The problem
Bmw is recalling certain model year 2011, x5 diesel sports activity vehicles (sav) manufactured from march 31, 2011, through may 19, 2011. Due to a component manufacturing error at the supplier, the welds in the belt tensioner could have incipient cracks. Over time, this could lead a malfunction of the belt tensioner.
The risk
If the belt tensioner fails, there could be a sudden loss of power steering assistance, if power steering assist is lost, manual steering capability is still retained and could increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the engine belt tensioner free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during august 2011. Owners may contact bmw customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417, or via email at [email protected].
Contacts
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.Safercar.Gov>http://www.Safercar.Gov</a> .
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 11V332000.
- 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.