BMW 3 Series recalls

174 official safety recalls for the BMW 3 Series from NHTSA (United States), DVSA (United Kingdom) and the EU Safety Gate, newest first. Recall repairs are normally free at the maker’s dealers.

Whether your car is affected and still needs the repair depends on its VIN or registration. Check it on the official site for your country:

United States: nhtsa.gov/recalls
United Kingdom: check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk

Water may damage starter motor and cause fire
Reported August 31, 2026Model years 2014–2020EU Safety Gate SR/02525/26
Water may damage the starter motor, preventing the engine from starting or causing the motor to short circuit or stay on. It may overheat and start a fire, even with the ignition off. The product is recalled from end users.
Official EU Safety Gate text
Component
Fire
Defect
Water may enter the starter motor and cause damage. As a result, the engine may no longer start, or the starter motor may short-circuit or remain continuously activated. This could cause local overheating of the starter motor or thermal overload of surrounding components and lead to a vehicle fire, including when the ignition is switched off. The product does not comply with the Regulation on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles.
Remedy
Recall of the product from end users
Notes
Notified by Germany
Starter relay may overheat and short circuit
Reported July 8, 2026Model years 2016–2018NHTSA campaign 26V44100029,119 vehicles affected
Park outside: the maker advises parking affected vehicles outdoors, away from buildings, until they are repaired.
The engine starter relay may corrode, overheat and short circuit, increasing fire risk. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Park outside and away from structures until the repair is complete.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2020 530e xDrive, 2017-2019 740Le xDrive, 2018-2020 530e iPerformance, 2016-2018 330e iPerformance vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
Consequence
A short circuit in the starter relay may increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 30, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning August 28, 2026.
Starter motor relay may short circuit
Reported March 2, 2026Model years 2020–2025DVSA recall R/2026/054EU Safety Gate SR/00569/2651,053 vehicles affected
Deposits in the starter motor relay may increase contact resistance, causing failed starts or a short circuit that could lead to a thermal event. The starter motor will be replaced with a different design.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Replace the Engine Starter Motor
Defect
The Safety Recall relates to the engine starter motor. The fault relates to the RSW22 starter RWT (reinforced water tightness). It was found that with RWT starters an increased abrasion of the magnetic contact can cause the growth of deposits at the lowest point of the relay interior. This in turn may increase the relay contact resistance resulting in false starts or even causing short circuits and possibly a thermal reaction. In case of a short circuit the possibility of a thermal event cannot be excluded. This may happen while attempting to start the vehicle or while driving due to vibrations causing a short circuit due to moving deposits.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the starter motor will be replaced with a variant by another supplier with a different design. Until the repair has been completed it is recommended to not leave the vehicle running unattended after starting the engine.
Engine starter may overheat and catch fire
Reported January 30, 2026Model years 2021–2024NHTSA campaign 26V05600087,394 vehicles affected
Wear on an internal component may cause the engine starter to overheat and catch fire, increasing injury risk. Dealers will replace the starter, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Toyota Supra, 2022-2023 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2024 5 Series (xDrive), 2021-2022 Z4, 2022-2024 4 Series (Gran Coupe), 2021-2024 4 Series (Convertible and xDrive Convertible), 2021-2023 4 Series (Coupe), 2021-2024 3 Series, 2021-2023 X4, 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
Consequence
Fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 21, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 24, 2026.
Driver airbag inflator may rupture
Reported January 12, 2026Model years 2006–2013DVSA recall R/2025/327EU Safety Gate SR/01914/26370,257 vehicles affected
The driver airbag may deploy with too much force, releasing sharp metal fragments into the cabin that could seriously or fatally injure occupants. The airbag will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Replace the Driverâs Airbag â Takata PSDI-5
Defect
Affected vehicles may be fitted with a drivers airbag which may deploy with too much explosive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released into the cabin. It has the potential to fatally or seriously injure vehicle occupants.
Remedy
Affected vehicles will have the airbag replaced.
Airbag inflator may rupture
Reported December 18, 2025Model years 1997–2017DVSA recall R/2025/34971,635 vehicles affected
An affected driver or passenger airbag may deploy with excessive force and release sharp metal fragments, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. The airbags will be checked and replaced if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Takata Driver and/or Passenger Airbag Recall (Global VINs)
Defect
Affected vehicles are already included in Safety Recalls within the markets they have previously resided in. The vehicles may be fitted with a driver and/or passenger airbag/s which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury which could prove fatal to people in the vicinity.
Remedy
Vehicles will have the affected airbags checked and if necessary replaced.
Head air bag inflator may leak or rupture
Reported December 17, 2025Model years 2014NHTSA campaign 25V871000851 vehicles affected
The inflator may leak gas or rupture at a weld, so the air bag may only partly inflate or metal fragments may enter or exit the vehicle. This can increase the risk of injury. Dealers will replace the head air bags free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:HEAD
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014 4 Series Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive), 3 Series Sedan (320i, 320i xDrive, 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335i xDrive), and 2014-2015 2 Series Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i, M235i xDrive) vehicles. The head air bag inflator may fail at the weld joint, which can cause gas to leak from the inflator or result in an inflator rupture.
Consequence
An inflator that ruptures may cause sharp metal fragments to enter or exit the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, an inflator that leaks gas may only partially inflate during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the head air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 12, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Water ingress may corrode the starter motor
Reported October 27, 2025Model years 2015–2021DVSA recall R/2025/405EU Safety Gate SR/00584/26115,024 vehicles affected
Water may enter and corrode the starter motor, and a short circuit cannot be ruled out. The starter motor will be replaced. Until repaired, park outdoors and away from buildings.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Replace the Engine Starter Motor
Defect
For affected vehicles there is a concern involving water ingress and corrosion to the starter motor for where a short circuit cannot be ruled out. It is strongly recommended to park the vehicle outdoors and not in the immediate vicinity of buildings until the repair has been carried out.
Remedy
Replacement of the starter motor.
EGR cooler may leak coolant
Reported October 15, 2025Model years 2018NHTSA campaign 25V700000112 vehicles affected
The EGR cooler may leak internally, allowing coolant to mix with diesel soot and create smouldering particles that can melt the intake manifold and increase fire risk. Dealers will replace the cooler, inspect and replace the manifold if needed, and clean the connecting pipe, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 328D SportsWagon, 328D xDrive SportsWagon, 328D xDrive, and 328D diesel vehicles equipped with an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. The EGR cooler may leak internally, causing coolant to mix with diesel engine soot, which could result in smoldering particles and a melting intake manifold.
Consequence
Smoldering particles and a melting intake manifold increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the EGR cooler, inspect and replace the intake manifold, if necessary, and clean the EGR pipe connecting the cooler to the manifold, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 5, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 5, 2025. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V907.
Front passenger airbag inflator may pose a safety risk
Reported October 6, 2025Model years 1999–2006DVSA recall R/2025/323102,611 vehicles affected
Vehicles that received a like-for-like replacement passenger airbag in an earlier recall will have the airbag module replaced with one that does not contain ammonium nitrate.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Replace the Front Passenger Airbag Takata PSPI
Defect
For vehicles fitted with a Takata front passenger airbag with a PSPI inflator these vehicles have previously received a like for like replacement front passenger airbag via a previous safety recall campaign.
Remedy
The front passenger airbag module of the affected vehicles will now be replaced by an airbag module or an inflator that does not contain ammonium nitrate.
Starter motor may overheat
Reported September 25, 2025Model years 2020NHTSA campaign 25V644000145,102 vehicles affected
Repeated starting attempts may electrically overload and overheat the starter motor, which could ignite nearby material and cause a fire. Dealers will replace the engine starter free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 340I, X6, 2020-2025 840I, 2020-2022 740LI, 2019-2020 X7, and X5 vehicles. After repeated attempts, the starter motor may overheat from an electrical overload.
Consequence
An overheated starter motor can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. This recall includes vehicles repaired under recall 24V576 and those owners will need to have their vehicle repaired again. Owner notification letters were mailed February 9, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov November 17, 2025.
Starter relay may overheat and short circuit
Reported September 23, 2025Model years 2019–2021NHTSA campaign 25V636000199,674 vehicles affected
Park outside: the maker advises parking affected vehicles outdoors, away from buildings, until they are repaired.
The engine starter relay may corrode, overheat and short circuit, increasing fire risk. Dealers will replace the engine starter free of charge. Park outside and away from structures until the repair is complete.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 BMW 330i, 2019-2022 BMW Z4, 2020-2022 BMW 530i, X3, X4, Toyota Supra, 2021-2022 BMW 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 BMW 230i vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
Consequence
A short circuit in the starter relay may increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 6, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov November 14, 2025.
Starter-generator connection may come loose
Reported April 1, 2025Model years 2025NHTSA campaign 25V2020004,557 vehicles affected
The starter-generator connection may come loose, causing an engine stall or overheated wiring that could increase the risk of a fire. Dealers will inspect and replace the starter-generator and positive battery cable as needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 330i, 330i xDrive, 530i, 530i xDrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive) and X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The electrical connection between the starter-generator and battery may come loose.
Consequence
A loose starter-generator connection can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, the wiring may overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the starter-generator and positive battery cable as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed May 28, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1- 888-275-9171) or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Driver airbag may release metal fragments
Reported October 21, 2024Model years 2004–2017DVSA recall R/2024/403576,269 vehicles affected
A previously recalled airbag fitted during a retrofit or conversion may deploy with excessive force and release sharp metal fragments, potentially causing serious or fatal injury. The airbag will be checked and replaced if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Check Driverâs Airbag for Conversion Takata SDI & PSDI-5
Defect
Affected vehicles may have had a retrofit or conversion of the airbag using a previously recalled airbag variant which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury possibly fatal to people in the vicinity. The original factory fitment airbag for the vehicle is not affected.
Remedy
Vehicles will have the airbag checked and if necessary replaced.
Passenger airbag seam may be incorrectly sewn
Reported September 24, 2024Model years 2024DVSA recall R/2024/42833 vehicles affected
The passenger airbag seam may not have been sewn to specification. The passenger airbag will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Replace the Passenger Airbag
Defect
On certain vehicles the passenger airbag may not have had the seam sewn according to the specifications.
Remedy
Replacement of the passenger airbag
Water pump connector may short circuit
Reported August 13, 2024Model years 2012–2016NHTSA campaign 24V608000720,796 vehicles affected
Water may reach an improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump and cause a short circuit, increasing fire risk. Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:CONNECTORS/PLUGS/RECEPTACLES
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
Consequence
An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Starter motor may overheat and cause a fire
Reported August 1, 2024Model years 2020NHTSA campaign 24V576000105,588 vehicles affected
If the starter motor fails, repeated starting attempts may electrically overload it and cause it to overheat. Nearby material in the engine compartment could ignite, increasing fire risk. Dealers will update the vehicle software free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2019-2020 X5, X7, 2020 3 Series Sedan, X6, 2020-2021 7 Series Sedan, 2020 8 Series Convertible, 8 Series Coupe, and 2020 8 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. In the event the starter motor fails, repeated attempts to start the vehicle can cause the starter motor to overheat from an electrical overload.
Consequence
A starter motor that overheats can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the vehicle software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 27, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Driver air bag inflator may explode
Reported July 11, 2024Model years 2014–2015NHTSA campaign 24V5270001,145 vehicles affected
A manufacturing defect may cause the driver air bag inflator to explode during deployment, sending sharp metal fragments into occupants and increasing the risk of injury or death. The driver air bag will be replaced free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.
Remedy
The driver's front air bag will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Driver air bag inflator may explode
Reported July 3, 2024Model years 2006–2012NHTSA campaign 24V513000394,029 vehicles affected
A replacement steering wheel may have an inflator that can explode during deployment, sending sharp metal fragments into occupants and causing serious injury or death. Dealers will inspect and replace the driver air bag module as necessary free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (324i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi), 2006-2012 3 Series Sportswagon (325xi, 328i, 328xi), and 2009-2011 3 Series Sedan (335d) vehicles. The original steering wheel may have been replaced with a sport or M-sport steering wheel equipped with an inflator that can explode during deployment.
Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the driver's air bag module as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 30, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
VANOS unit screws may loosen or break
Reported May 1, 2024Model years 2009–2011DVSA recall R/2024/1914,180 vehicles affected
Aluminium screws on the variable camshaft timing units may loosen or break, potentially activating engine emergency mode. The eight screws will be replaced; the adjustment unit will also be replaced if faulty screws are found.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Replace VANOS bolts N51 N52 N55
Defect
On affected vehicles overtime the aluminium screws can loosen or break on the adjustable variable camshaft timing (VANOS) units potentially resulting in engine emergency mode being activated.
Remedy
On affected vehicles the eight aluminium screws will be replaced if evidence of faulty screws is found then the VANOS adjustment unit will also be replaced.
Head air bag inflator may leak or rupture
Reported April 24, 2024Model years 2014–2015NHTSA campaign 24V2880005,761 vehicles affected
The head air bag inflator may fail at a weld, leaking gas or rupturing. A rupture may send sharp metal fragments into or out of the vehicle; a leak may leave the air bag partly inflated. Dealers will replace the head air bags free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2015 2 Series Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i), 3 Series Sedan (320i, 320i xDrive, 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335i xDrive, M3, 328d, 328d xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive, M4), and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe (428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive) vehicles. The head air bag inflator may fail at the weld joint, which can cause gas to leak from the inflator or result in an inflator rupture.
Consequence
An inflator that ruptures may cause sharp metal fragments to enter or exit the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, an inflator that leaks gas may only partially inflate during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the head air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Driver airbag inflator may rupture
Reported March 18, 2024Model years 2004–2005DVSA recall R/2024/13229,095 vehicles affected
Age-related degradation of the propellant tablets may cause over-aggressive combustion when the airbag activates, potentially rupturing the inflator. The driver's airbag will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Replacing the Driverâs Airbag PSDI-5
Defect
On affected vehicles a possible degradation due to age of the propellant tablets may lead to over aggressive combustion if the air bag is activated and cause the inflator body to rupture.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the drivers air bag will be replaced.
Cylinder head cover may crack or leak
Reported January 5, 2024Model years 2023DVSA recall R/2024/0022 vehicles affected
Vibration or heat may cause cracks or more serious leaks if the cylinder head cover is not sufficiently shaped in a specific area. The cover will be checked and replaced if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
On affected vehicles cylinder head cover may not be sufficiently shaped in a specific area hairline cracks or more serious leaks may occur due to vibration or heat.
Defect
On affected vehicles cylinder head cover may not be sufficiently shaped in a specific area hairline cracks or more serious leaks may occur due to vibration or heat.
Remedy
On affected vehicles the cylinder head cover will be checked and if necessary replacedï¿½
Transmission fluid may enter control unit
Reported December 20, 2023Model years 2023DVSA recall R/2023/354208 vehicles affected
Transmission fluid may enter the integrated transmission control unit in the mechatronic module. The transmission mechatronic module will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
On affected vehicles ingress of transmission fluid may occur to the integrated transmission control unit within the mechatronic module
Defect
On affected vehicles ingress of transmission fluid may occur to the integrated transmission control unit within the mechatronic module
Remedy
On affected vehicles the transmission mechatronic module will be replaced
Transmission oil may leak into control unit
Reported December 6, 2023Model years 2023NHTSA campaign 23V821000552 vehicles affected
A poorly manufactured weld on the transmission control unit cover may allow transmission oil to leak into the unit. This can seize the transmission gears and cause sudden loss of drive power. Dealers will replace the transmission mechatronics module and transmission fluid as necessary, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota GR Supra, 3 Series Sedan (330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, M3), 5 Series Sedan (530i, 530i xDrive, M5), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 8 Series Coupe (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Convertible (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Gran Coupe (850i xDrive, M8), X3 SAV (X3 xDrive30i, X3M), X4 SAV (X4 xDrive30i), X5 SAV (X5 xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5M), X6 SAV (X6 xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M), and Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i vehicles. The weld seam of the integrated transmission control unit's cover may not have been manufactured properly, which could allow automatic transmission oil to leak into the transmission control unit.
Consequence
Transmission oil that leaks into the control unit can lead to a seizure of the transmission gears, causing a sudden loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the transmission mechatronics module and the automatic transmission fluid, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 26, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Steering gear may loosen
Reported November 16, 2023Model years 2024NHTSA campaign 23V770000201 vehicles affected
The steering gear may not have been tightened properly and could loosen, causing loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the steering gear free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
STEERING
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024 2 Series Coupe (230i), 330i, X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, and X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i vehicles. The steering gear may not have been tightened properly, which can allow it to loosen.
Consequence
A loose steering gear can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 11, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Camshaft timing unit bolts may loosen or break
Reported October 20, 2023Model years 2010–2012NHTSA campaign 23V707000157,796 vehicles affected
