BMW Recalls 2011 X5 and X6 Models for Driveshaft Defect
BMW is recalling 21,493 2011 X5 and X6 vehicles because a front driveshaft joint may fail, increasing crash risk.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).
The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (driveshaft failure) that affects traction and explicitly increases the risk of a crash, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.
Plain-English summary
BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2011 model year X5 and X6 vehicles. The affected vehicles include the X5 xDrive 35i, xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, X5 xDrive35d diesel, and X6 Active Hybrid. These vehicles were manufactured between April 5, 2010, and November 20, 2010, with the X6 Active Hybrid manufactured between April 15, 2010, and November 17, 2010.
The recall addresses a defect in the front driveshaft universal joint, which may not properly seal out water and debris. This exposure can damage the joint, potentially leading to failure. If the front universal joint fails, the front wheels will not be driven, affecting vehicle traction. Additionally, continued driving with a broken joint may damage other components. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.
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 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
The recalled product
- Product
- BMW X6 ACTIVEHYBRID SAC, X5 DIESEL SAV, X5, X6
- Brand
- BMW
- Manufacturer
- BMW of North America, LLC
- Category
- Vehicle — Drivetrain
- Affected units
- 21,493
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (4)
- X6 ACTIVEHYBRID SAC
- X5 DIESEL SAV
- X5
- X6
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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