NHTSA Recall 96V111000: Switch (exterior lighting)
BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 180,000 vehicles. It affects 15 models including the BMW 325I.
| NHTSA campaign | 96V111000 |
|---|---|
| Component | EXTERIOR LIGHTING › BRAKE LIGHTS › SWITCH |
| Report received | July 1, 1996 |
| Owner notification | September 30, 1996 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
The brake light switch can fail allowing the switch to remain in the "brake lights off" position or in the "brake lights on" position.
Safety risk
If this happens, the brake lights either will not operate or will be continuously on, regardless of brake pedal position. Following drivers would not be able to determine whether the vehicle is stopping, increasing the potential for a vehicle accident.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the existing brake light switch with a newly designed switch.
Notes
System: brakes; hydraulic; switch; brake light. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Owner notification: owner notification is expected to begin august 5, 1996. Note: owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
Vehicles covered by recall 96V111000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| BMW 325I | 1992, 1993, 1994 |
| BMW 325IC | 1994 |
| BMW 325IS | 1992, 1993, 1994 |
| BMW 525I | 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994 |
| BMW 525IT | 1992, 1993, 1994 |
| BMW 530I | 1994 |
| BMW 530IT | 1994 |
| BMW 535I | 1990, 1991, 1992 |
| BMW 540I | 1994 |
| BMW 735I | 1990, 1991, 1992 |
| BMW 735IL | 1990, 1991, 1992 |
| BMW 740I | 1993, 1994 |
| BMW 740IL | 1993, 1994 |
| BMW 750I | 1990, 1991, 1992 |
| BMW M3 | 1995 |
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.