Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2018 BMW 640I peaked in 2021, with 2 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
2018 BMW 640I
Sedan, gasoline, AWD/All-Wheel Drive, built in Germany. Owner complaints on file from Feb 27, 2020 to Feb 9, 2023.
Recall campaigns covering this model year2263k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints5Below the median 2018 sedan
Severity index20.02018 sedans average 6.6
First 24 months0Complaints in its first two years
Components
40% of complaints about the 2018 BMW 640I name driver assistance
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
2 recall campaigns cover the 2018 BMW 640I
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19V-684 | Sep 27, 2019 | Back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the… | Back-over prevention | 257,473 | Software update |
| 18V-465 | Jul 11, 2018 | Crankshaft sensor may be equipped with incorrect firmware, preventing the sensor from properly processing input from the crankshaft reluctor ring,… | Engine and cooling | 5,309 | Part replacement |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2018 BMW 640I
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.
5 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Feb 9, 2023Failure Feb 1, 2023Fremont, CASuspension
I took the car in for a service and mentioned that there is a slight vibration at highway speeds. The dealer performed wheel balancing and found that the issue was still there. Following this, a software update was performed and the issue was still prevalent. The final cause was identified to be the control arm bushings. The problem I see is that a number of bushings/rubber parts are failing in the vehicle and I am being asked to pay out of pocket for what I believe is a defective part/vehicle. In the first instance, the guibo/ flex disk had cracked which was replaced. These are parts that should not fail until about 80k miles while my vehicle only has 28k miles and is barely out of new car warranty.
NHTSA complaint 11506494 - Filed Jul 25, 2022Failure Jul 22, 2022Fremont, CAPower train
I took my vehicle for a regular oil change and vehicle check at 22000 miles. The service advisor performed a routine check and found that the driveshaft flex disc had multiple cracks. If the cracks expand, it could lead to a complete failure of the disc at which point the driveshaft was come loose and can cause an accident along with extensive underbody damage. I do not understand how a certified preowned vehicle with only 22000 miles can have such a major part defect.
NHTSA complaint 11475624 - Filed May 12, 2021Failure Dec 21, 201819,000 milesTenafly, NJWarnings, Warning, BodyCrash
THE CAR ON MY RIGHT CHANGED LANES AND AND HIT THE FRONT OF MY CAR. PHOTO'S OF DAMAGE ATTACHED. THE DAMAGE WAS TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BUMPER AND PANEL ON THE FRONT SIDE. POLICE REPORT ATTACHED. THE CARFAX REPORT PRINTED 5/5/2021 SHOWS DAMAGED AREAS AS FRONT, RIGHT AND REAR. THE DAMAGE WAS LIMITED TO THE SIDE FRONT ONLY AND THE CAR WAS DRIVABLE TO THE REPAIR SHOP. THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED 12/21/2018.
NHTSA complaint 11416300 - Filed Jan 8, 2021Failure Sep 28, 201825,551 milesWashinton, DCAdaptive cruise control
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 BMW 640I. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS WITH THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BMW OF ANNAPOLIS (31 OLD MILL BOTTOM RD, ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401, (410) 349-9312) BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE HOWEVER, NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,551.
NHTSA complaint 11387120 - Filed Feb 27, 2020Failure Sep 14, 201818,000 milesWashington, DCElectrical system, Engine
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 BMW 640I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BMW OF SILVER SPRING (3211 AUTOMOTIVE BOULEVARD, SILVER SPRING, MD 20904, (888) 295-2096, WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED AND DETERMINED THAT THE FUEL SYSTEM WAS DEFECTIVE. THE FUEL SENSOR WAS REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THERE WAS NO LEAKS PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ANOTHER DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AND DETERMINED THAT THE RADIATOR SHROUD WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 18,000.
NHTSA complaint 11311834
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
1 NHTSA investigation on file
- EA21002 Engineering analysis, Airbags
Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
Opened Sep 17, 2021, still open
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
279 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.
