Every BMW Safety Recall In The UK, By Model And Year, With What Each Fault Means And How To Get It Fixed
BMW has 275 UK safety recalls in DVSA records, including 143 since 2020. The most common recent faults involve airbags, fire risk and high-voltage battery. Enter your registration to check your BMW; you won't usually pay for a recall repair at a franchised BMW dealer.1
Which Car Is It?
Choose the make and model so we can match recalls to your car.
Two families of recall matter most to UK BMW owners right now: driver's airbags and diesel EGR coolers. BMW's airbag recalls are the largest the brand has run in the UK. R/2024/403 asked owners of 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series and other models to have the driver's airbag checked for a Takata-type inflator, covering 576,269 vehicle-records, and R/2025/327 followed with replacements on 370,257. If your BMW is around ten years old or more, check it even if you had an earlier airbag recall done. The EGR cooler recalls on diesel BMW and MINI models ran from 2018 to 2023, with a 2022 recall (R/2022/255) checking the intake manifold on cars that had already had a new cooler. Our BMW EGR cooler recall page explains why. Electric BMWs have their own recalls, including a stop-drive notice for some i4 and iX models in 2022 over battery cells (R/2022/330). Any BMW Approved Retailer can check your VIN.
Latest BMW Recalls
These are the newest BMW recalls registered with DVSA, newest first.
275 recalls
| Launched | Vehicle and fault | Vehicles | Severity | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 SeriesReworking the PVC seam in the rear light housing | 28 | Urgent | R/2026/262 | |
| IX3Check the head airbag threaded connection; rework if necessary | 248 | Urgent | R/2026/224 | |
| IX3Replacing the convenience charging electronics | 13 | Urgent | R/2026/215 | |
| 5 Series, 5 Series Touring, 7 Series, 7 Series - High Security and 2 moreChecking and re-securing the air-conditioning wiring harness | 10,832 | Urgent | R/2026/092 | |
| 2 Series, 3 Series, 3 Series Touring, 4 Series and 7 moreReplace the engine starter motor | 51,053 | Urgent | R/2026/054 | |
| 1 Series, 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 3 Series and 3 moreReplace the driver’s airbag: takata PSDI-5 | 370,257 | Urgent | R/2025/327 | |
| 1 Series, 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 2 Series and 22 moreTakata driver and/or passenger airbag recall (Global VINs) | 71,635 | Urgent | R/2025/349 | |
| X3Programming control units (Steering gear) | 5,313 | Urgent | R/2025/535 | |
| 5 SeriesProgram control units (CoC documents) | 263 | Low | R/2026/075 | |
| 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 3 Series, 3 Series PHEV and 14 moreReplace the engine starter motor | 115,024 | Urgent | R/2025/405 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series Gran, X1Seat belt rear outer seats | 5,148 | Urgent | R/2025/443 | |
| X5Replace the engine starter motor | 4 | Urgent | R/2025/406 | |
| 4 SeriesScrew connection of the power supply | 1 | Low | R/2025/407 | |
| 3 SeriesReplace the front passenger airbag takata PSPI | 102,611 | Urgent | R/2025/323 | |
| 2 Series Active, X1, X2Front seat belt retractor | 625 | Urgent | R/2025/398 | |
| X3Replacing the Head Rest (2nd seat row) | 411 | Low | R/2025/279 | |
| X5Check Windscreen Bonding reworking if necessary | 6 | Book soon | R/2025/360 | |
| I4, IXReplacing the cell module of the High-Voltage battery | 15 | Urgent | R/2025/274 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series Active, 2 Series GranChecking the threaded connection of grounding cable PCU48 | 361 | Urgent | R/2025/267 | |
| X3Rework/Replace the starter generator (SGR) | 81 | Low | R/2025/186 | |
| X3Replace rear brake hose G45 | 16 | Urgent | R/2025/135 | |
| X3Rework starter generator electrical connection | 4 | Urgent | R/2025/082 | |
| X1Checking the B-Pillar U11 | 1,322 | Low | R/2025/015 | |
| X3Adaption measure for the emission control system | 20,093 | Low | R/2024/482 | |
| X3, X3MLuggage compartment lashing rail G01 F97 | 1,777 | Low | R/2024/461 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series Active, 2 Series GranRework front end threaded connection (BMW) | 13 | Low | R/2024/452 | |
| X3Replace passenger airbag G45 | 2 | Urgent | R/2024/429 | |
| 2 Series Active, 5 Series, 5 Series Touring, 7 Series and 5 moreHydraulic brake system unit replacement | 73 | Urgent | R/2024/414 | |
| 5 Series, 5 Series Touring, 7 Series, M5Replace double universal joint (Steering) | 1,007 | Urgent | R/2024/409 | |
| 1 Series, 1 Series Hatch 3DR, 1 Series Hatch 5DR, 2 Series and 17 moreCheck driver’s airbag for conversion takata SDI & PSDI-5 | 576,269 | Urgent | R/2024/403 | |
| XD3Luggage compartment lashing rail ALPINA XD3 | 54 | Low | R/2024/381 | |
| 2 Series, 3 Series, M2Replace the passenger airbag | 33 | Urgent | R/2024/428 | |
