BMW Recalls Over 155,000 Vehicles for Engine Issues

Bolts within the engine's VANOS setup could break and cause the vehicle to stall while in motion

Keith Barry, Consumer Reports Senior Autos Reporter.

By Keith Barry
Senior Autos Reporter

November 14, 2023

BMW is recalling 2010-2012 1 Series coupes and convertibles; 6 Series coupes and convertibles; 3 Series sedans and convertibles; 2010-2011 3 Series wagons and coupes; 5 Series sedans, X3, X5, and X6 SUVs; and Z4 convertibles.

The problem has to do with aluminum bolts in the variable camshaft timing adjustment unit, a setup that BMW calls VANOS. This part helps determine when the engine’s valves open and close. If the bolts break prematurely, the vehicle could stall while moving, which could potentially cause a crash.

BMW VANOS Recall Details

Vehicles Recalled
• BMW 5 Series sedans manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

• BMW 3 series sedans, coupes, and convertibles manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

• BMW 1 series coupes and convertibles manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

• BMW 6 series coupes and convertibles manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

• BMW X3 SUVs manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

• BMW X5 SUVs manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

• BMW X6 SUVs manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

• BMW Z4 convertibles manufactured between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2022.

The problem: The aluminum bolts for the housing of the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) adjustment unit on the intake and exhaust camshafts could loosen and eventually break over time.

The fix: BMW dealerships will replace the bolts free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may call BMW at 800-525-7417.

NHTSA campaign number: 23V707

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.

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Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.