Recall 18V431 covers 5 2018 BMW X3 SUVs for rear turn signals that flash red and amber. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.
BMW is recalling 5 2018 X3 SUVs because the rear turn signals show red on the outer side panel while the inner signals flash amber. Mixed-color turn signals can confuse other drivers and increase crash risk, and BMW dealers will correct the lighting issue free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The rear turn signal on the 2018 BMW X3 is part of the exterior lighting system that tells other drivers when the SUV is turning or changing lanes. On this vehicle, the rear lamp uses separate areas of the tail lamp to show the turn signal. The signal color matters because federal lighting rules require a clear, consistent signal that drivers behind you can read quickly.
On recalled X3 SUVs, the rear turn signal lamp was built or configured so the outboard section flashes red while the inboard section flashes amber at the same time. That mixed color output means the lamp does not fully meet FMVSS 108, the federal standard for lamps and reflective equipment. BMW traced the issue through assembly and supplier checks after reports from processing centers and dealers.
There is no warning sign before failure. An owner would see the issue only when the rear turn signal is operating, or if another person checks the lamp from behind the vehicle.
Who's affected?
| 2018 BMW X3 | Turn signal |
|---|---|
| Units affected | 5 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
Not every 2018 BMW X3 is on the list. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific SUV is included.
What's the safety risk?
Turn signals that flash more than one color can confuse other drivers and increase the risk of a crash. Until the lights are inspected, signal early, leave extra space, and schedule the recall repair soon. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2018 BMW X3 is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised BMW dealer to schedule the free rear turn signal inspection and any needed light replacement that corrects the red and amber signal mismatch.
- Bring the recall notice if BMW sent one, and reference recall number 18V431 when you call.
- Drive with extra care until the repair is complete, since mixed-color turn signals can confuse other drivers.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a BMW technician inspects the rear turn signal lights and replaces the affected lights if inspection shows replacement is needed. The recall repair is free, with parts and labor covered. If you've already paid out of pocket for a related rear turn signal repair before the recall notice, BMW's standard reimbursement plan is the reimbursement path. Bring repair paperwork and proof of payment to the service desk, or contact BMW customer service for claim instructions.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| June 21, 2018 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| June 21, 2018 | Dealer notification began |
| June 21, 2018 | Dealer notification ended |
| August 13, 2018 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| August 20, 2018 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 18V431?
Recall 18V431 covers 5 2018 BMW X3 vehicles with rear turn signals that flash red on the outboard side panel while the inboard signals flash amber. That mixed-color signal violates FMVSS number 108 and can confuse other drivers, increasing crash risk.
What should I do if my 2018 BMW X3 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific X3 is included in recall 18V431. If it is, call a franchised BMW dealer and ask for the rear turn signal inspection. The dealer will replace the affected lights if needed, free of charge.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the recall remedy at no cost, and BMW dealers will inspect the rear turn signal lights and replace them if needed for free. You can reference recall 18V431 when you call the service desk.
Is it safe to drive my 2018 BMW X3 before the repair?
BMW did not issue a do not drive instruction for recall 18V431. The safety risk is that mixed red and amber turn signals can confuse other drivers, increasing crash risk. Confirm your VIN, then schedule the free dealer inspection and repair.
When did BMW start notifying owners about recall 18V431?
BMW began the recall on August 20, 2018. If you bought the X3 used or never received a notice, the VIN still decides whether the free repair applies. Contact a franchised BMW dealer and reference recall 18V431.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/18V431000 |
|---|---|
| BMW customer service | 1-800-525-7417 |
| NHTSA recall # | 18V431 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 18V431000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 25, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →