IllustrationENGINE FAILURE WITH LOSS OF OIL PRESSURE AND PISTON ROD BREAKING OFF THE CRANK CASE WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 60-65 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY
2009 BMW X5
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
Similar to other model years
Owner complaints for the 2009 BMW X5 do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 100.5.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all X5 years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
60–25K
925–50K
1850–75K
2175–100K
27100–150K
4150K+
85 reports with mileage · 53 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Air Bags. Review the 41 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Fuel/propulsion System. Review the 37 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Engine. Review the 30 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
3 crash reports8 fire reports2 injury reports
Engine complaints
30 reportsI AM SMELLING EXTREMELY DANGEROUS FOR HEALTH EXHAUST FUMES INSIDE THE CAR WHILE DRIVING. THE MORE THE CABIN HEAT IS APPLIED, THE MORE EXHAUST SMELL IS NOTICEABLE. I FOUND MANY FORUMS ONLINE RELATED TO THE SAME ISSUE ON 2009 AND UP DIESEL POWERED BMW X5 XDRIVE35D. PEOPLE ARE COMPLAINING ABOUT FAULTY EGR COOLERS, LEAKING TURBOS ET…
Read full complaint
I AM SMELLING EXTREMELY DANGEROUS FOR HEALTH EXHAUST FUMES INSIDE THE CAR WHILE DRIVING. THE MORE THE CABIN HEAT IS APPLIED, THE MORE EXHAUST SMELL IS NOTICEABLE. I FOUND MANY FORUMS ONLINE RELATED TO THE SAME ISSUE ON 2009 AND UP DIESEL POWERED BMW X5 XDRIVE35D. PEOPLE ARE COMPLAINING ABOUT FAULTY EGR COOLERS, LEAKING TURBOS ETC. THIS PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND CORRECTED. THANK YOU.
I BOUGHT MY 2009 BMW X5 VEHICLE IN JUNE 2018, WITH APPROXIMATELY 61,630 MILES AND A LIMITED WARRANTY WITH 'POWER TRAIN COVERAGE', WHICH INCLUDED 'ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, FRONT WHEEL DRIVE, AND REAR WHEEL DRIVE'. IN MID-OCTOBER 2018, MY VEHICLE BEGAN SHOWING THE 'LOW COOLANT LEVEL' LIGHT AND 'LOW OIL LEVEL' LIGHT. I CALLED THE…
Read full complaint
I BOUGHT MY 2009 BMW X5 VEHICLE IN JUNE 2018, WITH APPROXIMATELY 61,630 MILES AND A LIMITED WARRANTY WITH 'POWER TRAIN COVERAGE', WHICH INCLUDED 'ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, FRONT WHEEL DRIVE, AND REAR WHEEL DRIVE'. IN MID-OCTOBER 2018, MY VEHICLE BEGAN SHOWING THE 'LOW COOLANT LEVEL' LIGHT AND 'LOW OIL LEVEL' LIGHT. I CALLED THE FLOW BMW DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE AND TOOK MY VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICE ON 10/19/18. FLOW BMW DIAGNOSED A LEAK IN THE RADIATOR. AFTER CONTACTING THE WARRANTY COMPANY (ASSURE) THE WARRANTY COMPANY INFORMED THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT THEY WOULD NOT COVER THE COST OF A NEW RADIATOR ($1,300.00) BECAUSE IT WAS NOT COVERED BY THE LIMITED WARRANTY UNDER 'POWER TRAIN COVERAGE'. THE RADIATOR IS ONE OF THE ENGINE'S UNSUNG HEROES. IT'S RESPONSIBLE FOR ESSENTIAL HEAT EXCHANGE FUNCTIONS IN YOUR CAR'S COOLING SYSTEM. THE NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERATURE OF THE AVERAGE CAR ENGINE IS AROUND 190-210 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT. WITH A DEFECTIVE RADIATOR, THE INCREASED HEAT STARTS TO WEAR ON OTHER ENGINE COMPONENTS, AND THE RESULTING STRESS CAN SHORTEN ENGINE LIFE DRAMATICALLY. THE COOLANT SYSTEM IS ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL TO KEEPING THE ENGINE RUNNING. THIS IS A DANGER TO THE DRIVER AND TO OTHERS ON THE ROAD. THE RADIATOR ISSUE AND INEVITABLE ISSUE WITH THE ENGINE CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY TO OTHER DRIVERS ON THE ROAD IF THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE SEIZES ARE STOPS IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. AFTER SOME RESEARCH, I LEARNED THAT OTHER BMW CUSTOMERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE RADIATORS IN BMWS FROM THE YEARS 2007-2013 (DOCUMENTS ATTACHED). AGAIN, THE RADIATOR IS A VITAL PART OF ENSURING THAT THE ENGINE RUNS APPROPRIATELY, AND IF THERE IS EVIDENCE OF CONSISTENT LEAKING WITH BMW VEHICLES WITH VERY FEW MILES DUE TO A MANUFACTURING ERROR, THEN THIS PROBLEM SHOULD BE CORRECTED. PLEASE SEE ATTACHED DOCUMENTATION FOR MORE INFORMATION.
