← New search

2011 BMW X5

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most X5 years

Owner complaints for the 2011 BMW X5 are substantially higher than the model-year median of 100.5.

About this comparison →

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

174 reports with mileage · 89 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.

  • Engine. Review the 110 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Air Bags. Review the 67 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Power Train. Review the 58 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

5 crash reports15 fire reports3 injury reports

Engine complaints

110 reports
Clear category filter
71,000 miles · Aug 5, 2014
EngineEngine And Engine Cooling

ONLY AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, WE GOT A WARNING "ENGINE HOT, DRIVE MODERATELY" THEN A FEW MINUTES LATER, IT SAID TO ENGINE HOT, AND TO STOP THE CAR IMMEDIATELY. WE HAD TO PULL THE CAR OVER AND AFTER ENGINE COOLED A BIT, TAKE OUR 2011 X5 TO THE NEAREST SHOP IN AN EMERGENCY. THE SHOP MECHANIC HAD TO R…

Read full complaint

ONLY AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, WE GOT A WARNING "ENGINE HOT, DRIVE MODERATELY" THEN A FEW MINUTES LATER, IT SAID TO ENGINE HOT, AND TO STOP THE CAR IMMEDIATELY. WE HAD TO PULL THE CAR OVER AND AFTER ENGINE COOLED A BIT, TAKE OUR 2011 X5 TO THE NEAREST SHOP IN AN EMERGENCY. THE SHOP MECHANIC HAD TO REPLACE THE WATER PUMP AND SAID THAT IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH BMW X5, EVEN THOUGH WE ONLY HAD 71,000 MILES. I LOOKED ONLINE AND THERE IS A RECALL AFFECTING WATER PUMPS FOR BMW X5 2011 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OTHER FUEL TYPES:TURBO-CHARGER RECALL NUMBER: 11V521000) BUT WHEN I CALLED BMW, IT SAID THAT MY PARTICULAR ENGINE IS NOT RECALLED. THE MECHANIC SAYS THIS IS UNUSUAL FOR SUCH A NEW CAR TO HAVE ENGINE OVERHEATING DUE TO WATER PUMP FAILURE, THIS SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED FOR SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10619011

65,000 miles · Jul 18, 2014
Engine

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THERE WAS A MALFUNCTION IN THE ENGINE WITH THE TORQUE SCREW. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF…

Read full complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THERE WAS A MALFUNCTION IN THE ENGINE WITH THE TORQUE SCREW. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000. UPDATED 09/05/14*LJ UPDATED 12/4/2014 *JS

NHTSA ODI #10614581

59,238 miles · May 31, 2014
Engine

OON FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2014 I WAS DOING ABOUT 75MPH ON THE EXPRESSWAY IN ATLANTA HEADING HOME FORM A MOVIE AT AROUND 1120PM AND IMMEDIATELY WITHOUT ANY WARNING OR A ENGINE LIGHT WITHIN MY 2011, BMW X5 BEGAN TO GO INTO SAFE MODE DECREASING MY SPEED FROM 75 TO 0 IN LESS THAN 60 SECONDS ' EVENTUALLY STALLING AND UNABLE TO RESTART. THE …

Read full complaint

OON FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2014 I WAS DOING ABOUT 75MPH ON THE EXPRESSWAY IN ATLANTA HEADING HOME FORM A MOVIE AT AROUND 1120PM AND IMMEDIATELY WITHOUT ANY WARNING OR A ENGINE LIGHT WITHIN MY 2011, BMW X5 BEGAN TO GO INTO SAFE MODE DECREASING MY SPEED FROM 75 TO 0 IN LESS THAN 60 SECONDS ' EVENTUALLY STALLING AND UNABLE TO RESTART. THE CAR TOOK OVER AND WENT INTO NEUTRAL BY ITSELF AND I WAS UNABLE TO ACCELERATE OR CONTROL THE SPEED ON MY OWN. ATLANTAS 285 EXPRESSWAYS HAS MULTIPLE LANES AND THOUGH TRAFFIC WAS NOT AS HEAVY AS IT GENERALLY IS DURING RUSH HOURS, I HAD TO FRANTICALLY NAVIGATE MYSELF OVER SIX LANES TO THE SHOULDER ROAD (AVOIDING THE MAIN LANE BY THE EXTERIOR WALL OUT OF FEAR OF SOMEONE HITTING ME FROM BEHIND). I BEGAN TO CRY UNCONTROLLABLY AND IMMEDIATELY HIT THE SOS OPTION WITHIN THE CAR AND EXPLAIN WHAT JUST OCCURRED TO THE REPRESENTATIVE ON THE PHONE. THE LADY WAS EXTREMELY PLEASANT AND DID HER BEST TO PUT ME AT EASE AND ASSURED ME ASSISTANCE WAS ON THE WAY. I THEN CALLED MY HUSBAND AND HAD HIM MEET ME THERE AS WELL. WITHIN AN HOUR A TOWING COMPANY HAD COME AND ASKED ME IF I WANTED THEM TO TAKE IT TO THE NEAREST BMW DEALERSHIP AND I STATED SURE THAT DEALERSHIP WAS NALLEY BMW. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10595286

36,350 miles · Apr 17, 2014
Engine

VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER (MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL) WITHOUT WARNING. THIS OCCURRED WHILE CRUISING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. THE VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING AND BRAKING BECAME SIGNIFICANTLY MORE DIFFICULT. AFTER DRIFTING SAFELY TO THE HIGHWAY SHOULDER THE VEHICLE REMAINED DISABLED AND COULD NOT STARTED. THE CA…

Read full complaint

VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER (MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL) WITHOUT WARNING. THIS OCCURRED WHILE CRUISING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. THE VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING AND BRAKING BECAME SIGNIFICANTLY MORE DIFFICULT. AFTER DRIFTING SAFELY TO THE HIGHWAY SHOULDER THE VEHICLE REMAINED DISABLED AND COULD NOT STARTED. THE CAR EXHIBITED NO SIGNS THAT IT WOULD START AGAIN. INSTRUMENTATION DID NOT DISPLAY INFORMATION AND TOWING WAS NECESSARY. SEVERAL DAYS AFTER DELIVERY TO THE BMW SERVICE CENTER, TECHNICIANS ADVISED THEY HAD ATTEMPTED TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM. THE STATED CAUSE WAS VANOS BOLTS SHEARING OFF INTO THE ENGINE. HOWEVER, ON THE TEST DRIVE THE VEHICLE SUFFERED ANOTHER COMPLETE FAILURE, LEAVING IT DISABLED. 56 DAYS LATER A REMANUFACTURED ENGINE HAD REPLACED THE ORIGINAL DUE TO FAILED REPAIR ATTEMPTS. *TT

NHTSA ODI #10583416

39,000 miles · Apr 6, 2014
Engine

VANOS INTAKE AND EXHAUST UNITS NEED TO BE REPLACED, ALONG WITH SOME OTHER PARTS RELATED TO THIS. CAR HAS BEEN AT THE BMW CENTER FOR ALMOST 1 WEEK. WHILE I WAS DRIVING DOWN A BUSY ROAD, THE "ENGINE MALFUNCTION, REDUCED POWER" ERROR MESSAGE CAME ON. I ALSO NOTICED, THE CAR HAD TURNED OFF AND I HAD NOT CONTROL OVER THE POWER…

Read full complaint

VANOS INTAKE AND EXHAUST UNITS NEED TO BE REPLACED, ALONG WITH SOME OTHER PARTS RELATED TO THIS. CAR HAS BEEN AT THE BMW CENTER FOR ALMOST 1 WEEK. WHILE I WAS DRIVING DOWN A BUSY ROAD, THE "ENGINE MALFUNCTION, REDUCED POWER" ERROR MESSAGE CAME ON. I ALSO NOTICED, THE CAR HAD TURNED OFF AND I HAD NOT CONTROL OVER THE POWER STEERING WHEEL OR BRAKES. MY MAIN CONCERN IS THIS HAPPENING AGAIN, LUCKILY I WAS NOT ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAD NO ONE IN FRONT OF ME, OTHERWISE IT COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH WORSE DUE TO NO POWER STEERING AVAILABILITY OR BRAKES. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10577747

24,000 miles · Feb 28, 2014
EnginePower TrainVehicle Speed Control

MY 2011 X5 35I HAS AN ACCELERATION DELAY. BMW HAS RECOGNIZED IT AS AN ISSUE IN THE 535I MODELS, CALLING IT AN "ACCELERATION DELAY" AND HAVE ISSUED AN SIB SOFTWARE UPDATE TO REPAIR IT, BUT HAVE NOT DONE SO FOR THE X5 MODEL. I FEEL THIS ISSUE IS DANGEROUS AND A SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10566454

59,000 miles · Jul 10, 2013
EngineService BrakesSteering

WHILE DRIVING MY ENGINE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF ALONG WITH POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. IT STARTED AGAIN AND I TOOK IT TO A BMW DEALER THAT SAID I NEEDED A $325 SOFTWARE UPDATE. I ASKED IF THAT MEANT MY ENGINE WOULD SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING SHOULD BY SOFTWARE EVER GO OUT OF DATE. THEY SAID YES, IT HAPPENS BUT NOT ON ALL SOFTWARE …

Read full complaint

WHILE DRIVING MY ENGINE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF ALONG WITH POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. IT STARTED AGAIN AND I TOOK IT TO A BMW DEALER THAT SAID I NEEDED A $325 SOFTWARE UPDATE. I ASKED IF THAT MEANT MY ENGINE WOULD SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING SHOULD BY SOFTWARE EVER GO OUT OF DATE. THEY SAID YES, IT HAPPENS BUT NOT ON ALL SOFTWARE UPDATES. THEY ALSO SAID SOFTWARE UPDATE COME OUT ABOUT EVERY 3 TO 4 MONTHS MEANING MY ENGINE COULD BE SHUT OFF AGAIN AT ANY TIME. I FELT I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO PAY THE MONEY SO MY CAR WOULD RUN AGAIN. I AM CONCERNED NOW ABOUT DRIVING AT ANY HIGHER RATE OF SPEED CONSIDERING I COULD LOSE MY STEERING AND BRAKES ANYTIME SOMEONE DECIDES I NEED TO UPDATE SOFTWARE THAT I WAS NEVER INFORMED WAS OUT OF DATE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10524158

16,000 miles · Feb 13, 2013
Electrical SystemEngine

STARTED THE CAR AND THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WITH "ENGINE MALFUNCTION - REDUCED POWER" AND DROVE A FEW HUNDRED YARDS AND THEN THE CAR COMPLETELY DIED. THE 2011 BMW X5 35I PREMIUM JUST DIED - NO POWER WHATSOEVER. BECAUSE THERE WAS NO POWER, THE CAR COULD NOT BE PUT INTO NEUTRAL TO BE PUT ON A FLATBED. THE X5 HAD TO BE PUT ON A …

Read full complaint

STARTED THE CAR AND THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WITH "ENGINE MALFUNCTION - REDUCED POWER" AND DROVE A FEW HUNDRED YARDS AND THEN THE CAR COMPLETELY DIED. THE 2011 BMW X5 35I PREMIUM JUST DIED - NO POWER WHATSOEVER. BECAUSE THERE WAS NO POWER, THE CAR COULD NOT BE PUT INTO NEUTRAL TO BE PUT ON A FLATBED. THE X5 HAD TO BE PUT ON A CRANE AND LIFTED ONTO A FLATBED TOW TRUCK. BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE IN THE U.S. AND IS U.S. SPEC (CAR WAS IN THE U.S. FOR 2 YEARS) - SHIPPED THE CAR TO GERMANY AND THIS IS WHERE THE INCIDENT HAPPENED (CAR BEEN IN GERMANY JUST A FEW MONTHS). BMW OF MUNICH SAID THAT THERE IS A BOLT THAT CAN BREAK OFF - WHICH IT DID - MUNICH REQUESTED THE LOCAL DEALER TO TAKE THE ENGINE APART TO SEE IF THAT WAS THE FAULT AND THEY CONFIRMED IT WAS. BMW IS REPLACING OUR ENGINE BECAUSE OF THIS FAULT. HOWEVER, THE RECALL AS OF NOW IS ONLY FOR THE X5 DIESELS. THE RECALL SHOULD BE EXPANDED. HAD WE BEEN ON THE AUTOBAHN WHERE THERE AREN'T MANY SPEED LIMIT AREAS, THIS COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A FATAL CRASH IF SOMEONE GOING 100+MPH RAMMED BEHIND US FROM OUR CAR DYING OF CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. AT 16,000 MILES THE VEHICLE SHOULD NOT NEED A NEW ENGINE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10497968

18,000 miles · Jan 14, 2013
EngineService Brakes

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, EXHAUST FUMES FROM THE ENGINE COULD BE SMELLED WHILE IN THE CABIN. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE POWER ASSIST ON THE BRAKES FAILED AND THAT BOTH FAILURES RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS CONFIR…

Read full complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW X5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, EXHAUST FUMES FROM THE ENGINE COULD BE SMELLED WHILE IN THE CABIN. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE POWER ASSIST ON THE BRAKES FAILED AND THAT BOTH FAILURES RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT IN ORDER TO REMEDY THE BRAKE FAILURE, A VALVE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO REPLICATE THE EXHAUST FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 20,000.

NHTSA ODI #10492948

22,000 miles · Jan 3, 2013
Engine

SATURDAY DECEMBER 29, 2012 I GET INTO MY 2011 X5 AS I PULLED OUT FROM MY DRIVEWAY THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS CAME ON WITH A MESSAGE " ENGINE MALFUNCTION REDUCE POWER". LIFE QUALITY GAVE ME A HARD TIME TO BEGIN WITH TO GET THE CAR IN CLAIMING THEY WERE BOOKED WITH APPOINTMENTS. AFTER CALLING CUSTOMER RELATIONS AT HEADQUARTERS, I GET A …

Read full complaint

SATURDAY DECEMBER 29, 2012 I GET INTO MY 2011 X5 AS I PULLED OUT FROM MY DRIVEWAY THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS CAME ON WITH A MESSAGE " ENGINE MALFUNCTION REDUCE POWER". LIFE QUALITY GAVE ME A HARD TIME TO BEGIN WITH TO GET THE CAR IN CLAIMING THEY WERE BOOKED WITH APPOINTMENTS. AFTER CALLING CUSTOMER RELATIONS AT HEADQUARTERS, I GET A CALL FROM THE SERVICE MANAGER TO BRING IN THE CAR. I HAD ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE TOW THE CAR, WHEN THE CAR ARRIVE TO THE DEALER MY CAR ADVISOR CALLS ASKING QUESTIONS LIKE, WAS THE VEHICLE INVOLVE IN CRASH, DID HIT A POT HOLE, BASICALLY LOOKING FOR ALL TYPE OF EXCUSES. I WOULD LIKE TO FILE A COMPLAINT AND ASK THAT THESE MODELS BE REVIEWED SINCE IT APPEARS TO HAVE MANY OTHER CUSTOMERS WITH SIMILAR PROBLEMS. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10490958

Official recalls

14

23V707000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine

Oct 20, 2023

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 & remedy

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.

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.

18V248000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/supercharger

Apr 18, 2018

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/supercharger

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.

Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.

Engine And Engine Cooling:engine

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.

Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.

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.

17V138000 · Power Train:driveline:driveshaft

Mar 2, 2017

BMW of North America, LLC, (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2013 X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M and X5 xDrive35d vehicles, 2011-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6M vehicles, and 2011 x6 ActiveHybrid Vehicles. Water and debris may enter the front driveshaft's universal joint, causing excessive wear and possibly resulting in the joint's failure.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the front universal joint fails, the front wheels would not be driven, affecting vehicle traction. Additionally, continued driving of the vehicle with a broken front universal joint may damage other components. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began on April 18, 2017. 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.

16V311000 · Power Train:driveline:driveshaft

May 17, 2016

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011 X5 xDrive 35i, xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6 M vehicles manufactured April 5, 2010, to November 20, 2010, 2011 X5 xDrive35d diesel vehicles manufactured April 7, 2010, to November 20, 2010, and 2011 X6 Active Hybrid vehicles manufactured April 15, 2010, to November 17, 2010. The affected vehicles have a front driveshaft universal joint that may not seal out water and debris from getting in and damaging the joint, which could lead to its failure.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the front universal joint fails, the front wheels would not be driven, affecting vehicle traction. Additionally, continued driving of the vehicle with a broken front universal joint may damage other components. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began on July 8, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

11V521000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:other Fuel Types:turbo/supercharger

Oct 20, 2011

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 5-SERIES GRAN TURISMO, MODEL YEAR 2009-2011 7-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 X5 SAV, AND MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 X6 SAV VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 8- OR 12-CYLINDER, TURBOCHARGED, ENGINES BECAUSE THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE ELECTRIC AUXILIARY WATER PUMP CAN OVERHEAT.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THIS COULD LEAD TO A SMOLDERING OF THE PUMP OR AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT OR VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUXILIARY WATER PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 19, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.

10V233000 · Equipment:other:labels

Jun 2, 2010

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 X5 SAV AND X6 SAV PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 1 THROUGH MAY 8, 2010. THE TIRE LABEL DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH 20-INCH WHEELS, BUT THE LABEL STATES THAT THE VEHICLES WERE EQUIPPED WITH 19-INCH WHEELS AND THE STATED TIRE PRESSURE IS INCORRECT FOR THE EQUIPPED WHEELS.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: IMPROPER TIRE INFLATION CAN RESULT IN PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE OR REDUCED VEHICLE HANDLING PERFORMANCE, EITHER OF WHICH CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE CORRECT LABELS FREE OF CHARGE. THE OWNER WILL HAVE THE OPTION TO AFFIX THE LABEL THEMSELVES OR THEY MAY TAKE THEIR VEHICLE TO A BMW DEALER WHO WILL AFFIX THE LABEL FOR THEM AT NO COST. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 8, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW 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.