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Recall: BMW X5 diesel for power-steering loss

Bolt supporting the engine idler pulley could loosen and break, German automaker says.

By Exhaust Notes Dec 6, 2012 12:47PM
BMW is recalling 29,800 X5 SUVs for a loose bolt that could result in a loss of power steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Only the diesel-powered trim, the xDrive 35d, from the 2009-2012 model years is affected. A bolt that supports the engine idler pulley, which helps run the hydraulic power-steering pump, can loosen over time and break. If that happens, the vehicle will lose steering assist and will obviously be very difficult to turn.

BMW says the bolt may not be strong enough to withstand "very low" temperatures or be tightened properly to withstand the high forces of the pulley belts. By July, BMW Canada had received nine reports from dealers and 76 warranty claims relating to the idler pulley bolt, several of which had resulted in a loss of power steering. If the bolt breaks, X5 drivers may see a warning on the instrument panel that says "Charging malfunction," because the bolt also secures the alternator to the engine.

Dealers will replace the bolt starting in January. Affected owners can call BMW at 1-800-525-7417. Gasoline-powered models are not included. 

[Source: NHTSA]

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27Comments
mcw36
Dec 6, 2012 2:39PM
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Dear BMW,

buy a grade 8 bolt for 3 bucks and put 5 cents of Locktite on it. Problem solved ;)

besnugg
Dec 6, 2012 2:23PM
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These BMW's aren't made in Bavaria, but right here in the good ol' USA...Greer, SC to be percise.

gerelike
Dec 6, 2012 2:51PM
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They are not made in SC they are assembled there. The motor and all of the drivetrain come from Germany as one piece. The Greer plant paints and assembles. The word is precise nor percise
Troy S.
Dec 6, 2012 2:24PM
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BMW resale value and reliability records show them to be of quite good quailty.

German fan444
Dec 6, 2012 3:16PM
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Note to German carmakers.  Please let Germans build the cars as everything in USA is done half ****. 

Dr L814
Dec 6, 2012 4:58PM
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had mine for 18 yrs now (325i sedan) of daily driving up and down a mountain, cant get rid of him, just bought new front seats ,oil-filter changes every 6 mo and best quality gas does the trick ,treat them good and they are indestructible.mine was assemled in Germany and has manual transmision.that model is the best of the pack.gone to the dealer to see the new models once in a while but dont know how to turn in my good friend.
bmwstep09
Dec 8, 2012 12:10PM
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@besnugg

to be precise they're actually made in Spartanburg, SC

Dr L814
Dec 6, 2012 4:59PM
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should read assembled,sorry
gerelike
Dec 6, 2012 2:17PM
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they're junk? It is one f**king bolt for christs sake - They are outselling Mercedes Lexus etc...... that many people cant be wrong you are just jealous and prob cant afford it - you dipsh*t
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