BMW of North America is recalling 155,627 of the following vehicles:
- Model year 2010-2012 1 Series Coupes, 1 Series Convertibles, 3 Series Sedans & 3 Series Convertibles,
- Model year 2010-2011 3 Series Sportswagons, 3 Series Coupes, 5 Series Sedans, X3 xDrive 28is, X3 xDrive 30is, X5 xDrive30is and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles.
The aluminum bolts that secure the housing for the variable camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit can loosen over time and possibly break.
Loose or broken VANOS housing bolts can result in an engine stall, posing the risk of a crash.
What to do
Dealers will replace the four VANOS bolts free of charge.
The automaker will send interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk around December 12, 2023. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available.
Owners may contact BMW customer service at (800) 525-7417.