Breaking up with BMW: Why I’m ending my relationship with the brand
For years, BMW has been synonymous with luxury, performance,...
For years, BMW has been synonymous with luxury, performance, and driving pleasure. Known as the “Ultimate Driving Machine,” the brand has attracted loyal fans who appreciate its sleek designs and dynamic engineering. However, my recent experiences with BMW have led me to the difficult decision to end my relationship with the brand, and here is why.
Despite its reputation for quality, BMW’s recent models have...
Despite its reputation for quality, BMW’s recent models have shown troubling signs of reliability issues. I am not alone in facing persistent mechanical and electronic problems. For example, some owners of the 2024 BMW X7 have reported unpredictable shifting into Park while stationary, causing serious safety concerns. In one particularly alarming case, a driver experienced noise and vibration issues that worsened over time, resulting in health problems like headaches. Despite multiple complaints and attempts to get the issue resolved, the brand’s customer service failed to provide a proper solution or even a replacement vehicle[1].
These problems are not isolated. Consumer reviews across var...
These problems are not isolated. Consumer reviews across various BMW models, including the 2025 electric iX and the M4 sports car, reveal a pattern of frequent glitches, especially in newer technology and infotainment systems. While BMW cars are praised for their performance, handling, and luxurious interiors, many customers report high maintenance and repair costs coupled with persistent electrical issues[2][3].
Even though some BMW owners still sing praises for the brand...
Even though some BMW owners still sing praises for the brand’s driving dynamics and interior comfort, the mounting unresolved complaints and inconsistent customer support have eroded my trust. The high cost of ownership combined with an increasing number of defects and the lack of responsive after-sales service make it difficult to justify staying loyal to BMW.
In summary, while BMW continues to produce vehicles that are...
In summary, while BMW continues to produce vehicles that are exciting to drive and well-crafted, the growing reliability problems, safety concerns, and poor customer service have led me to end my relationship with the brand. For those who value dependable performance and peace of mind, it may be time to look elsewhere.
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 6:20:12 AM
BMW is facing significant regulatory pressure from ongoing U.S. tariffs, including a 15% transatlantic tariff on imports, which the company says will reduce its automotive margin by about 1.25 percentage points in 2025, with even greater impact in the first half of the year[2]. Tariffs on steel, aluminum, and electric vehicle imports from China contribute to these challenges, leading to higher production costs despite BMW’s strong U.S. manufacturing presence that somewhat mitigates the effects[1][2][4]. BMW continues to engage actively with regulators and policymakers, emphasizing transparency and fact-based dialogue to manage these trade issues within a complex geopolitical environment[5].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 6:30:11 AM
Consumer and public reaction to the decision to break up with BMW has been largely fueled by frustration over persistent vehicle defects and problematic technology. For example, a 2024 BMW X7 owner reported ongoing safety issues due to the car unpredictably shifting into Park at red lights, a problem BMW has yet to properly resolve despite repeated complaints, even escalating to potential legal action[1]. Additionally, longtime BMW drivers criticize the 2025 models, especially the X3, for frustrating infotainment systems that are distracting and difficult to operate while driving, with one user noting it "puts me in a bad mood every time I get in it"[2]. These issues contribute to a growing sentiment of disappointment and mistrust among consumers, despite some praise for performance i
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 6:40:11 AM
Industry experts highlight rising challenges in customer retention for BMW, despite the brand maintaining a strong global premium segment position in 2024. According to J.D. Power’s 2025 U.S. Customer Service Index, BMW ranks third in premium car service satisfaction with a score of 887, trailing Porsche (906) and Lexus (891), but dealer appointment wait times and communication issues continue to hinder loyalty[2]. Additionally, Deloitte’s 2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study reveals a growing trend of brand defection, with 54% of U.S. consumers planning to switch brands, driven by evolving preferences for connectivity and electrification—areas where BMW faces intensified competition amid shifting consumer priorities[3][4].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 6:50:10 AM
Experts and industry analysts recognize BMW’s strong market position and product innovation but highlight emerging challenges causing consumer brand defection. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study, 54% of U.S. consumers plan to switch vehicle brands with their next purchase, driven by concerns over electric vehicle adoption, connectivity features, and evolving consumer priorities. Despite BMW maintaining leadership in the global premium segment and adapting to market complexities, the brand faces rising skepticism amid changing customer behavior and a competitive landscape, especially in markets like China where economic uncertainty impacts demand[1][4][5]. Additionally, BMW of North America had nearly 1.9 million vehicles recalled from early 2024 to 2025, which may influence consumer confidence[2].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 7:00:14 AM
Breaking up with BMW has sparked significant global attention as the brand, despite a strong 64.1% customer loyalty rate, faces a 2.6% year-over-year decline, reflecting broader challenges in maintaining brand trust amid rising competition and shifting consumer preferences internationally[1][3]. The international response highlights growing skepticism, with global automotive trust scores at historic lows and premium competitors like Porsche and Lexus gaining ground, underscoring a pivotal moment for BMW's global brand value, which, while still robust at $23.16 billion in 2024, must address these loyalty shifts to sustain its premium market position[3][5].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 7:10:10 AM
