Westwood, NJ – November 28, 2023 – BMW (OTCMKTS:BMWYY) is recalling 155,627 cars and SUVs that may stall while driving. This ups the risk of a crash and injury, especially if it happens in dense traffic.
The following vehicles are affected by this recall:
- 2010 – 2012 BMW 1 Series
- 2010 – 2012 BMW 3 Series
- 2010 – 2011 BMW 5 Series
- 2010 – 2011 BMW X3
- 2010 – 2011 BMW X5
- 2010 – 2011 BMW Z4
Some of these cars were recalled over the same issue back in 2014.
Recall summary
All listed vehicles have an engine with variable valve timing, called VANOS, which adjusts the opening and closing of engine valves to achieve better performance and improve fuel economy. In the affected vehicles, the bolts that hold the VANOS housing in place may become loose or break.
If that happens, the VANOS may develop a leak which may subsequently lead to the activation of the limp-home mode or a stall.
The component causing the recall is the VANOS bolt, with part number 8602263.
Background of the recall
The seemingly identical problem was already addressed in 2014, in a recall where these bolts were replaced with new ones. But, due to a quality issue, the repair turned out to be insufficient.
The present recall is also composed of additional vehicles that back in 2014 were included into an “extended warranty program” to address the same “condition”.
Recall risks
If the car stalls or enters the limp-home mode – which would decrease the power output – it may get hit from behind. The accident may result in injuries for the occupants of the car and other motorists involved.
Warning signs
The driver may see the “Check the engine” or “Service the engine soon” message of the dashboard. He or she may also perceive “distinct change in engine running condition, reduced engine power, and hear increased engine noise.”
Other BMW recalls
In May 2023, BMW recalled almost 100,000 Minis that were at risk of catching fire.
On a separate note, BMW’s electric SUVs were recalled in July 2022 because their displays did not show critical safety information when parked by a valet.
The repair
Dealers will once again replace the suspected bolts with new ones free of charge.
Owners should receive letters with more information on December 12, 2023.
Is your vehicle a part of this recall?
This BMW VANOS recall affects more than 150,000 cars. To do a BMW recall check and see if yours is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
