NHTSA vehicle safety data

2020 BMW X6 Recalls & Complaints

The 2020 BMW X6 has 10 NHTSA recall campaigns and 9 owner complaints on file as of November 3, 2026. Recall repairs are usually free at an authorized BMW dealer.

NHTSA recall and complaint data for the 2020 BMW X6. Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

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2020 BMW X6 owner complaints

Owners have filed 9 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020 BMW X6, describing incidents dated October 19, 2021 to January 22, 2026.

Most-cited components

Electrical System 5 complaints
Service Brakes 2 complaints
Unknown or Other 2 complaints
Engine 1 complaint
Power Train 1 complaint
Seat Belts 1 complaint

Newest complaints

ODI #11712719 · Filed January 22, 2026
This issue of the Starter not functioning properly was identified by the manufacturer and brought to my attention through their correspondence. Later confirmed on the NHSTA website. To date, no fix has been made available.
ODI #11708411 · Filed January 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 BMW X6. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with battery failure. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be…
ODI #11705538 · Filed December 17, 2025
Vehicle: 2020 BMW X6M Problem Category: Interior / Visibility / Structural Integrity Description of the Safety Issue: The dashboard material in my 2020 BMW X6M is peeling, lifting, and separating from the underlying structure. This is occurring without misuse, damage, or excessive wear. The defect…

Read all 9 complaints

Starter Motor May Fail and Overheat

NHTSA #25V644000 · Electrical System — Starter Assembly · NHTSA notice

Reported September 25, 2025 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 145,102 vehicles

Repair completion: 58.75% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified February 9, 2026 · Vehicles built July 15, 2019 – July 29, 2020 (per NHTSA) · Recall influenced by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 340I, X6, 2020-2025 840I, 2020-2022 740LI, 2019-2020 X7, and X5 vehicles. After repeated attempts, the starter motor may overheat from an electrical overload.

Safety consequence

An overheated starter motor can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.

Manufacturer remedy

Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. This recall includes vehicles repaired under recall 24V576 and those owners will need to have their vehicle repaired again. Owner notification letters were mailed February 9, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov November 17, 2025.

Starter Motor May Fail and Overheat

NHTSA #24V576000 · Electrical System — Starter Assembly · NHTSA notice

Reported August 1, 2024 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 105,588 vehicles

Repair completion: 87.15% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified September 27, 2024

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2019-2020 X5, X7, 2020 3 Series Sedan, X6, 2020-2021 7 Series Sedan, 2020 8 Series Convertible, 8 Series Coupe, and 2020 8 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. In the event the starter motor fails, repeated attempts to start the vehicle can cause the starter motor to overheat from an electrical overload.

Safety consequence

A starter motor that overheats can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.

Manufacturer remedy

Dealers will update the vehicle software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 27, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Sunroof Malfunction/FMVSS 118

NHTSA #22V267000 · Visibility — Sun/Moon Roof Assembly · NHTSA notice

Reported April 20, 2022 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 61,221 vehicles

Repair completion: 99.24% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified June 20, 2022

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2022 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive); 2019-2022 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M; 2021-2022 X5 xdrive45e; 2020-2022 X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6M and 2019-2023 X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, X7 xDrive60i, X7 M60i, X7M, Alpina XB7 vehicles. The roof function control unit may be programmed incorrectly, allowing the sunroof to close without the key fob present inside the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

Safety consequence

A sunroof that closes without the key fob present inside the vehicle can increase the risk of injury.

Manufacturer remedy

Dealers will reprogram the roof function control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Rearview Camera Image Malfunction/FMVSS 111

NHTSA #21V096000 · Back Over Prevention — Sensing System — Camera · NHTSA notice

Reported February 19, 2021 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 13,858 vehicles

Repair completion: 97.63% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified April 16, 2021

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Safety consequence

If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the missing or reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Manufacturer remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Possible Loss of Braking Assistance and ABS

NHTSA #21V062000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic · NHTSA notice

Reported February 10, 2021 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 893 vehicles

Repair completion: 99.21% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified May 25, 2021

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 8 Series Coupe, Grand Coupe and convertible 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8 and 740 Li, 740 Li xDrive, 750 Li xDrive, M760 Li xDrive, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xdrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, and 2019-2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, and 2021 M3, M3 Competition, M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, X5 xDrive45e, 745 Le xDrive. The rotor and shaft within the integrated brake system may not have been welded properly and could separate during a hard braking event, possibly resulting in a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and braking assistance.

