BMW recalls 156,000 US vehicles over possible engine bolt fault
BMW has issued a recall for 156,137 vehicles in the United States to inspect and, if necessary, replace bolts in the variable camshaft timing unit, affecting key six-cylinder models built between 2010 and 2012.
BMW has recalled 156,137 cars in the United States to address a potential fault with bolts in the variable camshaft timing unit on certain six-cylinder petrol engines. The recall covers selected 2010 to 2012 model year vehicles, including the 3 Series, 5 Series and Z4, after the company identified a risk that bolts could loosen or break, potentially leading to engine damage.
BMW said the recall is precautionary and involves an inspection of the bolts securing the variable camshaft timing unit, known as VANOS. If technicians find any bolts that are loose or show signs of damage, they will replace them. The company stated that the recall follows similar action in China, where 232,000 vehicles were recalled for the same issue earlier in April 2014.
Which BMW models are affected?
The recall applies to the following models equipped with the six-cylinder petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2012:
- BMW 3 Series (2010-2012)
- BMW 5 Series (2010-2012)
- BMW Z4 (2010-2012)
BMW has not specified the exact engine codes in the recall announcement, but the issue concerns the bolts that hold the VANOS variable camshaft timing unit in place. Affected vehicles are those with the six-cylinder engine, rather than four-cylinder or V8 variants.
What owners need to know
BMW has advised owners that vehicles can continue to be driven, but they should contact a BMW dealer immediately if the “service engine soon” or “check engine” warning lights appear. The company has notified the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the recall and is contacting affected owners directly. Repairs will be carried out at no cost to customers.
Context: recalls across the industry
BMW’s action in the US follows its earlier recall in China for the same bolt issue, indicating a coordinated global response to the fault. There are no reports of accidents or injuries linked to the VANOS bolt defect in the US at the time of the recall announcement.
Owners can check with their local BMW dealer or the NHTSA website to find out if their vehicle is included in the recall. The company has said it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if further action is required.