VEHICLE IS SUBJECT TO RECALL 12V550000 DUE TO IDLER PULLEY BOLT WHICH CAN BREAK, CAUSING ACCESSORY DRIVE BET TO DISLODGE AND LOSS OF POWER STEERING, ALTERNATOR, ETC. THIS VEHICLE'S IDLER PULLEY AND BOLT WERE REPLACED AS PART OF THE RECALL 2.5 YEARS AND 35,000 MILES AGO, BUT EXPERIENCED THE EXACT SAME FAILURE, AGAIN, LAST MONTH. …
Read full complaint
VEHICLE IS SUBJECT TO RECALL 12V550000 DUE TO IDLER PULLEY BOLT WHICH CAN BREAK, CAUSING ACCESSORY DRIVE BET TO DISLODGE AND LOSS OF POWER STEERING, ALTERNATOR, ETC. THIS VEHICLE'S IDLER PULLEY AND BOLT WERE REPLACED AS PART OF THE RECALL 2.5 YEARS AND 35,000 MILES AGO, BUT EXPERIENCED THE EXACT SAME FAILURE, AGAIN, LAST MONTH. BMW USA AND THE LOCAL DEALER WERE CONTACTED, BOTH REFUSED TO FIX THE ISSUE, STATING THAT THE REPAIR IS ONLY VALID FOR TWO YEARS. THE NEW IDLER PULLEY BOLT THAT WAS INSTALLED SHEARED OFF AT ITS MOUNTING POINT, JUST AS THE ORIGINAL BOLT THAT WAS SUBJECT TO RECALL DID. IT IS CLEAR THAT THE REPLACEMENT BOLT IS SUBJECT TO THE SAME FAILURE AS THE ORIGINAL - WORSE, AS THIS FAILURE OCCURRED IN UNDER 3 YEARS AND 40,000 MILES, IT APPEARS THAT THE "FIX" IS WORSE AND MORE DANGEROUS THAN THE ORIGINALLY RECALLED PART. IN MY VEHICLE, THE PULLEY BOLT SNAPPED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN ON A CITY STREET, CAUSING A "BANG" NOISE AND THE COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER STEERING.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING FROM THE AIR CONDITIONING VENTS AND SMOKE BEGAN TO FILL THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED NUMEROUS TIMES, WHICH RESULTED IN A CRASH. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO …
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING FROM THE AIR CONDITIONING VENTS AND SMOKE BEGAN TO FILL THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED NUMEROUS TIMES, WHICH RESULTED IN A CRASH. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V683000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (BMW OF SOUTH ATLANTA, 4171 JONESBORO RD, UNION CITY, GA 30291 (770) 969-0755). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE TO DRIVE, A BURNING ODOR EMITTED INTO THE VEHICLE VENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LAUDERDALE BMW OF PEMBROKE PINES DEALER, LOCATED ON 14800 SHERIDAN PINES, FL 33028, PHONE: (954) 620-5050, WHERE IT WAS REJECTED TO BE SERVICED DUE TO THE REMEDY P…
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE TO DRIVE, A BURNING ODOR EMITTED INTO THE VEHICLE VENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LAUDERDALE BMW OF PEMBROKE PINES DEALER, LOCATED ON 14800 SHERIDAN PINES, FL 33028, PHONE: (954) 620-5050, WHERE IT WAS REJECTED TO BE SERVICED DUE TO THE REMEDY PART FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND 17V683000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. PART DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT AND VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PART NOT AVAILABLE.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A RECALL NOTICE WAS RECEIVED MORE THAN EIGHT MONTHS AGO FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V071000 (AIR BAGS) AND 17V020000 (AIR BAGS). THE DEALER (HAROLD ZEIGLER BMW, 4201 STADIUM DR SUITE A, KALAMAZOO, MI 49008, (866) 430-1812) STATED THAT THEY WERE UNABLE T…
Read full complaint