Following the announcement of a high-profile breakup with BMW, the brand’s stock price on September 1, 2025, fell by 2.00% to €90.76 per share, signaling a market dip amid investor uncertainty[3]. Despite this short-term decline, analysts maintain a mixed outlook with average price targets around €85.08 for the coming year, reflecting cautious optimism amid volatility[3]. BMW’s market capitalization remained robust at approximately €51.09 billion in early September 2025, indicating that while some investors reacted negatively, overall confidence in the brand’s long-term value persists[2].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 7:20:12 AM
Industry experts highlight BMW’s recent challenges as factors influencing some customers’ decisions to sever ties with the brand. Despite BMW maintaining a strong global premium segment position, with over 1 million vehicles sold in H1 2025 and leading Mercedes in EV sales by 170,000 units, BMW’s battery electric vehicle sales dropped 21.2% in Q2 2025 due to supply chain disruptions and softer demand in key markets[1]. Additionally, the brand faces significant recalls, impacting nearly 1.9 million vehicles in the U.S., which experts cite as undermining consumer confidence[3]. While BMW’s U.S. sales grew slightly with a 3.7% increase in Q1 2025, critics point to prolonged dealer
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 7:30:13 AM
Following the public announcement of "Breaking up with BMW," the company's stock price saw a modest decline, with shares dropping approximately 2.00% to €90.76 as of September 1, 2025[5]. Market capitalization also reflected a slight contraction, with BMW valued at around €54.99 billion, down from previous highs in August 2025[5][4]. Despite this short-term reaction, analyst forecasts remain cautiously optimistic with average price targets near €85.08 to €90.28 by the end of 2025, indicating confidence in a potential rebound[1][5].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 7:40:11 AM
Following the announcement "Breaking up with BMW," the brand's stock showed resilience as BMW AG shares closed at €90.52 on September 1, 2025, up 1.18% from the previous session and marking a 9.61% gain over the last four weeks despite the negative sentiment [2]. However, analyst forecasts remain mixed, projecting a slight decline to €88.55 by the end of the quarter and €85.87 in one year, signaling cautious market expectations amid the brand's shifting public perception [2][4]. The market cap stood at approximately €54.99 billion, reflecting sustained investor interest despite the brand's fluctuating narrative [4].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 7:50:12 AM
Following the announcement of "Breaking up with BMW," the brand's stock price on September 1, 2025, showed resilience, closing at €90.52, up 1.18% or €1.06 from the previous session. Over the past four weeks, BMW shares gained 9.61%, reflecting steady market confidence despite the brand controversy. However, analyst projections suggest a slight correction ahead, forecasting the price to drop to around €88.55 by the end of this quarter and €85.87 in one year[2]. The company's market capitalization remains strong at approximately $64.6 billion USD as of September 2025[3].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 8:00:24 AM
Following the announcement of "Breaking up with BMW," the company's stock experienced a modest decline, with the Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft share price dropping 2.00% to €90.76 as of September 1, 2025[3]. Despite this dip, BMW's market capitalization remains robust at approximately EUR 51.09 billion, reflecting investor confidence in its core "affordable luxury" segment and electric vehicle pricing power amid market fragmentation[2][1]. Analysts’ average one-year price target remains optimistic at €85.08, suggesting mixed but generally stable market reactions[3].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 8:10:11 AM
Breaking up with BMW has sparked notable global reactions, reflecting the brand’s complex position in the international market. Despite BMW maintaining a strong market presence with 210,385 deliveries in 2024 and a brand value surge to $23.16 billion (up 11% year-over-year), loyalty is declining slightly, with customer retention dropping from 66.7% to 64.1%[1][4][5]. Internationally, the automotive industry is facing trust challenges; brands like BMW, while still top in the premium segment, encounter eroding confidence amid supply chain and reputation volatility, especially in Europe and the U.S.[3].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 8:20:12 AM
Market reaction to the announcement "Breaking up with BMW" showed a slight negative impact on BMW's stock price, with shares trading around €90.76 on September 1, 2025, reflecting a 2% decrease from the prior week, amid a monthly price range of €83.56 to €102.12 for September[1][4]. Despite this dip, analysts forecast the stock may still reach €90.28 by year-end 2025, indicating market resilience and confidence in BMW's long-term prospects[1]. Market capitalization stood at approximately €54.99 billion as of early September 2025, showing stability despite short-term volatility linked to the breakup news[3][4].
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 8:30:15 AM
Breaking news reveals growing customer dissatisfaction with BMW in 2025, highlighted by unresolved safety and reliability complaints. One 2024 BMW X7 owner reported the vehicle unpredictably shifting into Park at red lights, causing safety and health concerns such as severe headaches, with BMW failing to provide a proper fix despite repeated complaints[1]. Additionally, widespread reports of glitches in the 2025 BMW iX, including electrical issues, have led to negative reviews and calls for consumers to reconsider buying or leasing from the brand[2]. These developing issues are prompting some loyal customers to publicly announce their breakups with BMW.
🔄 Updated: 9/2/2025, 8:40:12 AM
BMW’s electric vehicle (EV) sales in North America plunged 21.2% in Q2 2025 compared to the previous year, with flagship models like the i5 sedan dropping 43.6% in sales, while competitors such as Tesla continue to benefit from full federal tax incentives that BMW EVs do not qualify for due to battery sourcing rules[1]. Additionally, tariff pressures on steel, aluminum, and imports from China are expected to reduce BMW’s automotive margin by about 1.25 percentage points in 2025, further challenging its competitiveness despite a strong U.S. manufacturing base[2]. Meanwhile, BMW faces growing pressure from rival brands that are gaining market share in Europe and globally, intensifying the competitive landscape it must