Bolts securing the variable camshaft timing unit housing may loosen or break, causing the engine to stall and increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace the four bolts free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2010-2012 1 Series Coupe, 1 Series Convertible, 3 Series Sedan, 3 Series Convertible, 2010-2011 3 Series Sportswagon, 3 Series Coupe, 5 Series Sedan, X3 xDrive 28i, X3 xDrive 30i, X5 xDrive30i, and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The aluminum bolts that secure the housing for the variable camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit can loosen over time and possibly break.
Consequence
Loose or broken VANOS unit bolts can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the four VANOS bolts, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed December 18, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 19, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Seat belt warning chime may fail
Reported August 16, 2023Model years 2019–2022NHTSA campaign 23V584000144 vehicles affected
Audio module software may fail to sound the driver's seat belt warning properly, increasing injury risk in a crash. Dealers will update the software free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2022 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, 2022 430i Coupe, 2021-2022 430i, M440i Convertible, and 2020-2022 228i xDrive Gran Coupe vehicles. The receiver audio module control unit software may fail to properly generate audible seat belt warnings to the driver to fasten their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
An audible chime that does not properly alert the driver to fasten their seat belt increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the receiver audio module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 12, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Seat frame may be improperly welded to rails
Reported March 29, 2023Model years 2019–2021NHTSA campaign 23V21100051 vehicles affected
The seat frame may not be properly welded to the rails and may fail to restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing injury risk. Dealers will replace the seat frame and back rest free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEATS
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, 2020-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, 2021 X3 xDrive30e, X4 xDrive30i, and X4M vehicles. The seat frame may not have been welded properly to the seat rails.
Consequence
An improperly welded seat frame may not properly restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the seat frame and back rest, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Body domain controller may have incorrect settings
Reported March 20, 2023Model years 2022DVSA recall R/2023/0712,152 vehicles affected
The body domain controller may have an incorrect setting. Its settings will be checked and reset if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
On certain vehicles the Body Domain Controller (BDC) control unit may have an incorrect setting applied to it.
Defect
On certain vehicles the Body Domain Controller (BDC) control unit may have an incorrect setting applied to it.
Remedy
Conduct a check of the settings and if necessary perform a reset on the BDC control unit.
Door control software may prevent locks from engaging
Reported February 23, 2023Model years 2023NHTSA campaign 23V118000120 vehicles affected
Incorrect ECU programming can prevent automatic door locks from working as intended. Doors may open during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will update the ECU software free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, M3, 330e, 330e xDrive, 430i Convertible, 430i xDrive, M440i, 2022-2023 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive, i4 eDrive40, and i4 M50 vehicles. During a service visit, a replacement electronic control unit (ECU) may have been installed with incorrect programming, which can cause the automatic door locking (ADL) function to not lock the doors as intended.
Consequence
Doors that do not lock as intended while the vehicle is in motion may open during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Airbag inflator may rupture
Reported January 24, 2023Model years 2012–2017DVSA recall R/2023/016EU Safety Gate A12/00868/23333,284 vehicles affected
Degraded airbag propellant tablets may cause overly rapid combustion when the airbag activates, which could rupture the inflator body. Replace the driver airbag module.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
A possible degradation of the propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
Defect
A possible degradation of airbag propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
Remedy
On affected vehicles the drivers airbag module will be replaced.
Front left seat belt may be damaged
Reported November 9, 2022Model years 2022DVSA recall R/2022/32314 vehicles affected
A damaged front left upper seat belt may have been installed. It will be replaced as a precaution.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
It is possible that a damaged seat belt may have been installed into the vehicle during production.
Defect
It is possible that a damaged seat belt may have been installed into the vehicle during production.
Remedy
The front left upper seat belt will be replaced on affected vehicles as a precaution.
High-voltage battery cell module may be faulty
Reported October 17, 2022Model years 2021DVSA recall R/2022/2971 vehicle affected
A problem with a cell module in the high-voltage battery may affect its safety. The affected cell module will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
MANUFACTURING DEFECT WITH WINDING OF CELL-INTERNAL FILMS FOR HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY
Defect
The safety recall relates to a problem with a cell module within the high-voltage battery.
Remedy
Replace the affected high-voltage cell module.
Rearview camera image may be obstructed
Reported October 7, 2022Model years 2023NHTSA campaign 22V7470001,296 vehicles affected
After shifting into reverse, a software issue may obstruct part of the rearview camera image, reducing rear visibility and increasing crash risk. Dealers will update the camera software free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 330e and 330e xDrive hybrid electric vehicles. After shifting into reverse, the rearview camera software may cause a portion of the rearview image to be obstructed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
An obstructed rearview image can reduce the driver's visibility of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 21, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-80-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Starter motor may stay activated
Reported September 12, 2022Model years 2015–2018DVSA recall R/2022/261103,928 vehicles affected
The starter motor may remain activated, creating a risk of a thermal event. The starter motor assembly will be reworked.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
In rare cases the starter motor can inadvertently be activated permanently presenting a risk of a thermal event
Defect
In rare cases the starter motor can inadvertently be activated permanently presenting a risk of a thermal event.
Remedy
Rework the starter motor assembly.
EGR leaks may cause heat in the intake manifold
Reported August 22, 2022Model years 2014–2021DVSA recall R/2022/25511,296,075 vehicles affected
Undetected EGR system leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold. Dealers will update the engine management control unit software with the latest OBD functionality.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold
Defect
Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.
Remedy
The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.
EGR cooler may leak and cause a thermal incident
Reported August 1, 2022Model years 2011–2019DVSA recall R/2022/2068,623,773 vehicles affected
The EGR cooler may leak over time and cause a thermal incident. The EGR cooler module will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION COOLER MAY LEAK OVER TIME AND CAUSE THERMAL INCIDENT
Defect
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.
Passenger airbag inflator casing may release fragments
Reported May 23, 2022EU Safety Gate A12/01882/23
The passenger airbag propellant may deteriorate in high humidity and temperature variations. If the airbag deploys, fragments from the inflator casing may come loose and injure occupants. The product is recalled from end users.
Official EU Safety Gate text
Component
Injuries
Defect
The propellant in the passenger airbag can deteriorate due to high humidity and temperature variations. In the event of an accident in which the airbag deploys, this could result in fragments from the inflator casing coming loose and injuring the vehicle’s occupants. The product does not comply with the Regulation on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles.
Remedy
Recall of the product from end users
Notes
Notified by France
Front seatbelt retractor gas generator may be damaged
Reported March 30, 2022Model years 2022DVSA recall R/2022/0898,072 vehicles affected
A damaged micro gas generator in a front seatbelt retractor may not work to specification in a crash. The front seatbelts will be checked and replaced if damaged.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE MICRO GAS GENERATOR WITHIN THE FRONT SEATBELT'S RETRACTOR MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED
Defect
The micro gas generator within the front seatbeltï¿½s retractor may have been damaged and may not act according to the specification in the event of an accident.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the front seatbelts will be checked and replaced if they are found to have been damaged
PCV valve heater may overheat and cause a fire
Reported March 2, 2022Model years 2006–2012NHTSA campaign 22V119000917,106 vehicles affected
The PCV valve heater may short circuit and overheat, increasing the risk of fire while driving or shortly after parking. Dealers will install a fuse-protected wiring harness, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i xDrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 xDrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 sDrive30i) vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
Consequence
An electrical short can cause the PCV valve heater to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire while driving or, soon after driving when parked.
Remedy
This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of charge. This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to come back for the new recall remedy. The remedy is currently being developed. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on April 1, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 22, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Transmission unit may leak internally
Reported February 9, 2022Model years 2022NHTSA campaign 22V0700004 vehicles affected
A transmission mechatronics unit may leak internally, allowing the vehicle to roll away and increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Dealers will replace the unit free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2022 330i, 530i, X3 xDrive30i, and X4 xDrive30i vehicles. The mechatronics unit inside the transmission may not have been assembled properly, which could result in an internal leak.
Consequence
An internal transmission leak can result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the transmission mechatronics unit, free of charge. All of the vehicle population for this recall have been repaired. Owner notification letters were not mailed. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Overheating may burst the heater matrix radiator
Reported December 13, 2021Model years 1987–1992DVSA recall R/2021/43066 vehicles affected
An excessive rise in cooling system temperature could cause the heater matrix radiator to burst. An additional thermostat and modified hoses will be fitted to bypass the heat exchanger if overheating occurs.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
EXCESSIVE INCREASE OF COOLING SYSTEM TEMPERATURE COULD LEAD TO A BURSTING OF THE HEATER MATRIX RADIATOR
Defect
Excessive increase of cooling system temperature could (in a worst case) lead to a bursting of the heater matrix radiator.
Remedy
Fitting an additional thermostat and modified hoses into the heating system to bypass the heat exchanger if overheating was to occur.
Leaking EGR cooler may melt the intake manifold
Reported November 19, 2021Model years 2013–2018NHTSA campaign 21V90700050,404 vehicles affected
The EGR cooler may leak internally, allowing coolant to mix with diesel soot and create smouldering particles that can melt the intake manifold and increase fire risk. Dealers will replace the cooler and inspect and replace the manifold as necessary, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon, 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV, and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV diesel vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. The EGR cooler may leak internally, causing coolant to mix with diesel engine soot, which could result in smoldering particles and a melting intake manifold.
Consequence
A melting intake manifold increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the EGR cooler and inspect the intake manifold, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755. Vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall. An interim owner notification letter was mailed on January 18, 2022. The remedy is expected to be available in June 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 6, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Tandem vacuum/oil pump may fail
Reported August 9, 2021Model years 2019DVSA recall R/2021/2881 vehicle affected
The engine may rotate in the wrong direction during start-up, causing the tandem vacuum/oil pump to fail. The control unit will be programmed to prevent this.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE TANDAM VACUUM/OIL PUMP MAY FAIL
Defect
The fault involves the tandem vacuum/oil pump fitted to the engine. On affected vehicles it is possible that the engine rotates in the opposite direction than it is meant to on start-up causing the tandem pump to fail.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the control unit (DME) will be programmed to prevent the failure from occuring.
Engine software may cause loss of braking assistance
Reported August 2, 2021Model years 2020NHTSA campaign 21V59800050,024 vehicles affected
During engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assistance. Full mechanical braking remains available, but loss of assistance can increase crash risk. Dealers will update the engine management software free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 M340i, M340i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, X3 M40i, 2020-2021 X4 M40i, 745Le xDrive, 2019-2021 Z4 M40i, and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. During engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.
Consequence
Loss of braking assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the engine management software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
High-pressure fuel pump may fail
Reported July 29, 2021Model years 2014–2018NHTSA campaign 21V58600011,216 vehicles affected
The high-pressure fuel pump may fail and stall the engine while driving, increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace the pump free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, X5 xDrive35d, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, and 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may fail.
Consequence
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 14, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Passenger seat belt retractor may deactivate early
Reported July 21, 2021Model years 2021NHTSA campaign 21V55400021,537 vehicles affected
The passenger seat belt's automatic locking retractor may deactivate before the webbing fully retracts. In a crash, a retractor that does not work as intended increases injury risk. Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractors and replace them if necessary, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEAT BELTS
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 2 Series (230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive), 330e, 330e Xdrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive) M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, BMW 4 Series Convertible (430i, M440i), BMW X1 sDrive28i, xDrive28i, 2 Series Gran Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i xDrive), M2 Competition Coupe, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, M3, M3 Competition, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, CooperS, JCW), X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X2 M35i, Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper SE), MINI Convertible (Cooper, Cooper S, JCW), MINI Clubman (Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW), MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), Rolls Royce Ghost, MINI Countryman (Cooper S E All4), Rolls Royce Phantom, Rolls Royce Cullinan, and Toyota Supra vehicles. The passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts. As such, these assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
During a crash, a seat belt retractor that does not function as intended increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractors (including the seat belts) and, if necessary, replace the retractors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417; 1-866-825-1525 (MINI); 1-877-877-3735 (Rolls Royce); and 1-888-270-9371 (Toyota).
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Lower steering shaft coating may be damaged
Reported July 13, 2021Model years 1990–2000DVSA recall R/2021/268277,987 vehicles affected
The lower steering shaft's anti-corrosion coating may be damaged. The steering shaft will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
SOME VEHICLES MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO DAMAGE TO THE ANTI-CORROSION COATING OF THE LOWER STEERING SHAFT
Defect
Some vehicles may be susceptible to damage to the anti-corrosion coating of the lower steering shaft.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the steering shaft must be replaced.
EGR module may leak and cause a thermal incident
Reported June 14, 2021Model years 2017–2018DVSA recall R/2021/213238,290 vehicles affected
The EGR module may leak over time and cause a thermal incident. Dealers will inspect the EGR cooler with an endoscope and replace it if they find evidence of a leak.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION MODULE COULD LEAK OVER TIME
Defect
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Module could leak over timeï¿½and cause thermal incident.
Remedy
The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
Driver air bag inflator may rupture or underinflate
Reported May 27, 2021Model years 1999–2001NHTSA campaign 21V4010004,511 vehicles affected
The inflator may absorb moisture and rupture during deployment, sending metal fragments at occupants, or the air bag may underinflate and fail to protect properly. Dealers will replace the driver-side inflator with a newly designed one free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2001 BMW 3 Series (323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci and 330Ci), 1999-2001 323i, 328i, 330i, 330xi, and 2000 323i, 328i stationwagon vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These vehicles are equipped with driver-side air bag inflators that were previously inspected, but not replaced under recall numbers 19V-851, 19V852, or 19V-853. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to explode or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
Consequence
The inflator could explode during air bag deployment, resulting in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Driver airbag may not deploy as designed
Reported May 20, 2021Model years 1997–2000EU Safety Gate A12/01400/21
Moisture entering the driver airbag inflator may cause its propellant to dry out and burn too quickly. The airbag may not deploy as designed, reducing protection and increasing injury risk. The product is recalled from end users.
Official EU Safety Gate text
Component
Injuries
Defect
The NADI (non-azide driver inflator) type airbag may have improper sealing that could allow moisture to enter into the propellant. If the propellant afterwards dries out, it could lead to decreased density resulting in a too high burn rate. Consequently the airbag may not deploy as designed and provide less protection, increasing the risk of injury. The product does not meet the requirements set out in the Regulation on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles
Remedy
Recall of the product from end users
Notes
Notified by France
Front seatbelt buckle connection may be loose
Reported May 17, 2021Model years 2020–2021DVSA recall R/2021/168EU Safety Gate A12/00993/21180 vehicles affected
The front seatbelt buckle assembly may not be properly secured to the seat frame. The lower belt screw connection will be checked and reworked if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE SCREW CONNECTION OF THE FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY TO THE SEAT FRAME MAY NOT BE TIGHTENED PROPERLY
Defect
The screw connection of the front seat belt buckle assembly to the seat frame may not be tightened properly.
Remedy
On affected vehicles the screw connection of the lower belt of the front seats will be checked and if necessary reworked.
Front seat belt buckle bolt may be loose
Reported April 28, 2021Model years 2021NHTSA campaign 21V29800012 vehicles affected
The bolt securing the seat belt assembly to the frame may not be tightened to specification, so the belt may not restrain an occupant as expected in a crash. Dealers will inspect the connection and, if needed, replace it, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M3, and 330e xDrive vehicles. The bolt securing the seat belt assembly to the frame was not tightened to specification.
Consequence
An improperly installed seat belt assembly may not restrain an occupant as expected, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat belt buckle assembly connection and, if necessary, replace it, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 25, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Brake discs may not meet specifications
Reported March 15, 2021Model years 2021DVSA recall R/2021/0857,050 vehicles affected
Some brake discs may not have been made to specification. The discs will be checked and replaced if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
AFFECTED VEHICLES MAY BE FITTED WITH BRAKE DISCS WHICH ARE NOT TO SPECIFICATION
Defect
Affected vehicles may be fitted with brake discs which were not produced according to the specifications
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the brake discs will be checked and if necessary replaced
Rearview camera image may be obscured or missing
Reported February 19, 2021Model years 2019–2021NHTSA campaign 21V09600013,858 vehicles affected
When Reverse is selected, part of the rearview camera image may be obscured or the screen may not light up, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Dealers will inspect the camera software and update it if needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the missing or reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak
Reported February 9, 2021Model years 2015–2018DVSA recall R/2021/0371,341,648 vehicles affected
Leaking coolant can combine with soot and oil deposits in the EGR module to form ignitable deposits. The cooler will be inspected internally and replaced if a leak is found.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION COOLER COULD LEAK OVER TIME
Defect
Leaking glycol coolant could create in combination with soot and oil sediments in the EGR module ignitable deposits.
Remedy
The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
Starter generator battery cables may not be secure
Reported January 25, 2021Model years 2020DVSA recall R/2021/0153,880 vehicles affected
The 48V starter generator battery cables may not be sufficiently secured. Their screw connections will be checked and reworked if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE BATTERY CABLES ON THE 48V STARTER GENERATOR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SUFFICIENTLY SECURED DURING PRODUCTION
Defect
The battery cables on the 48V starter generator may not have been sufficiently secured during the production process.
Remedy
Check the screw connection of the 48V positive / negative battery cables on the starter generator and rework if necessary.
High voltage battery impurities may cause a short circuit
Reported December 14, 2020Model years 2020DVSA recall R/2020/28334,645 vehicles affected
Impurities in the high voltage battery may cause a short circuit. Battery charge cycles will be tested and cells replaced where necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
REMAINING PARTICLES IN THE CELLS OF THE HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY CAN CAUSE A SHORT CIRCUIT
Defect
A possibility of impurities contained in the HV batteries may cause short circuit.
Remedy
Testing of battery charge cycles and replacement of the HV cells where necessary.
48-volt battery connection may overheat
Reported December 9, 2020Model years 2021NHTSA campaign 20V761000812 vehicles affected
A poorly assembled connection between the 48-volt battery and starter-generator may develop increased electrical resistance, raising the risk of fire. Dealers will inspect the connection and replace it if needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 M340i xDrive, M440i xDrive Coupe, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator may not have been assembled properly, which can cause increased electrical resistance at the connections.
Consequence
Increased electrical resistance can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator assembly, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Particles in battery cells may cause a short circuit
Reported October 22, 2020Model years 2020DVSA recall R/2020/2987,839 vehicles affected
Welding beads left in high voltage battery cells may cause a short circuit. Batteries will be tested and replaced if affected.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
REMAINING PARTICLES IN THE CELLS OF THE HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY CAN CAUSE A SHORT CIRCUIT
Defect
In very rare cases welding beads were not always completely removed in the cleaning process during battery production.
Remedy
Test and replace the High Voltage batteries if affected.
Debris in hybrid battery cells may cause a short circuit
Reported September 30, 2020Model years 2021NHTSA campaign 20V6010004,509 vehicles affected
Debris in the hybrid battery cells could cause a short circuit, increasing the risk of fire or injury. Drivers are instructed not to charge the vehicle, use manual or sport mode, or use the shift paddles until repaired. The battery module will be inspected and replaced if needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 530e iPerformance and X3 xDrive30e and MINI Cooper Countryman All4 SE, 2020 BMW i8, and 2021 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le xDrive and X5 xDrive45e vehicles. Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production.
Consequence
The debris could result in a short-circuit, increasing the risk of fire or injury.
Remedy
BMW will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery module free of charge. The remedy is currently being developed. Until the remedy is completed, drivers are instructed to not charge their vehicles. Drivers are instructed to not drive in manual mode, sport mode, and to not use the shift paddles. Owners were notified of the safety risk October 23, 2020. The recall began November 24, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid battery welding beads may cause a short circuit
Reported August 18, 2020Model years 2021NHTSA campaign 20V490000713 vehicles affected
Loose welding beads may create a conductive path between hybrid battery cells and cause a short circuit, increasing fire risk. Dealers will inspect the battery and replace modules if needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 330e and X5 xDrive45e, 2020-2021 X3 xDrive30e, and 2020 MINI Countryman SE ALL4 vehicles. Loose welding beads may form a conductive path between the hybrid battery cells which could lead to a short-circuit.
Consequence
A short-circuited hybrid battery may increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery modules, free of charge. BMW issued owners an interim notification on October 16, 2020. Although potentially affected BMW owners received interim owner notification letters, all potentially affected BMW owner vehicles have been remedied; therefore, BMW Final owner notification letters will not be necessary. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Steering tie rods may break
Reported August 10, 2020Model years 2018–2019DVSA recall R/2020/21913,626 vehicles affected
An earlier design of steering tie rod may break at its kink groove. Dealers will replace both steering tie rods.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
STEERING TIE ROD CAN BECOME BROKEN IN THE 'KINK' GROOVE AREA OF THE ROD
Defect
A steering tie rod with an earlier design configuration can become broken in the ï¿½kinkï¿½ groove area of the rod.
Remedy
Both of the steering tie rods will be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Steering tie rod may fracture
Reported June 15, 2020Model years 2019–2020NHTSA campaign 20V3550002,779 vehicles affected
High temperatures and rough roads may damage a steering gear tie rod, which could fracture and affect handling and control, increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace the steering gear tie rods free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019 Z4 sDrive30i, 2019-2020 330i xDrive, M340i and M340i xDrive, 2020 X3M and X4M, and Toyota Supra vehicles. In certain driving conditions, such as high temperatures and rough road surfaces, a steering gear tie rod may become damaged, possibly resulting in a fractured tie rod.
Consequence
A damaged or fractured tie rod may affect vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW and Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gear tie rods, free of charge. The recall began August 14, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Rear centre head restraint interlock weld may be faulty
Reported April 7, 2020Model years 2019DVSA recall R/2019/2901,737 vehicles affected
The rear centre head restraint interlock may not have been welded to specification. The centre rear head restraint will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE FOLDABLE REAR CENTRE HEAD RESTRAINT INTERLOCK WAS NOT WELDED ACCORDING TO SPECIFICATIONS
Defect
The rear center head restraint interlock was not welded according to specification.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the center rear head restraint will be replaced.
Rear driveshaft joint may become damaged
Reported March 26, 2020Model years 2013–2016NHTSA campaign 20V1850008,536 vehicles affected
The joint between the transfer case and rear driveshaft may become damaged, causing loss of power to the rear wheels and affecting control. If parked without the parking brake engaged, the vehicle may roll away. Dealers will replace the joint and inspect the transfer case, replacing it if needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2016 328d xDrive sedans and 2013-2015 328d xDrive station wagon vehicles. The constant-velocity joint which transfers power between the transfer case and the rear drive shaft, may become damaged, possibly resulting in loss of power to the rear wheels.
Consequence
A loss of power to the rear wheels can affect vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the vehicle is parked after a loss of power to the rear wheels and the parking brake is not engaged, unintended rollaway can occur, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the constant-velocity joint and inspect the transfer case, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 22, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Front seat belt buckle sensors may misclassify occupants
Reported March 19, 2020Model years 2020NHTSA campaign 20V1640003,316 vehicles affected
Buckle sensors may detect a belted occupant as unbelted, causing the air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy improperly in a crash and increasing injury risk. Dealers will inspect and replace the front buckles as needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X3 xDrive30e, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, X4M, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, M850i xDrive Gran Coupe, M8 Gran Coupe, X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, and 840i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The sensors in the front seat belt buckles may inaccurately detect a belted occupant as unbelted, possibly causing the air bag and seat belt pretensioners to deploy improperly in the event of a crash.
Consequence
If the air bag and/or seat belt pretensioners deploy improperly in the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the front seat belt buckles, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver airbag inflator may rupture on deployment
Reported March 9, 2020Model years 1997–2000DVSA recall R/2019/40367,548 vehicles affected
The driver airbag may deploy incorrectly. The airbag inflators will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
DRIVER'S FRONT TAKATA (NADI) AIRBAG INFLATOR MAY RUPTURE ON DEPLOYMENT
Defect
Drivers air bag may deploy incorrectly
Remedy
Replace the air bag inflators.
Passenger air bag inflator may explode
Reported January 15, 2020Model years 2000–2006NHTSA campaign 20V018000292,948 vehicles affected
Do not drive: the maker advises not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.
The passenger air bag inflator may explode after its propellant degrades, sending metal fragments toward occupants and risking serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver air bag inflator may explode
Reported January 15, 2020Model years 2006–2013NHTSA campaign 20V01700059,965 vehicles affected
The driver air bag inflator may explode after its propellant degrades, sending metal fragments toward occupants and risking serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the driver air bag, or the inflator on certain vehicles, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 128i and 135i Convertibles, 128i, 135i, and M Coupes, 2007-2010 X3 30si and X3 xDrive30i, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i, 2007-2013 328i, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335is, 335i xDrive and M3 Coupes, 2006-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive and M3, 2009-2011 335D, 2006-2012 325xi, 328i, 328xi and 328i xDrive, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 2007-2013 328i, 335i, 335is, M3 Coupes, X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d and 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles equipped with non-desiccated driver frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver air bag. On X5 and X6 vehicles, only the inflator will be replaced. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Rear seat belt pretensioners may not lock in a crash
Reported December 20, 2019Model years 2019–2020NHTSA campaign 19V912000135 vehicles affected
The outboard rear seat belt pretensioners may not lock as intended in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will replace the rear seat belts free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 330i and 330i xDrive vehicles. The outboard rear seat belt pretensioners may not lock as intended during a crash.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, if the seat belt pretensioners fail to lock, there is an increased risk of injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear seat belts, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 10, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Engine bearing bushing may be out of specification
Reported December 9, 2019Model years 2019DVSA recall R/2019/368265 vehicles affected
The engine counterbalance shaft bearing bushing in the crankcase may be out of specification. The engine will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE PRESSING FORCE OF THE BEARING BUSHING INTO THE CRANKCASE MAY BE OUT OF SPECIFICATION
Defect
The engine counterbalance shaft bearing bushing into the crankcase may be out of specification
Remedy
Replace the engine of affected vehicles
Headlight control unit may fail
Reported November 27, 2019Model years 2020NHTSA campaign 19V850000245 vehicles affected
A headlight control unit may fail, causing one or both headlights to stop working and reducing driver visibility, which can increase crash risk. Dealers will replace the control units free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 Z4 M40i, Z4 sDrive30i, 330i and 330i xDrive vehicles as well as 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The headlight control units may fail causing a loss of one or both of the headlights.
Consequence
Headlight failure can reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the headlight control units, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 17, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Replacement driver airbag inflator may rupture
Reported November 26, 2019Model years 1999–2001NHTSA campaign 19V85300074,185 vehicles affected
A replacement driver airbag inflator may absorb moisture and rupture, sending metal fragments into the vehicle, or the airbag may underinflate and fail to protect properly. Dealers will replace the inflator free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 1999-2001 323i, 325i, 328i and 330i and 2000-2001 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, 323iT, and 325iT vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These vehicles may have received a replacement driver air bag as part of a vehicle repair. Due to a manufacturing issue, the replacement NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
Remedy
BMW notified owners, and Dealers will replace the driver air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began November 10, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver airbag inflator may rupture or underinflate
Reported November 26, 2019Model years 1999–2000NHTSA campaign 19V85200034,396 vehicles affected
The driver airbag inflator may absorb moisture and rupture, sending metal fragments into the vehicle, or the airbag may underinflate and fail to protect properly. Dealers will inspect the inflator and replace it as needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 1999-2000 323i and 328i and 2000 323Ci and 328Ci vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These inflators do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
Remedy
BMW will mail interim notices informing owners of the safety risk on January 17, 2020. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Dealers will inspect the driver air bag inflators and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. BMW mailed interim notices informing owners of the safety risk on January 17, 2020. The recall began July 27, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver airbag inflator may rupture or underinflate
Reported November 26, 2019Model years 1999NHTSA campaign 19V8510007,910 vehicles affected
Do not drive: the maker advises not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.
The driver airbag inflator may absorb moisture and rupture, sending metal fragments into the vehicle, or the airbag may underinflate and fail to protect properly. Dealers will inspect the inflator and replace it as needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 1999 323i and 328i vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata at one specific inflator production facility. These inflators do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the driver air bag inflators and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: BMW recommends that owners do not continue to drive their vehicles.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Trunk release cable may prevent opening from inside
Reported October 23, 2019Model years 2020NHTSA campaign 19V755000325 vehicles affected
The interior trunk release cable may be improperly installed, preventing the trunk from opening from inside. Someone in the trunk may be unable to get out. Dealers will inspect and properly install the cable as needed, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
STRUCTURE:BODY:TRUNK LID
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 330i, 330i xDrive and M340i vehicles. The interior trunk release cable may have been improperly installed, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Consequence
If a person were inside the trunk compartment, they may not be able to get out, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the interior trunk release cable and properly install the cable, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 13, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Counterbalance shaft may loosen
Reported October 15, 2019Model years 2019–2020NHTSA campaign 19V732000217 vehicles affected
Improperly installed needle roller bearings may allow the counterbalance shaft to loosen. Severe engine damage could result and increase crash risk. Dealers will replace the engine free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 330i, 330i xDrive, and 2019 Z4 vehicles. The needle roller bearings of the counterbalance shafts may have been improperly installed, potentially causing the counterbalance shaft to loosen.
Consequence
If the counterbalance shaft loosens, severe engine damage could occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine, free of charge. The recall began December 13, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver airbag inflator may explode
Reported October 2, 2019Model years 2000–2002NHTSA campaign 19V6980003,924 vehicles affected
Do not drive: the maker advises not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.
The driver airbag inflator may explode after propellant degradation, sending sharp metal fragments into occupants and potentially causing serious injury or death. Owners are advised not to drive until repaired. Dealers will inspect and, if needed, replace the driver's airbag module free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2002 325i and 325xi Sedan, and 323Ci, 325Ci, and 330Ci Convertible vehicles. This recall affects certain vehicles that may have had a driver-side air bag module installed as replacement equipment such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bag, or as a remedy part for a prior recall. The frontal air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. The recall began November 7, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall is an expansion of previous recalls, numbers 17V-047 and 19V-015.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Backup camera image may not display in reverse
Reported September 27, 2019Model years 2019–2020NHTSA campaign 19V684000257,473 vehicles affected
The backup camera settings may leave the rear view image blank, including the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse, increasing crash risk. Dealers will update the camera software free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Consequence
The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the back-up camera software, free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Rear centre headrest may fold in a crash
Reported August 14, 2019Model years 2020NHTSA campaign 19V6000002 vehicles affected
Improper welding may allow the rear centre headrest to fold in a rear impact, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will replace the headrest free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEATS
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling one 2020 M340i and one M340i xDrive vehicle. Due to improper welding, the rear center headrest may fold in the event of a rear impact crash.
Consequence
If the headrest folds down in a crash, there would be an increased risk of injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear center headrest, free of charge. The recall began August 28, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Battery cable connection may degrade
Reported June 19, 2019Model years 2009–2011NHTSA campaign 19V47200016,641 vehicles affected
The positive battery cable connection at the fuse box may degrade, causing intermittent loss of electrical power. The vehicle may stall, increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace and secure the connector free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009 328i and 328xi, 2009-2011 335d, 2008-2012 M3 Coupe and M3 Convertible, and 2008-2011 M3 Sedan vehicles. The connection of the positive battery cable at the fuse box terminal may degrade, resulting in an intermittent loss of electrical power.
Consequence
A loss of electrical power can cause the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace and secure the positive battery cable connector, free of charge. The recall began August 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall is an expansion of a previous recall, number 18V-314.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Knee air bags may not deploy as intended
Reported May 9, 2019Model years 2019NHTSA campaign 19V3520005,079 vehicles affected
The driver or passenger knee air bag may be improperly folded or assembled and may not deploy as intended, increasing injury risk. Dealers will replace the knee air bag modules free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive, M2 Competition Coupe, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, and 2019 330i xDrive Sportswagon vehicles. The driver and passenger knee air bag assemblies may have been improperly folded and assembled.
Consequence
An improperly folded and assembled air bag may not deploy as intended, increasing risk of injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the knee air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began July 8, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
PCV valve heater may short circuit
Reported April 4, 2019Model years 2006NHTSA campaign 19V273000184,505 vehicles affected
The positive crankcase ventilation valve heater may short circuit and melt parts inside the valve, increasing fire risk even when the vehicle is not in use. Dealers will replace the heater free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 530xi Sports Wagon, 325i, 325xi, 325xi Sports Wagon, 330i, 330xi, Z4 3.0i and Z4 3.0si vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
Consequence
