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NHTSA Recall 12V550000: Hydraulic power assist system (steering) and diesel (engine and engine cooling)

BMW of North America, LLC reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 29,800 vehicles. It affects 2009–2012 BMW X5 Sav.

29,800
vehicles potentially affected
1
model affected
2013
owners notified (January 15)
NHTSA campaign12V550000
ComponentsSTEERING › HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING › ENGINE › DIESEL
Report receivedNovember 27, 2012
Owner notificationJanuary 15, 2013
Initiated byManufacturer

Defect

BMW is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 X5 xDrive 35d SAV diesel vehicles manufactured September 1, 2008, through November 15, 2012. The engine belt idler pulley bolt could loosen and break over time.

Safety risk

If the engine belt idler pulley bolt breaks, the vehicle may unexpectedly lose power-assisted steering, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace and tighten the idler pulley bolt. The recall began on January 15, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Vehicles covered by recall 12V550000

Make and modelModel years
BMW X5 Sav2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

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.