Recalls
| Campaign | Manufacturer | Manufacturing date | Type | # of units affected | Date Owner notified Mfg | Recall Initiated by | Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products | Report Recieved Date | Record Creation Date | Regulation Part Number | FMVSS Number | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - BRAKE LIGHTS | ||||||||||||||||
| 11V438000 | BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC | from 09/01/2001 to 03/01/2005 | V (Vehicle) | 241000 | 02/15/2012 | ODI | BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC | 08/26/2011 | 08/26/2011 | |||||||
| Defect Summary | 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. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | Intermittent light operation reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions. this could cause a vehicle crash without warning. | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Bmw will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. the safety recall beganon february 15, 2012. owners may contact bmw customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov . | |||||||||||||||
Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | |||||
| SIB-63-02-01 | 08/01/2010 | 10037025 | Ready | 04/27/2011 | |
| SIB-63-02-01 | 08/01/2010 | 10037025 | Bmw: procedure for determining and replacing incandescent and halogen light bulbs under warranty. *rm | 04/27/2011 | |
Investigations
| NHTSA ID | Manufacturer | Date open | Date close | Subject | Recall campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | ||||||
| EA09019 | BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC | 12/18/2009 | 09/28/2011 | Rear Lamp Illumination | 11V438000 | |
| In a letter submitted to the office of defects investigation (odi) dated august25, 2011, bmwindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.the issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.this can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.the recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.an 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.bmw will complete dealer notification in september 2011 and will begin owner notification in october 2011.all 3 series sedans (except for the m3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between september 1, 2001 and march 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.the action taken by bmw is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.accordingly, this investigation is closed. | ||||||
| PE09036 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 08/07/2009 | 12/22/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| Odi has received complaints from consumers stating that their tail light assembly is not properly illuminating.the tail light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.the complainants have indicated that the issue is with an 8 pin connector and associated ground wiring.these components are allegedly overheating and melting due to excessive electrical current that runs through the system.bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 on february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.odi is upgrading to an ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
| DP09002 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 04/08/2009 | 08/06/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| In march 2009, the office of defects investigation (odi) received a petition from mr. mark peters requesting an investigation of rear lamp failure in model year 2002-2005 bmw 3-series vehicles.an information request letter was sent to bmw in april 2009, and odi received bmw's response in june 2009.the tail lamp assembly contains lighting for the brake lamps, tail lamps, and turn signals.a technical service bulletin (tsb) was issued by bmw in january of 2007 instructing service technicians to examine an 8 pin electrical connector for heat-related damage and to incorporate additional ground wiring to the connector.complainants have alleged that significant thermal damage to the connector and associated ground wiring has occurred.this condition can result in intermittent or total loss of all lighting (brake, tail, and turn signal) for the effected rear lamp assembly.odi will open a preliminary evaluation to further examine this issue including further evaluating bmw complaints and related warranty data. | ||||||
| EA09019 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 12/18/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | |||
| The outboard rear light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.failure of the light assembly ground circuit results in loss of all three lamps.bmw submitted complaint and warranty information showing a significant number of rear lamp assembly failures due to an open ground connection at the eight pin connector of the light assembly.this results in the loss of the rear turn signal.overheating of the ground circuit electrical pin, possibly due to increased resistance and or high current flow, is indicated in some failures.additionally bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 in february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.the additional ground wire added by the procedure reduces the current flow at the eight pin connector.odi is opening this ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - BACK UP LIGHTS | ||||||
| DP09002 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 04/08/2009 | 08/06/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| In march 2009, the office of defects investigation (odi) received a petition from mr. mark peters requesting an investigation of rear lamp failure in model year 2002-2005 bmw 3-series vehicles.an information request letter was sent to bmw in april 2009, and odi received bmw's response in june 2009.the tail lamp assembly contains lighting for the brake lamps, tail lamps, and turn signals.a technical service bulletin (tsb) was issued by bmw in january of 2007 instructing service technicians to examine an 8 pin electrical connector for heat-related damage and to incorporate additional ground wiring to the connector.complainants have alleged that significant thermal damage to the connector and associated ground wiring has occurred.this condition can result in intermittent or total loss of all lighting (brake, tail, and turn signal) for the effected rear lamp assembly.odi will open a preliminary evaluation to further examine this issue including further evaluating bmw complaints and related warranty data. | ||||||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - BRAKE LIGHTS | ||||||
| EA09019 | BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC | 12/18/2009 | 09/28/2011 | Rear Lamp Illumination | 11V438000 | |
| In a letter submitted to the office of defects investigation (odi) dated august25, 2011, bmwindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.the issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.this can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.the recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.an 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.bmw will complete dealer notification in september 2011 and will begin owner notification in october 2011.all 3 series sedans (except for the m3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between september 1, 2001 and march 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.the action taken by bmw is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.accordingly, this investigation is closed. | ||||||
