Skip to content

NHTSA Recall 16V540000: Driveshaft (power train)

BMW of North America, LLC reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 956 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the BMW M5.

956
vehicles potentially affected
2
models affected
2016
owners notified (September 9)
NHTSA campaign16V540000
ComponentPOWER TRAIN › DRIVELINE › DRIVESHAFT
Report receivedJuly 19, 2016
Owner notificationSeptember 9, 2016
Initiated byManufacturer

Defect

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 BMW M5 sedans manufactured September 4, 2014, through December 4, 2014, 2015 M6 coupes manufactured September 3, 2014, through December 3, 2014, 2015 M6 convertibles manufactured September 8, 2014, through December 4, 2014, and 2015 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles manufactured September3, 2014, through December 4, 2014. The affected vehicles have a driveshaft that may have been inadequately welded during manufacturing.

Safety risk

Due to the improper weld, the driveshaft may fracture and fail, causing loss of drive to the rear wheels and a loss of propulsion. Additionally, if the car is turned off and exited without the parking brake applied, the car may roll. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the driveshaft, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during September 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

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

Vehicles covered by recall 16V540000

Make and modelModel years
BMW M52015
BMW M62015

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.