The left side of the drivers side seat heater has overheated and burned through the leather and my pants. There appears to be similar complaints on this website and a NHTSA recall bulletin number 04V575000 for older 5 series vehicles. I think this investigation should be expanded since so many people have experienced this behavior.......updated 12/03/15

- Breckenridge, CO, USA

The contact owns a 2005 BMW X3. The contact stated that the driver and passenger side heated seat function overheated. In addition, the air bag warning light remained illuminated and the key became difficult to release from the ignition. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The technician diagnosed that the wiring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.

- Rosedale, MD, USA

Driver side seat heater overheated, burned through the leather seat and into coat of driver, leaving dime-sized burn hole approximately 12 inches up on the left "wing" of the seat back. Can no longer use heated seat on driver side, as the same spot begins to smolder when the seat heater is turned on, even on low.

- Apo , AE, USA

The contact owns a 2005 BMW X3. The contact stated that while driving, the driver side heated seat overheated. The seat became severely hot and burned through the leather seats as well as burning a hole through the contact's pants. The contact was not injured. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 75,000. Updated 02/22/12 updated 03/01/12

- Seattle, WA, USA

My wife's heated driver seat burned a hole in the vinyl seat cover and through her sweater. Dealer says this is not covered by warranty, but it appears to be a common problem for the X3. An internet search reveals several complaints. Additionally, a recall was announced for the BMW 5 and 3 series for the same issue. I hope the ntsb conducts a quick response. Thanks.

- Washington, DC, USA

The contact owns a 2005 BMW X3. The contact was driving approximately 25 mph on normal road conditions. The driver side heated seat was activated. Suddenly, an unexpected excessive high voltage of heat penetrated through the bottom of the seat. The driver pulled over to the side of the road and deactivated the heated seat system. The driver sustained a minor burn to the left leg and the driver seat cover exhibited a burn mark. The vehicle was able to resume normal operation. The dealer was notified of the malfunction. There was concern of the safety risk involved. The failure mileage was 31,000.

- Baltimore, MD, USA

Drivers seat warmer burned through vinyl seat causing a hole in seat and burn to driver. Car is currently at dealer being repaired. Car was at dealer day before because of ignition not working properly. They were unable to determine problem. Next day incident occurs.

- Purcellville, VA, USA