Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2021 BMW 330E peaked in 2021, with 1 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2021 BMW 330E
Sedan, plug-in hybrid, RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive, built in Germany. Owner complaints on file from Dec 25, 2021 to Sep 2, 2026.
Recall campaigns covering this model year541k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints4Below the median 2021 sedan
Severity index25.02021 sedans average 7.9
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Components
75% of complaints about the 2021 BMW 330E name engine and cooling
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
5 recall campaigns cover the 2021 BMW 330E
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21V-554 | Jul 21, 2021 | Passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts | Seat belts | 21,537 | Part replacement |
| 21V-298 | Apr 28, 2021 | Bolt securing the seat belt assembly to the frame was not tightened to specification | Seat belts | 12 | Part replacement |
| 21V-096 | Feb 19, 2021 | When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate | Back-over prevention | 13,858 | Software update |
| 20V-601 | Sep 30, 2020 | Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production | Electrical system | 4,509 | Part replacement |
| 20V-490 | Aug 18, 2020 | Loose welding beads may form a conductive path between the hybrid battery cells which could lead to a short-circuit | Electrical system | 713 | Part replacement |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2021 BMW 330E
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
4 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Sep 2, 2026Failure Aug 30, 2026Richmond, TXEngine
I am getting error code 21A50A and 216115 which Starter Overheating that can cause fire. Similar error code were coming on other cars and BMW have recalled it the recall number is 26V056. I ask BMW and NHTSA to include 330E in this recall as 330E is similar to 330I. 330I and 330E uses same parts and similar design and excluding the 330E from this recall doesn't make sense.
NHTSA complaint 11761564 - Filed Feb 24, 2026Failure Feb 24, 2026Sherwood, ARElectrical system, Engine, Power train
1. The engine starter motor (specifically the pinion starter) has failed, and the auxiliary battery is also showing reduced capacity (only a portion of its 660 cold cranking amps). The vehicle is currently at a service center where the technician has diagnosed these issues. The components should be available for inspection upon request, as they have not yet been replaced. 2. The failure of the starter motor and battery primarily affects the vehicle's ability to start. While this could potentially strand you in an unsafe location, the information provided does not indicate any specific safety incident or risk that occurred during operation. No direct safety hazard has been reported. 3. Yes, a technician has diagnosed the problem and confirmed a fault code in the drivetrain related to the failed starter motor. The technician also identified the auxiliary battery's reduced output. This confirmation comes from a service center, which could be a dealer or independent shop. 4. The only inspection mentioned is by the technician at the service center. There is no indication that the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others have inspected the vehicle or components. 5. Yes. Prior to the failure, when starting the car in the early morning, a "drive train service" message appeared on the display, advising you to visit a service center as soon as possible. This warning was the first symptom of the problem before the starter ultimately failed and the battery drained. This aligns with the technician's diagnosis of a drivetrain fault code related to the starter motor.
NHTSA complaint 11720299 - Filed May 23, 2024Failure May 22, 2024Chesterfield, VAElectrical system, Service brakes, Steering
On 5/22/24 had a catastrophic failure of the Electric Motor Electronics and 12v Battery. I have requested that the BMW Serice Assistant provide me with all affected parts for inspection. Shutdown of the vehicle high voltage system could result in a crash. When this part fails along with the 12v battery you lose control of all vehicle electronics (steering, braking, electrical power, and propulsion). Yes, there was a previous voluntary recall campaign 19V-599s Service Information Bulletin (Revision 2) which replaced SI B12 27 19 dated October 2019 by BMW for this device. The vehicle and component has been inspected by the Richmond BMW Service Technician. I started to experience problems with the vehicle in late April and took it in for servicing and repair in early May. I was told that the problem was a computer programming recall that was fixed.
NHTSA complaint 11590355 - Filed Dec 25, 2021Failure Dec 13, 2021Buford, GAEngine, Fuel/propulsion system, Power train1 injured
In Buford GA at the corner of Elm Tree Terrace and Buford Dam road, I was waiting for the light to turn on a decline. It is important to note that the car was driving in all-electric mode on a full charge. Once the light turned green I stepped on the accelerator to go and the car stalled. I believe the transmission slipped. The gears caught at high torque and jolted the car involuntarily forward. I didn't notice it at first but after a couple of sleepless nights with shoulder pain: I got an MRI and was found to have a torn rotator cuff. It is difficult to associate the injury as it is hard to access the force applied to the jolt. The only word I can use to describe the force of the jolt was violent. I believe there is a safety issue when a high torque electric motor is being run through a slipping or failing transmission and I suspect as a result I have suffered a injury as a result.
NHTSA complaint 11444952
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
1 NHTSA investigation on file
- DP22005 Defect petition, Electrical system
Pedestrian alert sounds
Opened Jan 27, 2023, closed Aug 7, 2023 · led to a recall
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
217 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.