| X3, X3MLuggage compartment lashing rail G01 F97 | 17,529 | Low | R/2024/364 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series Active, 5 Series, 5 Series Touring and 10 moreIntegrated braking system | 49,473 | Urgent | R/2024/383 | |
| X5Engine starter motor / DME software update | 1 | Low | R/2024/319 | |
| X1Checking the seat mechanism of the left front seat U11 | 1 | Low | R/2024/300 | |
| X1, X2Replacing the backrest frame of the front left seat | 10 | Low | R/2024/277 | |
| X5Owners manual G05 | 585 | Low | R/2024/269 | |
| I4Longitudinal chassis beam | 652 | Low | R/2024/258 | |
| XB7Integrated braking system | 4 | Urgent | R/2024/247 | |
| X5, X5M, X6, X7 and 1 moreSeat belt warning (Front seat belts) | 104 | Urgent | R/2024/262 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, 3 Series Touring, 5 Series and 7 moreReplace VANOS bolts N51 N52 N55 | 4,180 | Low | R/2024/191 | |
| XMChecking and if necessary replacing the tailgate trim | 3 | Book soon | R/2024/157 | |
| 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 3 Series, 3 Series Touring, X3Replacing the driver’s airbag PSDI-5 | 29,095 | Urgent | R/2024/132 | |
| 2 Series Active, 5 Series, 7 Series, X1 and 6 moreIntegrated braking system | 14,227 | Urgent | R/2024/119 | |
| I4, I5Replace cell module in high-voltage battery | 1 | Urgent | R/2024/211 | |
| 5 SeriesISOFIX fixing G60 | 113 | Urgent | R/2024/109 | |
| 330EOn affected vehicles cylinder head cover may not be sufficiently shaped in a specific area hairline cracks or more serious leaks may occur due to vibration or heat | 2 | Low | R/2024/002 | |
| X3, X4On affected vehicles the three screws connecting the electric motor to the steering gear are potentially not fastened correctly | 46 | Urgent | R/2023/355 | |
| 3 Series Touring, M3, M3 Touring, X3 and 5 moreOn affected vehicles ingress of transmission fluid may occur to the integrated transmission control unit within the mechatronic module | 26 | Low | R/2023/354 | |
| 5 Series, 5 Series Touring, 7 Series, X3Check steering wheel and rework ground connection | 3,098 | Urgent | R/2023/332 | |
| X3, X3M, X4, X5 and 5 moreChecking potential vehicle damage | 518 | Low | R/2024/156 | |
| I7XDRIVEOn affected vehicles under certain conditions due to an increased loading on the wiper arm it may result in the loss of movement of the wipers | 100 | Book soon | R/2023/288 | |
| IX1Front driveshaft may come loose from the eDrive motor under certain circumstances | 433 | Low | R/2023/270 | |
| X5, X6The driver and front passenger airbags may deploy with too much explosive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released into the cabin | 44,407 | Urgent | R/2023/224 | |
| IX1On affected vehicles the High voltage battery may suffer a low impedance short circuit within a cell module | 1 | Urgent | R/2023/253 | |
| I4, IX, IX3On affected vehicles due to a supplier component production process error a damaged Combined Charging Unit may have been installed | 27 | Low | R/2023/235 | |
| X3On affected vehicles the bolted connection for the starter-generator may not have been tightened onto the body (ground) according to specifications | 6 | Low | R/2023/234 | |
| X3On affected vehicles the bolted connection to the starter-generator may not have been tightened according to specifications | 1 | Low | R/2023/233 | |
| Mini, Mini 3 DR Hatch, Mini 5 DR Hatch, Mini ClubmanOn some diesel vehicles glycol leakage from the EGR-Cooler may occur. In very rare cases this could lead to the melting of the Intake manifold and in very rare cases result in a possible fire | 30,812 | Urgent | R/2023/174 | |
| 2 Series Active, 2 Series Gran, X1On some diesel vehicles glycol leakage from the EGR-Cooler may occur. In very rare cases this could lead to the melting of the Intake manifold and in very rare cases result in a possible fire | 4,923 | Urgent | R/2023/172 | |
| I4, IX, IX1, IX3A cable bridge connection connecting two circuit boards within the cell supervision circuit (CSC) might not have been installed properly | 28 | Low | R/2023/133 | |
| X6MOn affected vehicles due to an incorrect adjusted torque wrench the screw connection of the flange of the catalytic converter was fastened insufficiently | 1 | Low | R/2023/236 | |
| 2 Series Active, X1In rare cases the lower section of the outer seat belts may have been trapped behind the lower part of the C-pillar interior trim panels | 1,963 | Urgent | R/2023/127 | |
| X3 M40DThe affected vehicles possibly have an inadequate laser weld seam on the seat mechanism/frame of the driver s or front passenger seat | 1 | Low | R/2023/113 | |
| 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series Gran, M4On certain vehicles the Body Domain Controller (BDC) control unit may have an incorrect setting applied to it | 538 | Low | R/2023/071 | |