| PE09036 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 08/07/2009 | 12/22/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| Odi has received complaints from consumers stating that their tail light assembly is not properly illuminating.the tail light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.the complainants have indicated that the issue is with an 8 pin connector and associated ground wiring.these components are allegedly overheating and melting due to excessive electrical current that runs through the system.bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 on february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.odi is upgrading to an ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
| EA09019 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 12/18/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | |||
| The outboard rear light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.failure of the light assembly ground circuit results in loss of all three lamps.bmw submitted complaint and warranty information showing a significant number of rear lamp assembly failures due to an open ground connection at the eight pin connector of the light assembly.this results in the loss of the rear turn signal.overheating of the ground circuit electrical pin, possibly due to increased resistance and or high current flow, is indicated in some failures.additionally bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 in february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.the additional ground wire added by the procedure reduces the current flow at the eight pin connector.odi is opening this ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
| DP09002 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 04/08/2009 | 08/06/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| In march 2009, the office of defects investigation (odi) received a petition from mr. mark peters requesting an investigation of rear lamp failure in model year 2002-2005 bmw 3-series vehicles.an information request letter was sent to bmw in april 2009, and odi received bmw's response in june 2009.the tail lamp assembly contains lighting for the brake lamps, tail lamps, and turn signals.a technical service bulletin (tsb) was issued by bmw in january of 2007 instructing service technicians to examine an 8 pin electrical connector for heat-related damage and to incorporate additional ground wiring to the connector.complainants have alleged that significant thermal damage to the connector and associated ground wiring has occurred.this condition can result in intermittent or total loss of all lighting (brake, tail, and turn signal) for the effected rear lamp assembly.odi will open a preliminary evaluation to further examine this issue including further evaluating bmw complaints and related warranty data. | ||||||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TAIL LIGHTS | ||||||
| EA09019 | BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC | 12/18/2009 | 09/28/2011 | Rear Lamp Illumination | 11V438000 | |
| In a letter submitted to the office of defects investigation (odi) dated august25, 2011, bmwindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.the issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.this can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.the recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.an 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.bmw will complete dealer notification in september 2011 and will begin owner notification in october 2011.all 3 series sedans (except for the m3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between september 1, 2001 and march 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.the action taken by bmw is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.accordingly, this investigation is closed. | ||||||
| PE09036 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 08/07/2009 | 12/22/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| Odi has received complaints from consumers stating that their tail light assembly is not properly illuminating.the tail light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.the complainants have indicated that the issue is with an 8 pin connector and associated ground wiring.these components are allegedly overheating and melting due to excessive electrical current that runs through the system.bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 on february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.odi is upgrading to an ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
| EA09019 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 12/18/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | |||
| The outboard rear light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.failure of the light assembly ground circuit results in loss of all three lamps.bmw submitted complaint and warranty information showing a significant number of rear lamp assembly failures due to an open ground connection at the eight pin connector of the light assembly.this results in the loss of the rear turn signal.overheating of the ground circuit electrical pin, possibly due to increased resistance and or high current flow, is indicated in some failures.additionally bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 in february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.the additional ground wire added by the procedure reduces the current flow at the eight pin connector.odi is opening this ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
| DP09002 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 04/08/2009 | 08/06/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| In march 2009, the office of defects investigation (odi) received a petition from mr. mark peters requesting an investigation of rear lamp failure in model year 2002-2005 bmw 3-series vehicles.an information request letter was sent to bmw in april 2009, and odi received bmw's response in june 2009.the tail lamp assembly contains lighting for the brake lamps, tail lamps, and turn signals.a technical service bulletin (tsb) was issued by bmw in january of 2007 instructing service technicians to examine an 8 pin electrical connector for heat-related damage and to incorporate additional ground wiring to the connector.complainants have alleged that significant thermal damage to the connector and associated ground wiring has occurred.this condition can result in intermittent or total loss of all lighting (brake, tail, and turn signal) for the effected rear lamp assembly.odi will open a preliminary evaluation to further examine this issue including further evaluating bmw complaints and related warranty data. | ||||||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TURN SIGNAL | ||||||
| EA09019 | BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC | 12/18/2009 | 09/28/2011 | Rear Lamp Illumination | 11V438000 | |
| In a letter submitted to the office of defects investigation (odi) dated august25, 2011, bmwindicated that it will conduct a voluntary recall campaign to remedy the subject vehicles.the issue involves the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel.through normal vehicle use over time, the rear lamps ground wiring and associated 8-pin connector can experience an increase of the resistance at the electrical contact points.this can lead to intermittent or permanent loss of the rear lamp functions which include tail, brake, and turn signal operation.the recall consists of modifying the rear lamps in the vehicles body panel by adding a secondary ground connection in parallel to the existing primary ground connection.an 8-pin connector that attaches the primary ground wiring to the rear lamp assembly will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.bmw will complete dealer notification in september 2011 and will begin owner notification in october 2011.all 3 series sedans (except for the m3 sedan which utilized a different rear lamp assembly) that were built between september 1, 2001 and march 1, 2005 are included in this recall, totalling approximately 241,000 vehicles.the action taken by bmw is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.accordingly, this investigation is closed. | ||||||
| DP09002 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 04/08/2009 | 08/06/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| In march 2009, the office of defects investigation (odi) received a petition from mr. mark peters requesting an investigation of rear lamp failure in model year 2002-2005 bmw 3-series vehicles.an information request letter was sent to bmw in april 2009, and odi received bmw's response in june 2009.the tail lamp assembly contains lighting for the brake lamps, tail lamps, and turn signals.a technical service bulletin (tsb) was issued by bmw in january of 2007 instructing service technicians to examine an 8 pin electrical connector for heat-related damage and to incorporate additional ground wiring to the connector.complainants have alleged that significant thermal damage to the connector and associated ground wiring has occurred.this condition can result in intermittent or total loss of all lighting (brake, tail, and turn signal) for the effected rear lamp assembly.odi will open a preliminary evaluation to further examine this issue including further evaluating bmw complaints and related warranty data. | ||||||
| EA09019 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 12/18/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | |||
| The outboard rear light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.failure of the light assembly ground circuit results in loss of all three lamps.bmw submitted complaint and warranty information showing a significant number of rear lamp assembly failures due to an open ground connection at the eight pin connector of the light assembly.this results in the loss of the rear turn signal.overheating of the ground circuit electrical pin, possibly due to increased resistance and or high current flow, is indicated in some failures.additionally bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 in february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.the additional ground wire added by the procedure reduces the current flow at the eight pin connector.odi is opening this ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
| PE09036 | BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE | 08/07/2009 | 12/22/2009 | REAR LAMP ILLUMINATION | ||
| Odi has received complaints from consumers stating that their tail light assembly is not properly illuminating.the tail light assembly consists of a turn signal lamp, a tail lamp and a brake lamp.the complainants have indicated that the issue is with an 8 pin connector and associated ground wiring.these components are allegedly overheating and melting due to excessive electrical current that runs through the system.bmw issued a technical service bulletin (tsb) sib-630306 on february 2007 to address the condition by adding supplementary ground wiring to the tail lamp assembly.odi is upgrading to an ea to further investigate the issue. | ||||||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | |||
| 01/09/2013 | 103000 | 1 | |
| Burnt bowl in the headlights causing the xenon light to have diminished light output. night driving is very difficult due to the headlight not being bright enough anymore. replacement of the assemblies will only fix this temporarily until the bowls but again and the problem returned. *tr | |||
| 01/09/2013 | 103000 | ||
| Burnt bowl in the headlights causing the xenon light to have diminished light output. night driving is very difficult due to the headlight not being bright enough anymore. replacement of the assemblies will only fix this temprarily untill the bowls butn again and the problem returnd | |||
| 12/20/2012 | |||
| Bmw e46 equiped with zkw brand headlights suffer from a burnt, melted, and cracked reflector bowl dramatically reducing the bi-xenon light output, making it difficult and unsafe to drive at night. this is a very common issue and needs to be resolved for drivers and others safety during night. | |||
| 09/19/2012 | 99960 | ||
| E46 bmw's with zkw xenon head lamps suffer from poor bulb projectors which burn to the point that light output is nearly none. this is defect is known by bmwna but nothing has been done to correct it. | |||
| 03/01/2012 | 81875 | 1 | |
| It appears that a design defect has caused housings for bi-xenon headlights to be subject to heat stress, resulting in discoloration and cracking. as a result visibility during nighttime driving is significantly impacted when using both low-and high-beams. approximate cost for replacement parts is in excess of $2,000, not including labor. *tr | |||
| 03/04/2012 | 124000 | 1 | |
| The headlights of the car get progressively dimmer over time. changing headlight bulbs (xenon hid d2s 4300k) does nothing because the reflective coating on the headlight bowls has melted / burnt off. there is a scent of hot plastic with the headlights recently on and protective covers removed. the headlight bowls appear darkly charred just above the bulb area. *tr | |||
| 03/01/2012 | 81875 | ||
| It appears that a design defect has caused housings for bi-xenon headlights to be subject to heat stress, resulting in discoloration and cracking. as a result visibility during nighttime driving is significantly impacted when using both low-and high-beams. approximate cost for replacement parts is in excess of $2,000, not including labor. | |||
| 03/04/2012 | 124000 | 1 | |
| The headlights of the car get progressively dimmer over time. changing headlight bulbs (xenon hid d2s 4300k) does nothing because the reflective coating on the headlight bowls has melted / burnt off. there is a scent of hot plastic with the headlights recently on and protective covers removed. the headlight bowls appear darkly charred just above the bulb area. *tr | |||
| 06/01/2012 | 95000 | 1 | |
| After purchasing my 330i in north salem, ny, i spent about 30 hours driving the car home to florida. i made it home late at night and pulled the car into my garage. once inside, i noticed small wisps of smoke exiting the hood, just above each headlight. i opened the hood and smelled a faint burning plastic smell. through online research and investigation on the vehicle, i found the projector headlight reflector bowls were severely 'burnt', something very common on these style headlights on this car. i researched more and found that these reflectors were made of plastic, and over time would overheat and burn, losing their reflective coating. this loss of reflective coating eventually leads to severely diminished light output. i researched how to replace or repair the lights, and eventually retrofitted newer metal projector bowls from a 2006+ bmw. this retrofit while not permanent, has helped. this is a very serious problem. in addition to the lack of headlight output, there is a serious fire hazard involved with this design flaw. *tr | |||
| 03/04/2012 | 124000 | 1 | |
| The headlights of the car get progressively dimmer over time. changing headlight bulbs (xenon hid d2s 4300k) does nothing because the reflective coating on the headlight bowls has melted / burnt off. there is a scent of hot plastic with the headlights recently on and protective covers removed. the headlight bowls appear darkly charred just above the bulb area. *tr | |||
| 06/01/2012 | 95000 | 1 | |
| After purchasing my 330i in north salem, ny, i spent about 30 hours driving the car home to florida. i made it home late at night and pulled the car into my garage. once inside, i noticed small wisps of smoke exiting the hood, just above each headlight. i opened the hood and smelled a faint burning plastic smell. through online research and investigation on the vehicle, i found the projector headlight reflector bowls were severely 'burnt', something very common on these style headlights on this car. i researched more and found that these reflectors were made of plastic, and over time would overheat and burn, losing their reflective coating. this loss of reflective coating eventually leads to severely diminished light output. i researched how to replace or repair the lights, and eventually retrofitted newer metal projector bowls from a 2006+ bmw. this retrofit while not permanent, has helped. this is a very serious problem. in addition to the lack of headlight output, there is a serious fire hazard involved with this design flaw. *tr | |||
| 03/04/2012 | 124000 | ||
| The headlights of the car get progressively dimmer over time. changing headlight bulbs (xenon hid d2s 4300k) does nothing because the reflective coating on the headlight bowls has melted / burnt off. there is a scent of hot plastic with the headlights recently on and protective covers removed. the headlight bowls appear darkly charred just above the bulb area. | |||
| 06/01/2012 | 95000 | 1 | |
| After purchasing my 330i in north salem, ny, i spent about 30 hours driving the car home to florida. i made it home late at night and pulled the car into my garage. once inside, i noticed small wisps of smoke exiting the hood, just above each headlight. i opened the hood and smelled a faint burning plastic smell. through online research and investigation on the vehicle, i found the projector headlight reflector bowls were severely 'burnt', something very common on these style headlights on this car. i researched more and found that these reflectors were made of plastic, and over time would overheat and burn, losing their reflective coating. this loss of reflective coating eventually leads to severely diminished light output. i researched how to replace or repair the lights, and eventually retrofitted newer metal projector bowls from a 2006+ bmw. this retrofit while not permanent, has helped. this is a very serious problem. in addition to the lack of headlight output, there is a serious fire hazard involved with this design flaw. *tr | |||
| 06/01/2012 | 95000 | ||
| After purchasing my 330i in north salem, ny, i spent about 30 hours driving the car home to florida. i made it home late at night and pulled the car into my garage. once inside, i noticed small wisps of smoke exiting the hood, just above each headlight. i opened the hood and smelled a faint burning plastic smell. through online research and investigation on the vehicle, i found the projector headlight reflector bowls were severely 'burnt', something very common on these style headlights on this car. i researched more and found that these reflectors were made of plastic, and over time would overheat and burn, losing their reflective coating. this loss of reflective coating eventually leads to severely diminished light output. i researched how to replace or repair the lights, and eventually retrofitted newer metal projector bowls from a 2006+ bmw. this retrofit while not permanent, has helped. this is a very serious problem. in addition to the lack of headlight output, there is a serious fire hazard involved with this design flaw. | |||
| 07/16/2012 | 95000 | 1 | |
| I have owned this car for approximately 4 years now and have noticed a gradual decrease of the brightness of my headlights during that time period. i took the car to bmw and they said i have a model of car that the reflectors break down due to the heat of the xenon bulbs. it apparently occurs in my model car with zkw reflectors from years 2003 - 2004. i asked the mechanic if this was something that was going to be recalled and he literally laughed. this defect costs well over $2000 in parts alone and is a definite safety hazard. when i am on roads that are not well lit, it seems as though my fog lights actually provide better illumination of the road that my headlights do. in my opinion this is a serious safety hazard and warrants a recall. please investigate this matter further. *tr | |||
| 07/13/2012 | 68000 | 1 | |
| Dear nhtsa, the headlight design of bmw's e46 bodies are just horrible. light output is close to none creating a significant problem regarding visibility. the reason is due to bmw's reflector bowl that deteriorates through out time due to its plastic material and finally ends up burning. it is so bad that the fog lights produce much more light then its low beams. we definitely need your help nhtsa because bmw sure does not want to help, their solution is that you have to replace the whole headlight which is 1200 a piece. millions of e46 owners have to deal with this problem and is a major safety concern. nhtsa investigators must go and investigate the problem so they know how bad it really is. yes that means bmw will loose millions of dollars but it is safety that matters, we don't want any person or child to be killed just because of a poor headlight design. only solution to this problem is up to your guys, nhtsa. thank you for taking time to read my message, i really appreciate it. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). *tr | |||
| 01/01/2011 | 80000 | ||
| Headlights of 2004 bmw 330i with xenons are made by manufacturing company zkw and bound to fail. visibility and light output becomes extremely poor, that you must drive around with extra lights, or high beams on. when you open up the reflective case, you will see that both front headlights driver and passenger side have burnt bowls, which do not allow any light output at all. this is extremely dangerous, i have gotten into an accident due to not being able to see far distance at night. please address and investigate this matter immediately. | |||
| 02/27/2012 | 118000 | ||
| Purchased a used 2004 bmw 330i. the headlight output is very dim, and upon research into the matter, have learned that the supplied zkw headlight assemblies contain plastic reflector bowls that are prone to melting and/or burning. i inspected my headlight assemblies and found this to be the case. the reflector bowls in my headlights are burnt, and consequently my headlights are not nearly as bright and effective as they should be. this is a safety hazard - nighttime visibility is something that should be taken seriously by a manufacturer. | |||
| 11/01/2011 | |||
| Reflective coating melted inside the headlights, rendering them useless. extremely expensive to replace. | |||
| 12/14/2011 | 56000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. the contact stated that the vehicle was parked and he noticed that the low beam headlights were illuminated with an inadequate amount of brightness. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis and the technician stated that the plastic reflector bowls were poorly designed. the technician also stated that these bowls melted over an extended period of time due to heat exposure. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 56,000. the vin was unavailable. sm. | |||
| 11/01/2011 | |||
| Reflective coating melted inside the headlights, rendering them useless. extremely expensive to replace. | |||
| 12/14/2011 | 56000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. the contact stated that the vehicle was parked and he noticed that the low beam headlights were illuminated with an inadequate amount of brightness. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis and the technician stated that the plastic reflector bowls were poorly designed. the technician also stated that these bowls melted over an extended period of time due to heat exposure. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 56,000. the vin was unavailable. sm. | |||
| 11/01/2011 | |||
| Reflective coating melted inside the headlights, rendering them useless. extremely expensive to replace. | |||
