Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2021 BMW X6 peaked in 2025, with 3 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 X6
SUV, gasoline, AWD/All-Wheel Drive, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Dec 20, 2020 to Jan 26, 2026.
Recall campaigns covering this model year777k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints7Below the median 2021 suv
Severity index14.32021 suvs average 6.1
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Components
29% of complaints about the 2021 BMW X6 name electrical system
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
7 recall campaigns cover the 2021 BMW X6
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22V-267 | Apr 20, 2022 | Roof function control unit may be programmed incorrectly, allowing the sunroof to close without the key fob present inside the vehicle | Visibility and wipers | 61,221 | Software update |
| 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 |
| 21V-062 | Feb 10, 2021 | Rotor and shaft within the integrated brake system may not have been welded properly and could separate during a hard braking event, possibly… | Brakes | 893 | Part replacement |
| 21V-031 | Jan 29, 2021 | Steering column shaft's universal joint connection may not have been tightened to specifications, and can become loose | Steering | 21 | Part replacement |
| 20V-761 | Dec 9, 2020 | Connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator may not have been assembled properly, which can cause increased electrical… | Electrical system | 812 | Part replacement |
| 20V-528 | Sep 1, 2020 | Headlamps may allow a blue light to illuminate | Lighting | 307 | Part replacement |
| 20V-483 | Aug 14, 2020 | Tires may have a damaged inner layer, possibly resulting in a rapid loss of pressure while the vehicle is moving | Tires | 42 | Part replacement |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2021 BMW X6
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.
7 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Jan 26, 2026Failure Jul 26, 202549,000 milesRichmond, TXElectrical system, Service brakes, Hydraulic
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X6. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact shifted into park while the vehicle was in motion to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, the failure was not duplicated. In addition, the contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle started after several attempts. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with starter motor failure. The contact was informed that the starter motor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000.
NHTSA complaint 11713418 - Filed Nov 25, 2025Failure Nov 14, 2025Rio Verde, AZAir bags
Wiring from knee air bag to module failed. Had to repair wiring from front driver and passenger knee air bags. Wiring had a short to ground. Resulted in a $1600 bill.
NHTSA complaint 11701406 - Filed Nov 12, 2025Failure Sep 30, 202553,000 milesTexarkana, TXElectrical system, Engine and engine cooling
The contact owns a 2021 BMW X6. The contact stated that upon start the vehicle, the drivetrain message was displayed. Overtime, the contact stated that the vehicle either failed to start or was slow to start while depressing the START/STOP button. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the starter was replaced; however, a month later, the drivetrain message returned. Additionally, the contact stated that while reversing out of a parking space, the vehicle shut off while in reverse(R). The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the crank sensor needed to be replaced. The dealer stated that the part needed to be ordered, and the contact was instructed to return in a few days for the repair. After leaving the appointment, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start up while in a parking lot and the vehicle was towed back to the dealer. Another diagnostic test was performed, and the contact was informed that the alternator, starter, and battery all needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000.
NHTSA complaint 11698929 - Filed Oct 18, 2025Failure Oct 17, 2025Staunton, VAService brakes, Steering
Unknown
NHTSA complaint 11694233 - Filed May 17, 2024Failure Apr 26, 2024Petal, MSWarnings, Automatic emergency brakingCrash
The automatic parking feature was being used to park in garage the vehicle proceed to back up without stopping and the emergency braking system didn’t engage leading to the vehicle crashing. I could have been injured if the structure of the house didn’t stop the vehicle. If someone had been behind the vehicle they would’ve been killed. The incident was reported to BMW, although the system malfunctioned the driver is responsible for maintaining control of the vehicle.The vehicle is has been repaired but system is still malfunctioning. These problems didn’t exist prior to crash.
NHTSA complaint 11589248 - Filed Mar 31, 2023Failure Mar 9, 2022Atlanta, GAUnknown or other
The AC, air system blows out a bad odor...smell like vinegar, burned plastic and rotten eggs
NHTSA complaint 11514795 - Filed Dec 20, 2020Failure Dec 19, 2020LAS Vegas NV, NVAutomatic emergency braking, Blind spot detection, Assist
IF I HAVE MADE THE PURCHASE DEPOSITING 100000 AND THE REST IN MONTHLY PAYMENTS
NHTSA complaint 11384275
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
244 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.
