Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
What Happened
The VANOS unit in your engine helps adjust the timing of your engine's valves. It's held in place by four bolts made of aluminum. Over time, these bolts can loosen or even break.
Risk if Unfixed
If the VANOS unit bolts break, your engine could stall while you're driving, which could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your BMW dealer will replace the four VANOS unit bolts with new ones, at no cost to you. This repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as you receive your recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
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.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Loose or broken VANOS unit bolts can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
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.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →