Problems · NHTSA complaints
2021 BMW 4 Series problems
Owners filed 21 complaints about the 2021 BMW 4 Series with NHTSA between Sep 2021 and Oct 2026. The most-cited component is electrical system (7).
Complaints
21
Filed with NHTSA
Crashes
1
Reported by owners
Fires
1
Reported by owners
Injuries
2
People reported injured
Deaths
0
Reported to NHTSA
Complaints by component
One complaint can cite several components
- Electrical system7
- Engine5
- Seat belts4
- Power train2
- Seats1
- Forward collision avoidance1
- Service brakes1
- Tires1
- Other / unknown2
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
Data from NHTSA Complaints API · synced Nov 7, 2026NHTSA vehicle page
When complaints were filed
Does it get worse with age? Complaints per calendar year filed
3
0
2
2
4
10
View as table
| Model year | Complaints filed per calendar year |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 3 |
| 2022 | 0 |
| 2023 | 2 |
| 2024 | 2 |
| 2025 | 4 |
| 2026 | 10 |
Mileage at failure isn’t a structured field in NHTSA complaint data, so we don’t chart it. Some owners mention it in their reports below.
Top problems in owners’ words
Verbatim from NHTSA complaints, newest first
Electrical system
7 reports1 related recall
“The engine starter motor system failed, specifically involving an intermittent no-start condition related to a pinion starter line break / internal component defect. The vehicle and all original mechanical components are fully intact and available for professional inspection upon request. The engine starter motor system failed, specifically involving an intermittent no-start condition related to a pinion starter line break / internal component defect. The vehicle and all original mechanical components are fully intact and available for professional inspection upon request. The vehicle is currently experiencing these active symptoms. The vehicle experiences sudden, unpredictable intermittent no-start scenarios. Being unable to dependably start or restart the engine creates a severe risk of stranded occupants in hazardous traffic scenarios, remote areas, or extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, this failure pattern matches identical 2026 BMW starter recalls where internal mechanical wear creates a severe overheating condition and an elevated vehicle fire risk, directly threatening passenger safety. No, the component has not yet been formally inspected by the…”
Engine
5 reports1 fire
“The recall was issued more than 8 months ago but the remedy is still not yet available, which is very concerning as the problem may cause the event of fire even when the vehicle is parked. Issued SEP 23, 2025 Description of Problem It is possible for water to contact and enter the engine starter. This could lead to corrosion which could cause a short circuit. Safety Risk This could increase the risk of a thermal event or fire during driving or even when the vehicle is parked and the ignition is off.”
Seat belts
4 reports2 related recalls
“I am seeing a lot of concerns regarding the seatbelt extenders, the buckle end pretensioner, seat wiring harness and the yellow box connectors that are where the main power and air bag SRS connections sit under the drivers seat. The seat harnesses are catching in the sliding track mechanism during forward and backward adjustments, isn't that a manufacturer error as the harnesses are only kept in place by plastic routing clips, which may or may not be there. I am just wondering if this should be looked at on the 2021 440i convertibles? I love the car but worry this is a safety issue forums are mentioning. Car alarms 1m-4am is that software updates, went on for four days in June.”
Power train
2 reports
“BMW dealer noted "clunk on accel" at 57,152 miles on RO #224018 under engine mounts. Dealer quoted $3,463.38 for engine mounts. I declined repair. Clunk on acceleration is still present at 60,700 miles. Same symptom as BMW Service Bulletin SIB 27-02-20 for 4 Series Drive jerking/shuddering from transfer case. Transfer case was serviced by non-BMW shop prior to my ownership (unknown fluid spec). Dealer documentation only notes clunk on accel and engine mounts/alignment. Requesting investigation as this matches known transfer case defect with lifetime fluid claim. Vehicle is just out of 4yr/50k warranty.”
Seats
1 report
Forward collision avoidance
1 report
Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Nov 7, 2026
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.