- B110426 Jul 17, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The manual starting of electronic engine oil level measurement from inside the vehicle, usually afterperforming an engine oil service task, is inoperative or it may lock up at between a 15% to 30% completionrate. - B010324 Jun 29, 2026 · Warranty Program/Extension
The EVAP systems purge (vent) valve 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. - B652724 May 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A check control message (CCM) for the restraint system (Air bag) appears. In the instrument cluster, the redair bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes is stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, dri… - B010325 Mar 6, 2026 · 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. - B652724 Nov 25, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A check control message (CCM) for the restraint system (Air bag) appears. In the instrument cluster, the redair bag warning light lights up permanently. One of the following fault codes is stored in the ACSM (air bag control unit): 930949 - Knee airbag, dri… - 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… - B513019 Apr 29, 2025 · 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 th e area of the door jamb. - B010325 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. - B660325 Mar 26, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A check control message is displayed, indicating that the parking assistance systems have limitedfunctionality due to errors detected within PDC sensors. The warning indicates parking assistance featureshave limited functionality while the errors continue t… - B011323 Mar 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT: F95 F96 G05 G06 G07 FRONT CENTER CONSOLE CUPHOLDER - B110521 Dec 6, 2024 · Service Campaign
The belt pulley on the mechanical coolant pump may fracture allowing the engine drive belt to come off thecoolant pump and alternator. - B652724 Oct 17, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A check control message (CCM) for the restraint system (Air bag) 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, dr… - B520524 Aug 7, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A rattling noise can be heard emanating from the area of the rear seat backrest of the second row ofseats. The noise does not occur when the rear seat backrest is folded down. - B521019 Mar 29, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The seat leather upholstery detaches from the front of the thigh support (aka knee bolster) of either front seat. - B611124 Mar 25, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
After performing a BMW Remote Software Upgrade (RSU), the functionality of the Comfort Access andPassive Go/Exit features may be reduced. Also, one or more of the following error memory entries below may be stored in the Basic Central Platform(BCP) module.… - 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 … - B310122 Mar 14, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
During inspection and/or diagnosis there is noticeable dirt/grease buildup on the axles near the inner and/o router CV boots. - B630418 Mar 14, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
One or more of the LED daytime running lights are dim or discolored. - B612723 Mar 15, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The original Conditioned Based Service (CBS) Key data point closed with 23-07 soft ware, all CBS systems are now collectively under analysis. - B510819 Jan 16, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met. - B170122 Jan 29, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Check Control message below appears even though the coolant level is not below minimum when theengine is cold. Check Control message (ID 166): Top up coolant. - 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. - B641123 Jan 5, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Check Engine light is on IHKA has stored fault 80131C âIHKA: 12V voltage sensor plausibilityâ - 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… - B541319 Jan 5, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The roller sunshade (aka sun protection or sunblind) of the front panoramic sunroof is bunching up during operation or may hang down and appear loose. - B541119 Jan 8, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This bulletin outlines known areas of possible water entry, operational noise, or wind noise for the vehicles listed above. It serves only as a diagnostic resource in troubleshooting complaints from the roof area. This bulletin and the associated attachme… - 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… - 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… - B612723 Dec 8, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When using the Key Reader to retrieve CBS information from the customer key, no current vehicle data is available, or the data does not match the maintenance schedule. - B522319 Nov 22, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Two areas of the third-row seat backrest that may cause a noise concern have been added. - B653423 Nov 22, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Customers may state that the alarm system (DWA) is not active after locking their unoccupied vehicle. Depending on the vehicleâ™s equipment and settings, no acoustic or optical confirmation (folding the mirrors/blinking confirmation) is noticeable. Additio… - B661523 Nov 16, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Emergency Stop Assistant is activated. Thisicon will appear in the CID when this function is activated. - B612723 Nov 13, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When using the Key Reader to retrieve CBS information from the customer key, no current vehicle data is available, or the data does not match the maintenance schedule. - 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 … - B011323 Oct 30, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Brightk Consulting, Inc. v. BMW of North America, LLC. The Court has granted final approval of the settlement. Note: This updated bulletin (… - B522319 Oct 20, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Second seat row blocking access to third seat row, program seat modules. Visible stitching on first row sport seat. Third seat row backrest Bowden cable routing and length change. - B660523 Oct 19, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Various functions of the camera-based driver assistance systems (ADCAM system) can lead to customer complaints. - B540421 Oct 18, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This situation can result in two customer complaints: 1. Wind noise 2. Excess water entry - B110823 Sep 15, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to an assembly ase ventilation line connections may not be securely locked. - B110823 Sep 15, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to an assembly ase ventilation line connections may not be securely locked. - B120623 Sep 20, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The engine malfunction warning is illuminated and one or more of the following faults are stored in theDME: 034D63 - Exhaust switchable cam follower, system: continuous deactivation, maximum number of switchingerrors exceeded 035601 - Exhaust switchable c… - 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… - B540123 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?Water leaking into the vehicle from the headliner/microphone area. - 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. - 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." - B661223 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop for BMW X5, X6, X7, and 7 Series sedan vehicles that were produced between July 7, 2023 and August 15, 2023. Usage of the Highway Assist function (option code 5AX) is not possible. - B652523 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW AG has issued a Delivery Stop: KNEE AIRBAG. - B652023 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?During workshop repairs with software updates, certain customer vehicles may be changed to BMW Operating System 8.5 and returned to customers without making them aware of the change. - B650222 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A check control message (CCM) for the restraint system (Air bag) appears. - B630923 Aug 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The interior lights in the rear of the passenger area do not work. - 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… - B630321 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Condensation is present on the inner surfaces in one or both taillights (circled). - B320420 Jun 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A groaning type noise is heard during the height adjustment. - 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.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.