The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·17V138000·Announced 2017-03-02

BMW Recalls X5 and X6 Models for Driveshaft Wear Risk

BMW is recalling 2011-2014 X5 and X6 vehicles because water and debris may cause the front driveshaft universal joint to fail, potentially affecting traction and increasing crash risk.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. 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 states it may increase the risk of a crash, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2011-2013 X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, and X5 xDrive35d vehicles; 2011-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, and X6M vehicles; and 2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles. The recall involves approximately 121,909 vehicles.

The defect involves the front driveshaft's universal joint, where water and debris may enter and cause excessive wear. This wear can result in the joint failing. If the front universal joint fails, the front wheels would not be driven, affecting vehicle traction. Additionally, continued driving with a broken front universal 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 April 18, 2017. 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 X5, X6, X6 ACTIVEHYBRID SAC
Brand
BMW
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
Category
Vehicle — Drivetrain
Hazard
Affected units
121,909

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 (3)

  • X5
  • X6
  • X6 ACTIVEHYBRID SAC

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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