Every road vehicle recall DVSA lists for the BMW X5 since 1992: what the problem is, how it is put right, how many vehicles it covers and when they were built. Newest first.
Not every BMW X5 is affected. Each recall covers cars built on particular dates or with
particular VINs, which DVSA’s file does not list in full. To check a specific car, use
GOV.UK’s vehicle recall check with its registration, or ask
the manufacturer or a dealer, who can check the VIN.
BMW X5 recalls by year
Recalls launched each year, 2002 to 2026
2021 had the most, with 10. 2026 runs to 14 September 2026. A count of recalls is not a measure of safety: one recall can cover a handful of cars or tens of thousands.
Launched 2 March 2026DVSA recall R/2026/054Manufacturer ref. 0012650600/0012660600/0012670600/0012680600/0012770600/0012790600
Defect
The Safety Recall relates to the engine starter motor. The fault relates to the RSW22 starter RWT (reinforced water tightness). It was found that with RWT starters an increased abrasion of the magnetic contact can cause the growth of deposits at the lowest point of the relay interior. This in turn may increase the relay contact resistance resulting in false starts or even causing short circuits and possibly a thermal reaction. In case of a short circuit the possibility of a thermal event cannot be excluded. This may happen while attempting to start the vehicle or while driving due to vibrations causing a short circuit due to moving deposits.
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the starter motor will be replaced with a variant by another supplier with a different design. Until the repair has been completed it is recommended to not leave the vehicle running unattended after starting the engine.
Launched 18 December 2025DVSA recall R/2025/349Manufacturer ref. TBC – Multiple Takata Global Recalls
Defect
Affected vehicles are already included in Safety Recalls within the markets they have previously resided in. The vehicles may be fitted with a driver and/or passenger airbag/s which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury which could prove fatal to people in the vicinity.
Remedy
Vehicles will have the affected airbags checked and if necessary replaced.
Vehicles affected
5,174 X5 vehicles
Built
13 Apr 2000 to 30 Sept 2003 and 31 Aug 2006 to 6 Sept 2017
Launched 7 October 2025DVSA recall R/2025/406Manufacturer ref. BMW - 0012590600
Defect
For affected vehicles local overheating may occur at the electrical contacts of the vehicle's engine starter motor. This may cause an increase in current flow resulting in local overheating or risk of thermal event.
Remedy
Replacement of the starter motor.
Vehicles affected
4 X5 vehicles
Built
2 Oct 2018 to 12 Jun 2020
Check Windscreen Bonding reworking if necessary
Launched 3 September 2025DVSA recall R/2025/360Manufacturer ref. BMW 0051290600
Defect
For affected vehicles there is concern that a gap in the windshield urethane seal at the right A-pillar was created. Due to the gap water can ingress with possible water contamination of the glove box and carpet area including the Body Domain Control unit (BDC) and power distribution box.
Remedy
Check bonding of windshield and for water contamination if necessary reseal windscreen and and inspect electrical components replacing if required.
Vehicles affected
6 X5 vehicles
Built
8 Aug 2025 to 11 Aug 2025
2024 8 recalls
Hydraulic Brake System Unit Replacement
Launched 24 October 2024DVSA recall R/2024/414Manufacturer ref. 0034940200
Defect
On affected vehicles the brake servomotor was improperly welded. The weld seam might not withstand the stresses caused under high brake pressure leading to a requirement for a higher brake effort increasing the braking distance.
Remedy
Affected vehicles will have the hydraulic unit of the brake system replaced.
Check Driver’s Airbag for Conversion Takata SDI & PSDI-5
Launched 21 October 2024DVSA recall R/2024/403Manufacturer ref. BMW – 0032550300 0032790300 (SDI airbag) 0032570300 0032810300 (PSDI-5 airbag)
Defect
Affected vehicles may have had a retrofit or conversion of the airbag using a previously recalled airbag variant which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury possibly fatal to people in the vicinity. The original factory fitment airbag for the vehicle is not affected.
Remedy
Vehicles will have the airbag checked and if necessary replaced.
Launched 13 September 2024DVSA recall R/2024/383Manufacturer ref. 0034800200 (OTA)
Defect
On certain vehicles the Integrated Brake (IB) system may be impaired due to contamination between electrical contacts.