| 7 SeriesThe seat module control unit controls the seat functions and after initialisation continuously transmits the seat position to the airbag control unit. A software error can lead to the loss of the initialisation function | 48 | Urgent | R/2023/055 | |
| 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 2 Series, 2 Series Active and 21 moreA possible degradation of the propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture | 333,284 | Urgent | R/2023/016 | |
| X1One or both of the front panoramic sunroof drain tubes may be cracked this could result in water entering the interior of the vehicle. The wiring harness and body control unit (BCP) can be exposed to water and damaged | 77 | Low | R/2022/340 | |
| I3During supplier s production process of the battery cells a manufacturing defect occurred with the winding of cell-internal films for the high-voltage battery | 18 | Urgent | R/2022/322 | |
| 3 Series Touring, M3It is possible that a damaged seat belt may have been installed into the vehicle during production | 7 | Urgent | R/2022/323 | |
| I4, IXDuring the supplier s production process of the battery cells a manufacturing defect occurred. During assembly of the cell the cathode plate may have been damaged and a broken piece may have entered the interior of the cell | 211 | Stop driving | R/2022/330 | |
| 3 SeriesManufacturing defect with winding of cell-internal films for high voltage battery | 1 | Urgent | R/2022/297 | |
| X7Spring in backrest mechanism of third row seating may be incorrectly installed | 4 | Book soon | R/2022/294 | |
| 2 Series Active, IXIn the event of a restraint system fault the airbag warning light or warning message is not displayed to the driver due to a software error | 4,313 | Urgent | R/2022/282 | |
| MiniThe high-pressure fuel rail may not have been produced according to specifications | 1 | Urgent | R/2022/281 | |
| X1The high-pressure fuel rail may not have been produced according to specifications | 1 | Urgent | R/2022/280 | |
| 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, 7 Series LWBIn rare cases the starter motor can inadvertently be activated permanently presenting a risk of a thermal event | 25,982 | Urgent | R/2022/261 | |
| 5 Series, 5 Series Touring, M5Screw connections of some seats and seatbelts may not have been properly tightened during vehicle production | 3 | Urgent | R/2022/257 | |
| Mini, Mini Clubman, Mini CountrymanUndetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold | 17,921 | Urgent | R/2022/256 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 2 Series Active, 2 Series Gran and 18 moreUndetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold | 322,745 | Urgent | R/2022/255 | |
| 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 2 Series, 3 Series and 16 moreThe exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident | 319,399 | Urgent | R/2022/206 | |
| 2 Series Active, IXIf a failure is detected by the control unit the air bag warning light and check control message would not be illuminated and activated | 3,023 | Urgent | R/2022/149 | |
| 3 Series Touring, I3, X1, X2The micro gas generator within the front seatbelt's retractor may have been damaged | 2,018 | Urgent | R/2022/089 | |
| 5 Series, X3, X4The obd software could misinterpret certain input parameters for the engine mangement system | 6,401 | Low | R/2022/084 | |
| X5 PHEVThe HV batteries may fail due to impurities in the production process | 411 | Urgent | R/2022/064 | |
| M3It is possible a screw of mechatronics transmission control may be missing | 1 | Low | R/2022/050 | |
| I4Crash pads may not have been installed on the high voltage battery during vehicle assembly | 133 | Urgent | R/2022/020 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 5 Series, I3 and 3 moreThe material quality of the screws used for seat belts and rear seats may not be to specifications | 38 | Urgent | R/2021/442 | |
| 3 SeriesExcessive increase of cooling system temperature could lead to a bursting of the heater matrix radiator | 66 | Low | R/2021/430 | |
| I20The holding force for the tailgate may be too low to hold the tailgate up | 193 | Book soon | R/2021/428 | |
| I20Incorrect wheel bolts may have been installed during production | 1 | Book soon | R/2021/427 | |
| 5 SeriesThermal ageing of inline fuse located on the front right spring strut dome | 8,875 | Book soon | R/2021/363 | |
| IXThe a-pillar cover holder may not have been correctly fastened | 7 | Low | R/2021/362 | |
| IX3In rare cases due to a software error the fast intermediate circuit discharge is triggered late | 384 | Low | R/2021/361 | |
| X5The oil filter line could come into contact with the brake line | 1 | Urgent | R/2021/299 | |
| X5The steering column shaft could detach from the double joint | 882 | Urgent | R/2021/307 | |
| MiniStatic electricity may accumulate in the fuel filler tube | 2,028 | Low | R/2021/294 | |