| 12/14/2011 | 56000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. the contact stated that the vehicle was parked and he noticed that the low beam headlights were illuminated with an inadequate amount of brightness. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis and the technician stated that the plastic reflector bowls were poorly designed. the technician also stated that these bowls melted over an extended period of time due to heat exposure. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 56,000. the vin was unavailable. sm. | |||
| 11/01/2011 | |||
| Reflective coating melted inside the headlights, rendering them useless. extremely expensive to replace. | |||
| 12/14/2011 | 56000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while the vehicle was parked with the low beam headlights activated, the contact noticed both headlights illuminated inadequate brightness. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis. the technician informed the headlight plastic reflector bowls were poorly designed and melted over an extended period of time due to heat exposure. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 56,000. the vin was unavailable. js | |||
| 08/01/2011 | |||
| My headlights are not very bright and it looks like the reflective coating inside the light has been cooked off. i had a 2001 and the lights were much better they were the same hid xenon type . thank you | |||
| 12/13/2011 | 60000 | ||
| The xenon projector assembly is made out of plastic and is burning/melting. the light output is roughly 20% of the original. | |||
| 11/17/2011 | 1 | ||
| 2003 and 2004 3 series models with xenon headlamps manufactured by zkw have a defect in which the heat from the xenon headlight bulbs are melting the plastic projectors or reflector bowls. this causes a drastic reduction in projected light. the first sign of the problem is discoloration of the chrome coated plastic reflector bowl. eventually the reflector bowls show signs of melting. it seems the cause is likely a combination of the xenon bulbs being too close to the plastic reflectors and or the plastic's heat resistance is not high enough. in 2005 bmw had picked a new manufacturer for xenon headlamps that have an aluminum reflector bowl. however bmw will not admit that the zkw brand headlamps have a defect. the only solution bmw has offered is to have the headlamps replaced for $2400 with the same zkw seemingly defective lamps. this is not a solution as it doesn't solve the problem and is only a temporary and expensive fix in my opinion. even the high beam mode is not bright enough to safely drive at night. there are also halogen lamps that act as running lights during the day and are intermittent flashers. in order to see while driving at night, i have had to hold down the flasher stick on the left side of the steering wheel in order to keep the halogen flashers on. it is tempting to re-wire the halogen lamps to the high beam switch so i do not have to hold the stick the entire time i am driving. even though the halogens are not intended to be driving lights, it is much safer in my opinion to use them as a substitute even though it is dangerous to on-coming traffic due to the brightness and projection angle of the halogen lights. it is ridiculous to me that i would have to go to these lengths just to have safe driving lights. i think bmw should offer a re-call for these xenon headlights and supply a new part that is not defective as the zkw lights seem to be. | |||
| 11/17/2011 | |||
| 2003 and 2004 3 series models with xenon headlamps manufactured by zkw have a defect in which the heat from the xenon headlight bulbs are melting the plastic projectors or reflector bowls. this causes a drastic reduction in projected light. the first sign of the problem is discoloration of the chrome coated plastic reflector bowl. eventually the reflector bowls show signs of melting. it seems the cause is likely a combination of the xenon bulbs being too close to the plastic reflectors and or the plastic's heat resistance is not high enough. in 2005 bmw had picked a new manufacturer for xenon headlamps that have an aluminum reflector bowl. however bmw will not admit that the zkw brand headlamps have a defect. the only solution bmw has offered is to have the headlamps replaced for $2400 with the same zkw seemingly defective lamps. this is not a solution as it doesn't solve the problem and is only a temporary and expensive fix in my opinion. even the high beam mode is not bright enough to safely drive at night. there are also halogen lamps that act as running lights during the day and are intermittent flashers. in order to see while driving at night, i have had to hold down the flasher stick on the left side of the steering wheel in order to keep the halogen flashers on. it is tempting to re-wire the halogen lamps to the high beam switch so i do not have to hold the stick the entire time i am driving. even though the halogens are not intended to be driving lights, it is much safer in my opinion to use them as a substiute even though it is dangerous to on-coming traffic due to the brightness and projection angle of the halogen lights. it is ridiculous to me that i would have to go to these lengths just to have safe driving lights. i think bmw should offer a re-call for these xenon headlights and supply a new part that is not defective as the zkw lights seem to be. | |||
| 07/08/2011 | 120000 | ||
| I own a 2004 bmw 330i m-performance edition. my headlights are manufactured by a company called zkw. i am canadian and my car is a canadian car but the faulty part in question is common to both us-spec and cdn-spec bmw 3-series. my headlight output is extemely poor. in inclement weather, this issue is compunded. i now must always run with my foglights on to aid the headlights. this is not a safe solution to the problem. foglights are designed to help the driver see your more immediate surroundings. the distance that the light is shone is much shorter than it should be. i am not able to see more that 3-5 meters in front of my vehicle. the 'incident' date noted above is when i had struck a raccoon with my vehicle that i should have seen much much sooner, giving me more time to react or make an evasive maneuver. this is significant because i was not travelling faster than 60-70 kph. the result was a $1,200 repair to my front bumper and bumper trim which sustained damage from the animal. from what i understand, all 3-series purchased in 2003 and 2004 which feature xenon-headlights made by zkw suffer from a design flaw with the reflector bowl. over time this reflector bowl, which is made of plastic, tends to get fried and discoloured as a result of the heat eminating from the xenon bulb. this causes the reflector bowl to lose it's reflective properties and as result, light output is extremely poor. for model year 2005, bmw went with a different headlight manufacturer which offered headlights which featured and aluminum reflector bowl which is more resilient to the temperatures caused by the xenon bulb. to me, this shows bmw acknowledging the design flaw, especially since model year 2005 was the last year bmw made a 3-series sedan in this chassis. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 60000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while parked, the contact noticed that the tail light warning light was illuminated. the contact inspected the tail lights and noticed that the pin in the tail light assembly was corroded on the passenger and driver sides. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing where the technician advised that the tail light assembly would have to be rewired. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign id number: 11v438000 (exterior lighting:tail lights) but was advised by the manufacturer that the vehicle was not included in the recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 60,000. kmj | |||
| 07/08/2011 | 120000 | ||