Safety consequence

A loss of ABS and a reduction in braking assistance can increase the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 25, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Front Axle/Right Control Arm Not Welded Properly

NHTSA #20V678000 · Suspension — Front — Control Arm · NHTSA notice

Reported November 4, 2020 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 83 vehicles

Repair completion: 100% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified December 18, 2020

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 M50i and X6M vehicles and 2021 X5 xDrive45e vehicles. The weld between the front axle support and the right front control arm bearing bracket may separate.

Safety consequence

If the weld between the front axle support and the right front control arm bearing bracket separates, vehicle handling and control may be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle support, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Headlights Contain Non-conforming Lens/FMVSS 108

NHTSA #20V528000 · Exterior Lighting — Headlights · NHTSA notice

Reported September 1, 2020 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 307 vehicles

Repair completion: 100% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified October 30, 2020 · Vehicles built July 25, 2020 – August 3, 2020 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X6 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M, X7 M50i and 2021 X5 xDrive45e vehicles. The headlamps may allow a blue light to illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Safety consequence

Oncoming drivers may be confused by the blue light of approaching vehicles, which could potentially increase the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlamps and, if necessary, replace them, free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Rear Spoiler May Detach

NHTSA #20V484000 · Structure — Body · NHTSA notice

Reported August 14, 2020 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 43 vehicles

Repair completion: 97.67% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified October 13, 2020

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X6 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X6 M50i and X6M vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be appropriately bonded to its mounting plate.

Safety consequence

The rear spoiler on the roof may become loose, detach while driving, and could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash, or injury to persons near the roadway.

Manufacturer remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear spoiler on the affected vehicles and replace them , if necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 14, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Rear Spoiler May Detach

NHTSA #20V095000 · Structure — Body · NHTSA notice

Reported February 19, 2020 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 550 vehicles

Repair completion: 99.64% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified April 16, 2020

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, and X6 xDrive50i vehicles. The rear spoiler may detach.

Safety consequence

If the spoiler detaches while driving, it can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the rear spoiler, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

No Back-Up Camera Display Image/FMVSS 111

NHTSA #19V684000 · Back Over Prevention — Sensing System — Camera · NHTSA notice

Reported September 27, 2019 · BMW of North America, LLC

Potentially affected: 257,473 vehicles

Repair completion: 96.64% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified November 8, 2019 · Vehicles built June 13, 2018 – July 30, 2019 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."

Safety consequence

The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the back-up camera software, free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

2020 BMW X6 SUV AWD

—

out of 5

Overall Safety Rating

Not Rated

Frontal Crash

Not Rated

Driver: Not Rated, Passenger: Not Rated

Side Crash

Not Rated

Driver: Not Rated, Passenger: Not Rated

Side Pole

Not Rated

Rollover

Not Rated

Safety Technology

Electronic Stability Control

2020 BMW X6 SUV RWD

—

out of 5

Overall Safety Rating

Not Rated

Frontal Crash

Not Rated

Driver: Not Rated, Passenger: Not Rated

Side Crash

Not Rated

Driver: Not Rated, Passenger: Not Rated

Side Pole

Not Rated

Rollover

Not Rated

Safety Technology

Electronic Stability Control

9 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2020 BMW X6.

Electrical System

ODI #11712719

Incident: January 22, 2026 · Filed: January 22, 2026

This issue of the Starter not functioning properly was identified by the manufacturer and brought to my attention through their correspondence. Later confirmed on the NHSTA website. To date, no fix has been made available.

Electrical System

ODI #11708411

Incident: December 31, 2025 · Filed: January 2, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 BMW X6. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with battery failure. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. In addition, the engine overheating warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while the contact was driving on a busy interstate. The contact stated that the failure could have caused a crash. In addition, the contact stated that the situation was very dangerous and scary. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the failure was the result of over attempting to start the vehicle, which might have damaged the battery. In addition, the contact was informed that the battery might need to be replaced. The contact stated that neither the dealer nor the independent mechanic had mentioned the unrepaired recall. The contact later received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V644000 (Electrical System); however, parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 67,786.

