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EnginePart report

2021 BMW 540I Engine Problems

Complaints
1about this part
Share
11%of 9 total for the year
Median mileage
—not reported
Trend
Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.

NHTSA recorded 1 complaints about the engine of the 2021 BMW 540I, 11% of the 9 complaints for this model year.

Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.

Example complaints

Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.

“Starter engine failure. Car failed to start multiple times. Major safety hazard that can cause a short circuit, melt wiring harnesses, and spark an engine bay fire posing an immediate threat to life. Problem was inspected and confirmed by a dealer. Multiple waring lamps and messages appeared. Dealer report stated: STARTER MOTOR FAULTY. ENGINE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CONCERN: C/S: REPEAT START ATTEMPT INTERMITTEN WARNING LIGHTS. Please issue recall for the safety of all drivers.”

NHTSA complaint #11749530, filed 2026-07

Related service bulletins

Engine: other model years

YearComplaintsShare of year
2022117%
2021111%
201918%
2018310%
2017210%
2003114%
2002217%
200117%
200026%
199915%

Other parts of the 2021 BMW 540I

Brakes
3 complaints
Transmission and drivetrain
3 complaints
Electrical system
2 complaints
Forward collision avoidance
1 complaints
Seat belts
1 complaints
Steering
1 complaints
Wheels
1 complaints

← All problems reported for the 2021 BMW 540I

About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.

To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology