2025 BMW Secure Element Failure During Engine Start SIB 61 01 26

BMW has issued Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 61 01 26 (Revision 1, dated February 20, 2026) to address a software-related issue leading to a "Secure Element Failure During Engine Start" in various 2025 BMW models. This bulletin replaces an earlier version, SI B61 01 26 dated February 2026. The problem manifests during vehicle startup and can trigger a specific Check Control message and several fault memory entries.

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2025 BMW vehicles may experience communication errors during vehicle start-up due to a failure of the Secure Element (SE) within the Basic Central Platform (BCP). This will typically result in the Check Control message "Drive carefully. Driving stabilisation." appearing on the instrument cluster. This message indicates a potential stability control issue, prompting the driver to proceed with caution. The 2025 BMW X5 secure element failure is a critical software issue that can impact vehicle operation.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When the "Secure Element Failure During Engine Start" occurs, the vehicle's fault memory will store specific entries within 40 seconds of each other. These codes help technicians diagnose the underlying software problem:

• ACSM: 02010A - Coding: Coding data not qualified
• VIP: 02390A - VIP control unit: Coding data not released, signature
• IB: 02290A - DSC control unit: Coding data not released, signature
• HKFM: 020D0A - HKFM: Coding data are not qualified

Cause of the 2025 BMW X5 Secure Element Failure

The root cause of this issue is identified as software errors within the Basic Central Platform (BCP). The BCP is a central component responsible for various vehicle functions, and a fault in its secure element can lead to communication disruptions and the display of warning messages.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of several key points regarding this issue and its resolution:

• Parts Replacement Not a Solution: The bulletin explicitly states that "A parts replacement will not provide a solution." This issue is purely software-related, and replacing hardware components will not resolve the problem.
• Battery Charger Requirement: During the programming procedure, it is crucial to "Always connect a BMW-approved battery charger/power supply (SI B04 23 10)." This ensures stable voltage and prevents interruptions during the software update.
• Post-Programming Actions: After the software update, technicians may need to perform follow-up actions, including a vehicle test and deleting fault memory, to ensure the fix is fully implemented.

Repair Procedure Summary

The correction for the 2025 BMW X5 secure element failure involves programming and encoding the Basic Central Platform. Technicians will follow these general steps:

1. Determine Current I-level: The vehicle's current integration level (I-level) is identified using BMW's Aftersales Workplace (AWP) or AIR applications. If the I-level is at or below a specific target (e.g., S18A-25-11-560 for G05, G06, G07 models), the vehicle requires programming.
2. Program the Vehicle: The vehicle is programmed using ISTA 4.58.2x or higher, with an expected release date of March 2, 2026, for the required software. This process updates the BCP to a higher integration level (e.g., S18A-26-03-532 or higher for G05, G06, G07 models).
3. Vehicle Test and Fault Memory Deletion: After programming, a vehicle test is performed, and any remaining fault memory entries are deleted. ISTA automatically reprograms and codes all programmable control modules that do not have the latest software.

This repair is classified as "MOBILE FRIENDLY" and "REMOTE SOFTWARE UPGRADE (RSU) FRIENDLY," indicating that it can potentially be performed with greater flexibility.

Required Tools or Parts

The primary tool required for this repair is the latest version of ISTA (Integrated Service Technical Application), specifically version 4.58.2x or higher. Additionally, a BMW-approved battery charger/power supply (referenced in SI B04 23 10) is essential to maintain stable voltage during the programming process.

Warranty Information

The repair for the 2025 BMW X5 secure element failure is covered under the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty or BMW Certified Pre-Owned Program, provided the vehicle meets the eligibility criteria. The specific repair code for this service is 6138450200, identified as "Control unit, Basic Central Platform (BCP) Software error / internal device fault."

Labor operations associated with this repair include:

• 00 00 006: Carrying out vehicle test (Main work)
• 00 00 556: Carrying out vehicle test (Plusposition)
• 61 21 528: Supporting voltage of the vehicle electrical system / recharging vehicle battery
• 61 00 006:* Carrying out vehicle diagnosis, ABL (Work time)
• 00 58 500:* Diagnosis Worktime Flat Rate
• 61 00 730: Program/encode control unit(s), includes deleting the fault memory

For specific flat rate unit (FRU) allowances, technicians are instructed to use the BMW Group's AIR application resource by entering the VIN.

NHTSA ID: 11029070