2022-2024 BMW iX Cracking Sound from Trim Panels TSB

BMW has released Service Information Bulletin SIB 51 11 23, a revised document from April 11, 2024, which supersedes the previous bulletin dated June 2023 (SI B51 11 23). This bulletin addresses customer complaints regarding a cracking sound emanating from the D-pillar trim panel and/or the right-side luggage compartment capping trim panel in 2022-2024 BMW iX Sports Activity Vehicles.

The SIB provides updated information on the situation, causes, correction, procedure, parts, and claim details to help technicians resolve this specific BMW iX cracking sound issue.

Symptoms

Owners of affected BMW iX models may notice a cracking sound under specific driving conditions:

• Right-side luggage compartment capping trim panel: A cracking sound may be heard from this area while driving on smooth paved roads.
• D-pillar trim panel: A cracking sound can occur from the D-pillar trim panel, on either the left or right side, when driving on both smooth or rough roads.

BMW notes that the cracking sound from both components can sound similar and is primarily differentiated by the road conditions under which it occurs. A video, V51 06 23, is referenced for further illustration of the issue.

Causes

BMW has identified two primary causes for these unpleasant noises:

1. Excessive Play: The alignment hole on the right-side luggage compartment capping trim panel is too large, leading to excessive movement and noise.
2. Friction: Unfavorable friction occurs between the D-pillar trim panel and the vehicle's headliner.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technicians are instructed to first verify the presence of the BMW iX cracking sound before proceeding with the repair. The correction involves applying specialized tape to address the identified causes.

For the Right-Side Luggage Compartment Capping Trim Panel:

1. The right-side luggage compartment capping trim panel is carefully removed, following instructions in ISTA/AIR 51 47 157.
2. Adhesive tape is then applied to specific marked alignment holes on the trim panel, as indicated in the bulletin's accompanying photo.
3. After tape application, the trim panel is reinstalled, and the repair is verified.

For the D-Pillar Trim Panel:

1. The D-pillar trim panel (left or right, as applicable) is removed using repair instructions from ISTA/AIR 51 43 320 (left) or 51 43 322 (right).
2. A thin layer of felt tape is applied to the top edge of the D-pillar trim panel, as shown in the provided photo, ensuring firm adhesion.
3. The D-pillar trim panel is then reinstalled, and the repair is confirmed.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this repair, specific materials are required:

• Adhesive tape: Part Number 51 41 8 170 727 (25 mm x 5 mm x 25 cm)
• Set felt strip self-adhesive: Part Number 51 45 2 353 024 (21.1 mm x 1.1 mm x 12 cm)

These parts should be obtained and confirmed using the vehicle's chassis number to ensure compatibility with specific equipment and options.

Warranty and Claim Information

This repair is covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. Dealers will use specific labor operation codes for diagnosis and repair.

• Diagnosis: Labor operations 51 00 001* (Localizing body complaint(s)) or 00 58 500* (Diagnosis Worktime Flat Rate) may be claimed.
• Repair Codes: The bulletin specifies Repair Code 5147263900 for "Shoulder trim panel, luggage compartment Unpleasant noises" and Repair Code 5143073900 for "Trim panel / D-pillar trim panel (inside) Unpleasant noises."

Various labor operations are provided for repairing one side or both sides of the cargo area and D-pillar trim panels, with distinctions for main work and plusposition scenarios. Sublet Code 4 is used for bulk materials reimbursement. Dealers are advised to refer to SI B01 01 20 or SI B01 07 20 for proper documentation and claiming procedures for diagnosis work time.

NHTSA ID: 10253329