2021-2022 BMW X5, X6, X7 Center Console Armrest Issue
If your 2021-2022 BMW X5, X6, or X7 has a center console armrest that opens slowly or unevenly, this manufacturer communication (NHTSA ID 10227553) addresses the concern. Find out what symptoms to look for and what steps to take.

Also applies to
- BMW X5
- 2022
- BMW X6
- 2021–2022
- BMW X7
- 2021–2022
Owners of certain 2021-2022 BMW X5, X6, and X7 models may notice an issue with their vehicle's center console armrest. Specifically, one of the armrest doors might open more slowly than the other, leading to an uneven opening action. This behavior is addressed in manufacturer communication NHTSA ID 10227553.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of this issue is a noticeable difference in the opening speed of the two center console armrest doors. Instead of both doors opening smoothly and simultaneously, one door will lag behind the other. This can result in an uneven or delayed opening of the armrest compartment.
Diagnosis
Identifying this condition is straightforward. Owners or technicians will observe the center console armrest doors when opening them. If one door consistently opens slower than the other, or if the movement is not synchronized, it indicates the presence of this specific issue. The manufacturer communication NHTSA ID 10227553 describes this as a characteristic where one door is slow to open while the other opens normally.
Repair Procedure Summary
While the manufacturer communication NHTSA ID 10227553 identifies the symptom, it does not detail a specific repair procedure in the provided summary. Typically, such communications outline diagnostic steps and potential remedies for technicians to follow. Owners experiencing this problem should consult with a BMW authorized service center, as they will have access to the full technical service bulletin which may include adjustments, lubrication, or component replacement details.
Owner Action
If you own a 2021-2022 BMW X5, X6, or X7 and are experiencing a slow-opening or uneven center console armrest, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your local authorized BMW dealership. Inform them about the specific symptom and mention manufacturer communication NHTSA ID 10227553. The dealership technicians will be able to diagnose the condition and perform any necessary adjustments or repairs as outlined in the full technical service bulletin.
Source: NHTSA ID 10227553
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the 2021 BMW X5 center console armrest issue?
- The issue, as described in manufacturer communication NHTSA ID 10227553, is that one of the center console armrest doors may open slowly or unevenly compared to the other, instead of both opening at the same time.
- Which BMW models are affected by the slow-opening armrest?
- This issue affects 2021-2022 BMW X5, X6, and X7 vehicles. If you notice your center console armrest isn't opening smoothly, your vehicle might be impacted.
- What should I do if my BMW armrest opens slowly?
- If your BMW's center console armrest exhibits this behavior, you should contact an authorized BMW dealership. They can refer to manufacturer communication NHTSA ID 10227553 to diagnose and address the concern.
- Is there a recall for the BMW center console armrest issue?
- No, this is not a recall. It is a manufacturer communication (NHTSA ID 10227553), which is a technical service bulletin (TSB) issued by BMW to its dealerships to address a known characteristic or common customer complaint.
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