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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 →

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

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

Power Train complaints

10 reports
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Mileage unknown · May 13, 2023
Power Train

My vehicles serpentine belt broke twice and my A.C. belt broke once due to the tensioner pulley bolt loosening over time. I lost power steering and power of the over all vehicle. I was driving at 60 miles per hour, there has been a recall on this part for this exact same model but BMW is saying it is vin specific. This is very u…

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My vehicles serpentine belt broke twice and my A.C. belt broke once due to the tensioner pulley bolt loosening over time. I lost power steering and power of the over all vehicle. I was driving at 60 miles per hour, there has been a recall on this part for this exact same model but BMW is saying it is vin specific. This is very unsafe.

NHTSA ODI #11521855

85,000 miles · Dec 7, 2019
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemPower Train

I OWN A 2009 BMW X5 DIESEL. BMW HAS RECOGNIZED AN ISSUE WITH A SENSOR IN THE SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION (SCR) ACTIVE TANK. THE TANK STORES DIESEL FLUID. DIESEL FLUID IS ADDED INTO DIESEL TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF EMISSIONS THAT IS RELEASED FROM THE VEHICLE. BMW EXTENDED THE WARRANTY FOR THIS PART BUT IT IS UNKNOWN HOW THEY DETE…

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I OWN A 2009 BMW X5 DIESEL. BMW HAS RECOGNIZED AN ISSUE WITH A SENSOR IN THE SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION (SCR) ACTIVE TANK. THE TANK STORES DIESEL FLUID. DIESEL FLUID IS ADDED INTO DIESEL TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF EMISSIONS THAT IS RELEASED FROM THE VEHICLE. BMW EXTENDED THE WARRANTY FOR THIS PART BUT IT IS UNKNOWN HOW THEY DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF THIS EXTENSION. MY VEHICLE IS OVER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY BY 4 MONTHS BUT UNDER THE MILEAGE LIMIT BY 40,000 MILES. THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE A RECALL CALL AND NOT AN EXTENDED WARRANTY WITH LIMITED TIME TO REPAIR THE ISSUE. I ATTEMPTED TO RESOLVE THIS WITH SEAN S. AT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS BY INFORMING HIM THAT THIS IS MY COMMUTER VEHICLE AND I HAVE TO DRIVE THIS CAR EVERY DAY. I ALSO INFORMED HIM THAT IF NOT RESOLVED THIS WILL LEAD TO A LARGE AMOUNT OF POLLUTION RELEASED TO THE ENVIRONMENT. SEAN S. ACTING AS A REPRESENTATIVE OF BMW NORTH AMERICA STATED THEY ARE ONLY CONCERNED ABOUT THEIR BUSINESS AND THEIR BOTTOM LINE AND ONLY WILL ASSIST ME IF I'M A LOYAL CUSTOMER. THEY VIEWED ME AS NOT A SMART BUSINESS MOVE TO FIX THE ISSUE AND INDICATED THEY ARE NOT CONCERN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND OK FOR ME TO CONTINUE TO DRIVE THIS CAR THAT IS PUTTING OUT 10X THE AMOUNT OF POLLUTION AS GAS. RESEARCHING THE INTERNET THERE ARE MANY BMW X5 OWNERS DRIVING THEIR VEHICLE WITH THIS DEFECTIVE SENSOR AND MANY USING HACKS TO TRICK THE ECU AND MANY USING ALTERNATIVE NON OEM PARTS AND FORCING A FITMENT. ALL OF THIS IS DUE TO THE LIMITED TIME BMW IS OFFERING TO FIX THIS ISSUE AND THE EXTREME COST OF THE REPAIR AT A BMW SERVICE CENTER.

NHTSA ODI #11287653

93,000 miles · Sep 20, 2018
Power Train

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE INADVERTENTLY PLACED THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE AND THE AUTO PARK FUNCTION SHIFTED INTO PARK. WHEN THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE, THE AUTO PARK DISENGAGED AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FLOW BMW (2565 PETERS CREEK PKWY, WINSTON-SALEM, NC 2…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE INADVERTENTLY PLACED THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE AND THE AUTO PARK FUNCTION SHIFTED INTO PARK. WHEN THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE, THE AUTO PARK DISENGAGED AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FLOW BMW (2565 PETERS CREEK PKWY, WINSTON-SALEM, NC 27127, 366-788-3333) FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A FIELD REPRESENTATIVE CAME TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS WATER IN THE TRANSMISSION CASE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 93,000.

NHTSA ODI #11130390

99,000 miles · Feb 22, 2018
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Fuel/propulsion SystemPower Train

WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS UP TO 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHUTS OFF COMPLETELY WITH NO WARNING SIGNS. WHEN VEHICLE SHUTS OFF, ALL SYSTEMS ARE COMPLETELY OFF INCLUDING POWER STEERING, ANTILOCK BRAKING, THE ENGINE ITSELF, ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, LIGHTS - EVERYTHING COMPLETELY POWERLESS. THE CAR WILL THEN NOT START FOR 10-15 MINUTES, BUT N…

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WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS UP TO 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHUTS OFF COMPLETELY WITH NO WARNING SIGNS. WHEN VEHICLE SHUTS OFF, ALL SYSTEMS ARE COMPLETELY OFF INCLUDING POWER STEERING, ANTILOCK BRAKING, THE ENGINE ITSELF, ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, LIGHTS - EVERYTHING COMPLETELY POWERLESS. THE CAR WILL THEN NOT START FOR 10-15 MINUTES, BUT NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY NO ERRORS LOGGED IN THE COMPUTER. THE FIRST 2 TIMES THIS HAPPENED WAS ON A FREEWAY AT 60-70MPH CRUISING SPEED. NO SOUNDS OR WARNINGS THE X5 IMMEDIATELY SHUTS OFF. WE HAVE BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO AVOID A MAJOR ACCIDENT OR SEVERE INJURY/DEATH THIS COULD EASILY CAUSE. THIS HAPPENED 5 TIMES OVER A 14 MONTH PERIOD, EVEN AFTER 2 BMW CERTIFIED FIXES. AFTER THE FIRST INCIDENT, WE BROUGHT IT DIRECTLY TO BMW NORTHWEST IN FIFE WA. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT EXAMINED THE VEHICLE, TALKED WITH BMW US HEADQUARTERS - THEIR RECOMMENDATION WAS THAT WE PAY $800 TO HAVE THE ENTIRE FUEL SYSTEM CLEANED, AND THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM WAS LIKELY DEBRIS IN THE FUEL LINES. WE CONSENTED TO THE FIX AND PAID FOR THE REPAIR. AFTER GETTING THE VEHICLE BACK IT HAPPENED 2 ADDITIONAL TIMES. ONCE AGAIN ON A FREEWAY GOING 60 MPH, ANOTHER TIME ON A SIDE STREET GOING 30 MPH. WE THEN TOOK IT BACK TO BMW NORTHWEST, THEY FOUND THAT THERE WERE 3 PARTS IN THE FUEL SYSTEM THAT HAD NOT BEEN 'RECALLED' BUT WERE UNDER SOME TYPE OF WARRANTY. CLAIMED IT WAS A FREE $3500+ REPAIR, WE TOOK IT HOME AFTER THE 'FIX'. 3 MONTHS LATER, THE SAME ISSUE OCCURRED 1 TIME WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AT ABOUT 35 MPH. TOOK IT BACK TO BMW NW AGAIN, THIS TIME THEY ARE CLAIMING 3 FUEL INJECTORS NEED TO BE REPLACED (BUT THEY RECOMMEND ALL 6, EVEN THOUGH THEY WERE PREVIOUSLY DETERMINED NOT TO BE THE CAUSE OF THE ISSUE). THEY WANT TO 'ELIMINATE' THE POSSIBILITY WITH THE SAID FIX BUT BELIEVE THAT IS LIKELY NOT THE CAUSE AND THE ROOT IS ELECTRICAL ISSUES.

NHTSA ODI #11074370

68,247 miles · Feb 6, 2018
Power TrainSuspension

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AN ABNORMAL NOISE COULD BE HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. BMW OF DENVER DOWNTOWN (1040 S COLORADO BLVD, DENVER, CO) DIAGNOSED THAT THE DRIVESHAFT WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUF…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AN ABNORMAL NOISE COULD BE HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. BMW OF DENVER DOWNTOWN (1040 S COLORADO BLVD, DENVER, CO) DIAGNOSED THAT THE DRIVESHAFT WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,247.

NHTSA ODI #11067254

160,000 miles · Dec 28, 2017
EnginePower TrainCrashFire

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11057176

121,000 miles · Jul 26, 2017
Power Train

I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND SUDDENLY I FELT A POWER LOSS. SHORTLY AFTER I REALIZED I HAD NO POWER STEERING. IMMEDIATELY, I PULLED OVER AND LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD AND SAW THE DRIVE BELT TENSIONER PULLEY WAS BROKEN AND WAS OUT OF PLACE.

NHTSA ODI #11010667

80,000 miles · Apr 21, 2016
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN AND THE GEAR SELECTOR SHIFTED FROM THE DRIVE POSITION TO THE NEUTRAL POSITION. AFTERWARDS, THE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT COULD NOT RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A …

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW X5. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN AND THE GEAR SELECTOR SHIFTED FROM THE DRIVE POSITION TO THE NEUTRAL POSITION. AFTERWARDS, THE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT COULD NOT RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.

NHTSA ODI #10860737

44,960 miles · Jul 27, 2015
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train

DRIVING THROUGH THE NEIGHBOR HOOD AFTER SOME RAIN, ENDED UP DRIVING THROUGH A FEW INCHES OF RAIN WATER, WHILE THE OPPOSITE TRAFFIC STRUCK THE SAME PUDDLE, IT CAUSED THE FRONT OF INTAKE SYSTEM RIGHT UNDER THE HOOD TO SUCK IN WATER CAUSING THE BMW SUV TO LIGHT UP MULTIPLE SENSORS, LOOSE ALOT OF POWER AND 4X4 TRACTION STABILITY TO …

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DRIVING THROUGH THE NEIGHBOR HOOD AFTER SOME RAIN, ENDED UP DRIVING THROUGH A FEW INCHES OF RAIN WATER, WHILE THE OPPOSITE TRAFFIC STRUCK THE SAME PUDDLE, IT CAUSED THE FRONT OF INTAKE SYSTEM RIGHT UNDER THE HOOD TO SUCK IN WATER CAUSING THE BMW SUV TO LIGHT UP MULTIPLE SENSORS, LOOSE ALOT OF POWER AND 4X4 TRACTION STABILITY TO ACT UP. THE RAINWATER THAT GOT INGESTED ALMOST CAUSING THE ENGINE TO HYDROLOCK OR SIEZE UP. THE SUV BECAME UNDEPEDABLE DUE TO ALL THE ERROR CODES ACTING LIGHTING UP AND CAUSING THE SUV TO RUN AT LOW POWER.

NHTSA ODI #10743599

640,000 miles · May 19, 2013
Power TrainCrash

I WAS DRIVING ON THE 95 SOUTH, BETWEEN EXIT 28 TO 39( WILLMINGTON AREA, MA) YESTERDAY ( 5/18/13) ABOUT 6:30PM. I WAS ON FAST LANE, DRIVING ABOUT 70 MPH, SUDDENLY THE CAR LOST POWER, THE DASHBOARD WARNING SIGN SHOWING POWER OUTPUT DOWN. THE SPEED OF CAR SUDDENLY DROPPED, I HAD TO PULL OVER TO BREAKDOWN LANE, BUT THE CARS BEHIND M…

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I WAS DRIVING ON THE 95 SOUTH, BETWEEN EXIT 28 TO 39( WILLMINGTON AREA, MA) YESTERDAY ( 5/18/13) ABOUT 6:30PM. I WAS ON FAST LANE, DRIVING ABOUT 70 MPH, SUDDENLY THE CAR LOST POWER, THE DASHBOARD WARNING SIGN SHOWING POWER OUTPUT DOWN. THE SPEED OF CAR SUDDENLY DROPPED, I HAD TO PULL OVER TO BREAKDOWN LANE, BUT THE CARS BEHIND ME COULD NOT STOP QUICK ENOUGH, IT COLLIDED WITH MY BACK BUMPER, LUCKILY NO PERSONAL INJURY, AND THE CAR ONLY GOT SLIGHT SCRATCH. THANKS TO THE CARS BEHIND ME SLOWED DOWN IN TIME. IT WAS SO SCARE FOR ME, NEVER HAD SUCH THING AS LOSS OF POWER BEFORE ON HIGHWAY. THERE MUST BE SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE BMW ELECTRONIC DESIGN. TO AVOID OTHER ACCIDENTS, PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS THOROUGHLY. IT COULD CAUSE FATAL RESULTS IF HAPPENS TO SOMEONE ELSE. THANKS. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10512685

Official recalls

12

20V016000 · 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

1

RQ18001 · 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.