- B720225 Jun 11, 2025 · Warranty Program/Extension
The Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Front Passenger’s Seat Occupancy Capacitive Interior Sensor (CIS) Mat for defects in materials and/or workmanship that causes a false seat occupancy alert to occur has been extended to 10 years / 120,000 miles as det… - B010825 May 14, 2025 · Warranty Program/Extension
A vehicle listed above may arrive with a Check Control Message (CCM), and/or malfunction indicator lamp(MIL) illuminated. After carrying out the vehicle test, one or more of the stored faults indicate that the operation of the front bottomactive air flap is… - B010725 Apr 15, 2025 · Warranty Program/Extension
The Radiator Grilles Lower Active Air Flap Assembly limited warranty for defects in materials and/or workmanship has been extended to 15 years / 150,000 miles as determined from the original first in-service / delivery date. - B120721 Mar 4, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Check Control message (CCM) indicates: (ID 213): Stop, exercising due care. Voltage supply The Service Engine Soon light is on with the following DME Fault Code: 21B209 - Starter alternator / belt for 48V system (OSA_RIEMEN_RISS): Belt betweenCombustion … - B640422 Feb 16, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
An interference noise (groaning noise) can be heard from within the heating and air-conditioning unit in thecenter of the instrument panel. The groaning noise always occurs when either a ventilation flap, air stratification flap or the recirculated airflap… - B510819 Jan 16, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met. - B610524 Jan 5, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Central Information Display goes black intermittently due to resets of the Head Unit (HU-H3). FaultB7F8F9 âÃÂÓ âÃÂÃÂHU-H: ResetâÃÂàwill be stored in the HU-H3. - B611305 Jan 11, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle âdisc… - B521723 Jan 2, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer states one of the front seats is inoperative. The seat heater and power supply are inoperative. During the vehicle test, the seat module does not respond. The power supply fuse for the seat module isfound to have blown. - B360121 Jan 8, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
At low outside temperatures (below 40 degrees F) and slow driving speeds (i.e. when parking, maneuvering)with a large steering angle, the front end can be slightly axially misaligned. This can be felt (jerking)/ heard via an acoustic acknowledgement (clunk… - B160123 Jan 5, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A vehicle arrives at your center to be diagnosed for a micro-leak in the fuel evaporative (EVAP) system(NVLD natural vacuum leak detection). For this condition, the following fault is stored in the DME: 190302 - fuel tank ventilation and scavenging air sy… - B120721 Nov 9, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Check Control message (CCM) indicates: (ID 213): Stop, exercising due care. Voltage supply The Service Engine Soon light is on with the following DME Fault Code: 21B209 - Starter alternator / belt for 48V system (OSA_RIEMEN_RISS): Belt betweenCombustion … - B011423 Nov 13, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
PRESSURE CONTROL VALVE (PCV) EXTENDED LTD WTY 15 YEARS/150,000 MILES - B513019 Sep 12, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A groaning noise is present from the door frame of any door, most commonly when driving over rough roadsor during body flex. This situation may be worse in vehicles which are regularly waxed in the area of the door jamb. Note: This service information bul… - B652823 Sep 11, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customers may be experiencing one or more of these following issues with Bluetooth operation: Bluetooth cannot be switched on or off in the head unit (HU-H4) Paired mobile devices cannot be deleted Customer is unable to make phone calls or stream music w… - B240323 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?A software error may cause an unwanted pressure pulsation in the transmission during a "Remote Engine Start." - B652223 Jul 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Given the voice input "Activate ECO PRO mode" via BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant produces the response "I've activated ECO PRO mode", but ECO PRO mode is not actually activated in the vehicle. - B630821 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Headlight check control (CC) message 128 "High beam headlight failure" is displayed. The following fault codes are stored during a vehicle test: 80419A - Left high-beam headlight: Short circuit and/or 8041A5 - light outputs: Number of permitted short circui… - B630321 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Condensation is present on the inner surfaces in one or both taillights (circled). - B240223 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW AG has issued an Emissions Recall (effective March 17, 2023) on a certain Model Year 2021 - 2023 BMW vehicles that were produced between June 16, 2020, and December 13, 2022. Due to a software failure, there is the possibility that the transmission doe… - B160123 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A vehicle arrives at your center to be diagnosed for a micro-leak in the fuel evaporative (EVAP) system (NVLD natural vacuum leak detection). For this condition, the following fault is stored in the DME: 190302 - fuel tank ventilation and scavenging air sys… - B120323 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop effective June 6, 2023 on certain Model Year 2023 - 2024 BMW vehicles that were produced between October 26, 2022 and May 8, 2023. - B090221 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
With the introduction of the BMW Remote Software Upgrade, all Service Pack 18 vehicles and partial Service Pack 15 vehicles may receive new functionality or modifications in their features. - B610123 May 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to a software error, the vehicle sporadically does not achieve sleep mode. As a result, the 12-volt battery becomes discharged and may cause a no-start condition. - B514616 May 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Upon opening and closing the tailgate, a creaking/groaning sound can be heard from tailgate actuator. - SIB260422 Feb 6, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Engine Variants Updated. - SIB660823 Apr 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Issues with the various functions of the camera-based driver assistance systems (KAFAS system) can possibly lead to following customer complaints: KAFAS camera system deactivates itself, due to system restrictions that are not clear to the customer KAFAS ca… - SIB630322 Apr 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When unlocking the vehicle, the welcome light in the headlight "lights up eratically." - SIB120123 Apr 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
