2021-2023 BMW X Series Headliner Water Leak TSB
A manufacturer communication, NHTSA ID 10242696, addresses reports of water leaking into the cabin from the headliner and microphone area in 2021-2023 BMW X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7 models. This issue may stem from the sunroof assembly or vehicle structure.

Si applica anche a
- BMW X3
- 2021–2023
- BMW X4
- 2021–2023
- BMW X5
- 2021–2022
- BMW X6
- 2021–2022
- BMW X7
- 2021–2023
Owners of 2021-2023 BMW X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7 models may experience an issue where water leaks into the vehicle's interior. This problem, specifically noted as "Water leaking into the vehicle from the headliner/microphone area," is detailed in NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10242696. This communication highlights a known concern that could affect various BMW X Series vehicles.
Symptoms of Water Leakage
The primary symptom reported is a BMW X5 water leak or similar water ingress in other X Series models. Owners may notice water dripping or staining from the headliner, particularly in the area of the overhead console or microphone. This indicates a breach in the vehicle's sealing integrity, potentially affecting the sunroof assembly or the surrounding structural components.
Potential Causes and Diagnosis
The manufacturer communication points to water intrusion originating from the headliner or microphone area. This suggests a potential issue with the VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY or the STRUCTURE of the vehicle around that region. A proper diagnosis by a qualified technician would involve inspecting the sunroof drains, seals, and the integrity of the roof structure to pinpoint the exact source of the water ingress.
What Owners Should Know
If you are experiencing a BMW X5 water leak or similar issues in your 2021-2023 BMW X Series vehicle, it is recommended to contact your authorized BMW service center promptly. While NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10242696 is not a recall, it signifies that BMW is aware of this potential issue and has likely provided guidance to dealerships on how to diagnose and address it. Addressing water leaks quickly is crucial to prevent further damage to the vehicle's interior electronics, upholstery, and trim.
Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10242696.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the issue described in NHTSA Communication 10242696?
- NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10242696 addresses reports of water leaking into the vehicle from the headliner and microphone area in certain 2021-2023 BMW X Series models.
- Which BMW models are affected by the headliner water leak?
- This issue primarily affects 2021-2023 BMW X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7 models, where owners may experience a BMW X5 water leak or similar water ingress from the headliner.
- What should I do if I find water leaking from my BMW's headliner?
- If you notice water leaking from your BMW's headliner or microphone area, you should contact an authorized BMW service center immediately. They can diagnose the cause, which may involve the sunroof assembly or vehicle structure, and perform the necessary repairs.
- Is this water leak issue a recall?
- No, NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10242696 is not a recall. It is a communication from the manufacturer to dealerships regarding a known issue, providing guidance for diagnosis and repair.
What BMW X5 owners report
Counted from the records in our database across 27 model years.
- 3,423
- Owner complaints
- 114
- Recalls
- 1,651
- Service bulletins
- 120
- Crashes reported
- 159
- Fires reported
- 132
- Injuries reported
The 2023 model year
34 complaints, the 25th most of 27 model years on file. Owners reported 3 crashes, 0 fires and 1 injury for this year, which also has 4 recalls on file.
Structure and Visibility, the system this article covers, accounts for 182 of 3,423 complaints (5%), including 6 for 2023.
Complaints by model year
| 2001 | 160 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 195 | |
| 2008 | 235 | |
| 2009 | 157 | |
| 2011 | 331 | |
| 2012 | 295 | |
| 2013 | 162 | |
| 2015 | 152 | |
| 2019 | 194 | |
| 2023 | 34 |
Most-reported systems
- Engine — 749
- Air Bags — 663
- Electrical System — 587
- Power Train — 475
- Fuel/Propulsion System — 335
Latest recalls for the 2023 model year
- 23V821000 — Power Train (Dec 2023)
- 23V253000 — Seats (Apr 2023)
- 22V942000 — Seats (Dec 2022)
Recent owner reports about structure and visibility
Sunroof leaks into cabin and there is no known solution for this model year 2023 BMW X5. It is my understanding that model years 2020-2023 all have this issue and a class action lawsuit is being reviewed.
Read owner complaints →While driving under normal conditions with no external impact, debris, rock strike, or other identifiable cause, the panoramic moonroof shattered explosively (with a loud report resembling a gunshot).
Complaints are owner reports filed with NHTSA. They are unverified, and counts depend on how many vehicles were sold, so they are not a failure rate.
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