Remedy
Vehicles that may be affected by contamination are required to have the vehicle’s software updated which can detect signal interference before it occurs. If symptoms are detected you should refrain from use of the vehicle and the affected Integrated Brake (IB) system component will be replaced.
Launched 14 August 2024DVSA recall R/2024/319Manufacturer ref. 0012230600
Defect
On affected vehicles the starter motor may be overloaded due to repeated lengthy attempts to start the engine as the software based overload protection is not sufficient.
Remedy
On affected vehicles improved software will be installed on the DME (engine starter motor electronics control unit)
Vehicles affected
1 X5 vehicle
Built
1 Nov 2018
Owners Manual G05
Launched 1 July 2024DVSA recall R/2024/269Manufacturer ref. 0099620200
Defect
On affected vehicles in the owner’s manual the maximum permissible limits of the vehicle regarding weight data/additional load values that are specified are stated too high
Remedy
On affected vehicles an updated insert sheet will be added to the owner’s manual.
Vehicles affected
585 X5 vehicles
Built
1 Aug 2023 to 7 May 2024
Seat Belt Warning (Front Seat Belts)
Launched 20 May 2024DVSA recall R/2024/262Manufacturer ref. 0072630200
Defect
On affected vehicles the hall sensor in the driver and passenger front seat belt stalks may not have been correctly installed and it may indicate the seat belt is inserted correctly when it actually is not.
Remedy
On affected vehicles the seat belt stalks will be tested and replaced if necessary.
Launched 1 May 2024DVSA recall R/2024/191Manufacturer ref. 0011520700
Defect
On affected vehicles overtime the aluminium screws can loosen or break on the adjustable variable camshaft timing (VANOS) units potentially resulting in engine emergency mode being activated.
Remedy
On affected vehicles the eight aluminium screws will be replaced if evidence of faulty screws is found then the VANOS adjustment unit will also be replaced.
Launched 7 March 2024DVSA recall R/2024/119Manufacturer ref. BMW - 0034670200
Defect
On affected vehicles an unexpected loss of hydraulic brake assistance may occur and may result in a different pedal behaviour under specific conditions an extended braking distance may be experienced and ABS/Stability control may be impaired
Remedy
On the affected vehicles the Integrated Brake System will be replaced
A 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.
Launched 24 January 2023DVSA recall R/2023/016Manufacturer ref. 0032390300 0032420300
Defect
A possible degradation of airbag propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
Remedy
On affected vehicles the drivers airbag module will be replaced.
Launched 31 December 2016DVSA recall R/2017/001Manufacturer ref. 0012390400
Defect
It has been identified that the bolt that connects the ground cable from the wiring harness of the Digital Motor Electronics (DME) to the engine block may not have been tightened/torqued to the correct specification. This can lead to an under voltage supply which can trigger a reset of the DME. This can result in the engine cutting out or depending on vehicle speed to restart/turn on the engine once the reset has been completed.
Remedy
Recall all affected vehicles to check and if required retorque the bolt for the ground cable on the engine block.
Vehicles affected
1 X5 vehicle
Built
17 Aug 2015
Power steering may not perform correctly
Launched 21 December 2016DVSA recall R/2016/300Manufacturer ref. 003245200
Defect
The electrical contact of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) is not sufficiently robust over the service life of the vehicle. As a result the power steering support may fail possibly leading to disconcerting driving situation for the driver. Additionally in a few cases a localised thermal event cannot be excluded.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the steering gear (EPS).
Launched 10 December 2014DVSA recall R/2014/177Manufacturer ref. 0052590100
Defect
For the left hand rear comfort seat the bracket to which the seat belt buckle is mounted may not be correctly positioned. The incorrect positioning causes incorrect welding of the bracket to the seat frame. If a collision occurs the welding for the bracket may weaken / fail leading to increased risk for the passenger in that seat.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the seat frame for the left hand rear comfort seat.
Vehicles affected
5 X5 vehicles
Built
13 Sept 2014 to 22 Sept 2014
Engine emergency mode may be activated during driving
Launched 28 July 2014DVSA recall R/2014/068Manufacturer ref. 0011280300& 0011360300
Defect
The screws retaining the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) housing may loosen and under certain circumstances the heads may break off. This can lead to the VANOS leaking oil internally and adversely affect the valve timing adjustment. If found to deviating from targeted data the engine emergency mode will be activated. This will be indicated by a distinct change in engine running. The orange engine management warning lamp and a check message; On vehicles with N51/N52 engines this will appear at ignition recycle on N55 engine it will display immediately.