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A RECALL NOTICE WAS RECEIVED MORE THAN EIGHT MONTHS AGO FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V071000 (AIR BAGS) AND 17V020000 (AIR BAGS). THE DEALER (HAROLD ZEIGLER BMW, 4201 STADIUM DR SUITE A, KALAMAZOO, MI 49008, (866) 430-1812) STATED THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO VERIFY WHEN THE MANUFACTURER WOULD PROVIDE THE REMEDY AND REPAIR PARTS FOR BOTH RECALLS. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE IF THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE OR ON A NATIONAL BACKORDER. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT WAS NOT MADE AWARE UNTIL MONTHS LATER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V683000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) IN MID OCTOBER 2017. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED TO DETERMINE WHEN THE REMEDY AND PARTS WOULD BE SUPPLIED TO THE DEALER TO COMPLETE THE THREE RECALL REPAIRS. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
CRITICAL FAILURE/ CRACK OF THE COOLANT RESERVE TANK. NO PRIOR INDICATION OF LEAK. TANK SPLIT OPEN AND LOST ALL COOLANT WHEN PARKED. SEARCHED ONLINE AND SEE A LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE HAVE REPORTED SAME PROBLEM. POTENTIAL FOR ENGINE DAMAGE SIGNIFICANT. NON DEALER COST TO REPLACE $400 AND READ OTHER HAVE HAD DEALER REPLACEMENT…
Read full complaint
CRITICAL FAILURE/ CRACK OF THE COOLANT RESERVE TANK. NO PRIOR INDICATION OF LEAK. TANK SPLIT OPEN AND LOST ALL COOLANT WHEN PARKED. SEARCHED ONLINE AND SEE A LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE HAVE REPORTED SAME PROBLEM. POTENTIAL FOR ENGINE DAMAGE SIGNIFICANT. NON DEALER COST TO REPLACE $400 AND READ OTHER HAVE HAD DEALER REPLACEMENT COST $800.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT'S VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 17V020000 (AIR BAGS), 16V071000 (AIR BAGS), AND 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE FOR MONTHS TO RECEIVE THE TWO AIR BAG RECALLS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS S…
Read full complaint
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT'S VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 17V020000 (AIR BAGS), 16V071000 (AIR BAGS), AND 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE FOR MONTHS TO RECEIVE THE TWO AIR BAG RECALLS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SLOW TO PICK UP SPEED AND THE ENGINE WAS IDLING ROUGHLY. IN ADDITION, THE ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR RANDOMLY ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE CONDITION AND SUGGESTED THAT THE VEHICLE BE TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE CONTACT WAS WAITING TO DETERMINE A SOLUTION FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT ADDITIONAL REPAIRS MAY BE REQUIRED. THE CONTACT FELT AS IF THE REMEDY FAILED TO PROVIDE A SOLUTION FOR THE CURRENT CONDITION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE AND PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Official recalls
1220V016000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Jan 15, 2020
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2012 X5 xDrive35d, 2008-2012 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2007-2012 X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles equipped with non-desiccated, passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSPI-2) 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 & remedy
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 this remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
20V017000 · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Jan 15, 2020
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 & remedy
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.
19V017000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Jan 14, 2019
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M vehicles, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence & remedy
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 remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
18V336000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine
May 23, 2018
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2013 X5 xDrive 35d diesel vehicles. The engine idler pulley bolt may loosen over time and break.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the idler pulley bolt breaks, the vehicle may unexpectedly lose power-assisted steering, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the idler pulley bolt with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
18V030000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Jan 9, 2018
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, 2009-2010 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2009-2013 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." BMW is also recalling certain 2007-2010 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X5 xDrive35d, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." BMW is also recalling certain 2007-2009 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xdrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X5 xDrive35d, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence & remedy
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 remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag module, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
17V683000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:crankcase (pcv)
Oct 30, 2017
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 & remedy
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.
17V020000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Jan 10, 2017
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2012 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, BMW is recalling certain 2009 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i, and X5 M vehicles, 2008-2009 X6 xDrive 35i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, and 2009 X5 xDrive35d vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, BMW is recalling certain 2007-2008 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M vehicles, and 2008 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator or air bag module, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed March 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
16V746000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Oct 17, 2016
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i and 550i xDrive and 2012 535i ActiveHybrid, 640i Convertible, 650i Convertible, 650i xDrive Convertible, 650i Coupe and 650i Coupe xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles have in-tank fuel pumps that may have insufficiently crimped wire contacts.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The loose wires may cause the connector to melt, resulting in a fuel leak. Additionally, the fuel pump may stop working, possibly causing an engine stall and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. The recall began February 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
16V364000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
May 25, 2016
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5M vehicles, 2009-2011 X5 xDrive35d vehicles, 2008-2011 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, BMW is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5M vehicles, and 2008 BMW X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Vehicles of these model years and models that were not originally sold or ever registered in either Zones A or B are not subject to this safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or air bag module, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
13V339000 · Fuel System, Diesel: PRE-HEATER
Aug 7, 2013
BMW is recalling certain model year 2009-2010 X5 xDrive35d vehicles equipped with a diesel engine and manufactured from June 13, 2009, through November 9, 2009. The fuel filter heater, which is used for warming up the diesel fuel during vehicle operation at low outside temperatures, could experience an electrical overload condition and become permanently activated.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The fuel filter heater could remain activated even when the ignition is off and lead to a dead battery. The unit could also overheat, possibly resulting in a vehicle fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter heater, free of charge. The safety recall began on September 26, 2013. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417.
11V441000 · Fuel System, Diesel: PRE-HEATER
Aug 19, 2011
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 X5 XDRIVE35D VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A DIESEL ENGINE AND MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 1, 2008, THROUGH JUNE 12, 2009. THE FUEL FILTER HEATER, WHICH IS USED FOR WARMING UP THE DIESEL FUEL DURING VEHICLE OPERATION AT LOW OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES, COULD EXPERIENCE AN ELECTRICAL OVERLOAD CONDITION AND BECOME PERMANENTLY ACTIVATED.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THE FUEL FILTER HEATER COULD REMAIN ACTIVATED EVEN WHEN THE IGNITION IS OFF AND LEAD TO A DEAD BATTERY. THE UNIT COULD ALSO OVERHEAT, POSSIBLY LEADING TO A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL FILTER HEATER FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 11, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.
