2013 BMW 528xi recalls and problems
The 2013 BMW 528xi has 2 safety recalls and 56 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2013 BMW 528xi vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2013 BMW 528xi recalls
Recall 26V-733: Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2016 3 Series, 5 Series, Z4, 2012-2015 X1, 2013-2017 X3, 2015-2016 4 Series Gran Coupe, 2 Series Convertible, 2014-2016 328xi Gran Turismo, 2 Series Coupe, 4 Series Convertible, 3 Series Coupe, 3 Series Sportswagon, 2015-2018 X4, and 2016-2018 X5 xDrive40e vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
Risk: A short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. The remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in December 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 25, 2026. This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 24V608. Vehicles already repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new remedy completed.
Recall 15V-188: Exterior Lighting
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, and ActiveHybrid 5 vehicles. The rear reflex reflectors may not reflect enough light. As such, the vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: The vehicle may be less visible to other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear reflex reflectors, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
2013 BMW 528xi problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 32 | |
| Power Train | 16 | |
| Electrical System | 13 | |
| Unknown or Other | 6 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 6 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 5 | |
| Air Bags | 3 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Seats | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Steering | 1 | |
| Structure | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette — 1
- Structure › Body — 1
- Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft — 1
- Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 80,400 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2013 BMW 528xi complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other BMW 528xi years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2013 BMW 528xi have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2013 BMW 528xi: 26V-733 (electrical system, engine and engine cooling), 15V-188 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2013 BMW 528xi?
Owners report engine problems most often (32 reports), followed by power train (16). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 80,400 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.