BMW 5 Series reliability

Affected vehicles may have had a retrofit or conversion of the airbag using a previously recalled airbag variant which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury possibly fatal to people in the vicinity. The original factory fitment airbag for the vehicle is not affected.

Fix: Vehicles will have the airbag checked and if necessary replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES GT · 4,764 vehicles

On affected vehicles there may have been a deviation in the production of the double universal joint on the steering column. Certain steering movements could result in the component failing.

Fix: Affected vehicles will have the double universal joint replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 497 vehicles

On certain vehicles the Integrated Brake (IB) system may be impaired due to contamination between electrical contacts.

Fix: Vehicles that may be affected by contamination are required to have the vehicle’s software updated which can detect signal interference before it occurs. If symptoms are detected you should refrain from use of the vehicle and the affected Integrated Brake (IB) system component will be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 5,514 vehicles

On affected vehicles overtime the aluminium screws can loosen or break on the adjustable variable camshaft timing (VANOS) units potentially resulting in engine emergency mode being activated.

Fix: On affected vehicles the eight aluminium screws will be replaced if evidence of faulty screws is found then the VANOS adjustment unit will also be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 2 vehicles

On affected vehicles an unexpected loss of hydraulic brake assistance may occur and may result in a different pedal behaviour under specific conditions an extended braking distance may be experienced and ABS/Stability control may be impaired

Fix: On the affected vehicles the Integrated Brake System will be replaced

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 12 vehicles

On affected vehicles the rear seat ISOFIX bracket may have been damaged during the production process and may allow the seat to detach in the event of an accident

Fix: On affected vehicles the ISOFIX fixing will be inspected and if necessary replaced

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 113 vehicles

On affected vehicles the steering wheel ground connection may have been insufficiently fastened during production which may result in the system detecting the hands are on the steering wheel even though they are not��

Fix: On affected vehicles the steering wheel ground connection will be checked and if required reworked.�

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 223 vehicles

A possible degradation of airbag propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.

Fix: On affected vehicles the drivers airbag module will be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES GT · 2,161 vehicles

In rare cases the starter motor can inadvertently be activated permanently presenting a risk of a thermal event.

Fix: Rework the starter motor assembly.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 25,982 vehicles

Screw connections of some seats and seatbelts may not have been properly tightened during vehicle production.

Fix: : Inspect and ensure all affected seats and belts are correctly secured and tightened to specification.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 3 vehicles

Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.

Fix: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 322,745 vehicles

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES SALOON · 319,399 vehicles

During a service visit the affected vehicles have been updated with software that could misinterpret certain input parameters for the engine management system.

Fix: The control units will be reprogrammed with an improved version of software.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 6,401 vehicles

The material quality of seat and seatbelt screws may not be according to specification.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the screws will be replaced in specific locations on the seat belts or rear seats.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 38 vehicles

Thermal ageing of an inline fuse located on the front right spring strut dome.

Fix: Modify the circuit to a later specification and replace the fuse.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 8,875 vehicles

A microprocessor fault in the airbag control unit can lead to faulty operating conditions.

Fix: The airbag control unit will be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 354 vehicles

The rear drive shafts may not fulfil the durability requirements.

Fix: On the affected vehicles one or both output shafts will be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 15 vehicles

Affected vehicles may be fitted with brake discs which were not produced according to the specifications

Fix: On the affected vehicles the brake discs will be checked and if necessary replaced

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 705 vehicles

Leaking glycol coolant could create in combination with soot and oil sediments in the EGR module ignitable deposits.

Fix: The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 63,888 vehicles

The battery cables on the 48V starter generator may not have been sufficiently secured during the production process.

Fix: Check the screw connection of the 48V positive / negative battery cables on the starter generator and rework if necessary.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 388 vehicles

A possibility of impurities contained in the HV batteries may cause short circuit.

Fix: Testing of battery charge cycles and replacement of the HV cells where necessary.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 2,665 vehicles

In very rare cases welding beads were not always completely removed in the cleaning process during battery production.

Fix: Test and replace the High Voltage batteries if affected.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 871 vehicles

Curtain airbags may have propellant which may have a humidity level higher than specification and in the event of a collision may not deploy correctly increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Replace the airbags on affected vehicles.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 161 vehicles

The engine counterbalance shaft bearing bushing into the crankcase may be out of specification

Fix: Replace the engine of affected vehicles

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 53 vehicles

The branch-off point of the main battery cable may corrode

Fix: The branch-off point will be checked and reworked appropriately depending on the level of corrosion present

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 121,849 vehicles

The front drivers air bag may not deploy correctly on activation.

Fix: Check and replace the drivers front air bag if required.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 195 vehicles

The auxiliary water pump may short circuit causing a thermal incident.

Fix: The Auxiliary Water Pump of the affected vehicles will be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 5,866 vehicles

The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk

Fix: A visual inspection of the EGR cooler to check for leaks and excessive build-up of deposits. The EGR cooler will be replaced on all affected vehicles

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 225,449 vehicles

The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk.