| 3 SeriesThe tandam vacuum/oil pump may fail | 1 | Low | R/2021/288 | |
| 3 SeriesSome vehicles may be susceptible to damage to the anti-corrosion coating of the lower steering shaft | 277,987 | Urgent | R/2021/268 | |
| X5The brake pedal shaft could become detached from the pedal controls bearing mount | 1,963 | Urgent | R/2021/267 | |
| 5 SeriesA microprocessor fault in the airbag control unit can lead to faulty operating conditions | 354 | Urgent | R/2021/228 | |
| X5The reinforcement ring (thimble) may not have been securely crimped onto the belt tensioner's steel cable | 8 | Low | R/2021/227 | |
| 3 Series, 3 Series GT, 3 Series Touring, 4 Series and 7 moreThe exhaust gas recirculation module could leak over time | 18,330 | Urgent | R/2021/213 | |
| 2 SeriesThe roof lining stiffening plates may not be bonded correctly | 1 | Low | R/2021/217 | |
| 3 Series, M3The screw connection of the front seat belt buckle assembly to the seat frame may not be tightened properly | 60 | Urgent | R/2021/168 | |
| I3The control ring of the backrest recliner in the second seat row may break | 82 | Low | R/2021/158 | |
| X5, X7Incorrect headrest rods may have been installed in the backrest of the second row of seats on the outer side | 35 | Low | R/2021/156 | |
| 5 SeriesThe rear drive shafts may not fulfil the durability requirements | 15 | Low | R/2021/099 | |
| 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series and 2 moreAffected vehicles may be fitted with brake discs which are not to specification | 705 | Urgent | R/2021/085 | |
| 1 SeriesThe blower regulator wiring could be damaged and could lead to partial contact of individual wire strands | 181,011 | Low | R/2021/064 | |
| 7 Series, 8 Series, 8 Series Gran, M4 and 5 moreThe integrated brake system hydraulic unit may have been produced incorrectly | 139 | Urgent | R/2021/054 | |
| X5Some 22 continental tyres were produced out of specification | 4 | Book soon | R/2021/067 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series and 5 moreThe exhaust gas recirculation cooler could leak over time | 63,888 | Low | R/2021/037 | |
| 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, X3 and 4 moreThe battery cables on the 48V starter generator may not have been sufficiently secured during production | 388 | Urgent | R/2021/015 | |
| Mini CountrymanRemaining particles in the cells of the high voltage battery can cause a short circuit | 627 | Urgent | R/2020/290 | |
| 2 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series and 5 moreRemaining particles in the cells of the high voltage battery can cause a short circuit | 2,665 | Urgent | R/2020/283 | |
| M2, M4The damping elements may be missing from some injectors which could affect fuel lines and lead to leaks | 24 | Urgent | R/2020/352 | |
| Z4On affected vehicles there is a possible failure of the fuel tank welding joint which could lead to leakage | 6 | Urgent | R/2020/347 | |
| X3On affected vehicles seat belt mounting bolts may not be securely attached | 88 | Urgent | R/2020/346 | |
| X5An additional crash pad is required behind the auxiliary battery | 97 | Low | R/2020/343 | |
| X5, X5M, X6, X7The front axle support (subframe) welding process has not been completed according to specifications | 10 | Book soon | R/2021/072 | |
| Mini CountrymanRemaining particles in the cells of the high voltage battery can cause a short circuit | 74 | Urgent | R/2020/299 | |
| 2 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series and 3 moreRemaining particles in the cells of the high voltage battery can cause a short circuit | 871 | Urgent | R/2020/298 | |
| X5A starter motor bolt may have been installed incorrectly and become lost inside the transmission bell housing | 11 | Low | R/2020/252 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, Mini, Mini Clubman and 2 moreThe exhaust gas recirculation module cooler could leak over time | 71,128 | Low | R/2020/179 | |
| 3 Series, X4M, Z4Steering tie rod can become broken in the 'kink' groove area of the rod | 4,542 | Urgent | R/2020/219 | |
| 1 Series, 2 SeriesCamshaft support housing bearing caps may become loose | 39 | Low | R/2020/191 | |
| X5The steering shaft bearing plate may not be screwed to the engine bulkhead correctly | 1 | Urgent | R/2020/234 | |
| I3, Mini, X1The air bag control unit may have been equipped with a defective sensor for the rollover detection | 189 | Urgent | R/2020/162 | |
| 5 Series, 7 Series, Mini CountrymanIf the head air bag is deployed the ignitor may separate from the inflator | 161 | Urgent | R/2020/136 | |
| 1 Series, 2 SeriesThe driver's air bag fabric could be damaged by the air bag cover during deployment | 1,121 | Urgent | R/2020/110 | |
| 8 Series, 8 Series Gran, M8, M8 Gran and 4 moreThe cable lengths for the electric connection of the hall sensor inside the seatbelt buckle could be too short | 326 | Urgent | R/2020/120 | |
