Recall Radar

2010–2012 BMW X5, Z4, 3 Series and more recall: Engine and engine cooling: engine

NHTSA campaign 23V-707 · October 20, 2023 · BMW of North America, LLC

Check your own car by VIN. A recall applies only to certain vehicles, built in certain periods. NHTSA’s recall lookup checks your 17-character VIN against open recalls and is free.

Recall at a glance

Campaign number
23V707000
Reported
October 20, 2023
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
Part
Engine and engine cooling: engine
Vehicles affected
About 157,796

What is wrong

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.

Safety risk

Loose or broken VANOS unit bolts can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

The fix

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.

Affected models

Model years listed by NHTSA for this campaign. Only vehicles within the build range in the notice are affected.

Notes from the notice

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Frequently asked questions

Which vehicles are affected by this recall?

BMW 1 Series (2010, 2011, 2012); BMW 3 Series (2010, 2011, 2012); BMW 5 Series (2010, 2011); BMW X3 (2010, 2011); BMW X5 (2010, 2011); BMW Z4 (2010, 2011). Check your VIN to confirm.

What is the safety risk?

Loose or broken VANOS unit bolts can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

What is the fix?

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.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall data for passenger vehicles, recalls since 2013, shown as published. This site is independent and not affiliated with NHTSA or any manufacturer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and follow your manufacturer’s notice. Terms and disclaimer.