An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the PCV valve heater, free of charge. The recall began May 30, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall is an expansion to recall 17V-683.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver airbag may not deploy correctly
Reported March 22, 2019Model years 1999–2001DVSA recall R/2019/08634,410 vehicles affected
The driver’s front airbag may not deploy correctly when activated. The airbag will be checked and replaced if required.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POTENTIAL RUPTURE OF DRIVER FRONT AIR BAG INFLATOR
Defect
The front drivers air bag may not deploy correctly on activation.
Remedy
Check and replace the drivers front air bag if required.
Exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak
Reported December 7, 2018Model years 2011–2017DVSA recall R/2018/3414,959,878 vehicles affected
The exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak, creating a fire risk. It will be inspected for leaks and deposits, and replaced on affected vehicles.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION MODULE COOLER COULD LEAK
Defect
The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk
Remedy
A visual inspection of the EGR cooler to check for leaks and excessive build-up of deposits. The EGR cooler will be replaced on all affected vehicles
EGR cooler may leak and pose a fire risk
Reported November 5, 2018Model years 2015–2017DVSA recall R/2018/2582,918,438 vehicles affected
The exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak over time, posing a fire risk. It will be replaced with an improved version.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION COOLER COULD POTENTIALLY LEAK OVER TIME
Defect
The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk.
Remedy
The EGR cooler will be replaced with an improved version.
Leaking EGR cooler may melt intake manifold
Reported October 25, 2018Model years 2013–2018NHTSA campaign 18V75500044,368 vehicles affected
A leaking EGR cooler may allow coolant to mix with diesel soot; high temperatures may cause the particles to smolder and melt the intake manifold, increasing fire risk. Dealers will inspect and replace the cooler as needed and replace the intake manifold if a leak has occurred, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 BMW 328d and 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon and 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d and 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler. If the EGR cooler leaks internally, the coolant can mix with diesel engine soot. The high EGR temperatures may result in these particles possibly smoldering and melting the intake manifold.
Consequence
The melting intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the EGR cooler as necessary. If a leak has already occurred, the engine intake manifold will also be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began May 13, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Crankshaft sensor software fault
Reported October 15, 2018Model years 2018DVSA recall R/2018/26022,988 vehicles affected
A software fault in the crankshaft sensor may affect its operation. The sensor will be replaced with a new version.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
SOFTWARE FAULT IN CRANKSHAFT SENSOR
Defect
The affected vehicles may be equipped with a crankshaft sensor with a software fault.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.
Portable charger capacitors may fail
Reported September 20, 2018Model years 2018NHTSA campaign 18V6520003,501 vehicles affected
Capacitors in the portable charger may fail, creating a risk of electric shock or fire. Dealers will inspect the charging cable and replace it if necessary, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 330e iPerformance, i3 Rex, i3 Sport Rex, X5 xDrive40e, i3 BEV, i3 Sport BEV and 2019 i8 and i8 Roadster vehicles and 2018-2019 530e iPerformance, 530e xDrive iPerformance and 740Le xDrive iPerformance vehicles. Capacitors within the TurboCord Portable Chargers may fail, possibly resulting in a shock hazard or a fire.
Consequence
An electrical shock or a fire can increase the risk of injury or death.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the charging cable, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 22, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Crankshaft sensor fault may reduce engine power
Reported August 20, 2018Model years 2018DVSA recall R/2018/21176,475 vehicles affected
A software fault may prevent the crankshaft sensor from processing signals correctly. The engine may run roughly, lose power or stall while driving. The crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
SOFTWARE FAULT WITH CRANKSHAFT SENSOR
Defect
The affected vehicles may be equipped with a crankshaft sensor with a software fault. The crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the crankshaft transmitter due to an improper firmware level. The firmware does not compensate sufficiently the temperature gradients and the magnetic field strength of the sensor electronic. If the crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the transmitter the Digital Diesel Electronic (DDE) will notice that and change to the emergency operation mode. The emergency mode will be displayed by the check control message ï¿½engine malfunctionï¿½. The driver may notice a rough running engine and a reduced driving power (70%). However an engine stalling during driving conditions cannot be excluded.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.
Crankshaft sensor may cause engine stall
Reported July 11, 2018Model years 2018NHTSA campaign 18V4650005,309 vehicles affected
Incorrect sensor firmware may prevent the crankshaft sensor from processing input properly, causing the vehicle to stall and increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace the crankshaft sensor, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW 540d xDrive vehicles. The crankshaft sensor may be equipped with incorrect firmware, preventing the sensor from properly processing input from the crankshaft reluctor ring, possibly resulting in a vehicle stall. On September 12, 2018, BMW expanded the recall to a total of 5,309 vehicles including certain 2018-2019 BMW 540d xDrive, 230i M240i, M240i xDrive, X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 330i, 330i xDrive, 340i, 340i xDrive, 330i xDrive Gran Turismo, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 530e, 530e xDrive, 640i xDrive Gran Turismo, 330e, 2019 430i Gran Coupe, 430i xDrive Gran Coupe, 440i Gran Coupe, 440i xDrive Gran Coupe, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, 740i, 740i xDrive, MINI Cooper, Cooper S, JCW, MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), and MINI Clubman (Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, JCW All4) vehicles.
Consequence
A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the crankshaft sensor, free of charge. The recall began September 6, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Blower wiring may overheat and increase fire risk
Reported June 27, 2018Model years 2004–2011DVSA recall R/2018/1481,116,416 vehicles affected
Corrosion in the blower regulator wiring connector may cause overheating, damage the wiring and increase the risk of fire. The wiring harness will be inspected and a new part installed.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
VARIATION TO ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE IN THE BLOWER REGULATOR WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR
Defect
Over time irregularities in the crimp connection in conjunction with relative movements of the tin coated connector at the end of the wiring harness which connects to the tin coated blower regulator pin could lead to frictional corrosion. In combination with very high current flow which would occur which could lead to a temperature increase. As a result the blower regulator wiring could be damaged and could lead to partial contact of individual wire strands. this could result in an irregular current flow further overheating and increase the risk of fire.
Remedy
The blower regulator wiring harness will be inspected and a new part will be installed.
Passenger airbag inflator may rupture
Reported June 11, 2018Model years 2000–2006NHTSA campaign 14V428000574,007 vehicles affected
Do not drive: the maker advises not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.
Excessive pressure may rupture the passenger airbag inflator during deployment, sending metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially seriously injuring occupants. Dealers will replace the passenger front airbag, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000 323i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sports Wagons; 2000 328i sedans and coupes; 2001-2005 325i sedans, coupes, convertibles, and Sport Wagons; 2001-2005 325xi sedans and Sports Wagons; 2006 325i coupes and convertibles; 2001-2006 330i sedans, coupes, and convertibles; 2001-2005 330xi sedans; and 2001-2006 M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure that could cause the air bag inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure could cause rupturing of the inflator resulting in metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side frontal air bag, free of charge. An interim notice was mailed to owners in September 2014. A second notice was mailed when an adequate supply of parts became available, on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.This is an expansion of NHTSA Recall 13V-172.
Battery cable may fail and affect electrical systems
Reported June 7, 2018Model years 2006–2011DVSA recall R/2018/1321,247,392 vehicles affected
Vibration and friction corrosion may damage the positive battery cable to the front distribution box, causing electrical connection loss. This may affect starting, engine performance and lighting. The cable will be repaired.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
PLUG IN CONTACT CABLE MAY MALFUNCTION
Defect
The positive battery cable to the front distribution box behind the glove box can become damaged by vibrations and frictional corrosion. This may cause a loss of electrical connection to the distributions box. Symptoms include being unable to gain entry or start the car but the most common are a flickering instrument panel or uneven engine performance. However if the electrical connection is completely lost this will also affect the operation of the vehicles lighting systems; e.g. sidelights or hazard warning lamps.
Remedy
On affected vehicles carry out a suitable repair to the battery cable positive cable.
Battery cable connection may degrade
Reported May 14, 2018Model years 2010–2011NHTSA campaign 18V3140006,591 vehicles affected
The positive battery cable connection at the fuse box may degrade, causing intermittent power loss and an unexpected stall that can increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the cable connector and secure it with an improved method free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2010-2011 BMW 335d vehicles with diesel engines. The connection of the positive battery cable at the fuse box terminal may degrade over time, possibly resulting in an intermittent loss of electrical power.
Consequence
A loss of electrical power to the vehicle can cause the vehicle to unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on June 29, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Crankcase ventilation valve heater may short circuit
Reported October 30, 2017Model years 2007–2011NHTSA campaign 17V683000740,561 vehicles affected
The positive crankcase ventilation valve heater may short circuit, melting parts inside the valve and increasing the risk of fire, even when the vehicle is not in use. Dealers will replace the valve heater free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2011 128i and 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
Consequence
An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the PCV valve heater, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notification by the end of October 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Heating and air conditioning wiring may overheat
Reported October 25, 2017Model years 2006–2011NHTSA campaign 17V676000702,965 vehicles affected
Wiring and electrical connectors for the heating and air conditioning airflow system may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of fire, even when the vehicle is unattended. Dealers will replace the wiring and connectors free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2006-2011 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi and M3, 2007-2011 328i xDrive, 335i xDrive and 335is and 2009-2011 335d vehicles. The wiring and electrical connectors for the system that controls air flow for the heating and air conditioning system may overheat.
Consequence
Wiring that overheats could cause the electrical connectors to melt, and increase the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is unattended.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiring and electrical connectors, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Passenger airbag may be deactivated
Reported July 6, 2017Model years 2006NHTSA campaign 17V4280002,158 vehicles affected
The front passenger seat occupant detection mat may crack and fail. If it does, the passenger frontal airbag will be deactivated in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will repair the mat and replace it if necessary, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Defect
BMW of North America, Inc. (BMW) is recalling certain 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, and 550i vehicles equipped with the Sport Seat option and certain 2006 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i vehicles with standard seats. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if, and how, the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
Consequence
Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will repair the occupant detection mat to eliminate the possibility that it may crack, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began September 1, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Rear prop shaft universal joint may break
Reported April 11, 2017Model years 2010–2011DVSA recall R/2017/13286,792 vehicles affected
Insufficient strength may cause the universal joint in the rear prop shaft to fail. Dealers will replace it with a modified joint.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
DRIVESHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT MAY BREAK
Defect
Due to insufficient strength the front universal joint in the rear front universal joint of the rear prop shaft may fail.
Remedy
On affected vehicle replace the universal joint with a modified version
Power cable connection may fail
Reported April 10, 2017Model years 2009–2011DVSA recall R/2017/114EU Safety Gate A12/1292/17218,460 vehicles affected
Wear and heat from high current flow and contact resistance may damage the connection between the B+ cable and power distribution box. The engine may fail to start or cut out while moving. The cable and connection will be replaced with a more robust item.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
PLUG IN CONTACT CABLE MAY MALFUNCTION
Defect
It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme cases occur whilst the vehicle is in motion. The driver should be made aware of the issue by flickering of the instrument cluster (dash) or an engine mis-fire; but if the driver does not then the engine could cut-out without warning.
Remedy
Recall all affected vehicles with petrol engines and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
Rear driveshaft joint may break
Reported February 2, 2017Model years 2011NHTSA campaign 17V0670008,752 vehicles affected
The rear driveshaft constant velocity joint may fatigue and break, causing loss of propulsion and increasing crash risk. Dealers will inspect the joint and replace it based on its production date, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 135i Coupe, 1 Series M Coupe and 135i Convertible vehicles, 2011 Z4 sDrive 35i, 335i, 335d, 335i Coupe, 335is Coupe, 335i Convertible, 335is Convertible, 535i, 535i xDrive, 535i Gran Turismo and 550i xDrive Gran Turismo vehicles and 2012 740i and 740Li vehicles. The rear driveshaft constant velocity (CV) joint on the affected vehicles may fatigue and break.
Consequence
If the CV joint breaks, the vehicle may have a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear driveshaft CV joint and, based on its production date, will replace it, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver air bag inflator may rupture
Reported January 20, 2017Model years 2000–2002NHTSA campaign 17V047000230,117 vehicles affected
Do not drive: the maker advises not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.
In a crash, the driver air bag inflator may rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, risking serious injury or death. Owners are advised not to drive until repaired. Dealers will inspect the module and replace it as needed free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2002 BMW 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 323Ci, 325Ci, 330Ci, M3, 323iT, 325iT and 325xiT vehicles, 2001-2002 525i, 530i, 540i, M5, 525iT and 540iT vehicles, and 2001-2003 X5 3.0i, X5 4.4i, and X5 4.6is vehicles. These vehicles may have had a driver-side air bag module installed as replacement equipment such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bag, or as a remedy part for a prior recall. These replacement modules contain an air bag inflator that may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to lower absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver side air bag module, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 15, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Electric power steering may fail
Reported December 21, 2016Model years 2011–2015DVSA recall R/2016/300287 vehicles affected
An electrical contact in the power steering control unit may not be durable, causing steering assistance to fail and, in a few cases, a localised thermal event. The steering gear will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POWER STEERING MAY NOT PERFORM CORRECTLY
Defect
The electrical contact of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) is not sufficiently robust over the service life of the vehicle. As a result the power steering support may fail possibly leading to disconcerting driving situation for the driver. Additionally in a few cases a localised thermal event cannot be excluded.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the steering gear (EPS).
Driver's airbag inflator may rupture
Reported November 1, 2016Model years 2002–2003DVSA recall R/2016/252655,677 vehicles affected
The driver's airbag inflator may rupture during deployment, sending metal shards through the airbag and injuring occupants. The airbag and inflator assemblies will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
DRIVERS AIRBAG MAY DEPLOY INCORRECTLY
Defect
The driver's air bag inflator may rupture during deployment. Metal shards may pass through the air bag material and cause injury to occupants.
Remedy
On affected vehicles replace air bag and inflator assemblies.
Rear axle support bolts may affect handling
Reported October 4, 2016Model years 2015–2016DVSA recall R/2016/224180 vehicles affected
Reused rear axle support bolts may loosen, causing noise and vibration and potentially affecting handling. The bolts will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POSSIBLE LOSS OF CONTROL
Defect
The bolts securing the rear axle support should not be re-used after removal. Affected vehicles may have had the rear axle support refitted after repair work using the original fitted bolts. These may work and though noise and vibration are likely continued use may affect the vehicle's handling.
Remedy
On affected vehicles replace the rear axle support bolts.
Driver airbag inflator may rupture
Reported February 5, 2016Model years 2006–2013NHTSA campaign 16V071000840,000 vehicles affected
The driver airbag inflator may rupture when deployed, sending metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially seriously injuring or killing occupants. Dealers will replace the airbag module or inflator, depending on the vehicle, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 128i and 135i coupes and convertibles and 1 Series M coupes, 2006-2011 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive Sedans, 2009-2011 335d sedans, 2006-2012 325xiT, 328i and 328xi sports wagons, 2007-2013 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 335i, 335xi, 335i xDrive, 335is and M3 Coupes and Convertibles, 2013-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i SAVs, 2007-2010 X3 xDrive30i SAVs, 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M SAVs, 2009-2013 BMW X5 xDrive35d SAVs, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M SACs, 2010-2011 BMW X6 xDrive50i SACs and 2008-2011 M3 Sedan vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module or inflator depending on the vehicle model, free of charge. The recall began March 9, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Front side marker lights may not illuminate
Reported August 17, 2015Model years 2012–2015NHTSA campaign 15V5200007,727 vehicles affected
Software may leave the front side marker lights off when the parking lights or headlamps are on, making the vehicle less visible at night and increasing crash risk. Dealers will upload revised software free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect
BMW North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 320i, 320xi, 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi, and ActiveHybrid3 vehicles manufactured October 20, 2011, to June 22, 2015, 2014-2015 328xi Sports Wagon vehicles manufactured March 21, 2013, to March 17, 2015, 2014-2015 328d, 328xd vehicles manufactured June 28, 2013, to April 21, 2015, and 2014-2015 328xd Sports Wagon vehicles manufactured July 5, 2013, to April 21, 2015. The affected vehicles may have been programmed with new software that inadvertently makes the front side marker lights inoperative in conjunction with the parking lights or the headlights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
If the side marker lights do not illuminate, the vehicle may be less visible at night, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will upload revised software to correct the issue, free of charge. The recall began on October 7, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or by email at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Fuel pump may fail and cause the engine to stall
Reported June 8, 2015Model years 2013–2014DVSA recall R/2015/1098,230 vehicles affected
Excess friction in the fuel pump may make it inoperative, causing a no-start condition or engine stall. A warning lamp and message may appear. Steering and brakes will still function. The fuel pump will be replaced with a modified version.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
ENGINE MAY STALL
Defect
The in tank fuel pump may contain sub components that have not been correctly nickel plated. This may cause excessive friction leading to the fuel pump being inoperative. The driver may experience a no start condition or in the worst case an engine stall. A warning lamp and error message will display. Steering and brakes will still function.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the in tank fuel pump with a modified version.
Driver air bag inflator may rupture
