The problem
Certain aftermarket bmw bike carriers, p/n 82110393954, sold for use on my 2005 bmw x3 and x5 vehicles. A pinch bolt exists between the bike arm bracket and the upright assembly of the hitch style bicycle rack.
The risk
When moving the bike arm bracket to its down position, this pinch point has the potential of causing a severe injury to the user's finger or hand.
The fix
Bmw will notify owners and provide a repair kit along with repair instructions free of charge. The recall began on september 13, 2007. Owners can contact bmw customer relations and services toll-free at 800-831-1117.
Contacts
Customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized BMW dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 07E069000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.