Service Bulletin

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.

Byeditor marcus weber2021 BMW X5
2021 BMW X5 — 2021 BMW X5 center console armrest
Editorial illustration generated for this article.
NHTSA ID 10227553BMW center console armrest slow to open2021 BMW X5 center console armrest2022 BMW X5 center console armrest2021 BMW X6 center console armrest2022 BMW X6 center console armrest2021 BMW X7 center console armrest2022 BMW X7 center console armrestBMW armrest issueBMW X5 armrest problem
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.

Related Articles

2021-2022 BMW X-Series/3-Series Lower Air Flap ELW

BMW has issued Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 01 03 25, extending the limited warranty for the Radiator Grille's Lower Active Air Flap Assembly to 15 years or 150,000 miles. This covers certain 2021-2022 BMW X5, X6, X7, and 3-Series vehicles experiencing operational issues.

2021-2022 BMW Active Air Flap Obstruction SIB 01 08 25

BMW has released Customer Satisfaction Initiative SIB 01 08 25 (15/150) addressing obstructed active air flaps in 2021-2022 X5, X6, X7, 330i, and 330e models. This can cause a Check Control Message or Malfunction Indicator Lamp to illuminate.

2019-2022 BMW Active Air Flap Extended Warranty

BMW of North America has announced an Extended Limited Warranty (ELW) for the Radiator Grilles Lower Active Air Flap Assembly on certain 2019-2022 BMW X5, X6, X7, and 3 Series vehicles. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for 15 years or 150,000 miles from the original…

2021-2022 BMW X5/X6/X7 Cupholder SRS Warning Light Settlement

BMW has finalized a class action settlement (SIB 01 13 23) for 2021-2022 X5, X6, and X7 vehicles. This addresses SRS warning light illumination and Check Control Messages caused by liquid spills from the front center console cupholders.

2021 BMW Coolant Pump Fracture SIB 11 05 21

BMW Service Information Bulletin SIB 11 05 21 addresses a potential issue where the mechanical coolant pump pulley may fracture, causing the engine drive belt to detach in certain 2021 BMW X-series, 3 Series, 4 Series, and 5 Series vehicles.

Comments

Be the first to comment.

Leave a comment

Comments are moderated and may take a moment to appear. Only your first name and the initial of your last name are shown publicly.

Verifying you are human...