recall 11V-438: Exterior lighting – turn signal

Affected: 2002–2005 BMW 325i, 2002–2005 BMW 325xi, 2002–2005 BMW 330i and 1 more. Filed with NHTSA on August 26, 2011, covering about 241,000 vehicles.

The problem

BMW is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi vehicles manufactured from September 1, 2001, through March 1, 2005. Over time, resistance in the electrical contacts May cause one or more rear lamp functions (tail light, brake light, and/or turn-signal), within the vehicle's body panel, to stop working.

The risk

Intermittent light operation reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions. This could cause a vehicle crash without warning.

The fix

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on February 15, 2012. Owners May contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign11V-438 (11V438000)
ManufacturerBMW of North America, LLC
ComponentExterior lighting › Turn signal
Report dateAugust 26, 2011
Owners notifiedFebruary 15, 2012
Vehicles affected241,000
Initiated byNHTSA investigation

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the lights

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 11V-438 repair free?

Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on February 15, 2012. Owners May contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 241,000 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.