| X3Deployment of the passenger airbag could damage the instrument panel | 1 | Urgent | R/2020/116 | |
| 3 SeriesThe foldable rear centre head restraint interlock was not welded according to specifications | 1,737 | Low | R/2019/290 | |
| I3, I8The electric motor electronics printed circuit board was not manufactured according to the specifications | 120 | Low | R/2019/289 | |
| 2 Series, Mini, Mini Countryman, X1The steering gear tie rod may not have been assembled with the required spherical washer | 19 | Urgent | R/2019/288 | |
| M6The fixings of the high level 3RD brake light could come loose | 615 | Book soon | R/2020/081 | |
| X6, X6MThe rear spoiler attached to the top edge of the tailgate adjoining the rear of the roo can be inadequately bonded on the right hand side | 167 | Book soon | R/2020/067 | |
| 3 SeriesDriver's front takata (nadi) airbag inflator may rupture on deployment | 67,548 | Urgent | R/2019/403 | |
| X6, X6MThe ISOFIX child restraint u-loop may break off the carrier plate | 8,155 | Urgent | R/2019/397 | |
| M5, M8, M8 GranIncorrect routing of the gearbox wiring harness | 293 | Low | R/2019/443 | |
| B3The driver's front air bag may not deploy as designed | 129 | Urgent | R/2021/367 | |
| 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, Z4The pressing force of the bearing bushing into the crankcase may be out of specification | 53 | Low | R/2019/368 | |
| X3, X4Front axle swivel bearings not produced to specification | 13 | Book soon | R/2019/377 | |
| X3Front seatbacks may not have been welded to specifications | 1 | Low | R/2019/367 | |
| B5, B6The branch-off point of the main battery cable may corrode | 68 | Low | R/2022/021 | |
| 5 Series, 6 SeriesPossible corrosion of the bulkhead connector of the positive battery cable | 121,849 | Low | R/2019/195 | |
| 8 Series, M5The flange of the high pressure fuel pumps may not have been attached to the cylinder head correctly | 3 | Urgent | R/2019/369 | |
| X5Wheel bolts on left side may not have been tightened correctly | 1 | Book soon | R/2019/366 | |
| X3Rear spoiler to boot lid may not be attached securely | 436 | Book soon | R/2019/038 | |
| X5, X6Movements of the connector of the blower regulator wiring harness could lead to frictional corrosion | 31,601 | Urgent | R/2019/192 | |
| X7An incorrect installation of the head airbags on driver and passenger side would result in an incomplete inflation | 52 | Urgent | R/2019/168 | |
| I01The printed circuit board was not manufactured according to specifications | 59 | Low | R/2019/147 | |
| X5Incorrect tightening torque of left front seat fixing bolts | 11 | Low | R/2019/091 | |
| 3 Series, 5 Series, X5Potential rupture of driver front air bag inflator | 34,410 | Urgent | R/2019/086 | |
| X1Rear lights may be fixed with incorrect securing nuts | 3,722 | Low | R/2019/071 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, Mini and 2 moreAuxiliary water pump's electronic circuit board could lead to a short circuit | 5,866 | Urgent | R/2019/057 | |
| X5, X6The idler pulley bolt could become loosened over time | 21,123 | Urgent | R/2019/018 | |
| M3, M4The cfk drive shaft 3 hole flange with a pushing piece is not produced with sufficient long term durability | 973 | Low | R/2019/012 | |
| X3The screw at the bottom steering spindle connection may be incorrectly tightened | 53 | Urgent | R/2018/362 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series and 8 moreExhaust gas recirculation module cooler could leak | 225,449 | Urgent | R/2018/341 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series and 5 moreExhaust gas recirculation cooler could potentially leak over time | 153,602 | Urgent | R/2018/258 | |
| E53Airbag control unit fault due to inadequate coding data which could lead to activation | 2,406 | Urgent | R/2018/263 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series and 5 moreSoftware fault in crankshaft sensor | 1,642 | Low | R/2018/260 | |
| X5, X6, X6MDue to a fault at the vehicles assembly line some wheel bolts may not have been tightened to specification | 19 | Book soon | R/2018/262 | |
| Mini CountrymanCrash protection plate for the high pressure fuel pump was not installed in 3 cylinder petrol engines | 7,132 | Urgent | R/2018/242 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series and 7 moreSoftware fault with crankshaft sensor | 4,025 | Urgent | R/2018/211 | |
| X3, X4Pistons in rear brake calipers may not be coated to specifications | 1,032 | Urgent | R/2018/220 | |
| M5Distance between sensor and in-tank fuel line could be too small | 274 | Urgent | R/2018/215 | |
| 2 Series, Mini Countryman, X1Front axle swivel bearings may not have been produced to specification | 100 | Book soon | R/2018/171 | |
| F90Engine control unit control of fuel pump | 246 | Urgent | R/2018/170 | |