Unknown or Other

ODI #11705538

Incident: May 1, 2024 · Filed: December 17, 2025

Vehicle: 2020 BMW X6M Problem Category: Interior / Visibility / Structural Integrity Description of the Safety Issue: The dashboard material in my 2020 BMW X6M is peeling, lifting, and separating from the underlying structure. This is occurring without misuse, damage, or excessive wear. The defect creates reflective glare on the windshield and presents a visual distraction while driving, particularly in sunlight. The separation appears to be a material or adhesive failure and is not isolated. Multiple BMW X5/X6 owners have reported the same issue, indicating a pattern of premature dashboard deterioration. This defect affects driver visibility and concentration and could increase the risk of an accident. Repair costs are estimated at approximately $4,000 due to full dashboard replacement. BMW has declined assistance, citing warranty expiration, despite the nature of the defect indicating a manufacturing or materials failure rather than normal wear and tear.

Electrical System

ODI #11692474

Incident: October 2, 2025 · Filed: October 10, 2025

The vehicle would not start and left me stranded over 40 miles from home. I was unable to start the vehicle for over an hour. The road side service was unable to start the vehicle.

Engine and Engine Cooling; Electrical System

ODI #11668539

Incident: June 16, 2025 · Filed: June 23, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 BMW X6. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start, with the message "Check Control - Repeat Start Attempt" displayed. In addition, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V576000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 59,900.

Power Train; Electrical System; Service Brakes

ODI #11630662

Incident: October 19, 2021 · Filed: December 13, 2024

I’ve been having issues with the front end since I purchased the vehicle. The dealership had not diagnosed this issue yet in 3 years. It had caused my vehicle to be in the shop continuously, my front driver side tire is worn out. I had to replace all brakes and rotors after 2 years, numerous sensor issues, radiator loses fluid as well as software issues.

Unknown or Other

ODI #11618276

Incident: October 4, 2024 · Filed: October 5, 2024

Duluth BMW Dealership service department repaired a recall thats directly related to an issue due to a water pump leak. My X6 currently has a water pump leak for which they are charging me $1600.00 to repair. However, it is the water pump leak is what causes the potential for the engine to overheat and start the vehicle to catch fire. I purchased my 2020 in 2019 which was the first batch to be made by BMW. Apparently they're stating the X3, X4 and X5. My X6 have this very same issue and BMW have the responsibility to fix this water pump issue. It's not only the X3,4 and 5. Please help me. It's unfair that BMW pass their known problems on to the consumers who already pay an outstanding large amounts of monies for their vehicles. I kept up with my maintenance service ad scheduled and I am perplexed that they did not see that issue when I brought it in in March 2024. It is now October 2024. PLEASE HELP!

Service Brakes

ODI #11606171

Incident: July 27, 2024 · Filed: August 2, 2024

On July 27, 2024, the parking brake on this car would not disengage, thus, I was unable to drive my car. We had to turn off the car for 15 minutes and then step on the gas and brake at the same time at which point the park brake "disengaged." I believe this is a safety/manufacturer issue that needs to be addressed and should be under a broader warranty protection (like 100,000 miles or more).

Seat Belts

ODI #11564425

Incident: December 28, 2023 · Filed: January 9, 2024

On December 28, 2023, the "Fasten Seat Belt" sign (rear passenger side seat) and sensor in my BMW x6 starting buzzing even though no one is seating on that seat. I subsequently brought my car to the dealership and the service consultant did an ocular inspection of my seat belt and looked inside the buckle with a flashlight because the seat belt will not lock in place. I was subsequently told that the metal that is supposed to hold the seat belt in the buckle is missing or stuck. Because at that time my car has 59,000 miles, I was told that the warranty has now expired (50,000) and that I have to pay for the diagnoses and fixing of the car seat. Now, the "Fasten Seat belt: sensor for the rear middle seat is also lighted and making the "buzzing sound" even though no one is seating in the middle seat. I believe that my seat belts have become defective and given that I purchased my car around May 10, 2020 - I should not have to pay for fixing seat belt problems for a new car given the safety need for these belts. I would like NTSB to compel BMW to fix my seatbelts.

Other BMW X6 model years

Check your 2020 BMW X6 VIN

Not every recall applies to every VIN in a given year. Enter the 17-character VIN from your BMW X6 at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether your specific vehicle has an unrepaired recall.

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