Investigation PE09036: 2002–2005 BMW 3 Series

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Aug 7, 2009

Closed

Dec 22, 2009

Model years

2002–2005

Subject

Rear lamp illumination

Component: Exterior lighting

Summary

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.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 2005 BMW 3 Series25 complaints
• 2004 BMW 3 Series77 complaints
• 2003 BMW 3 Series73 complaints
• 2002 BMW 3 Series26 complaints