Reported May 28, 2015Model years 2002–2006NHTSA campaign 15V318000419,235 vehicles affected
Do not drive: the maker advises not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.
Moisture may cause the driver air bag inflator to rupture when deployed, sending metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially causing serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the air bag module free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi Sedans, and 325xi and 325i Sportswagons, 2002-2006 330Ci, 325Ci, and M3 Convertibles and 325i, 330i, and M3 Coupes, 2002-2003 M5, 540i, 525i Sedan, and 530i Sedans, and 540i and 525i Sportswagons, and 2003 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity Vehicles. Please note that the 5-series and X5 vehicles are only included if they are equipped with the optional sports steering wheel. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began Aug 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-348 in its entirety. Additionally, vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Note: On December 17, 2015 BMW removed the model year 2004 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity vehicle from this recall. Those vehicles were mistakenly identified as including the air bags that are subject to this recall.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Fuel pump may fail and cause a stall
Reported March 31, 2015Model years 2014NHTSA campaign 15V18900018,054 vehicles affected
Improper nickel plating inside the fuel pump may cause it to fail, possibly stalling the vehicle without warning and increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace the fuel pump free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Defect
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 228i Coupe, M235i Coupe, 320i, 320xi, 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi, ActiveHybrid 3, 328xi Sports Wagon, 428i Coupe, 428xi Coupe, 435i Coupe, 435xi Coupe, 428i Convertible, 428xi Convertible, 435i Convertible, 328xi Gran Turismo, 335xi Gran Turismo, and 2015 428i Gran Coupe, 428xi Gran Coupe, and 435i Gran Coupe vehicles. Improper nickel plating of components within the fuel pump may result in the fuel pump failing.
Consequence
If the fuel pump fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owners were mailed interim notices on May 28, 2015. The recall began on July 6, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Driver seatbelt may be difficult to pull out
Reported January 6, 2015Model years 2014–2015DVSA recall R/2014/1886,008 vehicles affected
A faulty driver seatbelt retractor may make the belt hard to pull out or prevent it from being pulled out below zero degrees, so the driver may not be able to use it as intended. The belt will be checked and replaced if necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
SEAT BELT MAY MALFUNCTION
Defect
On affected vehicles the Driver's seatbelt retractor may be faulty. The seat belt may be hard to pull out or below zero degrees it may not be possible to pull the belt out. In these instances a driver may not be able to use the belt as intended.
Remedy
On affected vehicles Check belt operation and replace belt if necessary
Brake vacuum pump may fail
Reported October 7, 2014Model years 2012–2014NHTSA campaign 14V6270008,988 vehicles affected
Insufficient lubrication may cause the brake vacuum pump to fail, reducing braking power and increasing crash risk. Dealers will install a locking ring in the camshaft to keep the seal disk in position free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Defect
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 BMW 328i xDrive Sports Wagon, 2012-2014 BMW 320i Sedan, 328i Sedan, 320i xDrive Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 2012-2013 BMW 528i Sedan, 528i xDrive Sedan, 2013-2014 BMW X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2013-2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle, 2012-2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i Roadster, and 2014 BMW 428i Coupe, and 428i xDrive Coupe. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13V-454.
Consequence
A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will install a locking ring in the camshaft to retain the camshaft seal disk in the proper location, free of charge. The recall began on December 2, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Camshaft timing housing screws may loosen or break
Reported July 28, 2014Model years 2009–2011DVSA recall R/2014/06826,703 vehicles affected
Loose or broken screws can cause an internal oil leak and affect valve timing, activating engine emergency mode. The bolted connection of the timing adjustment unit will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
ENGINE EMERGENCY MODE MAY BE ACTIVATED DURING DRIVING
Defect
The screws retaining the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) housing may loosen and under certain circumstances the heads may break off. This can lead to the VANOS leaking oil internally and adversely affect the valve timing adjustment. If found to deviating from targeted data the engine emergency mode will be activated. This will be indicated by a distinct change in engine running. The orange engine management warning lamp and a check message; On vehicles with N51/N52 engines this will appear at ignition recycle on N55 engine it will display immediately.
Remedy
Repalce bolted connection of the VANOS adjustment unit
Camshaft timing unit bolts may loosen or break
Reported April 10, 2014Model years 2010–2012NHTSA campaign 14V176000156,137 vehicles affected
Bolts securing the variable camshaft timing unit housing may loosen or break, reducing engine power or causing the engine to stall and increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace four housing bolts for each of the intake and exhaust units free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Defect
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 128i Coupe, 128i Convertible, 328i Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 328i Coupe, 328i Convertible, 328i Sports Wagon and Z4 sDrive 30i, 2011-2012 135i Coupe, 135i Convertible, 335i Sedan, X5 xDrive 35i, and X6 xDrive 35i, 2011 335i xDrive Sedan, 335i Coupe, 335i Convertible, 528i Sedan, 535i Sedan, 535i xDrive Sedan, X3 xDrive 28i, and X3 xDrive 35i, 2010 X3 xDrive 30i, and X5 xDrive 30i, 2012 640i Coupe, and 640i Convertible and 2010-2012 535i Gran Turismo vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the bolts that secure the housing for the variable camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit can loosen over time and may possibly break.
Consequence
If the bolts loosen or break the engine may have reduced power or stall. An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the four VANOS housing bolts for both VANOS units (intake and exhaust), free of charge. In addition, owners of approximately 170,172 model year 2010-2012 BMW vehicles equipped with inline 6 cylinder engines not covered by this recall, will receive an extended warranty to address this condition. The recall began on September 24, 2014. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Passenger seat detection mat may crack
Reported November 12, 2013Model years 2006–2007NHTSA campaign 13V56400076,565 vehicles affected
The front passenger seat detection mat may crack and fail, deactivating the passenger airbag in a crash and increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will repair the mat, free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Defect
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans and 325xi sports wagons, model year 2007 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi sedans and 328i and 328xi sports wagons, model year 2006-2007 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i sedans and 530xi sports wagons, model year 2006 760i sedans, model year 2006-2007 750i, 750Li, and 760Li sedans, and model year 2006 X5 sports activity vehicles, equipped with certain seat types. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if and how the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
Consequence
Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners with an interim notification letter in January 2014 since parts are not currently available. When parts are available, BMW sent a second letter in August and dealers will repair the occupant detection mat to eliminate the possibility that it may crack, free of charge. Additionally, owners of model year 2006-2007 3 Series with standard seats, 5 Series with comfort seats, and Z4 models, will receive an extended warranty on their front passenger seat occupant detection mat. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Brake vacuum pump may fail
Reported September 26, 2013Model years 2012–2014NHTSA campaign 13V45400076,191 vehicles affected
Insufficient lubrication may cause the vacuum pump to fail, reducing braking power and increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will modify the vehicle to prevent insufficient pump lubrication free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Defect
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 320i, 328i, 320i xDrive, and 328i xDrive sedans; model year 2014 328i xDrive Sports Wagons; model year 2012-2013 528i and 528i xDrive sedans, model year 2013-2014 X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i vehicles and model year 2012-2014 Z4 sDrive28i roadsters. Due to insufficient lubrication, the vacuum pump that supplies brake power assistance may fail.
Consequence
A failure of the brake vacuum pump results in a reduction in braking power that could increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will modify the vehicles to prevent insufficient vacuum pump lubrication, free of charge. The safety recall began on January 31, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Passenger airbag inflator may rupture
Reported July 26, 2013Model years 1999–2006DVSA recall R/2013/071EU Safety Gate A12/02024/23316,043 vehicles affected
Improperly manufactured propellant wafers may cause the passenger airbag inflator to rupture and the airbag to deploy abnormally in a crash, increasing injury risk and possibly causing a fire. The inflator module will be inspected and replaced where necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG MAY FAIL TO DEPLOY CORRECTLY
Defect
The subject vehicles are equipped with front passenger airbag inflators which could have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers. Improperly manufactured propellant wafers could cause the inflator to rupture and the front passenger airbag to deploy abnormally in a crash. This could result in increased risk of injury to the occupant and the possibility of a fire.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to inspect and where necessary replace the airbag inflator module.
Clutch bolts may loosen and cause loss of drive
Reported July 5, 2013Model years 2013DVSA recall R/2013/08016 vehicles affected
Bolts securing the clutch cover or pressure plate may loosen. Clutch noise or difficulty selecting gears may occur, and complete loss of drive is possible. The clutch bolts will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
LOSS OF DRIVE
Defect
It is possible that over a period of time the bolt securing the clutch cover/pressure plate may become loose. The drive should be warned of this by the behaviour of the clutch noise from it or inability to select gears. Under certain conditions complete loss of drive could occur which could place the driver and occupant of the vehicle in a prone position.
Remedy
Recall all affected vehicles and replace the clutch bolts.
Passenger airbag inflator may rupture
Reported May 2, 2013Model years 2002–2003NHTSA campaign 13V17200043,204 vehicles affected
Do not drive: the maker advises not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.
The passenger airbag inflator may build excessive pressure and rupture when the airbag deploys, sending metal fragments into the cabin and potentially seriously injuring occupants. Owners are advised not to drive until repaired. Dealers will replace the passenger airbag free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS
Defect
BMW is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans; 325Ci and 330Ci coupes and convertibles; 325iT and 325xiT Sports Wagons; and M3 coupes and convertibles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag.
Consequence
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW intends to issue initial notifications to owners informing them of the safety defect in June 2013. Once replacement parts are available, estimated for July, BMW will notify owners again to contact their dealers and schedule a replacement of the passenger air bag, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Engine may cut out due to damaged electrical connection
Reported April 4, 2013DVSA recall R/2013/024144 vehicles affected
Wear and heat may damage the connection between the B+ cable and power distribution box. The engine could cut out without warning while driving. The cable and connection will be replaced with a more robust item.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
ENGINE MAY CUT OUT
Defect
It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme cases occur whilst the vehicle is in motion. The driver should be make aware of the issue by flickering of the instrument cluster (dash) or an engine mis-fire; but if the driver does not then the engine could cut-out without warning.
Remedy
Recall all affected vehicles and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
Battery cable connector may degrade
Reported February 7, 2013Model years 2007–2011NHTSA campaign 13V044000516,791 vehicles affected
The positive battery cable connector and fuse box terminal may degrade, break their connection and cut electrical power, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly and increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace the connector and secure it with an improved method free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Defect
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011. In February 2013, BMW recalled 504,545 vehicles. In July 2013, BMW informed the agency that it was adding 1-Series, 3-Series, and Z4 vehicles, representing an additional 12,094 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 516,791. The connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection, and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.
Consequence
If there is a loss of electrical power to the vehicle, the vehicle may unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Windows may loosen and detach
Reported December 11, 2012DVSA recall R/2012/14917 vehicles affected
Insufficient adhesion may allow side or rear synthetic laminate windows to loosen, with visual and audible warnings; a window could detach if the warnings are ignored. The affected windows will be replaced with conventional glass.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
REAR WINDOW MAY DETACH
Defect
It is possible side and rear windows made out of Makrolon (Synthetic Polycarbon Laminate) may become loose due to insufficient adhesion fixing them in place. This will result in a visual and audible warning of the issue to vehicle occupants. If these warnings are ignored it is possible a window could detach from the vehicle.
Remedy
Recall affected vehicles and replace the Makrolon windows with conventional glass windows.
Power steering assistance may fail
Reported July 30, 2012Model years 2007–2011DVSA recall R/2012/0814,206 vehicles affected
A faulty component in the control module may cause power steering assistance to fail. The warning lamp and a dashboard message will appear, but steering control remains possible with more driver effort. The steering box will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
EPS MAY NOT PERFORM AS SPECIFIED
Defect
Due to a component in the integrated control module not being to specification it is possible power steering assistance may fail. If this happens the EPS warning lamp will illuminate and a check control message will appear on the dashboard display. Directional control will be maintained albeit with additional driver input.
Remedy
Recall vehicles likely to be affected to replace the steering box.
Front seat head restraint may move down
Reported April 20, 2012Model years 2012NHTSA campaign 12V1760007,600 vehicles affected
A front seat head restraint adjusted to its fully extended position may move down slightly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will attach a clamp to the head restraint posts free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
Defect
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 BMW 3-SERIES VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 19, 2011, THROUGH MARCH 18, 2012, THAT HAVE FRONT SEAT HEAD RESTRAINTS THAT EXCEED THE DOWNWARD MOVEMENT LIMIT OF 25MM IN THE HIGHEST POSITION. THUS, THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 202A,"HEAD RESTRAINTS."
Consequence
IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE HEAD RESTRAINT MAY UNEXPECTEDLY MOVE DOWN SLIGHTLY IF IT WAS ADJUSTED TO THE FULLY EXTENDED POSITION, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy
BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL ATTACH A CLAMP TO THE FRONT SEAT HEAD RESTRAINT POSTS, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 30, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
Front driveshaft bolts may loosen
Reported September 15, 2011Model years 2011NHTSA campaign 11V476000190 vehicles affected
Front driveshaft attachment bolts may not be tight enough and could loosen, causing loss of power to the front wheels and a breakdown. This could increase crash risk. Dealers will replace the bolts free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Defect
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 328I XDRIVE AND 335I XDRIVE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 8, 2011, THROUGH JULY 29, 2011. THE FRONT DRIVESHAFT ATTACHMENT BOLTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATION. IF THE BOLTS WERE NOT TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATION, THEY MAY BECOME LOOSE.
Consequence
IF THE BOLTS LOOSEN, IT COULD LEAD TO A LOSS OF POWER TO THE FRONT WHEELS AND ULTIMATELY A VEHICLE BREAKDOWN, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT DRIVESHAFT ATTACHMENT BOLTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING OCTOBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .
Rear lights may stop working
Reported August 26, 2011Model years 2002–2005NHTSA campaign 11V438000241,000 vehicles affected
Electrical contact resistance may cause one or more rear tail, brake or turn signal lights to stop working intermittently. Other motorists may not see the driver's intentions, increasing crash risk. Dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
Defect
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2005 325I, 325XI, 330I, AND 330XI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2001, THROUGH MARCH 1, 2005. OVER TIME, RESISTANCE IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE ONE OR MORE REAR LAMP FUNCTIONS (TAIL LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN-SIGNAL), WITHIN THE VEHICLE'S BODY PANEL, TO STOP WORKING.
Consequence
INTERMITTENT LIGHT OPERATION REDUCES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER MOTORISTS OF THE DRIVER'S INTENTIONS. THIS COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy
BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .
Airbag and seat belt wiring connectors may fail
Reported July 8, 2009Model years 2008NHTSA campaign 09V2570002,350 vehicles affected
Incorrect crimp connectors may increase electrical resistance, so a side airbag or seat belt tensioner may not deploy and protect an occupant. The vehicles will be repaired free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Defect
BMW IS RECALLING 2,350 MY 2008 1-SERIES AND 3- SERIES PASSENGER CARS. INCORRECT CRIMP CONNECTORS MAY HAVE BEEN USED ON THE SIDE AIR BAG AND BELT TENSIONER WIRING. AS A RESULT SUFFICIENT CONTACT BETWEEN THE CRIMP CONNECTORS AND THE CORRESPONDING PLUG MAY NOT OCCUR WHICH COULD LEAD TO AN INCREASE IN THE ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE OF THAT CONNECTION.
Consequence
IF THAT HAPPENED, IT WOULD BE POSSIBLE FOR THE SIDE AIR BAG AND/OR THE SAFETY BELT TENSIONER NOT TO DEPLOY AND WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT AN OCCUPANT, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.
Remedy
BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .
Side airbag or seat belt tensioner may not deploy
Reported June 30, 2009Model years 2008DVSA recall R/2009/0653,512 vehicles affected
Faulty crimps in the wiring harness may prevent the side airbag or seat belt tensioner from triggering in a collision. The harness will be checked and repaired as necessary.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
FRONT SIDE AIRBAG OR SEAT BELT TENSIONER MAY NOT OPERATE CORRECTLY
Defect
It has been identified that due to faulty crimping of the component parts of the airbag wiring harness and seat belt tensioner the side airbag or seatbelt tensioner may not trigger in the vent of a collision.
Remedy
Recalled vehicles will have the harness checked and repaired as necessary.
Front passenger air bags may be deactivated
Reported August 5, 2008Model years 2006NHTSA campaign 08V384000200,000 vehicles affected
Cracks may develop in the front passenger seat sensor mat, deactivating the front passenger air bags and illuminating warning lamps. The air bags may not deploy in a severe crash. Dealers will rework the sensor mat. The warranty will also be extended to 10 years from first registration with no mileage limit.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Defect
BMW IS RECALLING 200,000 MY 2006 3 SERIES SPORT SEAT, MY 2004-2006 5 SERIES STANDARD AND SPORT SEAT, AND MY 2004-2006 X3 PASSENGER VEHICLES. DEPENDING ON THE MANNER AND FREQUENCY OF THE FRONT PASSENGER'S ENTRY AND EXIT, SMALL CRACKS HAVE DEVELOPED IN THE MAT. IF THIS OCCURS, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAGS, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE HEAD PROTECTION SYSTEM, WILL BE DEACTIVATED AND THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP AS WELL AS THE PASSENGER AIR BAG "ON-OFF" LAMP WILL BE ILLUMINATED.
Consequence
IN THIS SITUATION THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAGS WILL NOT DEPLOY EVEN IF A SUFFICIENTLY SEVERE ACCIDENT WOULD OCCUR AND OCCUPANT PROTECTION PROVIDED BY THE SYSTEM WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REWORK THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT SENSOR MAT SO THAT EXTERNAL FORCE APPLICATION TO THE SEAT DOES NOT CAUSE A CRACK TO THE MAT. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 6, 2008. BMW WILL ALSO EXTEND THE WARRANTY ON THESE VEHICLES TO 10 YEARS FROM FIRST REGISTRATION WITHOUT ANY MILEAGE LIMIT. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
BMW IS EXTENDING THE WARRANTY TO 10 YEARS FROM FIRST REGISTRATION WITHOUT ANY MILEAGE LIMIT TO THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES:MY 2006 6-SERIES, 3-SERIES (STANDARD SEAT), MY 2004-2005 Z4, MY 2004-2006 7-SERIES, MY 2006 X5, AND MY 2004-2006 5-SERIES (COMFORT SEAT).UNDER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PROGRAM, THE OCCUPANT DETECTION MAT IN A VEHICLE THAT EXPERIENCES THIS SPECIFIC ISSUE WILL BE REPLACED AT NO CHARGE TO THE CUSTOMER.CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
Reversed door sensor connections may delay side airbag
Reported February 14, 2008Model years 2006–2008DVSA recall R/2008/0267,703 vehicles affected
Reversed door pressure sensor connections may delay side impact detection and cause the airbag to deploy too late. The airbag control unit pin assignment will be corrected. The warning lamp may not indicate this fault.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
DOOR PRESSURE SENSORS MAY DELAY SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT FOLLOWING AN IMPACT.
Defect
It has been identified that the connections for the left and right hand door pressure sensors have been reversed at their connection with the airbag control unit. This would have the effect of delaying the detection of a side impact thus causing the airbag to be deployed too late. It should be noted that the fault would not be indicted by the illumination of the airbag system warning lamp.
Remedy
Recalled vehicles will have the pin assignment of the airbag control unit corrected.
Steering lock may engage unexpectedly
Reported December 22, 2006Model years 1995–1996DVSA recall R/2006/1992,222 vehicles affected
The steering lock control cam may break, potentially engaging the lock while driving and preventing steering. The lock will be checked and replaced if needed.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
STEERING LOCK MAY INADVERTENTLY ENGAGE
Defect
The control cam of the steering lock may break. This is most likely to occur as the vehicle is started or parked. However the possibility of this occurring whilst the vehicle is in motion cannot be ruled out. In this event the steering lock could engage with the effect that it would no longer be possible to steer the vehicle.
Remedy
Recall affected vehicles check manufacturer of lock and if necessary replace steering lock.
Brake servo seal may wear and reduce assistance
Reported November 28, 2006Model years 2006DVSA recall R/2006/207574 vehicles affected
A faulty greasing system could wear the brake servo seal. Increased friction may push the seal into the housing, causing a leak and potentially loss of brake assistance. A hissing sound may be heard inside the vehicle. The brake servo will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POSSIBLE LOSS OF BRAKING POWER ASSISTANCE
Defect
A temporary fault in the greasing system on the brake servo sealing ring could lead to the sealing ring being subject to wear. In unfavourable conditions the seal may be pressed into the brake servo housing as a consequence of increased friction. The arising leak will cause a hissing sound audible within the vehicle interior with the additional consequence that there may be a risk that loss of brake assistance will ensue.
Remedy
Recalled vehicles will have the brake servo replaced.
Suspension connection bolt may loosen
Reported October 18, 2006Model years 2006NHTSA campaign 06V40000025 vehicles affected
A suspension control arm and swivel bearing connection bolt may be loose. The connection could break, impairing handling and control and increasing crash risk. Dealers will inspect and adjust it, replacing the control arm and swivel bearing if necessary.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
Defect
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, ONE OF THE SUSPENSION CONTROL ARM AND SWIVEL BEARING CONNECTION BOLTS WAS NOT TIGHTENED CORRECTLY. THE BOLTED CONNECTION COULD LOOSEN.
Consequence
THE BOLTED CONNECTION COULD BREAK WHICH COULD IMPAIR VEHICLE HANDLING AND CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BOLTED CONNECTION AND, IF NECESSARY, ADJUST THE CONNECTION. IN SOME CASES, IT MAY BE NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE SUSPENSION CONTROL ARM AND THE SWIVEL BEARING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 21, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
Fuel injection pump bearings may fail
Reported February 8, 2005Model years 2004–2005DVSA recall R/2005/0222,788 vehicles affected
The high-pressure fuel injection pump bearings may fail after approximately 3000 to 6000 miles, stopping the engine's fuel supply and causing it to stall. The pump will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
THE BEARINGS OF THE FUEL INJECTION PUMP MAY FAIL
Defect
The bearings of the high pressure fuel injector pump may fail after a short travelled distance (approximately 3000 to 6000 miles) This leads to a total failure of the engine's fuel supply which results in the engine stalling.
Remedy
Recall likely to be affected vehicles and replace the fuel injector pump.
Power window anti-pinch device may fail
Reported April 29, 2003Model years 2003NHTSA campaign 03V16000013,100 vehicles affected
The window anti-pinch device may not work properly, allowing occupants to be pinched as a window closes. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the device’s electronic control unit.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Defect
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE WINDOW LIFTING ANTI-PINCHING DEVICE MIGHT NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY.
Consequence
OCCUPANTS COULD BE PINCHED BY A WINDOW THAT IS BEING CLOSED.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT, AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT FOR THE WINDOW LIFTING ANTI-PINCHING DEVICE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 27, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Engine idle speed may increase unexpectedly
Reported March 31, 2003Model years 2003NHTSA campaign 03V1240001,056 vehicles affected
With the engine running and the vehicle at rest, idle speed may rise to 1,300 RPM. When a gear is selected, the vehicle may feel as if it is being pushed. Dealers will reprogram the engine management control unit.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Defect
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER AND SPORT WAGON VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING, AND THE VEHICLE AT REST, AN INCREASE OF ENGINE IDLE SPEED (UP TO 1,300 RPM) MAY OCCUR.
Consequence
IF A GEAR IS SELECTED, THE DRIVER MAY FEEL AS IF THE VEHICLE IS BEING PUSHED.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE DIGITAL ENGINE MANAGEMENT CONTROL UNIT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 5, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Side air bag may deploy over potholes or curbs
Reported August 9, 2002Model years 1999–2000NHTSA campaign 02V22300020,500 vehicles affected
The side air bag and head protection system may deploy after hitting a large pothole or curb, even without a crash. Unexpected deployment could seriously injure an occupant whose head is near the air bag. Dealers will recalibrate the control module free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Defect
ON CERTAIN 4-DOOR PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SIDE AIR BAG SYSTEM COULD DEPLOY IN CERTAIN NON-CRASH IMPACTS, SUCH AS WHEN CONTACTING LARGE POTHOLES OR CURBS AT SUBSTANTIAL SPEEDS.
Consequence
THIS COULD CAUSE THE SIDE AIR BAG AND HEAD PROTECTION SYSTEM TO DEPLOY WITHOUT AN ACTUAL SIDE CRASH OR IMPACT SEVERE ENOUGH TO CAUSE SIGNIFICANT VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. UNEXPECTED DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIR BAG COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY IF THE OCCUPANT'S HEAD IS RESTING NEAR THE SIDE AIR BAG.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL RECALIBRATE THE CENTRAL AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH A NON-CRASH DEPLOYMENT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 25, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
ALSO, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Cooling fan failure may cause overheating or fire
Reported May 16, 2002Model years 2001NHTSA campaign 02V1380001,550 vehicles affected
A fan motor failure could overload and damage the fan control unit's circuitry, stopping the fan. The engine could overheat and be damaged, or the control unit could catch fire. Dealers will replace the fan.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
Defect
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE ENGINE AUXILIARY/COOLING FAN OPERATION, INCLUDING VARIABLE SPEED, IS ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED. FAILURE OF THE FAN MOTOR CAN CAUSE THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY OF THE FAN CONTROL UNIT TO OVERLOAD AND FAIL, CAUSING THE FAN TO STOP OPERATING.
Consequence
IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, ENGINE OVERHEATING AND SUBSEQUENT ENGINE DAMAGE COULD RESULT. IN ADDITION, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY TO CAUSE A FIRE IN THE FAN CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FAN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 28, 2001. THIS IS A SUPPLEMENT TO A RECALL THAT BEGAN DURING SEPTEMBER 2001 (SEE RECALL CAMPAIGN 01V206). OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Rear brake rotor may crack and separate
Reported March 18, 2002Model years 2002NHTSA campaign 02V088000799 vehicles affected
A crack in the rear brake rotor could grow during braking, separating the brake drum from the disc and leaving that wheel without braking capacity. Dealers will replace both rear rotors free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:ROTOR
Defect
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, A PROBLEM IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OF THE REAR BRAKE ROTORS MAY HAVE RESULTED IN THE CREATION OF A CRACK WHERE THE BRAKE DISC AND THE PARKING BRAKE DRUM MEET. FURTHER CRACKING OF THE ROTOR COULD OCCUR DUE TO BRAKING TORQUE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN AND THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED. THE BRAKE DRUM, CONNECTED TO THE WHEEL HUB, WOULD COMPLETELY SEPARATE FROM THE DISC.
Consequence
IF THIS HAPPENED, THE WHEEL WOULD CONTINUE TO TURN, BUT THE DISC WOULD STOP, AND THERE WOULD BE NO BRAKING CAPACITY AT THAT WHEEL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH REAR BRAKE ROTORS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 25, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Front strut mount bearing may come loose
Reported February 22, 2002Model years 2001DVSA recall R/2002/0254,046 vehicles affected
A bearing in a front suspension strut mount may not be secure and could move if the wheel is lifted, risking injury or suspension damage. Both front strut mounts will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POSSIBLE DETACHMENT OF BALL BEARING FROM FRONT SUSPENSION STRUT TOP MOUNTING
Defect
It is possible that the ball bearing in the front suspension strut top mounting may not have been securely fitted. If the weight of the car is taken off of the road wheel for any reason the bearing may became displaced with a risk of personal injury or damage to the suspension.
Remedy
Replace both front suspension strut mounts.
Front strut may separate from upper mount
Reported February 19, 2002Model years 2002NHTSA campaign 02V0570004,672 vehicles affected
A front strut may separate from its upper mount when the suspension is fully unloaded, affecting handling and control and increasing crash risk. Dealers will replace both front strut upper mounts free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SUSPENSION
Defect
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, DURING THE STRUT MOUNT MANUFACTURING PROCESS, THE THRUST BEARING WAS NOT PROPERLY POSITIONS AND SECURED. IF THE SUSPENSION IS FULLY UNLOADED, THE FRONT STRUT COULD SEPARATE FROM THE UPPER MOUNT.
Consequence
THIS COULD AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH FRONT SPRING STRUT UPPER MOUNTS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 15, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Tyre sidewall cuts may cause pressure loss
Reported November 9, 2001Model years 2001DVSA recall R/2001/146528 vehicles affected
Cuts of 1-5 cm in tyre sidewalls can cause pressure loss and destroy the tyre if driving continues. Tyres will be inspected and any with sidewall cuts replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
TYRES MAY HAVE CUTS IN SIDE WALLS.
Defect
Cuts have been observed on isolated Continental tyres fitted to vehicles. The cuts (1-5 cm in length) are of varying severity and can lead to a loss of tyre pressure. This can destroy the tyre if the vehicle continues to be driven.
Remedy
Recall affected vehicles examine all tyres and replace any found with cuts in the sidewalls.
Cooling fan failure may cause overheating or fire
Reported June 21, 2001Model years 2001NHTSA campaign 01V20600076,469 vehicles affected
A cooling fan motor failure can overload and damage the fan control unit, stopping the fan. The engine could overheat and be damaged, and the control unit could catch fire. Dealers will replace the fan free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ENGINE AUXILIARY/COOLING FAN OPERATION, INCLUDING VARIABLE SPEED, IS ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED. FAILURE OF THE FAN MOTOR CAN CAUSE THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY OF THE FAN CONTROL UNIT TO OVERLOAD AND FAIL, CAUSING THE FAN TO STOP OPERATING.
Consequence
IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, ENGINE OVERHEATING AND SUBSEQUENT ENGINE DAMAGE COULD RESULT. IN ADDITION, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY TO CAUSE A FIRE IN THE FAN CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FAN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 28, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Lower steering shaft may fail from corrosion
Reported February 26, 2001Model years 1991–1998DVSA recall R/2000/135285,722 vehicles affected
Long-term corrosion may affect the lower steering shaft. A modified shaft will be fitted to affected vehicles.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
LOWER STEERING SHAFT MAY FAIL
Defect
Due to the long term effects of corrosion the above vehicles are being recalled. The corrosion is an age related problem and this recall action will target the oldest cars first in groups of 15000 to 20000. It is believed that as long as the vehicle has a current MOT and is serviced correctly any possible corrosion problems with the shaft will be highlighted as a matter of course. If customers are concerned they can visit any BMW dealer to have the shaft checked.
Remedy
DEFECT (cont.) If the component is safe the car will not be repaired at this stage but will be recalled at a later date as originally planned. REMEDY Recall affected vehicles and fit modified lower steering shaft.
Damaged wheel rim may cause sudden tire air loss
Reported November 20, 2000Model years 2001NHTSA campaign 00V3830001,914 vehicles affected
The tire mounting equipment may have damaged a wheel's inner rim flange, causing sudden air loss that could affect handling and control. Dealers will inspect all five wheels and replace all five if any damage from the equipment is found.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
WHEELS:RIM
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE MACHINE USED TO MOUNT AND INFLATE THE TIRES ON THE WHEELS AT THE ASSEMBLY PLANT MAY HAVE DAMAGED THE INNER RIM FLANGE OF THE WHEELS.
Consequence
THIS COULD LEAD TO A SUDDEN LOSS OF AIR FROM THE TIRE AFFECTING HANDLING AND VEHICLE CONTROL.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FIVE WHEELS FOR POSSIBLE DAMAGE. IF DAMAGE FROM THE MOUNTING MACHINE IS FOUND ON ANY WHEEL, ALL FIVE WHEELS WILL BE REPLACED.
Notes
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 22, 2000.OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Brake lamp switch may fail
Reported February 17, 2000Model years 2000NHTSA campaign 00V04800017,700 vehicles affected
The brake lamp switch may fail in the on or off position, leaving the brake lamps continuously lit or inoperative regardless of pedal position. Dealers will inspect the switch and replace it if needed.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BRAKE LAMPS IN THESE VEHICLES ARE CONTROLLED BY A SWITCH ACTIVATED BY THE MOVEMENT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. THIS SWITCH COULD FAIL INTERNALLY, CAUSING IT TO REMAIN EITHER IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS OFF" POSITION OR IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS ON" POSITION.
Consequence
IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LAMPS EITHER WILL NOT OPERATE OR WILL BE CONTINUOUSLY ILLUMINATED, REGARDLESS OF BRAKE PEDAL POSITION.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE EXISTING BRAKE LAMP SWITCH WITH AN IMPROVED SWITCH.
Notes
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 15, 2000.OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Brake light switch may fail, stick on or flicker
Reported December 15, 1999Model years 1999DVSA recall R/1999/10416,902 vehicles affected
A faulty switch may stop the brake lights working, keep them on or make them flicker; in extreme cases, it could overheat. The switch will be replaced with a modified version.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
BRAKE LIGHTS MAY FAIL TO OPERATE REMAIN ON OR FLICKER
Defect
There is a possibility that the brake light switch circuits may become defective and cause the brake light circuit to fail stay on continuously or flicker. In extreme cases the brake switch could overheat.
Remedy
Recall affected vehicles and replace brake light switch with a modified version.
Side airbags may deploy without a collision
Reported May 25, 1999Model years 1998–1999DVSA recall R/1999/04716,646 vehicles affected
In certain driving conditions, the side airbags and battery safety isolation switch may trigger when no accident has occurred. Recode the airbag control unit.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POSSIBLE UNSCHEDULED DEPLOYMENT OF SIDE AIRBAGS AND ACTIVATION OF BATTERY ISOLATOR SWITCH
Defect
In certain driving conditions it is possible for the side airbags and the battery terminal (safety isolation switch) to trigger when this is not necessary ie when no accident has occurred.
Remedy
Recall the affected vehicles and recode the airbag control unit.
Brake booster pushrod may disconnect
Reported May 3, 1999Model years 1999NHTSA campaign 99V10000031,067 vehicles affected
A retaining clip may detach from the brake pedal arm, disconnecting the brake booster pushrod and preventing braking. Dealers will inspect the clip and replace it if it is loose.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE RETAINING CLIP THAT SECURES THE BRAKE BOOSTER PUSHROD TO THE BRAKE PEDAL ARM WAS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED DURING PRODUCTION. IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE CLIP TO DETACH FROM THE PIN ON THE BRAKE PEDAL ARM ALLOWING THE PUSHROD TO DISCONNECT FROM THE ARM.
Consequence
IF THIS OCCURS, BRAKING IS NOT POSSIBLE.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CLIP FOR TIGHT INSTALLATION AND REPLACE THE CLIP IF IT IS LOOSE.
Notes
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 14, 1999.OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Side airbags may deploy without a crash
Reported March 26, 1999Model years 1999NHTSA campaign 99V06300034,701 vehicles affected
The system may deploy the side airbags and head protection system after impacts such as hitting a large pothole or curb. The battery safety terminal may also disconnect the starter cable, preventing the engine from restarting after it is stopped. Dealers will reprogram the control module.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES ARE BUILT WITH A SIDE AIR BAG SYSTEM CONSISTING OF DOOR-MOUNTED THORAX AIR BAGS (REAR DOOR AIR BAGS ARE OPTIONAL), A HEAD PROTECTION SYSTEM (HPS) FOR FRONT OCCUPANTS, A CENTRAL ELECTRONIC SENSOR AND DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM, LEFT AND RIGHT SATELLITE IMPACT SENSORS, AND ASSOCIATED WIRING. THIS SYSTEM IS UNDULY SENSITIVE TO CERTAIN NON-CRASH IMPACTS, SUCH AS CONTACTING LARGE POTHOLES OR CURBS AT SUBSTANTIAL SPEED.
Consequence
THIS COULD CAUSE THE SIDE AIR BAG AND HPS TO DEPLOY WITHOUT AN ACTUAL SIDE CRASH. IN ADDITION, THE BATTERY SAFETY TERMINAL (BST) WOULD ALSO ACTIVATE, DISCONNECTING THE STARTER CABLE FROM THE BATTERY. IN THIS CASE, VEHICLE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WOULD CONTINUE TO OPERATE AND THE ENGINE WOULD CONTINUE TO RUN, BUT AFTER STOPPING, COULD NOT BE RESTARTED.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE CENTRAL COMPUTER CONTROL MODULE THAT REGULATES THE PERFORMANCE OF ALL OF THE VEHICLE'S OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEMS.
Notes
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 30, 1999. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Heater core may expel hot coolant
Reported August 4, 1998Model years 1992–1995NHTSA campaign 98V178000340,000 vehicles affected
Overheating can raise coolant temperature and pressure; a crack or separated seam in the heater core end piece could suddenly expel hot coolant and injure an occupant. Dealers will install a redesigned radiator cap to control pressure and provide greater coolant overflow.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT, SUCH AS A THERMOSTAT, WATER PUMP, OR FAN BELT, CAN RESULT IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND SYSTEM PRESSURE. IF THE INDICATIONS OF A CRITICAL OVERHEATING CONDITION IS NOT NOTICED BY THE DRIVER, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT DAMAGE TO, OR FAILURE OF, A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT COULD OCCUR.
Consequence
IF A CRACK WERE TO FORM OR A SEAM WERE TO SEPARATE IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE, HOT COOLANT COULD SUDDENLY BE EXPELLED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
Notes
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 31, 1999. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Throttle cable may catch and keep throttle open
Reported August 19, 1997Model years 1992–1997NHTSA campaign 97V131000410,000 vehicles affected
A cable bushing can break, allowing the outer cable tube to catch and keep the throttle partly open. The vehicle may not slow as expected, increasing crash risk. Dealers will install a spring steel clip on each cable to keep the tube in place.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Defect
THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE CABLES ARE ATTACHED TO THE SAME THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATING LEVER AT THE THROTTLE HOUSING. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHING ON EITHER CABLE COULD BREAK DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES COUPLED WITH VIBRATION. IF THE BUSHING BREAKS, THE OUTER CABLE HOUSING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE BUSHING. IN THIS CASE, DURING APPLICATION OF THE THROTTLE PEDAL WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL BEING ENGAGED, THE OUTER TUBE COULD CATCH ON THE EDGE OF THE BROKEN BUSHING.
Consequence
THIS COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE VALVE TO REMAIN PARTIALLY OPEN. IT HIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE CAR MIGHT NOT DECELERATE AS EXPECTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SPRING STEEL CLIP ON THE OUTER TUBE OF EACH CABLE IN THE AREA OF THE ADJUSTING SCREW AND PLASTIC BUSHING. THE CLIP IS DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE OUTER TUBE FROM DISLODGING FROM THE BUSHING.
Notes
OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN BY THE END OF OCTOBER 1997. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Lower steering shaft may weaken due to corrosion
Reported May 27, 1997Model years 1991–1994DVSA recall R/1997/00580,000 vehicles affected