| 3 SeriesVariation to electrical resistance in the blower regulator wiring harness connector | 279,104 | Urgent | R/2018/148 | |
| B3, D3The plug-in contact of the positive battery cable on the front power distribution box can become damaged by vehicle vibrations and frictional corrosion | 700 | Low | R/2022/079 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, X1, Z4Plug in contact cable may malfunction | 311,848 | Book soon | R/2018/132 | |
| B3, D3The blower-regulator wiring could be damaged and could lead to partial contact of individual wire strands | 2,469 | Low | R/2021/408 | |
| X3Inflator in driver airbag module may not be produced to specification | 32 | Urgent | R/2018/101 | |
| X3, X4Restricted fuel supply could cause engine to stall | 1,752 | Urgent | R/2018/099 | |
| X3Rear spoiler may be insecure | 2,397 | Low | R/2018/073 | |
| 1 SeriesBackrest could fold forward under heavy load | 1 | Urgent | R/2018/027 | |
| G30 (5-SERIES ), G31 (5-SERIES Touring)The emergency locking retractor (elr) in the front seat belt assemblies may be faulty | 307 | Urgent | R/2017/258 | |
| 5 SeriesSteering rack might lock | 3 | Urgent | R/2017/274 | |
| 4 Sepies, 6 Series, M4Front seat fixing mechanism may be insecure | 50 | Low | R/2017/244 | |
| 7 SeriesOil cooler may leak | 71 | Urgent | R/2017/224 | |
| 5 Series, 7 SeriesBrake switch may be activated permanently | 24 | Urgent | R/2017/193 | |
| X1Front passenger airbag maynot deploy correctly | 7,948 | Urgent | R/2017/171 | |
| 7 SeriesFront brake efficiency may be reduced | 37 | Urgent | R/2017/167 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series and 3 moreDriveshaft universal joint may break | 10,849 | Low | R/2017/132 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, M3, X1 and 1 morePlug in contact cable may malfunction | 36,410 | Urgent | R/2017/114 | |
| Drivers Airbag InflatorDrivers AIRBAG may deploy incorrectly | 99,788 | Urgent | R/2017/106 | |
| I01Ventilation line may rub against positive battery cable | 4,685 | Urgent | R/2017/123 | |
| X1Airbag may not deploy | 2 | Urgent | R/2017/052 | |
| 2 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series and 4 moreAirbags may not deploy | 668 | Urgent | R/2017/011 | |
| X5Engine may cut out | 1 | Urgent | R/2017/001 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Sepies and 3 morePower steering may not perform correctly | 41 | Urgent | R/2016/300 | |
| 5 Series, 7 SeriesFront airbags and seat belt tensioners may fail to deploy when needed | 1,047 | Urgent | R/2016/265 | |
| 3 Series, 5 Series, X5Drivers airbag may deploy incorrectly | 218,559 | Urgent | R/2016/252 | |
| 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 SepiesPossible loss of control | 60 | Book soon | R/2016/224 | |
| 7 SeriesAirbag may not function as intended | 587 | Urgent | R/2016/176 | |
| X3, X4ISOFIX child restraint system may become insecure | 45,154 | Urgent | R/2016/179 | |
| I3, I8Steering may not behave as designed | 41 | Urgent | R/2015/244 | |
| M3, M4Driveshaft may fail | 6 | Low | R/2015/240 | |
| 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 SepiesEngine may stall | 1,646 | Urgent | R/2015/109 | |
| I8Fuel may leak | 128 | Urgent | R/2014/190 | |
| 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Sepies, M3Seat belt may malfunction | 1,502 | Urgent | R/2014/188 | |
| X5Safety belt may not restrain occupant | 5 | Urgent | R/2014/177 | |
| MiniFront seat backrest may not fully engage | 2,836 | Low | R/2014/155 | |
| MiniSpare wheel may become loose | 1,163 | Book soon | R/2014/131 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series and 5 moreEngine emergency mode may be activated during driving | 2,967 | Low | R/2014/068 | |
| X5Child safety lock may not activate | 131 | Book soon | R/2014/054 | |
| Various ModelsBraking assistance may be affected | 4,177 | Urgent | R/2013/129 | |
| 5 SeriesTowing ball hitch may detach | 13 | Low | R/2013/149 | |
| X3Front passenger airbag may not deploy correctly | 4 | Urgent | R/2013/137 | |
| 1 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3 and 2 morePossibility of fire | 21,502 | Urgent | R/2013/095 | |
| 3 SeriesPassenger side airbag may fail to deploy correctly | 316,043 | Urgent | R/2013/071 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, X1, Z4Loss of drive | 4 | Urgent | R/2013/080 | |
| X5Brake power assistance may be affected | 759 | Urgent | R/2013/023 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, X1, Z4Engine may cut out | 36 | Urgent | R/2013/024 | |
| 3 SeriesRear window may detach | 17 | Low | R/2012/149 | |
| X5, X6Drive may fail | 22,737 | Urgent | R/2012/150 | |
| 5 Series, 6 SeriesEngine may fail | 80 | Low | R/2012/109 | |
| 1 Series, 3 Series, X1, Z4EPS may not perform as specified | 701 | Urgent | R/2012/081 | |