09V255000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc
Jul 8, 2009
BMW IS RECALLING MY 2009 X5 AND X6 VEHICLES. THE REAR BRAKE DISCS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED ACCORDING TO SPECIFICATIONS. AS A RESULT, A REDUCTION IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE AT THE AFFECTED REAR WHEEL COULD OCCUR.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: IN AN EXTREME CASE, THE AFFECTED REAR BRAKE DISC COULD BREAK RESULTING IN A LOSS OF BRAKING AT THAT WHEEL INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES BY INSPECTING THE REAR BRAKE DISCS AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-525-7417.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
1RQ18001 · Idler Pulley Bolt Failure
Opened Apr 18, 2018 · Closed Dec 1, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Steering:hydraulic Power Assist System; Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, And Connections
In a May 23, 2018 letter, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety defect that may result in the loss of power steering assist in certain model year (MY) 2009 through 2013 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles (Recall 18V-336). The recall, which affects approximately 33,214 vehicles built from March 12, 2008 through June 27, 2013, corrects the remedy and expands the scope of a prior BMW recall (12V-550) which addressed idle pulley bolt failure in approximately 29,800 MY 2009 through 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles built from September 1, 2008 through November 15, 2012. BMW's analysis indicates that due to a number of contributing factors it is possible that the bolt's pre-stressing force could drop to an extent that it results in the bolt becoming loosened over time. A loosening of the bolt could cause additional bending stress on top of the bolt. As a result, the bolt could break. If this were to happen, then a sudden loss of power steering assist could occur.If there were a loss of power steering assist, manual steering capability would be retained, although the effort required to steer the vehicle would be greater, and therefore may increase the risk of crash.ODI's analysis of the complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and BMW complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for RQ18-001 identified a total of 93 unique VIN reports alleging failure of the idler pulley bolt after recall 12V-550 was completed on the vehicle, including 31 VOQ's and 72 BMW consumer complaints (5 complaints received by NHTSA and BMW, 3 unique VIN's submitted multiple complaints to BMW, and 1 unique VIN submitted multiple complaints to NHTSA).BMW is developing a new idler pulley fastening system as the remedy for 18V-336.The remedy is planned to begin in February 2019.Based on BMW's safety recall, this recall query is closed.The 31 VOQ's referenced in this resume are: 10499780, 10559422, 10579534, 10655424, 10661614, 10702323, 10819617, 10903433, 10948014, 10984353, 11002447, 11010667, 11013643, 11041551, 11054759, 11054909, 11066063, 11083479, 11097562, 11098865, 11113332, 11128649, 11130277, 10552773, 10817406, 10937632, 10956710, 11032006, 11042259, 11063010, 11091513.
Additional source detail variants (3)
Steering
In a May 23, 2018 letter, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety defect that may result in the loss of power steering assist in certain model year (MY) 2009 through 2013 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles (Recall 18V-336). The recall, which affects approximately 33,214 vehicles built from March 12, 2008 through June 27, 2013, corrects the remedy and expands the scope of a prior BMW recall (12V-550) which addressed idle pulley bolt failure in approximately 29,800 MY 2009 through 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles built from September 1, 2008 through November 15, 2012. BMW's analysis indicates that due to a number of contributing factors it is possible that the bolt's pre-stressing force could drop to an extent that it results in the bolt becoming loosened over time. A loosening of the bolt could cause additional bending stress on top of the bolt. As a result, the bolt could break. If this were to happen, then a sudden loss of power steering assist could occur.If there were a loss of power steering assist, manual steering capability would be retained, although the effort required to steer the vehicle would be greater, and therefore may increase the risk of crash.ODI's analysis of the complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and BMW complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for RQ18-001 identified a total of 93 unique VIN reports alleging failure of the idler pulley bolt after recall 12V-550 was completed on the vehicle, including 31 VOQ's and 72 BMW consumer complaints (5 complaints received by NHTSA and BMW, 3 unique VIN's submitted multiple complaints to BMW, and 1 unique VIN submitted multiple complaints to NHTSA).BMW is developing a new idler pulley fastening system as the remedy for 18V-336.The remedy is planned to begin in February 2019.Based on BMW's safety recall, this recall query is closed.The 31 VOQ's referenced in this resume are: 10499780, 10559422, 10579534, 10655424, 10661614, 10702323, 10819617, 10903433, 10948014, 10984353, 11002447, 11010667, 11013643, 11041551, 11054759, 11054909, 11066063, 11083479, 11097562, 11098865, 11113332, 11128649, 11130277, 10552773, 10817406, 10937632, 10956710, 11032006, 11042259, 11063010, 11091513.
