2025 BMW X7 Emissions Recall: OBD Control Unit Programming

Why This Matters: OBD Diagnostics Error

BMW AG is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Recall, identified as Emissions Recall 26E-A01, for certain Model Year 2023 - 2026 BMW vehicles produced between January 14, 2022, and September 16, 2025. This recall addresses an implementation error in the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) control units. In rare cases, this error can prevent stored fault memory codes (DTCs) and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), or warning light, from automatically clearing even after the underlying malfunction has been resolved. This issue means the vehicle does not comply with statutory OBD specifications.

Symptoms

Owners of an affected 2025 BMW X7 or other listed models may notice that diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and the engine's warning light remain active on the dashboard, even after a repair has been performed to correct a fault. This indicates that the vehicle's control units are not properly deleting the fault memory as intended by design and regulatory requirements.

The Correction: Control Unit Programming

To resolve this issue, BMW requires programming the control units in affected vehicles. This procedure ensures that the OBD system functions correctly, allowing fault memory codes and warning lights to clear automatically once a problem has been rectified. This update is crucial for maintaining proper emissions monitoring and diagnostic capabilities.

Repair Procedure Summary

The programming procedure for Emissions Recall 26E-A01 is performed via the Integrated Service Technical Application (ISTA) system. Technicians will first connect a battery charger to the vehicle to maintain stable voltage during the process. Next, the ISTA 4 programming system is connected to the vehicle. The system then determines the necessary measures plan for the specific vehicle. The technician must accept and work through this plan, which involves programming and encoding the relevant control units, activating them if necessary, and following any rework instructions. Finally, a vehicle test is conducted, and any remaining fault memory is deleted.

Important Warnings and What Owners Should Know

• Programming Lock: For vehicles with Wave-01 and an I-level of 25-03 or older, a programming lock may be active. If this occurs, technicians must execute programming with the backup I-level 25-11-5xx, open a new ISTA session, calculate a new measurement plan, and then execute programming 26-03-530 or higher to bypass the lock.
• Required Software: The programming and encoding require ISTA 4.58.2x with an installed service data package. The solution for this recall is included with ISTA 4.58.2x, with an expected release date of March 3, 2026.
• Required I-Levels: The programming must be carried out using specific I-levels or later versions. These include G045-26-03-532 or later, G070-26-03-530 or later, S18A-26-03-532 or later, and U006-26-03-530 or later.
• Labeling: After the repair, an "Emissions Recall Campaign Completed Label" (SD 92-435) must be affixed to the right rear side of the hood in the engine compartment, near the windshield. The recall name, recall number, and a 5-digit center code must be legibly printed on this label.
• California Residents: For vehicles registered in California, an executed orange "Vehicle Emission Recall - Proof of Correction" certificate (SD92-084) must be provided to the customer.

Claim Information for Dealers

This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 3) replaces the previous SI B12 03 26 dated March 2026, with updates to the claim information section. Reimbursement for this Emissions Recall 26E-A01 will be processed via normal claim entry. The programming and encoding procedure can only be invoiced once. Technicians should select the open Technical Campaign to perform the update to the required I-level or higher, which includes codes such as 00 00 006, 00 00 556, and 61 00 730. The specific repair code for programming control units (OBD) for models like the F74, F9x, G0x, G45, G60, G70, G9x, and U1x is 0099020300. Various labor operations are defined based on whether the vehicle is new in stock, requires a Remote Software Upgrade (RSU), or is already at the target integration level.

NHTSA ID: 11030305