BMW X5 Sav Recalls

The BMW X5 SAV has 5 recalls spanning the 2000–2013 model years, with the most serious being a driver's airbag inflator defect on 2007–2013 models where the inflator can rupture in a crash and send metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.

Two separate airbag inflator recalls cover the full production span of the X5. The 2007–2013 models are subject to the more recent filing described above. On 2000–2004 models, a similar inflator rupture risk exists, but only on vehicles where the original steering wheel was replaced with the optional sport steering wheel. In both cases, the danger is the same: metal fragments from a ruptured inflator can strike the driver or passengers in a crash.

The 2007–2010 model years carry two additional mechanical concerns. Eight-cylinder-equipped vehicles have a brake vacuum pump that can leak oil into the brake booster hose, reducing power-assisted braking and extending stopping distances. Separately, 2009–2012 xDrive 35d diesel models have an engine belt idler pulley bolt that can loosen and break over time, causing sudden loss of power steering and making the vehicle harder to steer.

There is also a fire risk on 2007–2010 models: a heater element inside the crankcase ventilation valve can short electrically, overheat, and start a fire while driving or shortly after parking.