NHTSA Recall 03V086000: Shock absorber (suspension)
BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 5,110 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the MINI Cooper.
| NHTSA campaign | 03V086000 |
|---|---|
| Component | SUSPENSION › REAR › SHOCK ABSORBER |
| Report received | March 10, 2003 |
| Owner notification | April 4, 2003 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
On certain vehicles, the lower screw connection of the rear struts to the chassis may fail. The head (top) of the screw securing this connection may break. The remaining portion of the screw will still hold the strut in place.
Safety risk
If left unattended over a period of time, and depending on driving conditions, the remaining portion of the screw may break. If it broke, the chassis would lean directly on the tire diminishing the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the lower screw connection of the rear struts. Owner notification began april 7, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
Notes
Customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicles covered by recall 03V086000
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.