Corrosion on the corrugated section of the lower steering shaft could weaken it over time. Affected shafts will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
CORROSION ON LOWER STEERING SHAFT
Defect
Instances of corrosion on the corrugated section of the lower steering shaft have occurred. This could lead to eventual weakening of the shaft.
Remedy
All vehicles fitted with corrugated type lower steering shafts will have them replaced with quality assured examples.
Brake light switch may fail
Reported July 1, 1996Model years 1992–1994NHTSA campaign 96V111000180,000 vehicles affected
The switch may leave the brake lights permanently off or on, making it hard for following drivers to tell when the vehicle is stopping. Dealers will replace the switch with a newly designed one.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Defect
THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH CAN FAIL ALLOWING THE SWITCH TO REMAIN IN THE "BRAKE LIGHTS OFF" POSITION OR IN THE "BRAKE LIGHTS ON" POSITION.
Consequence
IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LIGHTS EITHER WILL NOT OPERATE OR WILL BE CONTINUOUSLY ON, REGARDLESS OF BRAKE PEDAL POSITION. FOLLOWING DRIVERS WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS STOPPING, INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED SWITCH.
Notes
SYSTEM: BRAKES; HYDRAULIC; SWITCH; BRAKE LIGHT. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. OWNER NOTIFICATION: OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN AUGUST 5, 1996. NOTE: OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Air bag contact ring tab may break
Reported July 1, 1996Model years 1992NHTSA campaign 96V11000075,000 vehicles affected
The steering wheel contact ring locking tab may break, eventually damaging its wiring. The air bag warning light may come on and the air bag may not deploy in a frontal crash. Dealers will replace the tab with a different design.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Defect
THE AIR BAG CONTACT RING LOCKING TAB LOCATED IN THE STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY CAN BREAK WITHOUT WARNING.
Consequence
IF THIS HAPPENS, THE CONTACT RING WIRING COULD EVENTUALLY BREAK. THE AIR BAG READINESS INDICATOR LAMP (SRS OR AIRBAG) IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WILL ILLUMINATE, AND THE AIR BAG WOULD NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A FRONTAL IMPACT VEHICLE COLLISION.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LOCKING TAB WITH ONE OF A DIFFERENT DESIGN.
Notes
SYSTEM: INTERIOR; PASSIVE RESTRAINT; AIR BAG; DRIVER. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. OWNER NOTIFICATION: OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN AUGUST 5, 1996. NOTE: OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Stub axle bolts may be insufficiently tightened
Reported February 23, 1996Model years 1996DVSA recall R/1996/0371,600 vehicles affected
The three bolts securing the stub axle to the spring strut may not have been fully tightened. Their torque will be checked and corrected as needed; any bolts found loose will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
SECURITY OF STUB AXLE MOUNTINGS
Defect
The three bolts which secure the stub axle to the spring strut may not have been fully torqued on initial assembly.
Remedy
Recall the affected vehicles and check the torque setting on the bolts involved retorqueing as required. Any bolts found to have been loose (as distinct from being insufficiently torqued) will be replaced.
Rear wheel bearings may be damaged
Reported April 7, 1995Model years 1995DVSA recall R/1995/030152 vehicles affected
Production tolerances may mean the rear wheel bearings were not preloaded correctly, causing damage and premature failure. The halfshaft flange connection will be checked, and the halfshaft and roller bearing replaced if outside prescribed tolerances.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POSSIBLE DAMAGE TO WHEEL BEARINGS
Defect
Due to production tolerances at the halfshaft splines the rear wheel bearings may not have been correctly pre-loaded during assembly. This could lead to bearing damage and premature failure.
Remedy
Recall the affected vehicles and check the halfshaft flange connection. Where this is outside prescribed tolerances the halfshaft and roller bearing will be replaced.
Tire placard overstates vehicle capacity
Reported April 3, 1995Model years 1995NHTSA campaign 95V0710005,200 vehicles affected
The tire placard overstates vehicle load and seating capacity. Overloading may damage the tires or vehicle and cause a crash. Owners will receive a corrected placard and installation instructions; a dealer can install it if requested.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Defect
AN OVERSTATEMENT WAS MADE OF THE VEHICLE LOAD CAPACITY AND DESIGNATED SEATING CAPACITY ON THE TIRE INFORMATION PLACARD. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."
Consequence
CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: LOADING OF THE VEHICLE BEYOND THE CAPACITY WEIGHT CAN CAUSE TIRE AND VEHICLE DAMAGE THAT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
OWNERS WILL BE MAILED A REVISED PLACARD CONTAING THE CORRECT VEHICLE AND DESIGNATED SEATING CAPACITIES AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLING THE PLACARD ON THEIR VEHICLES. IF OWNERS PREFER, THEIR DEALER CAN INSTALL THE PLACARD FOR THEM.
Notes
SYSTEM: EQUIPMENT; TIRE RESERVE LOAD LABEL; FMVSS NO. 110.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SEDAN AND CONVERTIBLE MODEL PASSENGER VEHICLES. NOTE: IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A REVISED LABEL FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME, PLEASE CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Occupant crash protection does not meet requirements
Reported August 10, 1994Model years 1993–1994NHTSA campaign 94V15100057,000 vehicles affected
Crash test results exceeded allowable limits for an unbelted driver dummy's chest acceleration and an unbelted passenger dummy's left femur load, increasing occupant injury risk in a crash. For automatic transmission models, dealers will replace or modify the listed transmission and steering components and add a brace.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
Defect
IN A FMVSS NO. 208 30 MILES-PER-HOUR COMPLIANCE TEST, AN UNBELTED TEST DRIVER DUMMY'S CHEST MAXIMUM RESULTANT ACCELERATION WAS 70.8 G'S, WHICH EXCEEDS THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE VALUE OF 60 G'S. ALSO, THE UNBELTED PASSENGER DUMMY'S LEFT FEMUR MAXIMUM LOAD WAS 2361 LBS, WHICH EXCEEDS MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE VALUE OF 2250 LBS. THE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
Consequence
CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT, THE OCCUPANT WILL BE SUBJECTED TO AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy
ON AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MODELS ONLY, THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION SUPPORT CROSSMEMBER WITH A CROSSMEMBER USED ON THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION MODEL. ALSO, THE TRANSMISSION REAR BUSHING SUPPORTS WILL BE REPLACED WITH BUSHING HAVING DIFFERENT PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS. THE STEERING COLUMN FRONT SUPPORT BEARING AT THE FIREWALL WILL BE REPLACED WITH A MODIFIED PART USING A TEFLON INNER SURFACE AND TEFLON SPRAY WILL BE APPLIED TO THE COLUMN HOUSING IN THE AREA OF THE BEARING. A BRACE WILL BE ADDED BETWEEN THE KNEE BOLSTER SUPPORT AND THE STEERING COLUMN.
Notes
SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; PASSIVE RESTRAINTS; AIR BAG; DRIVER; FMVSS N0. 208.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS, MODELS 325I, 325IA, 325IS, 325SA, AND M3.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASE CONTACT BMW SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-831-1117. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Feed fuel hose may leak at engine fitting
Reported April 11, 1994Model years 1989–1993NHTSA campaign 94V066000116,300 vehicles affected
The feed fuel hose can harden, allowing fuel to seep where it connects to the engine. Leaking fuel in the engine compartment could cause a fire if exposed to an ignition source. Dealers will install a redesigned hose and clamp.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Defect
FEED FUEL HOSES CAN HARDEN AND "SET" OVER TIME, ALLOWING A SEEPAGE OF FUEL AT THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE HOSE AND THE ENGINE FITTING. THE CLAMP USED TO HOLD THE HOSE TO THE FITTING IS UNABLE TO COMPENSATE FOR THE HARDENING OF THE FEED FUEL HOSE.
Consequence
FUEL SEEPAGE BETWEEN THE FEED FUEL HOSE AND THE ENGINE FITTING CAN RESULT IN FREE FUEL IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
Remedy
A REDESIGNED FEED FUEL HOSE AND HOSE CLAMP WILL BE INSTALLED TO ALLEVIATE THE FUEL SEEPAGE.
Notes
SYSTEM: FUEL; FUEL LINE FITTINGS; METALLIC.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES; MODELS 318I, 318SI, 318IC, 325I, 325IS, 325IX, 325IC, 525I, 535I, 735I AND 735IL.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREE OF CHARGE, OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASE CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Throttle plate may not close in cold weather
Reported February 17, 1994Model years 1992–1994NHTSA campaign 94V03700023,500 vehicles affected
Adhesive and impurities in the throttle body heater, along with water vapour that can freeze in low temperatures, may keep the throttle plate from closing when the pedal is released. Loss of throttle control could cause a crash. Dealers will replace the heater with a modified one.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Defect
THE ADHESIVE MATERIAL OF THE TWO PIECE THROTTLE BODY HEATER MIGRATES INTO THE CIRCULATION CHAMBER CAUSING BUILD UP OF IMPURITIES AND RESTRICTION OF FLOW WITHIN THE CHAMBER. THIS CONDITION AND WATER VAPORS FROM THE CRANK THAT FREEZES AT LOW AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURES PREVENTS THE THROTTLE PLATE FROM CLOSING AS THE DRIVER RELEASES THE GAS PEDAL, CAUSING LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL.
Consequence
IF LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL FROM THE FROZEN THROTTLE BODY OCCURS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
Remedy
BMW DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE THROTTLE BODY HEATER WITH A MODIFIED HEATER.
Notes
SYSTEM: FUEL; FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, MODEL 318I AND 318IS.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREE OF CHARGE OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANE, PLEASE CONTACT BMW SERVICE CENTER AT 1-201-573-2100. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Cooling system pressure may cause leaks
Reported February 1, 1993Model years 1984–1993NHTSA campaign 93V015000375,000 vehicles affected
A cooling system fault may raise coolant temperature and pressure, causing leaks or component failure. Boiling coolant could burn the driver's leg, and coolant vapour could fog the windows and reduce visibility. Dealers will install a thermostatic bypass valve and a new design radiator cap.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
Defect
THE MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT RESULTS IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND A RESULTING INCREASE IN SYSTEM PRESSURE.
Consequence
VEHICLES OPERATED UNDER THIS INCREASED COOLING SYSTEMPRESSURE CONDITION CAN SUFFER DAMAGE OR FAILURE OF PARTS OF THE COOLING SYSTEMSUCH AS (1) LEAKAGE FROM A COOLANT HOSE, (2) LEAKAGE OF THE RADIATOR OREXPANSION TANK, (3) DISCONNECTION OF A HOSE FROM A PIPE OR A FITTING, AND (4)CRACKS IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE RESULTING IN COOLANT LEAKAGE. IN SOME CASES,BOILING COOLANT CAN CONTACT THE LOWER RIGHT LEG OF THE DRIVER RESULTING INBURNS. ALSO, ESCAPING COOLANT IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE VAPORFOGGING OF THE INTERIOR SURFACE OF THE WINDOWS, REDUCING DRIVER VISIBILITY.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A THERMOSTATIC BYPASS VALVE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT TO CONTROL COOLANT TEMPERATURE IN THE HEATER CORE. ALSO, A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP WILL BE INSTALLED, TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
Notes
SYSTEM: COOLANT SYSTEM.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Wiper switch ground may loosen
Reported September 29, 1992Model years 1991NHTSA campaign 92V1400002,942 vehicles affected
The wiper switch screw may loosen and interrupt the circuit ground, causing the wipers to operate erratically or stop and reducing visibility in bad weather. Relocate the wiper switch ground wire attachment on the steering column.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:SWITCH/WIRING
Defect
THE SCREW THAT SECURES THE WIPER SWITCH AT ONE LOCATION AND WHICH ALSO PROVIDES A GROUND FOR THE WIPER CIRCUIT, LOOSENS AS THE SWITCH IS OPERATED OVER A LONG PERIOD OF TIME. AS THE SCREW CONTINUES TO LOOSEN THE GROUND FOR THE WIPER CIRCUIT IS INTERMITTENTLY OR COMPLETELY LOST.
Consequence
THE INTERMITTENT OR COMPLETE LOSS OF THE WIPER CIRCUITGROUND CAUSES THE WIPERS TO OPERATE ERRATICALLY OR NOT AT ALL, RESULTING INREDUCED VISIBILITY FOR THE DRIVER IN INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS.
Remedy
RELOCATE THE WIPER SWITCH GROUND WIRE ATTACHMENT ON THE STEERING COLUMN.
Notes
SYSTEM: VISUAL; WINDSHIELD WIPER.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Driver's seat may shift in a severe frontal impact
Reported April 14, 1992Model years 1992NHTSA campaign 92V05500022,416 vehicles affected
In a severe frontal impact, the driver's seat height may change, causing chest acceleration to exceed the allowable 60 G's. A damper will be installed under the seat cushion to lock the seat height during impact.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
SEATS
Defect
THE VEHICLE FAILED TO COMPLY WITH FMVSS 208. THE DRIVER'S CHEST RESULTANT ACCELERATION EXCEEDED THE ALLOWABLE 60 G'S IN A CRASH TEST WHEN THE SEAT HEIGHT CHANGES ADJUSTMENT UNDER SEVERE FRONTAL IMPACT.
Consequence
THE DRIVER OF A VEHICLE FACES INCREASED RISK OF INJURYIN THE EVENT OF A SUDDEN STOP OR ACCIDENT.
Remedy
INSTALL A DAMPER ON THE UNDERSIDE OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT CUSHION, BETWEEN THE CUSHION FRAME AND THE SEAT TRACK. IN A SEVERE FRONTAL IMPACT THE DAMPER WILL HYDRAULICALLY LOCK, PREVENTING A CHANGE IN SEAT HEIGHT.
Notes
SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS: FMVSS 208.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CAR, MODELS 325I AND 325IA.
Battery cable may chafe and cause a short circuit
Reported February 28, 1992Model years 1991–1992DVSA recall R/1992/0138,700 vehicles affected
Cables chafing where they pass through a front bulkhead grommet could cause a short circuit and fire. The battery positive cable will be disconnected at both ends and taped to the cable; an alternative engine management backup arrangement is being made.
Official DVSA recall text
Component
POSSIBLE CHAFING OF THE BATTERY CABLE
Defect
Chafing may occur where two cables pass through a grommet in the front bulkhead. This could result in a short circuit and fire risk.
Remedy
Recall affected vehicles. De-energise the 6 sq.mm. battery positive cable which backs up the engine management system by cutting it at both ends and taping it to the cable. An alternative arrangement is being made to back up the engine management system.
Ice buildup may prevent throttle from closing
Reported December 17, 1991Model years 1991–1992NHTSA campaign 91V21900015,200 vehicles affected
At 15 degrees Fahrenheit or less, ice may form in the intake tract and prevent the throttle plate from fully closing when the accelerator is released. This can raise idle speed and slow deceleration. The throttle housing will be replaced with one with a modified heating system, and the CVS hose rerouted.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Defect
THE CRANKCASE VENTILATION SYSTEM, VENTED INTO THE INTAKE TRACT OF THE ENGINE AT THE BELLOWS BOOT AHEAD OF THE THROTTLE HOUSING, ALLOWS WARM WATER VAPOR FROM THE CRANKCASE VENT TO CONDENSE AND FREEZE IN THE COLDER BELLOWS BOOT WHEN THE AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE IS 15 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT OR LESS. THE BUILD UP OF ICE CAN DISLODGE AND MOVE INTO THE THROTTLE HOUSING, PREVENTING THE THROTTLE PLATE FROM FULLY CLOSING WHEN THE DRIVER RELEASES THE GAS PEDAL.
Consequence
IF THE THROTTLE PLATE IS PREVENTED FROM CLOSING, THEREIS AN INCREASE IN IDLE SPEED AS WELL AS SLOWER THAN NORMAL DECELERATION, WHICHOCCURS WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING AND COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
Remedy
REPLACE THE THROTTLE HOUSING WITH A VERSION CONTAINING A MODIFIED HEATING SYSTEM ALONG WITH REROUTING OF THE CVS HOSE. THIS WILL PREVENT ICE BUILD-UP IN THE INTAKE TRACT.
Notes
SYSTEM: THROTTLE LINKAGES AND CONTROL.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.
Knee bolster may block steering column movement
Reported April 10, 1991Model years 1991NHTSA campaign 91V05400013,500 vehicles affected
An incorrectly installed driver-side knee bolster may prevent the steering column from moving forward to absorb impact energy, increasing the risk of injury in a crash. The knee bolster will be repaired to allow clearance.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER
Defect
DURING TESTING, INCORRECTLY INSTALLED DRIVER-SIDE KNEE BOLSTER PREVENTED STEERING COLUMN FROM MOVING FORWARD AS DESIGNED TO ABSORB IMPACT ENERGY FROM DRIVER DUMMY.
Consequence
CHEST DECELERATION EXCEEDS MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LIMIT WHICHRESULTS IN INCREASED RISK OF OCCUPANT INJURY IN A SUDDEN STOP OR ACCIDENT.
Remedy
REPAIR THE KNEE BOLSTER TO ALLOW CLEARANCE AND AVOID IMPEDANCE OF STEERING COLUMN MOVEMENT DURING FRONTAL IMPACT.
Notes
SYSTEM: OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION; FMVSS 208.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Throttle may not return to idle
Reported March 15, 1988Model years 1988NHTSA campaign 88V0310001,256 vehicles affected
A bent dipstick tube bracket could reduce clearance to the throttle lever and prevent the throttle from fully returning to idle when the accelerator is released. The end of the throttle lever will be cut off to provide clearance.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
Defect
THE OIL DIPSTICK TUBE ATTACHING BRACKET MAY HAVE BEEN BENT DURING PRODUCTION OR SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE, REDUCING THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE DIPSTICK RING AND THE THROTTLE BELLCRANK LEVER.
Consequence
THIS REDUCED CLEARANCE MAY INHIBIT THE RETURN OF THETHROTTLE TO A FULLY CLOSED IDLE POSITION, WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ISRELEASED.
Remedy
REQUIRES THE CUTTING OFF THE OUTBOARD END OF THE THROTTLE BELLCRANK LEVER TO PROVIDE NECESSARY CLEARANCE.
Notes
SYSTEM: ACCELERATOR/THROTTLE.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Brake light switch may overheat
Reported November 10, 1986Model years 1986–1987NHTSA campaign 86V15100097,300 vehicles affected
The brake light switch could overheat and melt internal plastic parts, causing the brake lights to stay off or remain illuminated regardless of pedal use. The switch will be replaced with a revised version with increased electrical load capacity.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Defect
BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH COULD OVERHEAT, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO MELTING OF PLASTIC INTERNAL PARTS IN AREA OF ELECTRICAL CONTACTS.
Consequence
CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: SWITCH PLUNGER COULD JAM, RENDERING BRAKE LIGHTS EITHER INOPERATIVE OR CONTINUOUSLY ILLIMINATED, REGARDLESS OF BRAKE PEDAL OPERATION.
Remedy
REPLACE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WITH REVISED SWITCH WITH INCREASED ELECTRICAL LOAD CAPACITY.
Notes
SYSTEM: BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS WITH HIGH BRAKE LIGHTS.
Steering column joint may disconnect
Reported October 20, 1986Model years 1985–1986NHTSA campaign 86V138000120,261 vehicles affected
A sufficiently strong impact to the steering gearbox could disconnect the steering column joint, causing loss of steering control. Two specially formed plates will be bolted to the joint to retain steering capability.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Defect
THE TWO PARTS OF THE STEERING COLUMN DISENGAGEMENT ELEMENT COULD COMPLETELY DISCONNECT IF THE CAR CONTACTS AN OBJECT IN THE ROADWAY OR ELSEWHERE OF SUFFICIENT MASS TO APPLY A SIGNIFICANT FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE STEERING GEARBOX. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: STEERING CONTROL WOULD BE LOST.
Remedy
BOLT TWO SPECIALLY FORMED PLATES TO THE DISENGAGEMENT ELEMENT SO THAT STEERING CAPABILITY WILL BE RETAINED.
Notes
SYSTEM: STEERING COLUMN.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Idle control valve may stick open
Reported May 6, 1985Model years 1984NHTSA campaign 85V05800011,000 vehicles affected
A backfire into the intake manifold may damage the idle control valve and leave its plate open, causing abnormally high idle speed. A redesigned valve that cannot stick open will be installed.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:CARBURETOR SYSTEM
Defect
THE IDLE CONTROL VALVE WHICH CONTROLS IDLE SPEED BY VARYING THE AMOUNT OF INTAKE AIR THAT BYPASSES THE THROTTLE PLATE IS SUBJECT TO BACKFIRE INTO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. SUCH BACKFIRE CAN DAMAGE THE VALVE AND CAUSE THE IDLE VALVE PLATE TO REMAIN OPEN. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS WILL RESULT IN ABNORMALLY HIGH IDLE SPEED.
Remedy
INSTALL A REDESIGNED IDLE CONTROL VALVE WHICH CAN NOT STICK OPEN.
Notes
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.SYSTEM: IDLE CONTROL VALVE.
Heater valve wiring may overheat
Reported September 11, 1984Model years 1984NHTSA campaign 84V1070004,748 vehicles affected
If the water control valve does not close fully, excessive current may overheat its wiring. The wiring will be replaced with a connector containing a fuse to prevent an electrical overload.
Official NHTSA recall text
Component
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
Defect
WATER CONTROL VALVE IN THE HEATING SYSTEM MAY NOT CLOSE COMPLETELY. EXCESSIVE CURRENT MAY BEGIN TO FLOW THROUGH THE WIRING TO THE CONTROL VALVE RESULTING IN OVERHEATING OF THE WIRING.
Remedy
WIRING TO THE VALVE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A WIRE CONNECTOR THAT HAS A FUSE. THE FUSE WILL PREVENT THE OCCURENCE OF AN ELECTRICAL OVERLOAD.
Notes
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.SYSTEM: HEATER; HEATER CONTROL VALVE CONNECTOR.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: THE WIRING TO THE VALVE MAY BEGIN TO SMOULDER IN THEINSTRUMENT PANEL NEAR THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE, ADJACENT TO THE LEFT SIDE OFTHE TRANSMISSION. A FIRE IN THE INTERIOR IS POSSIBLE AND COULD INJURE VEHICLEOCCUPANTS.NOTE: DO NOT SET THE ROTARY TEMPERATURE CONTROL AT OR WITHIN 20 DEGREES OF THEFULL COLD POSITION UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS REPAIRED. IF SMOKE OR SMOULDERINGOCCURS, STOP THE VEHICLE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THE IGNITION KEY SHOULD THEN BETURNED OFF AND ALL OCCUPANTS SHOULD EVACUATE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY.

