BMW has recalled more than 36,000 model year 2025–2026 X3 SUVs after a video of a rented 2026 BMW X3’s steering wheel moving on its own was traced to a software-related defect.
A steering control software glitch can cause unintended steering wheel movement while the vehicle is starting up or stationary, according to the recall.
The video, which has since circulated across social media and various forums, shows the steering wheel jerking clockwise and counterclockwise in short, rapid movements while the vehicle is in PARK.
Affected owners will receive a steering system software update free of charge, which can be performed at a dealership or through an over-the-air process.
BMW X3 Steering Software Glitch Recall: Overview
- NHTSA ID: 25V857000
- Vehicle Population: 36,922
- Affected Models: 2025–2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive and X3 M50 xDrive vehicles built from Aug 14, 2024 through Oct 20, 2025.
- Vehicle Defect: The steering system software may not be sufficiently robust. If one of two channels within the steering torque sensor malfunctions while the vehicle is in standstill (such as at startup or at a stop), software diagnostics may not be able to detect the malfunction.
- Safety Risk: Unintended steering wheel movement may occur while the vehicle is stationary due to a software glitch in the steering system. This can increase the risk of an injury or crash on the road.
- Remedy: The steering system software will be updated free of charge. The update can be performed through an over-the-air process or at a BMW dealership.
- Notification: Recall notices will be mailed to affected owners on February 2, 2026.
How BMW Discovered the Steering Software Problem
On August 22, 2025, a BMW X3 experienced unexpected steering wheel movement during vehicle startup at an assembly plant. An engineering review was initiated on September 1, 2025. Later that month, a dealer delivery stop and an assembly plant hold was released. Another incident of steering issues during vehicle startup occurred that month, and a comprehensive review of field data was initiated.
Another steering movement case occurred on October 2, 2025, this time involving a vehicle in drive mode while at a standstill. The steering rack was later removed from the vehicle and sent to the supplier for analysis.
In October, supplier production records and additional field cases were reviewed to determine the scope of the steering defect. In early November, the supplier provided BMW with preliminary findings, but other steering incidents occurring that month received further review. BMW analyzed vehicle assembly information and supplier production records to determine how many vehicles were affected and when they were produced.
On December 4, 2025, BMW decided to initiate a recall. At this point, BMW was aware of 21 cases related to the steering system software defect. BMW has not received any reports of injuries.
Can I get reimbursed for a BMW steering software update?
BMW is not offering a reimbursement program for related repairs performed before the recall. According to recall documents, potentially affected vehicles that have received the steering software glitch repair would have been covered by BMW’s New Vehicle Limited warranty program. Therefore, affected BMW owners likely would not have paid for related repairs out of pocket.
How to Check If Your BMW X3 Is Included
You can confirm your eligibility for the steering software glitch recall through one of the following:
- Call BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417. Provide your Vehicle Identification Number to the customer service representative to confirm your inclusion in the recall.
- Use BMW’s Safety and Emissions Recall directory. Type your VIN into the search bar on the left-hand side of the page. You can also use this page to find a nearby BMW center by entering your zip code into the right-hand search bar.
Your VIN will become searchable under this recall on NHTSA’s Recall Search page beginning February 2, 2026. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 to report additional safety concerns.
References
- (2025, December 11). Unintended Steering Wheel Movement. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://www.nhtsa.gov/?nhtsaId=25V857000
- (2025, December 11). Part 573 Safety Recall Report 25V857. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V857-8946.pdf