| I own a 2004 bmw 330i m-performance edition. my headlights are manufactured by a company called zkw. i am canadian and my car is a canadian car but the faulty part in question is common to both us-spec and cdn-spec bmw 3-series. my headlight output is extemely poor. in inclement weather, this issue is compunded. i now must always run with my foglights on to aid the headlights. this is not a safe solution to the problem. foglights are designed to help the driver see your more immediate surroundings. the distance that the light is shone is much shorter than it should be. i am not able to see more that 3-5 meters in front of my vehicle. the 'incident' date noted above is when i had struck a raccoon with my vehicle that i should have seen much much sooner, giving me more time to react or make an evasive maneuver. this is significant because i was not travelling faster than 60-70 kph. the result was a $1,200 repair to my front bumper and bumper trim which sustained damage from the animal. from what i understand, all 3-series purchased in 2003 and 2004 which feature xenon-headlights made by zkw suffer from a design flaw with the reflector bowl. over time this reflector bowl, which is made of plastic, tends to get fried and discoloured as a result of the heat eminating from the xenon bulb. this causes the reflector bowl to lose it's reflective properties and as result, light output is extremely poor. for model year 2005, bmw went with a different headlight manufacturer which offered headlights which featured and aluminum reflector bowl which is more resilient to the temperatures caused by the xenon bulb. to me, this shows bmw acknowledging the design flaw, especially since model year 2005 was the last year bmw made a 3-series sedan in this chassis. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 60000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while parked, the contact noticed that the tail light warning light was illuminated. the contact inspected the tail lights and noticed that the pin in the tail light assembly was corroded on the passenger and driver sides. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing where the technician advised that the tail light assembly would have to be rewired. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign id number: 11v438000 (exterior lighting:tail lights) but was advised by the manufacturer that the vehicle was not included in the recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 60,000. kmj | |||
| 11/03/2008 | |||
| The xenon headlights burn and discolor the reflective housing and the lens cover discolors. this makes the headlight virtually useless when driving at night. you would be better off mounting two fisher-price toy flashlights up front. this is a major safety hazard. in order to see i must turn on my fog lights or drive with my highbeams on. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 60000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while parked the contact noticed the tail light warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact inspected the tail lights and noticed the pin in the tail light assembly had corroded on the passenger and drivers side. the the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic. the technician stated the tail light assembly would have to be rewired. there was a recall under nhtsa campaign id number: 11v438000 (exterior lighting:tail lights)that may be related to the failure. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vin was not included. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 60,000. ds | |||
| 11/03/2008 | |||
| The xenon headlights burn and discolor the reflective housing and the lens cover discolors. this makes the headlight virtually useless when driving at night. you would be better off mounting two fisher-price toy flashlights up front. this is a major safety hazard. in order to see i must turn on my fog lights or drive with my highbeams on. | |||
| 07/15/2011 | 117000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while driving approximately 65 mph, the contact noticed that the visibility of the headlight reflectors was very poor. after inspecting the headlights the contact noticed that the area around the headlight reflectors was burned. the contact replaced the bulb. the failure continued after the replacement of the bulbs. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the headlight assembly would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 117,000. | |||
| 07/15/2011 | 117000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while driving approximately 65 mph, the contact noticed that the visibility of the headlight reflectors was very poor. after inspecting the headlights the contact noticed that the area around the headlight reflectors was burned. the contact replaced the bulb. the failure continued after the replacement of the bulbs. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the headlight assembly would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 117,000. kmj | |||
| 07/15/2011 | 117000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while driving at approximately 65 mph the contact noticed the visibility of the headlight reflectors was very poor. after inspecting the headlights the contact noticed the area around the headlight reflectors had burned. the contact replaced the bulb. the failure continued after the replacement of the bulbs. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the headlight assembly would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 117,000. ds | |||
| 10/26/2005 | 115000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. the contact stated that the exterior lights would only work intermittently with the illumination of an unknown warning light. the dealer was notified of the failure who advised that her vin was not included in the recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number: 11v438000 (exterior lighting: tail lights). the manufacturer was also contacted who confirmed that her vin was not included in the recall and offered no further assistance. the failure mileage was 115,000. | |||
| 10/26/2005 | 115000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. the contact stated that the exterior lights would only work intermittently with the illumination of an unknown warning light. the dealer was notified of the failure who advised that her vin was not included in the recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number: 11v438000 (exterior lighting: tail lights). the manufacturer was also contacted who confirmed that her vin was not included in the recall and offered no further assistance. the failure mileage was 115,000. kmj | |||
| 10/26/2005 | 115000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. the contact stated the exterior lights on her vehicle works intermittently and a warning light constantly illuminates. the dealer was notified who stated her vin was not included in the recall. the nhtsa campaign id number: 11v438000 component: exterior lighting: tail lights. the manufacturer was notified who stated her vin was not included in the recall. they offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 115,000. mw | |||
| 05/03/2004 | |||
| I have noted that the zkw brand hid headlights on my bmw are less than adequate at providing significant lighting for night driving conditions. i found upon dissasebly of my headlight assembly the reflective base or bowl is a coated plastic part that has been significantly discolored from normal use. i am filing a report to have nhtsa look further into the problem and recommend the party responsible offer a reasonable fix. currently the factory (bmw) recommends replacement of a $1200 (each, two total) headlight assembly. i request a mandate by the nhtsa for replacement of the affected headlight assembly's by bmw, at bmw own cost. i feel the sub standard manufactuing process of this vital part may cause significant safety risks for people who require the proper function of the headlight. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 100000 | ||