Fix: The EGR cooler will be replaced with an improved version.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 153,602 vehicles

The affected vehicles may be equipped with a crankshaft sensor with a software fault.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 1,642 vehicles

The affected vehicles may be equipped with a crankshaft sensor with a software fault. The crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the crankshaft transmitter due to an improper firmware level. The firmware does not compensate sufficiently the temperature gradients and the magnetic field strength of the sensor electronic. If the crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the transmitter the Digital Diesel Electronic (DDE) will notice that and change to the emergency operation mode. The emergency mode will be displayed by the check control message �engine malfunction�. The driver may notice a rough running engine and a reduced driving power (70%). However an engine stalling during driving conditions cannot be excluded.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 4,025 vehicles

If the retaining ring inside the steering gear has not been fitted correctly the sealing cap would not be fixed axially and might start moving. If the sealing cap has moved the ball return channel would not be fixed anymore and might move out of position possibly resulting in a ball jam accompanied by an extensively increased steering force and possibly lock.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit a new steering rack and ensure it is programmed correctly.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 3 vehicles

The ball head connecting the brake pedal and the master brake cylinder the ball head might not be locked properly into the ball cage. If the driver accidentally pulls up the brake pedal the brake switch would be activated permanently. This will cause: The brake lamps to be illuminated even while driving A Check Control Message would not alert the driver. An engine start or gear selection would be possible without brake actuation. If the driver's door were opened after switching off the engine the gear would not switch automatically to P as designed.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the locking of the ball head on the brake pedal. If necessary the pedal mechanism will be replaced.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 24 vehicles

Due to insufficient strength the front universal joint in the rear front universal joint of the rear prop shaft may fail.

Fix: On affected vehicle replace the universal joint with a modified version

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 10,849 vehicles

The igniter for the certain airbag modules may not have been correctly manufactured which may affect air bag deployment in the event of a collision.

Fix: Where necessary replace affected airbag modules.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 668 vehicles

It has been identified that the airbag/SRS central sensor has been programmed with faulty software. If the vehicle is involved in a frontal or rearward collision then the airbag and seat belt tensioners may not be triggered which could lead to an increased risk of injury to the occupants.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for the replacement of the airbag/SRS central sensor.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 1,047 vehicles

The driver's air bag inflator may rupture during deployment. Metal shards may pass through the air bag material and cause injury to occupants.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace air bag and inflator assemblies.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 218,559 vehicles

The screws retaining the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) housing may loosen and under certain circumstances the heads may break off. This can lead to the VANOS leaking oil internally and adversely affect the valve timing adjustment. If found to deviating from targeted data the engine emergency mode will be activated. This will be indicated by a distinct change in engine running. The orange engine management warning lamp and a check message; On vehicles with N51/N52 engines this will appear at ignition recycle on N55 engine it will display immediately.

Fix: Repalce bolted connection of the VANOS adjustment unit

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 2,967 vehicles

Electronically deployed tow hitch is automatically deployed by button located ion luggage compartment. The pivot uses a mechanical control link which is electrically adjusted. This is necessary to prevent a loosening or shaking loose of the end stop during driving. Due to a software error in the instrument cluster the driver may not in certain cases get prior warning if the adjustment fails. The consequences of this are that the ball hitch can shake loose from the end stop whilst driving. The control link can break due to the imposed load of the trailer and the hitch can pivot downwards causing loosening/detachment of the trailer and adversely affect the vehicle control.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and reprogramme the control unit/instrument cluster.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 13 vehicles

Due to a fault with an internal connection within the Fuel Filter Heater (FFH) it is possible that during temperatures below freezing the FFH can remain permanently activated. This will normally cause the FFH to overheat which will result in the inability to start the vehicle due to a flat battery. This can occur even when the ignition is turned off. However in extreme cases it could cause a vehicle fire.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the FFH.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 21,502 vehicles

In individual cases the oil pump may no longer provide the required oil pressure. This may cause severe engine damage. Additionally the occurrence of critical driving situations cannot be ruled out because the oil pressure may drop suddenly while driving. The driver will usually notice a drop in the engine oil pressure due to the check control message ''Low oil Pressure''. It is also possible the engine block will be damaged and as a result engine oil may be lost.

Fix: The oil pump will be replaced with the correct version.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 80 vehicles

The positive battery cable routed from the vehicle battery to the engine bay consists of one cable in the luggage compartment and one cable in the underbody. Both cable are connected by a screw connection and covered by a plastic cover. In single cases the plastic cover may have been fitted incorrectly during the vehicle production. Over time an incorrectly fitted cover could cause the screw connections to come loose leading to an increased resistance also humidity may affect the connection and cause high resistance and drop in current. This can lead to the vehicle not starting and in extreme cases the connection could over heat leading to the possibility of a fire in the luggage area.

Fix: The clips on the battery will be checked the cover replaced and sealed.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 128,701 vehicles

Some engines are fitted with an additional water pump for the turbo charger. In some circumstances a crack may develop which then leads to melting of the plug connections and the housing. Further heat development may then lead to scorch damage. In exceptional cases such overheating can lead to smouldering of the water pump. If smouldering occurs an engine compartment fire and vehicle fire cannot be excluded.

