2017 BMW X4, X5, X6 & 650Ci Wireless Charger: Overheating, Failures, and Replacement

Symptoms of a Failing Wireless Charging Module

Problems with the wireless charging system in the 2017 BMW X4, X5, X6, and 650Ci can range from a minor annoyance to a complete failure. It's also important to know that some common complaints are actually design limitations of the original part, not necessarily signs of a failure.

1. Phone Does Not Charge (No Power)

The most obvious symptom is a complete failure to charge. You'll place your phone on the tray, and nothing happens. The blue LED indicator light on the charging tray, which signals that charging is active, will not illuminate. In some cases, this failure can be linked to other seemingly unrelated issues.

2. Phone Overheats and Stops Charging

This is the most widely reported issue with this system. The charging module generates significant heat, which transfers to the phone. Most smartphones have built-in thermal protection that will pause or stop charging when the battery gets too hot. You may see an orange LED on the charging tray, indicating a problem, or your phone may display a temperature warning. This is a known design flaw, especially when using processor-intensive apps like navigation (Waze, Google Maps) and streaming music via wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto simultaneously.

3. Very Slow Charging Speed

Many owners report that the charging rate is extremely slow. The charger is only rated for 5 watts, which is much lower than modern chargers. While using navigation and other apps, the charger may not be able to keep up with the phone's power consumption, leading to the battery level staying flat or even decreasing. This is a limitation of the original technology and not a sign that your specific module has failed.

4. Intermittent Charging or Disconnecting

Your phone may start charging, only to stop and start repeatedly. This can be caused by the phone sliding out of the optimal charging position on the tray, an issue noted by some owners. It can also be a sign of an internal fault in the module or incompatibility with certain phone cases, which can block the inductive charging signal if they are too thick or have metal components.

Buying a Used Wireless Device Charging Module

Given the high cost of a new OEM module, a used part is a practical option. However, there are several critical factors to consider to ensure you get a functional part and understand its limitations.

What to Check Before You Buy

• Verify the Part Number: The primary OEM part number is 84106836835, with an alternate format of 6836835. There are also several other compatible part numbers. Always match the part number from your original module or confirm compatibility with the seller using your vehicle's VIN.
• Physical Inspection: When inspecting photos of a used module, look for any signs of damage to the casing, connectors, or wiring harness. Ensure the connector pins are straight and free of corrosion.
• Understand Its Inherent Flaws: Buying a used module will not solve the overheating or slow charging problems. These are design limitations of the original part. You are buying a functional replacement, not an upgrade. Newer BMWs have redesigned chargers with active cooling fans to address this, but this 2017-era part does not have that feature.
• OEM vs. Aftermarket: Be careful to distinguish between a genuine used OEM module and a new aftermarket charging pad. Aftermarket pads often just plug into the 12V cigarette lighter and do not integrate with the car's computer. A used OEM module is necessary if you want factory features like the 'forgot phone' reminder to work.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

While there are no specific recalls for the wireless charging module on these 2017 models, several service bulletins and known issues are relevant.

• NHTSA ID: SIB-B840917 - This bulletin addresses customer complaints of devices getting hot or shutting down while on the charging station. It explains that this is often caused by high interior temperatures and intensive phone use, and is a protective feature of the phone, not a defect in the charger.
• NHTSA ID: MC-10161491-9999 - This bulletin describes a scenario where the wireless charger, iDrive controller, and ambient lights stop working. The cause is identified as a blown fuse (262) and an inoperative WCA module, which requires replacement.
• Phone Incompatibility: Some owners of Google Pixel and certain iPhone models have reported more frequent issues with charging, overheating, or connectivity. There were also reports of the charger in some BMW models potentially damaging the NFC chip in the iPhone 15, though this was not specific to the 2017 models.

Cost of a Wireless Charging Module

The price can vary significantly depending on the source. Labor for installation typically involves removing and reinstalling center console trim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)