Over 40,000 BMW X3s recalled due to door lock issue

BMW is recalling 40,736 X3 crossover SUVs because of a potential issue with their rear door locks.

The recall includes 2022-2024 BMW X3 sDrive30i (rear-wheel drive) and xDrive30i (all-wheel drive models). The rear door-lock mechanisms in these vehicles could both unlock and unlatch the doors with one motion, rather than separately as stipulated by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, according to the NHTSA.

The relevant standard calls for doors to unlock via a dedicated mechanism, and unlatch when the occupant pulls the door handle. If both actions occur simply by unlocking the door, it could open inadvertently, presenting an increased safety risk to rear-seat occupants.

BMW told the NHTSA that this problem was discovered during internal testing, and that it isn’t aware of any related warranty claims, accidents, or injuries.

Dealers will replace the rear door lock modules on affected vehicles free of charge. Any related work conducted prior to the recall would still be covered by warranty, so BMW does not anticipate having to reimburse customers for out of pocket expenses in this case.

BMW plans to mail owner notification letters starting Apr. 14. Owners can also call the automaker’s customer service department at 800-525-7417 for more information, or visit its recall website.

The recalled X3 SUVs, some of which may have also been included in a 2024 recall to address interior cargo rail issues, are some of the last of the previous generation. A redesigned X3 arrived for the 2025 model year, with a first-ever electric version expected for 2026.