Remedy
Repalce bolted connection of the VANOS adjustment unit
Launched 9 May 2014DVSA recall R/2014/054Manufacturer ref. 0051370300
Defect
It is possible that vehicles fitted with Automatic Soft-Closure Feature (SCA) rear doors may have an issue with out of tolerance on the SCA mechanism which can result in the deactivation of the child locks when they are activated. This could result in a child unintentionally opening the door and exiting the vehicle. The driver is informed that the rear door is open by a warning on the instrument panel and an acoustic (noise) warning.
Remedy
Recall all affected vehicles to check the locks and replace them if required.
Vehicles affected
131 X5 vehicles
Built
1 Oct 2013 to 31 Mar 2014
2013 2 recalls
Possibility of fire
Launched 10 September 2013DVSA recall R/2013/095Manufacturer ref. 001345200
Defect
Due to a fault with an internal connection within the Fuel Filter Heater (FFH) it is possible that during temperatures below freezing the FFH can remain permanently activated. This will normally cause the FFH to overheat which will result in the inability to start the vehicle due to a flat battery. This can occur even when the ignition is turned off. However in extreme cases it could cause a vehicle fire.
Launched 10 April 2013DVSA recall R/2013/023Manufacturer ref. 0034080200
Defect
Brake performance may be affected as a result of oil contamination of the brake servo. The servo membrane could over a period of time soften and fail causing lower levels of servo assistance for the brakes.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the vacuum hose and fit a non-return valve (oil stop) between the booster and servo. Where necessary the servo and master cylinder will be replaced.
Vehicles affected
759 X5 vehicles
Built
1 May 2006 to 31 Mar 2010
2012 3 recalls
Drive may fail
Launched 6 December 2012DVSA recall R/2012/150Manufacturer ref. 0012390300
Defect
The power steering pump drive belt tensioner pulley securing bolt may fail which will lead to the loss of power steering assistance and the necessity for the driver to supply additional input to steering the vehicle.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the steering pump drive belt tensioner pulley securing bolt with a more robust version.
Launched 18 July 2012DVSA recall R/2012/078Manufacturer ref. 0032080200
Defect
The power steering box housing may not be machined to the correct specification. This could cause an over pressurisation of bellows due to the insecurity of a snap ring and result in a sudden loss of hydraulic pressure. Oil will then be sprayed onto hot engine components and may ignite.
Remedy
Affected vehicles will be recalled to have the steering box replaced.
Launched 27 April 2012DVSA recall R/2012/049Manufacturer ref. 0011930200
Defect
Some engines are fitted with an additional water pump for the turbo charger. In some circumstances a crack may develop which then leads to melting of the plug connections and the housing. Further heat development may then lead to scorch damage. In exceptional cases such overheating can lead to smouldering of the water pump. If smouldering occurs an engine compartment fire and vehicle fire cannot be excluded.
Remedy
The water pump will be replaced for a new more robust version.
Launched 17 November 2011DVSA recall R/2011/147Manufacturer ref. 0011830200
Defect
Due to the ingress of moisture it is possible that a short circuit can occur in the additional coolant pump for the exhaust turbocharger. The driver will be informed of the issue by a warning message on the display in the instrument panel. If not addressed it is possible for further heat build up in the pump which may cause the plug connection and housing to melt and in extreme cases a localised fire in the engine compartment or vehicle.
Remedy
Recall all affected vehicles for the replacement of the additional coolant pump.
Launched 5 October 2011DVSA recall R/2011/123Manufacturer ref. 0013080200
Defect
Moisture may enter the fuel filter heater at an electrical connection. Should this occur it can cause a discharge of the battery causing non starting of the vehicle. Also if it occurs whilst the vehicle is in motion it could result in a fire when the vehicle is left unattended.
Remedy
Recall all affected vehicles and replace the fuel filter heater.
Launched 8 November 2010DVSA recall R/2010/197Manufacturer ref. 0016670100
Defect
Due to a manufacturing defect which causes premature wear of the fuel pump commutator it is possible that the engine might cut out whilst driving.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the fuel pump.
