On [XXX] approx [XXX] PM, my 2023 BMW 740i (VIN [XXX], 46,093 mi, software 03/2026.30) suddenly accelerated on its own with no accelerator input from me. I was driving under 30 mph in Odessa, TX, shortly after making a left turn from [XXX] onto [XXX]. Once I felt the acceleration, I gradually braked while checking the HUD, which confirmed cruise control was NOT engaged. I also confirmed the accelerator pedal was not obstructed - the vehicle has only factory BMW all-weather floor mats, no aftermarket mats or parts. The vehicle came under control as I braked. No collision, no damage, no injuries, and no dashboard warning lights before, during, or after. Weather was clear, no precipitation. I purchased this vehicle new in May 2023. After the turning maneuver and settling on a straight path, then the acceleration began, the petal was pressed but the speed exceeded petal demands. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11756428 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

My 2023 BMW 740i has experienced the same serious failure twice at approximately 21,000 miles. The exact component causing the failure is currently UNKNOWN. The vehicle is available for inspection and is currently being returned to an authorized BMW dealer for diagnosis. During the first incident, while driving, multiple warnings suddenly appeared involving chassis stabilization, regenerative braking, the parking brake/roll-away system and drivetrain. The warnings escalated to “Stop. Apply parking brake” and “Drivetrain malfunction. You cannot continue driving.” Shortly afterward, the vehicle became completely immobilized and could not be shifted into Drive, Reverse or Neutral. It had to be towed to an authorized BMW dealer. BMW diagnosed the first incident as a failed 12V battery and replaced the battery under warranty. Only days after receiving the vehicle back with the new battery, the SAME failure occurred again while I was driving. Warning messages appeared stating “Drive carefully. Chassis stabilization,” “Regenerative braking,” and “Vehicle may roll. Brake manually.” The vehicle then displayed “Stop. Apply parking brake. Drivetrain malfunction. You cannot continue driving.” Once the final warning appeared, I had approximately 30 seconds to get out of active traffic before the vehicle became completely immobilized. I was fortunate to reach a parking area. Once stopped, the vehicle again could not be shifted into Drive, Reverse or Neutral and required another tow. My primary safety concern is the extremely short amount of time between the warning to stop driving and complete immobilization. If this occurred on an interstate, railroad crossing, busy intersection or another location without an immediate safe place to stop, the vehicle could become disabled in active traffic. The first BMW repair did not correct the condition. The vehicle is now undergoing diagnosis for the second occurrence.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11758667 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

failure of the Thruster bushings are seeping and starting to crack in the Steering If the thrust arm bushings (or thrust rod bushings) on a BMW 7 Series are seeping fluid and beginning to crack, there are some potential risks to be aware of. These bushings are critical components in the suspension system that absorb impacts, reduce vibrations, and maintain proper alignment. Here's a breakdown of potential risks: 1. **Reduced Ride Comfort** - Cracked or seeping bushings lose their ability to effectively dampen vibrations, leading to a harsher and less comfortable ride. 2. **Steering Instability** - Damaged bushings can affect the alignment and cause the car to feel unstable during steering, especially under braking or during sharp turns. You may notice wandering or pulling to one side. 3. **Increased Tire Wear** - Faulty bushings may alter the suspension geometry, leading to uneven tire wear, which can become expensive if not addressed promptly. 4. **Noise and Vibrations** - You might hear clunking or creaking noises when going over bumps or during braking. Vibrations may also become more noticeable. 5. **Safety Concerns** - In extreme cases, if the bushings deteriorate significantly, they can fail entirely, causing loss of control during braking or sudden maneuvers. This is a serious safety risk. 6. **Accelerated Wear of Other Components** - Compromised bushings can place additional stress on adjacent suspension components, such as ball joints, control arms, and even the shocks or struts, leading to premature failure. The vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer /dealer repair Order PETER PAN BMW 1625 Adrian Rd Burlingame, CA 94010-2103 Service: 650-457-8897 01/10/2025 Repair Order #:[XXX] Vehicle Make:7 SERIES VIN:[XXX] PETER PAN BMW 1625 Adrian Rd Burlingame, CA 94010-2103 Service: 650-457-8897 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11638490 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Component/System that failed: The rear differential failed internally, causing the left rear axle to separate from the differential housing. BMW’s own service center confirmed there was no external damage or outside force involved. The defective parts are currently with BMW of Manhattan and can be made available for inspection. Safety risk posed: This failure created a significant safety hazard, as drivetrain separation while in motion can lead to loss of vehicle control, wheel lock, or a collision — especially at highway speeds. Fortunately, no accident occurred, but the risk was high. Was the problem confirmed by a dealer? Yes. BMW of Manhattan confirmed the failure in service invoice #1201464. Their technician wrote: “Found left rear axle is popped out of differential. No signs of damage or outside influence. Differential is internally faulty.” The dealership replaced the rear differential and associated components under warranty. Was the vehicle inspected by others? The vehicle was only inspected and repaired by BMW of Manhattan, an authorized dealership. No police or insurance inspection occurred. Warning signs before failure? Yes. The vehicle was brought to the dealership on four separate occasions before the failure due to: •Loud noises from the rear axle area, •causing the abnormal wear and tear of tires , and •Erratic driving behavior. Each time, BMW’s service team stated the vehicle was “in healthy shape.” Additional context: Despite this failure being documented as internal and not customer-induced, BMW North America has refused to accept responsibility or honor a buyback request. The vehicle is used for business purposes under Cuatro Sons Inc. and has now been taken off the road due to the safety risk and unresolved concerns about reliability. We are seeking NHTSA’s investigation and intervention.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11654639 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov