Westwood, N.J. – July 26, 2018 – BMW of North America has recalled more than three dozen vehicles potentially equipped with defective front lower control arms, according to documentation submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The campaign affects multiple models produced between June 9 and June 11, 2018, including:
- 2018 BMW X-5 xDrive35i and xDrive50i sport utility vehicles.
- 2018 BMW X-5 xDrive35d sport utility vehicles.
- 2018 BMW X-6 sDrive35i sport utility vehicles.
The German automaker suspects just 3 percent of the models involved in the recall contain the defective parts.
The Defect
Affected vehicles could contain front lower control arms with insufficiently hardened pivot bolts prone to breakage. In the event that these components fail, the control arm may cease operation, leading to a sudden and sharp decline in vehicle handling functionality. The defect therefore poses a serious safety hazard to occupants. However, BMW has yet to receive reports connecting the problematic parts to any accidents or injuries.
Timeline of Events
On June 15, 2018, THK Rhythm Automotive Canada, the supplier of the control arms used in the recalled vehicles, contacted BMW and revealed that numerous units may not have been hardened properly due to a production error. Following this communication, the vendor conducted a review to see how many of the defective control arms were shipped to the vehicle manufacturer. After receiving this data, BMW evaluated its production records and pinpointed the vehicles that could have been equipped with the problematic control arms.
On June 21, 2018, the automaker launched a voluntary safety recall to address the issue. The company informed dealers of the forthcoming action June 28, 2018.
The Solution
BMW has directed dealers to replace the front lower control arms in affected vehicles free of charge, according to an NHTSA recall acknowledgement document. Owners should expect to receive further details about the recall via first-class mail Aug. 20, 2018. Those in need of assistance prior to the start of the campaign can speak with BMW customer service personnel by calling (800) 525-7417. Owners can also reach out to the NHTSA directly using the agency’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.
