The BMW 5 Series is facing a new regulatory investigation after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received a defect petition alleging a potentially serious problem involving the rear differential and driveshaft assemblies, specifically on the 2022 model year.
NHTSA Opens Investigation Into BMW 5 Series
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received the defect petition on September 1, 2026. The petition alleges that excessive wear and failure at the driveshaft-to-rear-differential connection could cause a loss of powertrain engagement to the rear wheels.
So far, NHTSA has received only one petition concerning the alleged defect. However, the nature of the reported concern was enough for the agency to open an investigation.
BMW Recall 26V525 Covers Related Concern
The investigation may be related to a recall BMW issued in August. Recall number 26V525 states that the connection between the driveshaft and rear axle differential may, over time, experience excessive wear.
According to NHTSA, approximately 7,372 vehicles are affected by that recall, including the 840i, 840i xDrive, 750e, 540i, 540i xDrive, and M550i.
2022 BMW 540i Is the Focus of the Petition
Because the matter remains at the petition stage, there is currently no course of action beyond opening the investigation. While the related component is covered by recall 26V525, the petition submitted to NHTSA describes a somewhat different concern.
The petition alleges that the connection between the driveshaft and rear differential could result in total failure rather than only excessive wear. The petition specifically concerns the 2022 model year 540i, with 18,150 vehicles potentially affected.
The petition did not mention the 530i or 530i xDrive.
Other Recent BMW Drivetrain Concerns
BMW has faced several recent issues involving its drivetrains. In December, a class action lawsuit was lodged against the company over xDrive all-wheel-drive systems allegedly juddering and leaving owners with substantial repair and replacement bills.
More recently, another class action lawsuit was filed alleging that the G05 X5, G06 X6, and G07 X7 have failing front differentials despite the “lifetime” fluid and the company’s urging that the fluid does not need replacement.
G30 BMW 5 Series Background
The G30 BMW 5 Series followed the F10 generation, which received a somewhat mixed reception during its 2010-2017 run. The G30 was viewed as a return to form, offering a more compelling executive sedan despite not matching the reputation of the E39.
The car was also tested by many reviewers when it was new and was regarded as a genuinely good executive sedan. However, like any vehicle, it has faced criticism from both reviewers and owners.
The latest NHTSA investigation adds another issue to the G30 5 Series story, with the agency examining allegations involving the driveshaft and rear differential connection on 2022 model year 540i vehicles.
