- BMW is recalling 36,922 X3 SUVs from the 2025–2026 model years.
- Steering software glitch can move the wheel while parked vehicle.
- The fix is a free over the air software update or a dealer visit.
Modern cars feature so much technology that sometimes, software bugs sneak through. Honestly, it happens a lot more than consumers would like. That said, it’s rare to see one that makes the car’s steering wheel turn on its own.
That’s exactly what BMW is now dealing with, and as a result, it’s recalling almost 37,000 nearly new X3s. The recall population includes vehicles from the 2025 and 2026 model years. BMW believes that all 36,922 examples in the recall have the issue.
A Software Glitch With Real-World Consequences
That problem is that when stationary, a software glitch can cause the wheel to turn itself back and forth without any input from the driver. It’s basically one step away from a nightmare scenario on the highway.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the problem stems from steering system software that may not be sufficiently robust.
More: Porsche’s Latest Recall Stems From A Tiny Digital Noise You’ll Never Hear
Specifically, if one of the two channels within the steering torque sensor malfunctions while the vehicle is at a standstill (either during startup or while stopped in drive) the software may fail to correctly detect the fault. In rare cases, this can lead to unintended steering wheel movement.
What does that look like in practical terms? Kind of funny, honestly, but only because the car isn’t moving. Several users on Instagram, Reddit, and other platforms have shared a video that seems to show the defect in action.
In it, we see the X3 is stationary, and the wheel is somewhat violently turning right and then returning to its original position before repeating the cycle rapidly. Some commenters joked that the user’s annual steering subscription ran out.
Thankfully, that’s not true (yet), and even if it were, the solutions are similar. The remedy is a steering system software update that will be delivered primarily via an over-the-air (OTA) update, allowing owners to complete the fix without visiting a dealership. BMW says owners will also have the option of scheduling a free dealer visit if they prefer.
