2025 BMW X3 Creaking Noise in Electric Power Steering SIB 32 01 26

Owners of certain 2025 BMW X3 (G45) vehicles may notice an unusual creaking sound coming from the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. This issue, specifically a "CREAKING NOISE IN ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) NEAR END STOP WHEN TURNING LEFT", is addressed by BMW Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 32 01 26. The bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing and addressing this specific condition.

This bulletin applies to BMW E-Series G45 X3 Sports Activity Vehicles produced from the start of production up to October 31, 2025.

Symptoms

If you own a 2025 BMW X3, you might hear a distinct "creaking" noise when turning the steering wheel to the left. This noise is typically heard when the steering wheel is near its end stop. The issue is most noticeable at lower speeds, specifically less than 10 mph. This specific symptom is the primary indicator of the 2025 BMW X3 creaking noise issue.

Cause

The root cause of the "CREAKING NOISE IN ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) NEAR END STOP WHEN TURNING LEFT" has been identified as an internal issue within the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system itself. The bulletin points directly to the EPS as the source of the creaking sound.

Diagnosis and Repair Procedure Summary

To address the 2025 BMW X3 creaking noise, technicians will first verify the customer's concern by trying to reproduce the noise. A video recording of the noise is required as part of the diagnostic process. BMW provides a supporting video, V32 01 26, to assist technicians.

Following verification, a G45 EPS Teile-Clearing case must be submitted. This case requires attaching the recorded video of the noise along with a photograph of the EPS label. The EPS label is crucial for identifying the specific unit and is located underneath the vehicle. To access it, the underbody splash guard must be removed. The label is situated on the left half (driver's side) of the EPS, facing upwards.

Technicians are instructed to use an inspection mirror to read and photograph the EPS label. If the entire label cannot be captured in a single shot, the mirror should be repositioned to photograph the remaining parts. An additional hand lamp or the phone's flash can be used to ensure sufficient illumination for a clear photo of the label. Any yellow highlighted areas on the label should be disregarded.

Warranty Information

Repairs for a verified defect in materials and/or workmanship related to this 2025 BMW X3 creaking noise are covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. When submitting a claim, the repair code 3213023900, labeled as "Steering gear Unpleasant noises," should be used for steering gear repairs. If another repair was performed concurrently, the appropriate AIR Repair Code should be selected.

For specific procedures on documenting, claiming, and explaining diagnosis and repair work time, technicians should refer to Service Information Bulletins SI B01 01 20 or B01 07 20, unless otherwise required by state law.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11027764