| Bi-xenon headlights gradually grew dimmer after about 100,000 (6 years) the lights were unsafe to use after dark. the lights were repaired by an automotive lighting speciality shop by installing aftermarket headlight projectors. the original reflector bowls on the zkw manufactured projectors were burned and partially melted by the xenon bulbs and was no longer projecting the light ahead of the vehicle. | |||
| 01/30/2009 | 83293 | ||
| The zkw-brand xenon headlights that came equipped on the vehicle (a 2004 bmw 330i) have lost their brightness intensity, resulting in nighttime light output that is dangerously low. the problem specifically is that the heat from the projector bulbs melt or discolor the reflective bowls, which decreases the high- and low-beam light output. the heat also discolors the plastic headlight lenses. the bulbs still throw a very low level of light, but without the reflectivity they do little to illuminate the road at night. service records indicate that bmw noted the problem on my vehicle in the first three months of 2009, but if the parts were replaced they have failed again since then. this is a non-wear item. many other vehicle owners have also reported this problem. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 100000 | ||
| Bi-xenon headlights gradually grew dimmer after about 100,000 (6 years) the lights were unsafe to use after dark. the lights were repaired by an automotive lighting speciality shop by installing aftermarket headlight projectors. the original reflector bowls on the zkw manufactured projectors were burned and partially melted by the xenon bulbs and was no longer projecting the light ahead of the vehicle. | |||
| 01/30/2009 | 83293 | ||
| The zkw-brand xenon headlights that came equipped on the vehicle (a 2004 bmw 330i) have lost their brightness intensity, resulting in nighttime light output that is dangerously low. the problem specifically is that the heat from the projector bulbs melt or discolor the reflective bowls, which decreases the high- and low-beam light output. the heat also discolors the plastic headlight lenses. the bulbs still throw a very low level of light, but without the reflectivity they do little to illuminate the road at night. service records indicate that bmw noted the problem on my vehicle in the first three months of 2009, but if the parts were replaced they have failed again since then. this is a non-wear item. many other vehicle owners have also reported this problem. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 100000 | ||
| Bi-xenon headlights gradually grew dimmer after about 100,000 (6 years) the lights were unsafe to use after dark. the lights were repaired by an automotive lighting speciality shop by installing aftermarket headlight projectors. the original reflector bowls on the zkw manufactured projectors were burned and partially melted by the xenon bulbs and was no longer projecting the light ahead of the vehicle. | |||
| 01/30/2009 | 83293 | ||
| The zkw-brand xenon headlights that came equipped on the vehicle (a 2004 bmw 330i) have lost their brightness intensity, resulting in nighttime light output that is dangerously low. the problem specifically is that the heat from the projector bulbs melt or discolor the reflective bowls, which decreases the high- and low-beam light output. the heat also discolors the plastic headlight lenses. the bulbs still throw a very low level of light, but without the reflectivity they do little to illuminate the road at night. service records indicate that bmw noted the problem on my vehicle in the first three months of 2009, but if the parts were replaced they have failed again since then. this is a non-wear item. many other vehicle owners have also reported this problem. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 100000 | ||
| Bi-xenon headlights gradually grew dimmer after about 100,000 (6 years) the lights were unsafe to use after dark. the lights were repaired by an automotive lighting speciality shop by installing aftermarket headlight projectors. the original reflector bowls on the zkw manufactured projectors were burned and partially melted by the xenon bulbs and was no longer projecting the light ahead of the vehicle. | |||
| 01/30/2009 | 83293 | ||
| The zkw-brand xenon headlights that came equipped on the vehicle (a 2004 bmw 330i) have lost their brightness intensity, resulting in nighttime light output that is dangerously low. the problem specifically is that the heat from the projector bulbs melt or discolor the reflective bowls, which decreases the high- and low-beam light output. the heat also discolors the plastic headlight lenses. the bulbs still throw a very low level of light, but without the reflectivity they do little to illuminate the road at night. service records indicate that bmw noted the problem on my vehicle in the first three months of 2009, but if the parts were replaced they have failed again since then. this is a non-wear item. many other vehicle owners have also reported this problem. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 100000 | ||
| Bi-xenon headlights gradually grew dimmer after about 100,000 (6 years) the lights were unsafe to use after dark. the lights were repaired by an automotive lighting speciality shop by installing aftermarket headlight projectors. the original reflector bowls on the zkw manufactured projectors were burned and partially melted by the xenon bulbs and was no longer projecting the light ahead of the vehicle. | |||
| 01/30/2009 | 83293 | ||
| The zkw-brand xenon headlights that came equipped on the vehicle (a 2004 bmw 330i) have lost their brightness intensity, resulting in nighttime light output that is dangerously low. the problem specifically is that the heat from the projector bulbs melt or discolor the reflective bowls, which decreases the high- and low-beam light output. the heat also discolors the plastic headlight lenses. the bulbs still throw a very low level of light, but without the reflectivity they do little to illuminate the road at night. service records indicate that bmw noted the problem on my vehicle in the first three months of 2009, but if the parts were replaced they have failed again since then. this is a non-wear item. many other vehicle owners have also reported this problem. | |||
| 07/05/2010 | |||
| Xenon (zkw) headlamps in the car are burnt, thus diminishing 80% of light that is supposed to be coming from the lamp. very dangerous for night travel. | |||
| 03/01/2011 | 114000 | ||
| Xenon reflectors in zkw headlights are burnt, and are cracking. this is significantly reducing light output of the vehicle. | |||
| 03/30/2011 | 87000 | ||
| The head light reflecting bowls on hid headlights are buring out thereby resulting in poor lighting under all conditions. | |||
| 01/01/2008 | 45000 | ||
| Low-beam hid headlight reflector bowls on both sides of car have burned and melted causing very low light output and dangerous night driving conditions. the reflector bowls are zkw brand and appear to be made of plastic of some kind. | |||
| 07/18/2011 | 115000 | ||
| Dramatically reduced headlight output due to defective factory components. | |||
| 07/12/2011 | 41000 | ||
| Bmw zkw headlight defect. burnt bowls causing unsafe nightly illumination | |||
| 07/08/2011 | |||
| 2004 bmw 330i sedan: xenon headlight reflector bowls (zkw brand) are scorched practically eliminating any light output from the headlight. | |||
| 07/10/2011 | 68000 | ||
| The reflector portion of the vehicle's xenon headlights appear burned/discolored, which significantly reduces their brightness thereby reducing nighttime visibility. | |||
