BMW has announced a recall affecting approximately 1,000 of its 5-Series and 7-Series models in the United States, citing a potential issue with the steering spindle. The recall encompasses 982 vehicles, with the automaker estimating that about 1% may be impacted by the defect.
The problem arises from the specifications of the spindle’s double universal joint, which may not be suitable for its intended application. If the swivel socket sustains damage during specific steering maneuvers, it could break, resulting in increased steering effort for the driver and elevating the risk of a crash.
The recall affects several 2024-2025 models, including:
- 530i xDrive and 540i xDrive models produced from June 17 to July 17, 2024
- i5 eDrive40, i5 xDrive40, and i5 M60 models manufactured from June 17 to July 18, 2024
- 740i xDrive and 760i xDrive models assembled between June 17 and July 16, 2024
- 750e xDrive models made from June 18 to July 1, 2024
- i7 eDrive50, i7 xDrive60, and i7 M70 models manufactured from June 18 to July 3, 2024
BMW first identified a potential issue on June 26, 2024, when a damaged steering spindle was discovered at one of its assembly plants. Following further investigation, additional damaged spindles were found, leading to the decision to initiate the recall on September 18, 2024.
The company has stated that it is unaware of any warranty claims, customer complaints, or field reports related to the defect and has no knowledge of any accidents or injuries associated with it.
Dealers were informed about the recall on September 25, and affected vehicle owners will receive notification via First Class mail starting November 15. Authorized BMW service centers have been instructed to replace the faulty steering spindle’s double universal joint at no cost to the owners.
