Vehicle recall 12V550000 · November 27, 2012

2009-2012 BMW X5 SAV

The engine belt idler pulley bolt could loosen and break over time.

Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.

Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign: 12V550000
Reported to NHTSA: November 27, 2012
Filed by: BMW of North America, LLC
Owner notification: January 15, 2013
Vehicles potentially affected: 29,800
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Steering › Hydraulic power assist system; Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Diesel

Recall 12V550000 on nhtsa.gov, with the manufacturer’s documents

Vehicles covered

As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.

BMW X5 SAV (2009-2012): 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009

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