- B720125 Feb 11, 2026 · Warranty Program/Extension
A situation may occur where the front passenger seat is not occupied; however, a “fasten seat belt” warning and a front passenger seat air bag deactivation message appears. If the situation is currently present, sit in the seat and move the seat to a slight… - B720125 Jun 10, 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… - B720125 May 1, 2025 · Warranty Program/Extension
A situation may occur where the front passenger seat is not occupied; however, a “fasten seat belt” warning and a front passenger seat air bag deactivation message appears. If the situation is currently present, sit in the seat and move the seat to a slight… - B720125 Apr 18, 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… - B010324 May 2, 2024 · Warranty Program/Extension
EVAP SYSTEM PURGE (VENT) VALVE EXT LTD WTY (ELW) 15/150 - 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 … - B630418 Mar 14, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
One or more of the LED daytime running lights are dim or discolored. - 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… - B320223 Jan 4, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SITUATION Unusual noises occur only when operating the steering column in the axial direction. 1. A one-time thump sound at the start of movement Shortly after the steering column starts moving, retracting, or extending, a one-time thump noise is heard. … - 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 - B520121 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?The front seat will not calibrate/initialize, and the stored faults cannot be deleted. - B320223 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?Unusual noises occur only when operating the steering column in the axial direction. - B640821 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a stand still. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38 F to 60 F +) without changing any climate control settings. - 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… - B340914 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) warning light comes on while driving. The following DSC fault codes for the wheel speed sensors are stored: 480712 and/or 480715 and/or 480718 and/or 48071B They cannot be cleared, even though the wheel speed sensors … - B320420 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A groaning type noise is heard during the height adjustment. - 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… - B011219 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Radiator Grille Upper and Lower Active Air Flaps limited warranty for defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 15 years/150,000 miles as determined from the original in-service date. - B651523 May 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
After programming the head unit (HU-H2), activating the FSC (German word Freischaltcode) Enabling Codes repeatedly fails. - 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. - 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… - 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. - B630418 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
One or more of the LED daytime running lights are dim or discolored. - 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. - B320420 Mar 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A groaning type noise is heard during the height adjustment. - B841422 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer is shown an incorrect GPS location in the vehicle (i.e., Nav Map, coordinates). - B612922 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The saved steering column positions, vertical and horizontal, are not stored long term. - B010122 Dec 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
With the court's FINAL approval, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has entered into a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Isley, et al. v. Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft and BMW of North America, LLC. - B651922 Oct 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The customer complains that the radio stations change by themselves. - B650414 Oct 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
According to the customer, the airbag warning light was on, but it may not be illuminated when the vehicle arrives in the workshop. 1. ACSM fault code "930A60 - Seat occupancy detection, front passenger; malfunction" is stored. The fault may or may not curr… - 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. - B840822 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to a production error, the telematics control units were delivered without an IMS configuration. - SIB010921 Aug 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Component-Specific Limited Warranty Extension. For the eligible vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the vehicle's Leak Diagnosis Module with hose assembly (NVLD, shown) to: 15 years/150,000 miles as determined … - SIB662419 Jun 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. Note: Opening, closing and starting via the BMW Digital Key or the Digital Key Card are … - SIB640821 Jun 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a stand still. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38 F to 60 F +) without changing any climate control settings. In some cases the air conditioning … - SIB010622 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Component specific limited warranty extension. This component-specific limited warranty extension applies to defects in materials or workmanship. This coverage is subject to the same vehicle eligibility requirements, limitations and exclusions that apply to… - SIB651312 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called NBT-EVO, supersede… - SIB640222 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Mist formation on the windshield inside surface may occur at departure or after MSA (automaticstart/stop). Acoustic abnormality in the area of the recirculated air flap (recirculation flap closing and opening severaltimes). The above may occur individually … - SIB610822 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When using the Key Reader to retrieve information from the customer's key, no current vehicle data is available. - SIB610722 May 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Check Control Message (CCM) displays "Vehicle key missing" after engine start. - B170121 Feb 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The quick disconnect coupling on the cylinder head coolant vent line could break at the cylinder head. This would lead to loss of coolant from the engine. - B610722 Apr 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Check Control message (CCM) displays "Vehicle key missing" after engine start. - B610121 Apr 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
48 V battery may become totally discharged, and possible replacement needed. - B111614 Mar 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This bulletin outlines the procedure for checking the engine timing chains for wear, and should be completed in conjunction with SI B11 06 14, "N63 Customer Care Package." The N63CCP and N63 Engine Check the Timing Chain are NOT mandatory Technical Campaign… - B620122 Jan 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Temporary black screen in the instrument cluster. - B320420 Nov 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A groaning type noise is heard during the height adjustment. - B650919 Nov 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customer states the following about their vehicle: active radio or music source is interrupted, the navigation is no longer available, a black screen is shown in the Control Display, the system works again after a short interruption. - B651312 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Headunit High (HU-H), also called NBT, began replacing the Car Information Computer (CIC) on certain MY2013 vehicles with option 609 (as of 7/2012 production). This uses map North America NEXT. The Headunit High 2 (HU-H2), also called NBT-EVO, supersede… - B640821 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The air conditioning cycles from cold to warm air while driving or while at a stand still. The vent outlet temperatures vary by 25 degrees Fahrenheit or more (38F to 60F +) without changing any climate control settings. In some cases the air conditioning ma… - B610721 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Groaning, scraping, or squeaking noise coming from the steering wheel area in the interior of the vehicle,when turning the steering wheel. - B341019 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Inform the customer during a consultation that the M Compound (standard equipment) and M Carbon Ceramic (optional) brakes are high-performance brake systems which are designed for sporty, dynamic driving styles. As a side effect of the highest possible brak… - SIB 62 03 21 Jul 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When the vehicle is operated in Sport Mode, the engine speed is no longer displayed in the BMW Head-Up Display (HUD). - SIB 61 09 21 Jul 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Check control message (CCM-ID 49) "You can continue driving. Drivetrain". In addition, the following information is shown on the Central Information Display (CID): "You can continue to drive. No roadside assistance necessary. To avoid subsequent damage, ar…
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.