Vehicles affected
4 X5 vehicles
Built
1 Feb 2008 to 31 Aug 2008
2009 1 recall
Brakes may fail
Launched 21 July 2009DVSA recall R/2009/074Manufacturer ref. 0034720100
Defect
It has been identified that during the manufacturing process cracks may have formed in the area of the brake disc body. Subsequent surface treatment means that any such crack will not be detectable at a later date. Should a crack have formed this may cause the brake disc to fail whilst the vehicle is in motion causing the affected brake to become inoperative.
Remedy
Recalled vehicles will have the rear axle brake discs checked for the affected production date. The brake discs will be checked if necessary.
Launched 25 November 2008DVSA recall R/2008/179Manufacturer ref. 0065120200
Defect
The front air bags may trigger unnecessarily and the possibility of occupant injury cannot be excluded.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to recode the air bag control unit.
Vehicles affected
6,240 X5 vehicles
Built
1 Mar 2001 to 28 Feb 2002
2007 2 recalls
Brake fluid may leak
Launched 14 August 2007DVSA recall R/2007/122
Defect
If a brake fluid leak occurs the brake fluid low level warning may be given too late.
Remedy
Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check the serial number of the brake servo and where necessary replace the cap for the expansion tank which includes the warning switch.
Vehicles affected
1,887 X5 vehicles
Built
5 Feb 2007 to 30 Apr 2007
Driver's seat belt may de-latch
Launched 16 July 2007DVSA recall R/2007/106
Defect
It has been identified that in the event of a situation which requires activation of the driver's seat belt tensioner. The possibility exists that due to an unfavourable pulse within the seatbelt buckle tensioner mechanism the buckle may open inadvertently.
Remedy
Recalled vehicles will have the relevant electronic control units reprogrammed.
Vehicles affected
1,606 X5 vehicles
Built
13 Nov 2006 to 3 Apr 2007
2005 1 recall
The bearings of the fuel injection pump may fail
Launched 8 February 2005DVSA recall R/2005/022
Defect
The bearings of the high pressure fuel injector pump may fail after a short travelled distance (approximately 3000 to 6000 miles) This leads to a total failure of the engine's fuel supply which results in the engine stalling.
Remedy
Recall likely to be affected vehicles and replace the fuel injector pump.
Due to a hardware fault within the digital engine electronic control unit the possibility exists that the unit could fail completely resulting in loss of engine power.
Remedy
Recall likely to be affected vehicles and replace the control unit with a quality assured item.
It is possible that the reinforcement ring in the front seat belt tensioner has not been securely crimped onto the belt tensioner's steel cable. This connection could give in the event of a severe collision and could work loose in extreme cases.
Remedy
Check the production date on both front seat belt tensioners and replace if they fall within the affected production period.
Vehicles affected
445 X5 vehicles
Built
15 Apr 2002 to 4 Sept 2002
Front brake hose could rub on tyre
Launched 3 February 2003DVSA recall R/2003/026
Defect
The securing grommet for the front brake hose onto the suspension strut may become detached. In this situation it is possible that the hose could rub against the inside of the front tyre causing consequential damage to the hose. In extreme cases brake fluid could leak causing loss of braking action on the front axle.
Remedy
The repair will involve fitting a securing clip to the hose and grommet and checking the hose for damage.
Vehicles affected
9,090 X5 vehicles
Built
1 Jan 2000 to 12 Apr 2002
2002 1 recall
Brake pedal may become detached
Launched 31 July 2002DVSA recall R/2002/106
Defect
The brake pedal mounting shaft may have been incorrectly manufactured. In this situation the bush may become loose and in very extreme situations the brake pedal can become detached.
Remedy
Check the brake pedal shaft in the bearing mount and secure it with a new roll pin.
Road vehicle recalls (DVSA numbers starting R/) whose model names match the BMW X5. DVSA records some recalls under a range or chassis name we cannot match, so this list may be incomplete.
Vehicles affected is the number the manufacturer reported to DVSA. When one recall covers several models, DVSA often gives only the total.
Build dates are the periods the manufacturer gave. Some recalls have none. VINs are not shown.
Concerns written in capitals have been put in sentence case, and apostrophes lost in DVSA’s file have been put back. The text is otherwise DVSA’s.
