Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
BMW has issued a recall affecting 70,852 electric vehicles due to a software defect that can cause a sudden loss of drive power while the vehicle is in motion.
This BMW EV Power Loss issue stems from the electric drive motor software, which may incorrectly detect a “double-isolation condition.”
When this occurs, the system triggers a fail-safe shutdown of the high-voltage system, temporarily cutting power to the electric motors for approximately 15 to 20 seconds.
During this period, the vehicle may coast without propulsion; however, steering and braking functions remain fully operational.
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Why Some BMW Electric Vehicles Are Losing Power Unexpectedly
The root cause of BMW’s loss of drive power recall is faulty software logic within the system that monitors the high-voltage battery.
It incorrectly interprets normal conditions as a double-isolation fault, which is an extremely rare event indicating failure of both insulation layers separating the high-voltage system from the vehicle chassis.
Because the software mistakenly triggers this fail-safe mode, the high-voltage system temporarily shuts down, leading to a brief loss of drive power.
During this shutdown, the vehicle will coast without propulsion, but steering and braking functions remain fully operational to allow the driver to maintain control. After the short interruption, the system is designed to restart automatically.
Although power-assisted steering and braking are unaffected and remain operational to maintain vehicle control, the loss of propulsion during driving increases the risk of a crash.
Drivers will notice a red warning message and symbol illuminated on the dashboard when this issue occurs.
Which BMW EV Models Are Included?
The recall for unexpected power loss affects several BMW electric vehicle models equipped with the fifth-generation eDrive system. The specific models included are:
- BMW i4 (2022–2025)
- BMW iX (2022–2024)
- BMW i7 (2023–2024)
- BMW i5 (2024)
In total, the recall applies to 70,852 vehicles impacted by the software issue in the drive motor control system.
BMW’s Official Repair Strategy for Affected EVs
BMW’s official repair approach for the recall addressing sudden power loss in affected electric vehicles focuses on a software update delivered through two options.
The primary repair method is an over-the-air (OTA) update, which BMW will remotely send to eligible vehicles.
This allows the software correction to be applied without requiring a visit to a dealership. The update resolves the faulty logic in the electric drive motor software that caused the high-voltage system to shut down unnecessarily.
Alternatively, owners who prefer or need in-person assistance can have the update installed manually at authorized BMW dealerships at no cost.
This recall is listed under the NHTSA Recall Number 25V395. Owners are advised to verify their vehicle’s recall status by visiting nhtsa.gov/recalls or by contacting BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417.
Those opting for the dealership update can schedule an appointment with their local BMW service center.
Owner Notification and Repair Timeline
The timeline for owner notification and repair related to the BMW EV recall is as follows:
- July 2025: BMW identifies the issue and begins the recall process.
- August 5, 2025: Official start date for owner notifications by mail.
- From August 2025 onward: Owners can receive the software update either automatically over-the-air (OTA) or by scheduling an appointment at a BMW dealership.
The over-the-air update typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete. For those opting for a dealership visit, the process may take between one and two hours, depending on appointment availability and service center workload.
Repeat Power Loss Incidents and the Lemon Law
If your BMW electric vehicle has experienced unexpected power loss even after receiving the recall-related software update, it may be time to explore your legal options.
Lemon Law criteria vary by state, but generally, if a vehicle has been subject to repeat warranty repairs for the same or similar issue that impair its safety, use or value, the vehicle may be a lemon and the consumer could qualify for lemon law remedies such as a repurchase, replacement vehicle or cash compensation.
For BMW EV owners facing persistent loss of drive power or related problems after the recall repair, these repeated malfunctions can strengthen a potential lemon law claim under state or federal regulations.
Lemon law outcomes depend on factors such as your vehicle’s repair history, warranty coverage, and the specific laws in your state.
If you continue to experience problems, consulting with a lemon law attorney can help determine whether you are entitled to a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash settlement based on your BMW’s repair record:
| Affected Vehicle | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
| BMW i4 (2022–2025) | $83,220 |
| BMW iX (2022–2024) | $159,128 |
| BMW i7 (2023–2024) | $225,629 |
| BMW i5 (2024) | $136,837 |
Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
Contact the Lemon Law Experts About Your BMW EV
If your BMW EV continues to suffer from power loss, warning messages, or drivability problems following the recall repair, you may have grounds to pursue a Lemon Law claim.
In many cases, legal fees are covered by the manufacturer if your claim is successful.
Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have assisted consumers in holding manufacturers accountable when vehicles fail to meet performance and safety standards.
If you are facing repeated power loss or related issues with your BMW electric vehicle despite recall service, contact our team for a free consultation.
We are here to help you understand your rights and seek the resolution you deserve. Reach out to our team today to get started.
Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2025). Recall campaign “RCAK‑25V395‑7880” [Safety recall notice]. U.S. Department of Transportation. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCAK-25V395-7880.pdf.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2025). Recall campaign report “RCLRPT‑25V395‑7784” [Safety recall report]. U.S. Department of Transportation. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V395-7784.pdf.
