BMW X3 Steering Wheel Moves By Itself, 37K BMW Recalled – Is Yours Affected?
BMW is recalling 36,922 X3 SUVs from 2025-2026 model years because the steering wheel can move on its own while the vehicle is parked or stationary. The defect involves steering system software that fails to detect a malfunctioning steering torque sensor, causing unintended wheel rotation. BMW will fix the issue with a free software update available over-the-air or at dealerships. Owner notifications begin February 2, 2026.
No injuries have been reported yet, but NHTSA warns the defect increases crash and injury risk. Here’s what X3 owners need to know.
What Is the BMW X3 Steering Defect?
The problem lies in the steering system software, which BMW says “may not be sufficiently robust.” The steering torque sensor has two channels that monitor steering input. If one channel malfunctions while the vehicle is stationary—during startup or when in drive but not moving—the software may fail to detect the problem.
When this happens, the steering wheel can rotate unexpectedly without any driver input.
According to BMW’s recall notice, this occurs because the software diagnostics don’t correctly identify when one of the torque sensor channels fails at a standstill.
Which BMW X3 Vehicles Are Affected?
Model years: 2025-2026 BMW X3
Specific models:
- X3 30 xDrive
- X3 M50 xDrive
Production dates: August 14, 2024 through October 20, 2025
Total vehicles affected: 36,922 (100% of that production run)
When you can check your VIN: Beginning February 2, 2026, search your VIN on NHTSA’s website at nhtsa.gov/recalls
What Are the Safety Risks?
NHTSA’s recall notice states: “Unexpected and unintended steering wheel movement may increase the risk of a crash and/or injury.”
The defect creates several potential dangers:
When starting the vehicle: The steering wheel could suddenly turn as you’re preparing to drive, potentially causing loss of control if you’re already moving.
When stopped in traffic: If the wheel moves while you’re stopped in drive, it could cause unexpected movement when you resume driving.
During parking: Unexpected wheel movement while maneuvering in tight spaces could lead to collisions with objects, other vehicles, or pedestrians.
Driver distraction: Even if no accident occurs, a steering wheel moving on its own is alarming and distracting.
BMW has stated the issue only appears when vehicles are stationary, not while actively driving. However, NHTSA’s warning emphasizes that any unintended steering movement creates safety risks.
Have There Been Any Accidents or Injuries?
As of the recall announcement, BMW states it has not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to this steering defect.
The company is not currently facing legal action over the recall, though Top Class Actions notes that recalls sometimes lead to class action lawsuits, especially if injuries or accidents occur.
What Is BMW’s Fix?
BMW will update the steering system software to correctly detect torque sensor malfunctions. The fix is available in two ways:
Over-the-air update: If your X3 is equipped with BMW’s OTA update capability, you may receive the software fix automatically.
Dealer repair: If OTA isn’t available or doesn’t work for your vehicle, BMW dealerships will perform the software update at no charge.
The repair involves installing updated steering system software calibration that properly monitors both channels of the steering torque sensor.
How long will repairs take? Software updates typically take 30 minutes to an hour at a dealership.
Is the repair permanent? Yes. Once the software is updated, the issue should be resolved permanently.
BMW X3 Recall Timeline
December 2025: BMW announced the recall
February 2, 2026: BMW will mail notification letters to affected owners
February 2, 2026: VINs become searchable on NHTSA’s website
Ongoing: Over-the-air updates being deployed
Immediately available: Dealer repairs can be scheduled now
What Should You Do If You Own a 2025-2026 BMW X3?
1. Check if your vehicle is affected: Starting February 2, 2026, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. You can also call BMW at 800-525-7417.
2. Wait for OTA update or schedule dealer visit: If your X3 has OTA capability, the update may install automatically. Otherwise, contact your BMW dealer to schedule the software update.
3. Be alert for unusual steering behavior: If you notice your steering wheel moving on its own while the vehicle is stopped, document when it happens and report it to BMW immediately.
4. Don’t panic about driving safety: BMW and NHTSA report the issue only occurs when vehicles are stationary, not while driving. However, address the recall as soon as possible.
5. Keep records: Save your notification letter, repair invoices, and any documentation of steering issues you experience.
Your Legal Rights as an Affected Owner
If you own a recalled BMW X3, you have several legal protections:
Federal Recall Rights
Free repairs: BMW must fix the defect at no charge, including parts and labor.
Reasonable timeframe: Repairs must be available within a reasonable time after recall announcement.
Notification: BMW must notify you by mail at the address on file with your vehicle registration.
Reimbursement: If you paid for repairs related to this defect before the recall was announced, you may be entitled to reimbursement.
Lemon Law Protections
If the recall repair doesn’t fix the problem, or if BMW can’t complete repairs within a reasonable time, your state’s lemon law may apply.
What qualifies as a lemon? Generally, if BMW makes three or more unsuccessful repair attempts, or if your vehicle is out of service for 30+ days due to the defect.
What you can get: Lemon laws typically provide for vehicle replacement or full refund of the purchase price, minus a usage fee.
Time limits: Most lemon laws apply only during the warranty period or within 1-2 years of purchase.
Product Liability Claims
If the steering defect causes an accident or injury, you may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit against BMW.
Design defect: The steering system software was not adequately designed to detect sensor malfunctions.
Manufacturing defect: If the defect results from improper manufacturing or assembly.
Failure to warn: If BMW knew about the defect but failed to warn consumers before selling affected vehicles.
Damages you can claim:
- Medical expenses from injuries caused by the defect
- Property damage to your vehicle or other property
- Lost wages if injuries prevent you from working
- Pain and suffering from injuries
- Diminished vehicle value
Can You Sue BMW Over This Recall?
Whether you can sue BMW depends on your specific circumstances:
If you’ve been injured or had an accident: Yes. You may have a strong product liability claim if the steering defect caused or contributed to an accident or injury.
If the recall repair doesn’t work: Yes. If BMW can’t fix the problem after multiple attempts, lemon law claims may apply.
If you’ve only experienced the defect without injury or accident: Maybe. Economic loss claims are harder to win, but you may have claims for diminished vehicle value or if you incurred costs related to the defect.
Class action potential: If multiple owners experience similar issues, a class action lawsuit may develop. These typically seek compensation for diminished vehicle value, out-of-pocket expenses, or inconvenience.
Similar BMW Steering Recalls
BMW has faced other steering-related recalls in recent years:
2023: BMW 7 Series steering column recall affecting vehicles that could experience loss of power steering assist.
2022: BMW X5 and X6 steering shaft recall due to potential steering wheel detachment.
2020: BMW 3 Series and 4 Series steering component recall for faulty steering gear.
Each recall demonstrates BMW’s pattern of identifying and addressing steering system defects, though critics argue the company should catch these issues before vehicles reach consumers.
Other Recent BMW X3 Recalls
The X3 has been subject to several other recalls recently:
September 2025: Fire hazard recall affecting nearly 200,000 vehicles including the X3 (and 3 Series, 4 Series, X4, 5 Series, Z4, and Toyota Supra). BMW warned owners to park outside due to corroding starter relay that could cause fires.
October 2025: Seatbelt retractor recall affecting X1 and X2 models for faulty seatbelt retractors.
November 2025: Takata airbag recall still affecting some X3 models from earlier model years.
BMW has issued 20 recalls in 2025, more than typical for the luxury automaker.
How to File a Complaint with NHTSA
If you experience problems with your BMW X3 steering, file a complaint with NHTSA even if BMW fixes the issue:
Online: Visit safercar.gov and click “File a Complaint”
By phone: Call NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236
What to include:
- Your vehicle’s VIN
- Description of the problem (when steering wheel moved, what you were doing, etc.)
- Dates when problems occurred
- Current mileage
- Whether you’ve contacted BMW
- Photos or videos if available
NHTSA complaints help the agency identify widespread defects and can lead to expanded recalls or investigations.
FAQs About the BMW X3 Steering Recall
Can I still drive my BMW X3 safely?
BMW and NHTSA state the issue only occurs when the vehicle is stationary, not while actively driving. However, NHTSA warns that unexpected steering movement increases crash risk. Schedule the repair as soon as possible, but you don’t need to stop driving entirely.
Will BMW provide a loaner vehicle while mine is being repaired?
Since the repair is a quick software update (typically 30-60 minutes), loaner vehicles likely won’t be necessary. However, BMW may provide loaners if repairs take longer or if other issues are discovered. Ask your dealer about loaner availability.
What if the OTA update doesn’t install?
If the over-the-air update fails or your vehicle doesn’t have OTA capability, schedule an appointment with your BMW dealer for the manual software update at no charge.
Can I refuse the recall repair?
Yes, but it’s not advisable. The defect creates a safety risk, and refusing the repair may affect your ability to sell the vehicle or make insurance claims if the steering issue causes an accident.
Will this recall affect my vehicle’s resale value?
Completed recalls typically don’t significantly affect resale value, especially for software fixes. Uncompleted recalls can make selling more difficult and may reduce value. Make sure to keep documentation showing the recall was completed.
What if I experience the steering issue after the repair?
Return to the dealer immediately. If the problem persists after multiple repair attempts, document everything and consult with a lemon law attorney about your rights.
Does this recall apply to used BMW X3s I’m considering buying?
Yes. If you’re buying a used 2025-2026 X3, check whether the recall repair has been completed. Ask the seller for documentation or check the VIN on NHTSA’s website after February 2, 2026.
What if I leased my BMW X3?
The recall still applies. Schedule the repair with your BMW dealer. Leasing companies typically require you to complete recalls before returning the vehicle at lease end.
Can I sue BMW even if I haven’t had an accident?
It’s difficult to win damages without injury or accident. However, if you incurred costs related to the defect (towing, alternative transportation, etc.) or if your vehicle has diminished value, you may have claims. Consult a product liability attorney.
What if I already paid for steering repairs before the recall?
Contact BMW customer service at 800-525-7417 with your repair receipts and VIN. If your repair was related to this defect, you may be entitled to reimbursement.
Contact Information
BMW Customer Service: 800-525-7417
NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
Check Your VIN: nhtsa.gov/recalls (available February 2, 2026)
NHTSA Recall Number: Check NHTSA website for official recall campaign number
The Bottom Line on the BMW X3 Steering Recall
BMW is recalling 36,922 X3 SUVs from 2025-2026 model years because faulty steering system software can cause the steering wheel to move on its own when the vehicle is stationary. The fix is a free software update available over-the-air or at BMW dealerships.
If you own a 2025-2026 BMW X3, check your VIN starting February 2, 2026, and schedule the repair as soon as possible. No injuries have been reported, but NHTSA warns the defect creates crash and injury risks.
Keep all documentation of the recall and repair. If you experience the steering issue and it causes an accident or injury, or if repairs don’t fix the problem, consult with a product liability or lemon law attorney about your legal rights.
Don’t ignore this recall. While BMW says the issue only occurs when stationary, any unintended steering movement is a serious safety concern that should be addressed immediately.
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
Read more about Sarah