Fix: The water pump will be replaced for a new more robust version.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 21 vehicles

Due to the ingress of moisture it is possible that a short circuit can occur in the additional coolant pump for the exhaust turbocharger. The driver will be informed of the issue by a warning message on the display in the instrument panel. If not addressed it is possible for further heat build up in the pump which may cause the plug connection and housing to melt and in extreme cases a localised fire in the engine compartment or vehicle.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for the replacement of the additional coolant pump.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 557 vehicles

Moisture may enter the fuel filter heater at an electrical connection. Should this occur it can cause a discharge of the battery causing non starting of the vehicle. Also if it occurs whilst the vehicle is in motion it could result in a fire when the vehicle is left unattended.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the fuel filter heater.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 21,923 vehicles

It is possible that engine oil can enter the brake servo via the brake vacuum pump and vacuum hose. If this occurs it could damage the brake servo membrane which may leak so causing a reduction in braking assistance and a requirement to apply increased pedal force to achieve the same braking efficiency.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for the fitment of a modified servo hose. In addition the checking of the brake servo for contamination and replacement if required.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 10,567 vehicles

It has been identified that defects in a material joint may have resulted during the heat treatment of individual components of the rear axle carrier. This may result in failure of the holders of the links and struts even under normal driving conditions. Should the holder of a link fail whilst the vehicle is in motion the handling characteristics of the vehicle would undergo an unexpected change which could result in an accident.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will be checked and if necessary fitted with a quality assured rear axle carrier.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 665 vehicles

It has been identified that the lower rubber mounting on the metal bush of the rear shock absorbers may fail to meet the quality requirement. Dependant on the mileage and operating conditions the rubber mounting may come completely free from the shock absorber. If this occurs the bodywork would no longer be supported above the wheels causing it to come into contact with the wheel concerned. Should this occur the possibility exists that a critical driving condition might occur or even the risk of an accident.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the rear shock absorbers checked and replaced if necessary.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 3,743 vehicles

The bearings of the high pressure fuel injector pump may fail after a short travelled distance (approximately 3000 to 6000 miles) This leads to a total failure of the engine's fuel supply which results in the engine stalling.

Fix: Recall likely to be affected vehicles and replace the fuel injector pump.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 697 vehicles

Mechanical loads exerted on the back-rest heating element of the front seats when persons enter or exit the vehicle may result in damage to the door side contact line in the back-rest padding. In the event that this causes a break of a contact line the damaged area may overheat to unacceptable levels with the heater switched on. It would then not be possible to rule out the risk of minor burns to the occupants clothes and possibly their skin.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and check condition where necessary fit an additional in-line fuse.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 3,009 vehicles

Due to a hardware fault within the digital engine electronic control unit the possibility exists that the unit could fail completely resulting in loss of engine power.

Fix: Recall likely to be affected vehicles and replace the control unit with a quality assured item.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 231 vehicles

Possibility that the pin operating the master cylinder may have been welded incorrectly. Resulting in the inability (on failure) to de-clutch or engage a gear.

Fix: Recall likely to be affected vehicles inspect the subject weld and replace the clutch pedal if the weld is found to be faulty.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 2,652 vehicles

Due to a possible manufacturing error the damping element of the Directional Stability Control (DSC) yaw rate sensor could be faulty.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles check the batch number and replace if necessary.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 45 vehicles

A possible fault in the microprocessor in the air bag control unit could lead to an uncontrolled setting of the output signals from the control unit immediately after switching on the ignition. In unfavourable conditions this may lead to components of the safety and restraint system being triggered. This fault does not affect the vehicle while the car is being driven.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace and code the air bag control unit.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 8,176 vehicles

It is possible that the ball bearing in the front suspension strut top mounting may not have been securely fitted. If the weight of the car is taken off of the road wheel for any reason the bearing may became displaced with a risk of personal injury or damage to the suspension.

Fix: Replace both front suspension strut mounts.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 2,023 vehicles

Manufacturing faults and software errors in the electronics of the electric fan could cause these components to be thermally overloaded and destroyed. In isolated cases the overloading could lead to scorching or a fire in the fan.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and check the fan type and build. Replace the fan where necessary.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 7,500 vehicles

Cuts have been observed on isolated Continental tyres fitted to vehicles. The cuts (1-5 cm in length) are of varying severity and can lead to a loss of tyre pressure. This can destroy the tyre if the vehicle continues to be driven.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles examine all tyres and replace any found with cuts in the sidewalls.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 264 vehicles

There is a possibility that the brake light switch circuits may become defective and cause the brake light circuit to fail stay on continuously or flicker. In extreme cases the brake switch could overheat.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace brake light switch with a modified version.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 5,634 vehicles

Possibility that the automatic transmission may lock up at speeds below 15mph.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and fit a new quality assured gearbox.

Recalled models: 5 SERIES · 12 vehicles