2021-2023 BMW Transmission Sleep Mode Emissions Recall
BMW has issued an Emissions Recall for certain 2021-2023 BMW vehicles due to a software failure that may prevent the transmission from entering 'sleep mode' when the car is turned off. This can lead to unexpected battery drain. Owners should contact their dealer.

Also applies to
- BMW 330e
- 2021–2023
- BMW 330i
- 2021–2023
- BMW 430i
- 2021–2022
- BMW 530e
- 2021–2023
- BMW 530i
- 2021–2023
- BMW 540i
- 2021–2023
- BMW M340i
- 2021–2023
- BMW M440i
- 2021–2022
- BMW M550i
- 2021–2023
- BMW X5
- 2022–2023
- BMW X6
- 2021–2022
- BMW X7
- 2021–2023
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BMW AG has issued an Emissions Recall, effective March 17, 2023, addressing a software issue in certain 2021-2023 BMW vehicles. This recall, identified by NHTSA ID 10239603, targets a specific software failure that can prevent the transmission from entering its intended "sleep mode" when the vehicle is turned off. This condition can lead to unexpected battery drain.
This issue affects various models, including the BMW X5 transmission sleep mode concern, and is classified under the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE and POWER TRAIN components. Owners of affected vehicles should be aware of the potential for battery discharge if the transmission does not properly enter sleep mode.
Why This Matters
When the transmission does not go into "sleep mode" after the vehicle is shut off, it continues to draw power from the battery. Over time, this constant drain can lead to a discharged battery, which may prevent the vehicle from starting. A dead battery can be a significant inconvenience and, in certain situations, could pose a safety risk if it occurs unexpectedly, leaving an owner stranded.
What's Being Recalled
The recall addresses a software failure that causes the transmission to remain active even after the car is turned off. Specifically, the defect is that the "transmission does not go into 'sleep mode' if the car is turned off." This affects vehicles produced between June 16, 2020, and December 13, 2022. The core problem lies within the vehicle's electrical system software, impacting the power train's ability to properly power down.
Manufacturer's Remedy
BMW will remedy this issue by performing a software update on affected vehicles. This update is designed to correct the software failure, ensuring that the transmission properly enters "sleep mode" when the vehicle is shut off. This repair will be performed free of charge to the owner.
What Owners Should Do
Owners of 2021-2023 BMW vehicles, particularly those concerned about the BMW X5 transmission sleep mode issue, should contact their authorized BMW dealer to schedule the necessary software update. It is important to address this Emissions Recall (NHTSA ID 10239603) promptly to prevent potential battery drain and ensure the reliable operation of your vehicle.
Source: NHTSA ID 10239603
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the BMW Emissions Recall NHTSA ID 10239603 about?
- This recall addresses a software failure in certain 2021-2023 BMW vehicles that prevents the transmission from entering "sleep mode" when the car is turned off, potentially leading to battery drain.
- What are the symptoms of the transmission sleep mode issue?
- The primary symptom is that the vehicle's battery may drain unexpectedly, potentially leading to a dead battery and the inability to start the car, because the transmission does not go into "sleep mode" as intended.
- How do I know if my BMW is affected by this recall?
- This recall affects certain 2021-2023 BMW models produced between June 16, 2020, and December 13, 2022. You can check your vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website or contact your BMW dealer, referencing Emissions Recall NHTSA ID 10239603.
- What is the fix for the BMW X5 transmission sleep mode problem?
- The fix involves a software update performed by an authorized BMW dealer. This update will correct the software failure, ensuring the transmission properly enters "sleep mode" and preventing battery drain.
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