This is an investigation, not a recall. NHTSA is looking into a possible defect; nothing has been found and there is no repair to book yet. NHTSA aims to complete a Defect Petition within 4 months. If a recall follows, it will appear on this site.
What NHTSA is investigating
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received on September 1, 2026 a defect petition dated August 5, 2026, requesting an investigation into an alleged defect in BMW rear differential assemblies. The petitioner alleges Model year (MY) 2022 BMW 540i vehicles are experiencing a sudden mechanical failure that severs the drive connection between the driveshaft and the rear wheels. This defect petition has been opened to evaluate the issue and determine whether to grant or deny the petition. BMW filed Safety Recall 26V525 on August 12, 2026. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11761650.
Vehicles covered
| Make | Model | Model years |
|---|---|---|
| BMW | 540I | 2022 |
Source
From NHTSA’s investigation file, rebuilt daily. To report a problem with your own vehicle, go to nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem. All open investigations.