2024 BMW X3, X4 Distorted Door Speaker Sound TSB

Symptoms of Distorted Speaker Sound

Owners of certain 2024 BMW X3 and X4 models may experience "Distorted sound coming from the front and rear door panel speakers when the volume is adjusted high." This issue specifically affects vehicles equipped with either the Harman Kardon Surround Sound system (option code 688) or the Hi-Fi sound system (option code 676). If you notice a BMW X3 distorted speaker or a BMW X4 distorted speaker at higher volumes, this technical service bulletin may apply to your vehicle.

Cause of the Distorted Sound

BMW has identified the root cause of the distorted speaker sound. The foam material positioned between the speaker grill and the speaker itself is out of specification. This improper foam can lead to acoustic issues, particularly when the audio volume is increased.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the BMW X3 distorted speaker issue, technicians will perform a repair involving the replacement of the speaker foam. The general procedure outlined in Technical Service Bulletin SIB 51 20 24 includes:

1. Verification: The technician will first confirm the customer's concern matches the symptoms described in the bulletin.
2. Door Panel Removal: The affected door panel(s)—front or rear, left or right—will be carefully removed. Technicians will follow specific repair instructions found in ISTA/AIR, referencing procedures like Front Door Panel: 51 41 000 and Rear Door Panel: 51 42 000.
3. Speaker Access: From the back of the door panel, the folded-down speaker cover tabs are lifted to gain access to the speaker grill.
4. Foam Replacement: The speaker grill is then removed, and the out-of-spec foam material is replaced with an updated foam part.
5. Reassembly: Finally, the speaker grill and door panel are reinstalled, and the repair is verified.

BMW has also provided an attached video, V51 05 24, to assist technicians with this repair, highlighting that this repair is mobile-friendly.

Required Parts

The primary part required for this repair is an updated speaker foam. The specific part number is 51 42 5 B5C 2A9, and one unit is needed for each affected door panel.

Warranty Information

This repair for the BMW X3 distorted speaker is covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. Dealers should use the following information for claim submission:

• Repair Code: 6512354100 (Speaker trim Poorly adapted/fitted)
• Labor Operations:
  • 65 10 009: Troubleshooting in the radio (Work time)
  • 00 58 500: Diagnosis Worktime Flat Rate
  • 51 41 000: Removing and installing left or right front door trim (Main work)
  • 51 41 503: Removing and installing left or right front door trim (Plusposition)
  • 51 41 002: Removing and installing both front door trim panels (Main work)
  • 51 41 505: Removing and installing both front door trim panels (Plusposition)
  • 51 42 000: Remove and install left or right rear door trim panel (Main work)
  • 51 42 503: Remove and install left or right rear door trim panel (Plusposition)
  • 51 42 002: Removing and installing both rear door trim panels (Main work)
  • 51 42 505: Removing and installing both rear door trim panels (Plusposition)
  • 65 13 570: Removing and installing/replacing the loudspeaker (mid-range speaker) (front door) (door trim panel removed)
  • 65 99 000: Removing and installing/replacing the loudspeaker (mid-range speaker) (front door) (The other side)
  • 65 13 590: Removing and installing/replacing the loudspeaker (mid-range speaker) (rear door, left or right) (door trim panel removed)
  • 65 99 000: Removing and installing/replacing the loudspeaker (mid-range speaker) (rear door, left or right) (The other side)

Consult the BMW Group's AIR Application Resource for Flat Rate Labor Operation Codes to determine the corresponding flat rate unit (FRU) allowance information.

What Owners Should Do

If your 2024 BMW X3 or X4 is experiencing distorted sound from the door panel speakers, especially at high volumes, contact your authorized BMW dealership. Reference Technical Service Bulletin SIB 51 20 24 when scheduling your service appointment. The dealership will be able to diagnose the issue and perform the necessary foam replacement under warranty.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11008109