| 07/12/2011 | 41000 | ||
| Bmw zkw headlight defect. burnt bowls causing unsafe nightly illumination | |||
| 07/08/2011 | |||
| 2004 bmw 330i sedan: xenon headlight reflector bowls (zkw brand) are scorched practically eliminating any light output from the headlight. | |||
| 07/10/2011 | 68000 | ||
| The reflector portion of the vehicle's xenon headlights appear burned/discolored, which significantly reduces their brightness thereby reducing nighttime visibility. | |||
| 07/12/2011 | 41000 | ||
| Bmw zkw headlight defect. burnt bowls causing unsafe nightly illumination | |||
| 07/08/2011 | |||
| 2004 bmw 330i sedan: xenon headlight reflector bowls (zkw brand) are scorched practically eliminating any light output from the headlight. | |||
| 07/10/2011 | 68000 | ||
| The reflector portion of the vehicle's xenon headlights appear burned/discolored, which significantly reduces their brightness thereby reducing nighttime visibility. | |||
| 07/12/2011 | 41000 | ||
| Bmw zkw headlight defect. burnt bowls causing unsafe nightly illumination | |||
| 07/08/2011 | |||
| 2004 bmw 330i sedan: xenon headlight reflector bowls (zkw brand) are scorched practically eliminating any light output from the headlight. | |||
| 07/10/2011 | 68000 | ||
| The reflector portion of the vehicle's xenon headlights appear burned/discolored, which significantly reduces their brightness thereby reducing nighttime visibility. | |||
| 07/08/2011 | |||
| 2004 bmw 330i sedan: xenon headlight reflector bowls (zkw brand) are scorched practically eliminating any light output from the headlight. | |||
| 07/10/2011 | 68000 | ||
| The reflector portion of the vehicle's xenon headlights appear burned/discolored, which significantly reduces their brightness thereby reducing nighttime visibility. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Having recently purchased my 2004 bmw 330i with xenon headlamps, i have been researching the car and any recalls that may have occurred or are ongoing. it was brought to my attention that the xenon headlamps designated zkw were under possible investigation for scorching within the assembly that can lead to decreased light output and pose a safety hazard to nighttime driving. i confirmed that my car is equipped with the zkw headlamps, and noted that some discoloration within the assembly was occurring. i want to make sure this problem is sufficiently documented so that a proper investigation can lead to the resolution to this relatively common occurrence. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Headlights have inadequate light output due to manufacturing defect. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Having recently purchased my 2004 bmw 330i with xenon headlamps, i have been researching the car and any recalls that may have occurred or are ongoing. it was brought to my attention that the xenon headlamps designated zkw were under possible investigation for scorching within the assembly that can lead to decreased light output and pose a safety hazard to nighttime driving. i confirmed that my car is equipped with the zkw headlamps, and noted that some discoloration within the assembly was occurring. i want to make sure this problem is sufficiently documented so that a proper investigation can lead to the resolution to this relatively common occurrence. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Headlights have inadequate light output due to manufacturing defect. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Having recently purchased my 2004 bmw 330i with xenon headlamps, i have been researching the car and any recalls that may have occurred or are ongoing. it was brought to my attention that the xenon headlamps designated zkw were under possible investigation for scorching within the assembly that can lead to decreased light output and pose a safety hazard to nighttime driving. i confirmed that my car is equipped with the zkw headlamps, and noted that some discoloration within the assembly was occurring. i want to make sure this problem is sufficiently documented so that a proper investigation can lead to the resolution to this relatively common occurrence. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Headlights have inadequate light output due to manufacturing defect. | |||
| 03/02/2010 | 54582 | ||
| The bi-xenon headlights cast very little light on the raod, making it very difficult to see at night without using the fog lights to augment. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Having recently purchased my 2004 bmw 330i with xenon headlamps, i have been researching the car and any recalls that may have occurred or are ongoing. it was brought to my attention that the xenon headlamps designated zkw were under possible investigation for scorching within the assembly that can lead to decreased light output and pose a safety hazard to nighttime driving. i confirmed that my car is equipped with the zkw headlamps, and noted that some discoloration within the assembly was occurring. i want to make sure this problem is sufficiently documented so that a proper investigation can lead to the resolution to this relatively common occurrence. | |||
| 07/05/2011 | |||
| Headlights have inadequate light output due to manufacturing defect. | |||
| 03/02/2010 | 54582 | ||
| The bi-xenon headlights cast very little light on the raod, making it very difficult to see at night without using the fog lights to augment. | |||
| 10/10/2010 | 68000 | ||
| The rear tailight fails on my 2004 bmw 330i due to the bulb holder assembly and issues with the grounding wire used in the harness. this is a common problem on e46 bmw's as noted in many owner forums online. the gauge of wire used for the brown grounding wire is much larger than all the other wires and eventually the heat melts down the connector pins or exposes the plastic between the other clips in the harness. | |||
| 08/30/2010 | 98000 | ||
| I recently purchased a 2004 330i zhp, and drove it home. didn't drive it at night for some time, but when i finally did, found out lighting is very dim, so much, i have no confidence driving at night. i must use foglights on low beam, and high bams when i can. failure occurs every time i drive at night, and through my research, i feel the reflective material in the bowls is baked off. these light should be better than the halogens i had on my 325i, but they are not. i have not corrected the problem because repairs are too costly.....and do not feel i should pay for the defective headlights. | |||
| 06/10/2010 | 80000 | ||
| 2004 bmw 330xi sedan (e46) rear tail light indicator light consistently comes on, even though there is no tail lamp failure. dealer indicated it was a burnt contact, and suggested repairing both sides. cost for both sides $254.67 | |||
| 06/21/2010 | 60000 | ||
| The zkw brand of high intensity discharge (hid) headlights equipped in the e46 model 3 series bmw sedan have a plastic reflector bowl in the projector that has the tendency to have the chrome reflective plating burnt off rendering the headlights all but useless. | |||
| 05/10/2010 | 70000 | ||
| The bi-xenon headlamps have a design flaw where the projector burns out and greatly reduces light input. the only way to remedy this situation is to replace the entire headlamp assembly. | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HEADLIGHTS | |||
| 02/13/2010 | 133000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 bmw 330i. while driving 75 mph at night the vehicle head lamps were dim and he was unable to see ahead . the contact stated he replaced the head lamp bulbs himself, but he still finds it difficult to see at night. he had not taken the vehicle to the dealer at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage was 133,000. the current mileage were 134,000. updated 5/20/2010 *cn | |||