Sources: NHTSA (US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), DVSA (UK Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) and the EU Safety Gate (European Commission) recall data. Each recall covers vehicles sold in that market; models sold elsewhere may differ.

Back to the BMW 3 Series

Water may damage starter motor and cause fire

Starter relay may overheat and short circuit

Starter motor relay may short circuit

Engine starter may overheat and catch fire

Driver airbag inflator may rupture

Airbag inflator may rupture

Head air bag inflator may leak or rupture

Water ingress may corrode the starter motor

EGR cooler may leak coolant

Front passenger airbag inflator may pose a safety risk

Starter motor may overheat

Starter relay may overheat and short circuit

Starter-generator connection may come loose

Driver airbag may release metal fragments

Passenger airbag seam may be incorrectly sewn

Water pump connector may short circuit

Starter motor may overheat and cause a fire

Driver air bag inflator may explode

Driver air bag inflator may explode

VANOS unit screws may loosen or break

Head air bag inflator may leak or rupture

Driver airbag inflator may rupture

Cylinder head cover may crack or leak

Transmission fluid may enter control unit

Transmission oil may leak into control unit

Steering gear may loosen

Camshaft timing unit bolts may loosen or break

Seat belt warning chime may fail

Seat frame may be improperly welded to rails

Body domain controller may have incorrect settings

Door control software may prevent locks from engaging

Airbag inflator may rupture

Front left seat belt may be damaged

High-voltage battery cell module may be faulty

Rearview camera image may be obstructed

Starter motor may stay activated

EGR leaks may cause heat in the intake manifold

EGR cooler may leak and cause a thermal incident

Passenger airbag inflator casing may release fragments

Front seatbelt retractor gas generator may be damaged

PCV valve heater may overheat and cause a fire

Transmission unit may leak internally

Overheating may burst the heater matrix radiator

Leaking EGR cooler may melt the intake manifold

Tandem vacuum/oil pump may fail

Engine software may cause loss of braking assistance

High-pressure fuel pump may fail

Passenger seat belt retractor may deactivate early

Lower steering shaft coating may be damaged

EGR module may leak and cause a thermal incident

Driver air bag inflator may rupture or underinflate

Driver airbag may not deploy as designed

Front seatbelt buckle connection may be loose

Front seat belt buckle bolt may be loose

Brake discs may not meet specifications

Rearview camera image may be obscured or missing

Exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak

Starter generator battery cables may not be secure

High voltage battery impurities may cause a short circuit

48-volt battery connection may overheat

Particles in battery cells may cause a short circuit

Debris in hybrid battery cells may cause a short circuit

Hybrid battery welding beads may cause a short circuit

Steering tie rods may break

Steering tie rod may fracture

Rear centre head restraint interlock weld may be faulty

Rear driveshaft joint may become damaged

Front seat belt buckle sensors may misclassify occupants

Driver airbag inflator may rupture on deployment

Passenger air bag inflator may explode

Driver air bag inflator may explode

Rear seat belt pretensioners may not lock in a crash

Engine bearing bushing may be out of specification

Headlight control unit may fail

Replacement driver airbag inflator may rupture

Driver airbag inflator may rupture or underinflate

Driver airbag inflator may rupture or underinflate

Trunk release cable may prevent opening from inside

Counterbalance shaft may loosen

Driver airbag inflator may explode