How many steering complaints does NHTSA have for the 2006 BMW 3 Series?

NHTSA lists 24 steering complaints for the 2006 model year, which is 12% of the 202 total complaints filed for that year.

Is there a recall for the 2006 BMW 3 Series steering column lock?

No. NHTSA's data shows no related recall for this steering issue, despite multiple owners describing the same column-lock failure.

At what mileage do steering problems usually show up?

The median mileage at failure for steering complaints on the 2006 3 Series is 58,901 miles.

Did the steering problems cause any crashes or injuries?

NHTSA data ties 2 crashes and 4 injuries to steering-related complaints on this model year.

2006 BMW 3 Series Steering Problems

NHTSA lists 24 steering complaints for the 2006 BMW 3 Series, 12% of all complaints filed for that year, with a median mileage at failure of 58,901. Two crashes and four injuries are tied to this area, and there is no related recall.

Steering complaints: 24; 12% of 202 complaints
All complaints this year: 202
Crashes reported: 2
Fires reported: 0
Injuries reported: 4
Median mileage: 58,901 mi
Related recalls: 0

Typical steering symptoms owners report

Steering column lock warning light (amber or red) illuminates and the car refuses to start, sometimes requiring column replacement or reprogramming.
Owners describe the steering wheel lock mechanism as able to engage even while driving, which they consider a safety risk.
Some drivers report the steering column locking up combined with brake failure, loud noise, and loss of ability to steer or stop.
At highway speed the steering and brake warning lights come on together with a violent jerk and grinding noise when turning.
Vehicles reportedly veer or drift on their own, especially on uneven pavement, even at low speed, with dealers attributing it to tire type.
Runflat tires and rims are described as wearing, cracking, or bending repeatedly, which owners link to reduced steering control.

When 2006 BMW 3 Series steering complaints were filed

First complaint Nov 17, 2006, latest Jul 27, 2018.

24 complaints filed with NHTSA from Nov 2006 to Jul 2018; peak Jul 2010 (2).

Steering recalls for the 2006 BMW 3 Series

No safety recalls on record for this model year.

Steering complaints by 3 Series model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

20050 (0%)
200624 (12%)
200715 (13%)
20082 (3%)
20093 (6%)
20100 (0%)
20110 (0%)
20121 (14%)
20130 (0%)
20230 (0%)

Frequently asked questions

How many steering complaints does NHTSA have for the 2006 BMW 3 Series?: NHTSA lists 24 steering complaints for the 2006 model year, which is 12% of the 202 total complaints filed for that year.
Is there a recall for the 2006 BMW 3 Series steering column lock?: No. NHTSA's data shows no related recall for this steering issue, despite multiple owners describing the same column-lock failure.
At what mileage do steering problems usually show up?: The median mileage at failure for steering complaints on the 2006 3 Series is 58,901 miles.
Did the steering problems cause any crashes or injuries?: NHTSA data ties 2 crashes and 4 injuries to steering-related complaints on this model year.