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, And Connections
In a May 23, 2018 letter, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety defect that may result in the loss of power steering assist in certain model year (MY) 2009 through 2013 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles (Recall 18V-336). The recall, which affects approximately 33,214 vehicles built from March 12, 2008 through June 27, 2013, corrects the remedy and expands the scope of a prior BMW recall (12V-550) which addressed idle pulley bolt failure in approximately 29,800 MY 2009 through 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles built from September 1, 2008 through November 15, 2012. BMW's analysis indicates that due to a number of contributing factors it is possible that the bolt's pre-stressing force could drop to an extent that it results in the bolt becoming loosened over time. A loosening of the bolt could cause additional bending stress on top of the bolt. As a result, the bolt could break. If this were to happen, then a sudden loss of power steering assist could occur.If there were a loss of power steering assist, manual steering capability would be retained, although the effort required to steer the vehicle would be greater, and therefore may increase the risk of crash.ODI's analysis of the complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and BMW complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for RQ18-001 identified a total of 93 unique VIN reports alleging failure of the idler pulley bolt after recall 12V-550 was completed on the vehicle, including 31 VOQ's and 72 BMW consumer complaints (5 complaints received by NHTSA and BMW, 3 unique VIN's submitted multiple complaints to BMW, and 1 unique VIN submitted multiple complaints to NHTSA).BMW is developing a new idler pulley fastening system as the remedy for 18V-336.The remedy is planned to begin in February 2019.Based on BMW's safety recall, this recall query is closed.The 31 VOQ's referenced in this resume are: 10499780, 10559422, 10579534, 10655424, 10661614, 10702323, 10819617, 10903433, 10948014, 10984353, 11002447, 11010667, 11013643, 11041551, 11054759, 11054909, 11066063, 11083479, 11097562, 11098865, 11113332, 11128649, 11130277, 10552773, 10817406, 10937632, 10956710, 11032006, 11042259, 11063010, 11091513.
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist System
In a May 23, 2018 letter, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety defect that may result in the loss of power steering assist in certain model year (MY) 2009 through 2013 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles (Recall 18V-336). The recall, which affects approximately 33,214 vehicles built from March 12, 2008 through June 27, 2013, corrects the remedy and expands the scope of a prior BMW recall (12V-550) which addressed idle pulley bolt failure in approximately 29,800 MY 2009 through 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d vehicles built from September 1, 2008 through November 15, 2012. BMW's analysis indicates that due to a number of contributing factors it is possible that the bolt's pre-stressing force could drop to an extent that it results in the bolt becoming loosened over time. A loosening of the bolt could cause additional bending stress on top of the bolt. As a result, the bolt could break. If this were to happen, then a sudden loss of power steering assist could occur.If there were a loss of power steering assist, manual steering capability would be retained, although the effort required to steer the vehicle would be greater, and therefore may increase the risk of crash.ODI's analysis of the complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and BMW complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for RQ18-001 identified a total of 93 unique VIN reports alleging failure of the idler pulley bolt after recall 12V-550 was completed on the vehicle, including 31 VOQ's and 72 BMW consumer complaints (5 complaints received by NHTSA and BMW, 3 unique VIN's submitted multiple complaints to BMW, and 1 unique VIN submitted multiple complaints to NHTSA).BMW is developing a new idler pulley fastening system as the remedy for 18V-336.The remedy is planned to begin in February 2019.Based on BMW's safety recall, this recall query is closed.The 31 VOQ's referenced in this resume are: 10499780, 10559422, 10579534, 10655424, 10661614, 10702323, 10819617, 10903433, 10948014, 10984353, 11002447, 11010667, 11013643, 11041551, 11054759, 11054909, 11066063, 11083479, 11097562, 11098865, 11113332, 11128649, 11130277, 10552773, 10817406, 10937632, 10956710, 11032006, 11042259, 11063010, 11091513.