The 2011 BMW 3 Series has 4 recalls, the most serious involving the crankcase ventilation valve heater, which can short electrically and overheat, raising the risk of a fire while driving or shortly after parking.
On the drivetrain side, two separate issues affect the driveshafts. The CV joint on the rear driveshaft uses rivet connections that can weaken over time and eventually break, causing a sudden loss of drive power. On xDrive all-wheel-drive models, the front driveshaft attachment bolts may not have been tightened properly during assembly and can work loose, also resulting in lost propulsion. Either condition can leave the vehicle unable to accelerate and raises the risk of a crash. There is also an engine concern: bolts securing the variable valve timing unit can come loose or break, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly.
At a glance
What can fail
The aluminum bolts securing the variable camshaft timing adjustment housing can loosen and break over time, potentially causing the unit to fail.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace all four VANOS bolts at no cost to you.
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Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation valve may short circuit, potentially causing an electrical fault.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a new electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV valve heater at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The riveted connections holding the rear driveshaft's CV joint may weaken over time and break, causing loss of power to the wheels and increasing crash risk.
What the fix does
Dealers will check when the CV joint was made and replace it if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Front driveshaft bolts may not be tightened properly during assembly. If they loosen and fall out, the driveshaft can detach from the transfer case or front differential, damaging the driveline and undercarriage.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front driveshaft attachment bolts.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