| X5, X6Potential fire risk | 5 | Urgent | R/2012/078 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, Alpina, M5 and 1 moreRisk of fire | 128,701 | Urgent | R/2012/039 | |
| CooperFire may occur | 503 | Urgent | R/2012/050 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, Alpina and 2 moreFire may occur | 21 | Urgent | R/2012/049 | |
| Cooper, Mini John Cooper WorksFire may occur | 30,149 | Urgent | R/2012/003 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, Alpina and 2 moreShort circuit may occur | 557 | Urgent | R/2011/147 | |
| 6 SeriesPedestrian safety system may not perform correctly | 520 | Book soon | R/2011/132 | |
| 1 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3 and 2 moreRisk of fire | 21,923 | Urgent | R/2011/123 | |
| M3Rear window pane may detach | 17 | Book soon | R/2011/105 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 SeriesPossible reduction in brake servo assistance | 10,567 | Urgent | R/2010/151 | |
| X5Electric fuel pump may fail | 4 | Urgent | R/2010/197 | |
| 1 SeriesFire may occur | 25 | Urgent | R/2010/102 | |
| X5, X6Brakes may fail | 53 | Urgent | R/2009/074 | |
| 1 Series, 3 SeriesFront side airbag or seat belt tensioner may not operate correctly | 1,756 | Urgent | R/2009/065 | |
| X5Airbag may deploy inadvertently | 6,240 | Urgent | R/2008/179 | |
| M3Engine may cut out | 1,001 | Urgent | R/2008/141 | |
| Mini John Cooper WorksBrake performance could be affected | 260 | Urgent | R/2008/122 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 SeriesRear axle carrier may fail | 665 | Book soon | R/2008/100 | |
| 3 SeriesDoor pressure sensors may delay side airbag deployment following an impact | 7,703 | Urgent | R/2008/026 | |
| MiniDirectional control could be lost | 163 | Book soon | R/2008/011 | |
| X5Brake fluid may leak | 1,887 | Urgent | R/2007/122 | |
| X5Driver's seat belt may de-latch | 1,606 | Urgent | R/2007/106 | |
| 3 SeriesSteering lock may inadvertently engage | 2,222 | Urgent | R/2006/199 | |
| 1 Series, 3 SeriesPossible loss of braking power assistance | 287 | Urgent | R/2006/207 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 SeriesRear shock absorber mounting may fail | 3,743 | Book soon | R/2006/119 | |
| 6 SeriesRear tyre may have sudden loss of tyre pressure | 11 | Book soon | R/2006/086 | |
| 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, E46 and 5 moreThe bearings of the fuel injection pump may fail | 697 | Urgent | R/2005/022 | |
| 5 Series, 7 SeriesFront seat back-rest heater may overheat | 3,009 | Urgent | R/2005/001 | |
| 1 SeriesConnections on the control arm to the rear axle may become loose | 30 | Book soon | R/2004/172 | |
| 7 SeriesSeat occupancy detector may fail and inpact on airbag protection | 2,448 | Urgent | R/2004/141 | |
| 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X5Possibility of inadvertnent loss of engine power | 231 | Low | R/2004/131 | |
| 5 SeriesPossibility of inability to engage gear or declutch | 2,652 | Low | R/2004/084 | |
| 5 Series, 7 SeriesPossibile fault in the dsc yaw rate sensor | 45 | Low | R/2004/056 | |
| 5 SeriesUnintentional deployment of airbag | 8,176 | Urgent | R/2003/169 | |
| 7 SeriesPossible fluid leak from power steering | 1,627 | Urgent | R/2003/043 | |
| X5Seat belt tensioners | 445 | Urgent | R/2003/039 | |
| X5Front brake hose could rub on tyre | 9,090 | Urgent | R/2003/026 | |
| MiniHandbrake may self release | 26,381 | Urgent | R/2002/166 | |
| X5Brake pedal may become detached | 1,971 | Urgent | R/2002/106 | |
| 7 SeriesEngine may cut out whilst the car is being driven | 832 | Urgent | R/2002/073 | |
| MiniFront suspension outer ball joint may become detached | 1,416 | Book soon | R/2002/027 | |
| MiniFront suspension lower arm may detach | 822 | Book soon | R/2002/026 | |
| 3 Series, 5 SeriesPossible detachment of ball bearing from front suspension strut top mounting | 2,023 | Book soon | R/2002/025 | |
| 5 SeriesEngine cooling fan may fail | 7,500 | Urgent | R/2002/012 | |
| 3 Series, 5 SeriesTyres may have cuts in side walls | 264 | Book soon | R/2001/146 | |
| 3 SeriesLower steering shaft may fail | 285,722 | Urgent | R/2000/135 | |
| 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 SeriesBrake lights may fail to operate remain on or flicker | 5,634 | Urgent | R/1999/104 | |
| 5 Series, 7 SeriesPossibility that gearbox may lock up | 12 | Low | R/1999/059 | |
| 3 SeriesPossible unscheduled deployment of side airbags and activation of battery isolator switch | 16,646 | Urgent | R/1999/047 | |
| 3 SeriesCorrosion on lower steering shaft | 80,000 | Urgent | R/1997/005 | |
| 3 SeriesSecurity of stub axle mountings | 1,600 | Book soon | R/1996/037 | |
| 3 SeriesPossible damage to wheel bearings | 152 | Book soon | R/1995/030 | |
| 3 SeriesPossible chafing of the battery cable | 8,700 | Urgent | R/1992/013 |
Open any reference for the build dates covered, the fix and what to do. Urgency labels follow our published rules.
BMW Recalls By Model
Choose your model to see only its recalls. The X5, X3 and 5 Series have the most BMW recall references since 2015.
- X546
- X345
- 5 Series43
- 3 Series43
- X136
- 2 Series28
- 7 Series28
- 1 Series25
- X622
- X421
- 4 Series17
- 6 Series15
- 3 Series Touring14
- 2 Series Active14
- 5 Series Touring13
- X712
- Mini11
- Z410
- M310
- X6M10
- Mini Countryman10
- M49
- X29
- M58
A recall can cover only certain build dates or engines, so confirm with BMW by VIN. See where to find your VIN.
How Many Recalls Has BMW Had?
Since 2020 BMW has launched 143 UK recalls. Adjusted for its cars on the road, that is 6.69 car recalls per 100,000 licensed cars.
The per-car figure divides car recalls since 2020 by the number of BMW cars licensed in the UK in 2026 Q2, with van-only recalls removed.2 A higher count doesn't mean a car is less reliable: it reflects the size of the range, how vans are counted and how readily a maker recalls. See which car makes have the most recalls.
The Most Common BMW Recall Faults
Recent BMW recalls most often involve airbags, fire risk and high-voltage battery.
- Airbags20
- Fire risk18
- High-voltage battery16
- Seat belts13
- Brakes9
- Steering9
- Emissions9
- Software7
- Takata airbags6
- Fuel leaks4
- Other airbag inflators3
- Wheels and tyres3
- Doors and latches3
- Suspension3
- Visibility3
A recall can involve more than one type of fault, so the rows overlap. 6% of BMW recalls include a software update, often done in under an hour. Each fault type links to a page explaining the warning signs and what to do.
Biggest BMW Recalls Since 2020
The largest recent BMW recall is R/2024/403 (check driver’s airbag for conversion takata SDI & PSDI-5), covering about 576,269 vehicle-records.
| Launched | Vehicle and fault | Vehicles | Severity | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 1 Series, 1 Series Hatch 3DR, 1 Series Hatch 5DR, 2 Series and 17 moreCheck driver’s airbag for conversion takata SDI & PSDI-5 | 576,269 | Urgent | R/2024/403 | |
| BMW 1 Series, 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 3 Series and 3 moreReplace the driver’s airbag: takata PSDI-5 | 370,257 | Urgent | R/2025/327 | |
| BMW 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 2 Series, 2 Series Active and 21 moreA possible degradation of the propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture | 333,284 | Urgent | R/2023/016 | |
| BMW 1 Series, 2 Series, 2 Series Active, 2 Series Gran and 18 moreUndetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold | 322,745 | Urgent | R/2022/255 | |
| BMW 1 Series 3 Door Hatch, 1 Series 5 Door Hatch, 2 Series, 3 Series and 16 moreThe exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident | 319,399 | Urgent | R/2022/206 |
Vehicle-records are the manufacturer's estimates, and one car can appear in several recalls.
BMW Stop-drive Recalls
1 BMW recall in DVSA's data told keepers not to drive until the repair was done.
| Launched | Vehicle and fault | Vehicles | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW I4, IXDuring the supplier s production process of the battery cells a manufacturing defect occurred. During assembly of the cell the cathode plate may have been damaged and a broken piece may have entered the interior of the cell | 211 | R/2022/330 |
If your car is in a stop-drive recall, don't use it, and ask BMW to collect it. See do not drive recalls.
How To Get A BMW Recall Fixed
Book with any franchised BMW dealer using your VIN and the campaign code on your letter. The work is normally free, and the dealer records it with BMW.1
| BMW customer or recall line | 0800 777 114 (Customer Information Services (recalls)) |
| Last checked | 15 October 2026 |
Have your VIN, registration, mileage and the code from your letter ready. See manufacturer recall helplines and how long a recall repair takes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are BMW Recalls Free?
Yes. You won't usually pay for a safety recall repair.1 See do you have to pay for a recall?.
Do BMW Recalls Expire?
No. A recall stays in force for any car that wasn't fixed, even after it is closed for reporting.3 See do car recalls expire?.
Can I Drive My BMW With An Open Recall?
Follow your letter. Most recalls let you drive until the repair; a stop-drive notice doesn't. See can you drive a car with a recall?.
What Does The Code On My BMW Letter Mean?
It is BMW's campaign reference. Look it up with our recall code lookup.
Data: DVSA vehicle recall data (Open Government Licence v3.0), updated 15 October 2026.
Sources
- The Code does not itself say repairs are free. GOV.UK guidance says "You will not usually have to pay for any repairs or parts under a safety recall." gov.uk Checked 15 Oct 2026.
- Models with fewer than 5 refs show lists, not rates.
- Code timelines: Producers normally respond to DVSA within 28 days (5.5); DVSA reviews are typically monthly (5.4). DVSA must be notified "as soon as the safety defect has been confirmed" (6.1). 3 notifications per motorist is seen as reasonable (8.3). Response rates are reported every three months (11.1).