In hot ambient conditions, if the engine was running for a prolonged time while the vehicle is stationary, a jolt may be experienced while lightly accelerating. - B841422 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer is shown an incorrect GPS location in the vehicle (i.e., Nav Map, coordinates). - B840822 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The 3G network in the US has been shut down. This means that only the 4G network will be available. In the 4G network, voice calls will be transferred via the Voice over LTE (VoLTE) function. For this purpose, the SIM card must perform an IMS registration i… - B651623 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer states there is no audio playback (telephony, navigation, radio) and system sounds (PDC, turn indicators, acoustic signals) may also have failed. - B610923 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The gear selector switch (GWS) consists of the control electronics circuit and the selector lever. The sensors for recording the gearshift lever position and for inhibiting inadvertent gearshifts are integrated in the control electronics. - B610123 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to a software error, the vehicle sporadically does not achieve sleep mode. As a result, the 12-volt battery becomes discharged and may cause a no-start condition. - B320123 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When turning the steering wheel while stationary or when driving on uneven roads; cracking, creaking, or knocking noises may be heard. - B260422 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32 F (0 C) or lower. - B240223 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop: Due to a software failure, there is the possibility that the transmission does not go into "sleep mode" if the car is turned off. - B652021 Feb 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop (effective October 25, 2021) on certain Model Year 2022 BMW vehicles that were produced after October 25, 2021. Due to supply chain limitations, certain vehicles were produced without a CID with touch function and and witho… - B650422 Feb 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to component-related supply issues, the central information displays (CID) in some of the Model Year 2022 vehicles listed above were produced without the integrated touch screen function. - B610120 Feb 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer is unable to power up or charge accessories through a plug adapter inserted in the front 12-volt power socket plug. Alternatively, it will only operate when constant downward hand pressure is maintained. - B260422 Feb 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32 F (0 C) or lower. The noise goes away as the vehicle/driveline reaches operating temperature. - B841422 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer is shown an incorrect GPS location in the vehicle (i.e., Nav Map, coordinates). - B841222 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop (effective November 10, 2022) on a small number of Model Year 2023 BMW vehicles that were produced between August 8, 2022 and October 18, 2022. - B512222 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Hood lever is pulled twice but the hood only achieves the pre-latch position on both sides. - B260422 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
There is a howling or whistling noise from under the vehicle at 30 -37 mph (50 -60 km/h) when driving after a cold start, when the outside temperature is 32F (0C) or lower. - B240222 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A cracking, metallic noise from under the center of the vehicle. - B610120 Nov 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer is unable to power up or charge accessories through a plug adapter inserted in the front 12-volt power socket plug. Alternatively, it will only operate when constant downward hand pressure is maintained. - B121021 Nov 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to an unfavorable operating point, primarily in the low-end torque range, an incorrect detection of amixture that is too rich could happen. - B652022 Nov 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A check control message for the restraint system appears. In the instrument cluster, the red air bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes is stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, driver: short ci… - B651922 Oct 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The customer complains that the radio stations change by themselves. - B620322 Oct 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
After programming, the customer may complain that the Sport Mode display is not fully displayed in the instrument cluster. Instead of a red background in sport mode, the background is displayed in blue (like ECO PRO mode). - B611222 Oct 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
After opening the vehicle with the radio remote control and changing the profile, the exterior mirror settings are lost. - B610120 Oct 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer is unable to power up or charge accessories through a plug adapter inserted in the front 12-volt power socket plug. Alternatively, it will only operate when constant downward hand pressure is maintained. - B662419 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column. - B640921 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
On these Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), the air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a standstill. A rattling noise may also be heard coming from the electrical coolant condenser (EKMV). - B640422 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
An interference noise (groaning noise) can be heard from within the heating and air-conditioning unit in the center of the instrument panel. - B610120 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer is unable to power up or charge accessories through a plug adapter inserted in the front 12-volt power socket plug. Alternatively, it will only operate when constant downward hand pressure is maintained. - SIB650922 Aug 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The sound output intermittently drops out entirely. This can be reproduced with all audio sources as well as telephone and voice output. - SIB640921 Jun 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
On these Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), the air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a standstill. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38 F to 60 F+; 3 to 15+ Celsius) without changing… - SIB510822 Jun 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Whistling noise is heard coming from the front bumper while driving at highway speeds.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.