The 2008 BMW X5 has 3 recalls, the most serious being a driver's frontal airbag inflator that can rupture in a crash and send metal fragments into the cabin, posing a serious injury risk to the driver and passengers.
A second recall involves the crankcase ventilation valve heater, which can short electrically and overheat, raising the risk of a fire while the vehicle is being driven or shortly after it has been parked. On the braking side, this recall only affects X5 models with an 8-cylinder engine: the brake vacuum pump can leak a small amount of oil into the brake booster hose, contaminating the system and reducing power-assisted braking. When power assist is lost, the brake pedal becomes noticeably harder to press and stopping distances increase, which can make it difficult to slow or stop the vehicle in time to avoid a collision.
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.
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At a glance
What can fail
The driver's front air bag inflator may build up excessive pressure and rupture when the air bag deploys.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the driver's front air bag module or inflator at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The brake vacuum pump can leak small amounts of oil into the hose, contaminating it and reducing power brake assist.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the brake vacuum line with a new one that includes a check valve.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
