Recall history

BMW 5 Series recall history: what has been recalled and why

BMW 5 Series recall history: which model years were affected, what was fixed, and how to check your own car.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 189,287 recorded MOT tests, 17.6% failed.

BMW 5 Series
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

The BMW 5 Series has a notable recall history due to various safety and performance issues. Key recalls have addressed problems with airbags, fuel systems, and electrical components across different build years. Most recalls have been resolved, but it’s essential for owners to check the status of their specific vehicle.

Airbag Issues

These recalls typically involve defects in the airbag deployment system, which could lead to airbags failing to deploy in the event of a crash. Affected models primarily include those manufactured between 2003 and 2010.

The recalls were prompted by concerns over faulty sensors and wiring that could compromise the airbag system’s reliability. Owners of affected vehicles were advised to have their cars inspected and repaired by authorised dealers to ensure the airbag system functions correctly.

Fuel System Problems

Another significant recall for the BMW 5 Series involved issues with the fuel system.

The recall was initiated after reports indicated that fuel lines could become damaged, leading to leaks. BMW took proactive measures to inspect and replace faulty components in affected vehicles, ensuring that the fuel system met safety standards. Owners were encouraged to contact their local dealerships for inspections and necessary repairs.

Electrical Component Failures

Electrical issues have also been a concern for the BMW 5 Series, with several recalls addressing faults in the electrical systems. Models manufactured from 2014 to 2019 were particularly affected by problems with the battery management system, which could lead to unexpected vehicle shutdowns.

These electrical failures could compromise vehicle safety and performance, prompting BMW to issue recalls to rectify the issues. Owners were notified to bring their vehicles in for software updates or component replacements to ensure reliability and safety on the road.

Steering System Defects

Steering system defects have been another area of concern for the BMW 5 Series, leading to recalls for models built between 2010 and 2015. The issue involved potential failures in the power steering system, which could result in a loss of steering control.

BMW responded to these concerns by recalling affected vehicles to inspect and replace faulty steering components. This action was crucial to maintaining driver control and safety, as steering failures can lead to serious accidents. Owners were advised to seek immediate assistance from authorised service centres.

Brake System Recalls

Brake system recalls have also impacted the BMW 5 Series, particularly for models produced between 2012 and 2018. Issues related to the brake booster could lead to reduced braking performance, posing a significant safety risk.

To address these concerns, BMW initiated recalls to inspect and replace defective brake components. Ensuring the effectiveness of the braking system is paramount for vehicle safety, and owners were urged to have their vehicles checked promptly to avoid potential accidents.

Current Recall Status

As of now, most recalls affecting the BMW 5 Series have been resolved, with manufacturers taking appropriate steps to rectify issues. Owners are encouraged to stay informed about any outstanding recalls by checking the DVSA MOT data or consulting with their local BMW dealership.

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to recall notices are crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of the BMW 5 Series. Owners should remain vigilant and proactive in addressing any recall-related concerns to maintain their vehicle’s performance and safety on the road.

BMW 5 Series recall record

65 recalls have been issued for the BMW 5 Series, between 1999 and 2026.

  1. Checking and re-securing the air-conditioning wiring harness

    R/2026/092

    Issued 17 March 2026

    The Safety Recall relates to the air-conditioning wiring harness located behind the dashboard. On the affected vehicles the wiring harness was fixed very close to a screw connection on the interior microfilter housing cover. The microfilter of the air conditioning system will be regularly replaced as part of the oil service. It cannot be ruled out that cables may be damaged when replacing the microfilter during a workshop visit. The filter cover has to be removed from the lower part of the instrument panel. After replacing the filter the cover has to be refitted at which point the wires may become damaged or trapped. If the wiring harness is damaged this could lead to malfunctions of the air conditioning system as well as to a short circuit. In case of a short circuit a sensor may overheat while the vehicle is in operation. As a result smoke may develop from the instrument panel and subsequently a fire cannot be ruled out.

    Remedy:On the affected vehicles the air-conditioning wiring harness will be checked repaired if necessary and re-secured in a modified fixing.

    Affects cars built Jun 2023 to Apr 2025

  2. Replace the Engine Starter Motor

    R/2026/054

    Issued 2 March 2026

    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.

    Affects cars built Oct 2020 to Apr 2022

  3. Takata Driver and/or Passenger Airbag Recall (Global VINs)

    R/2025/349

    Issued 18 December 2025

    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.

    Affects cars built Sept 2000 to Sept 2003

  4. Program control units (CoC documents)

    R/2026/075

    Issued 28 November 2025

    A quality check has revealed that the affected G61 vehicles software does not reflect the associated CoC documentation.

    Remedy:To ensure your vehicle is in perfect working order we would like to program the control units to adapt the vehicle's software level to the CoC documents. as soon as possible. Naturally this work will be free of charge.

    Affects cars built Nov 2024 to Jun 2025

  5. Replace the Engine Starter Motor

    R/2025/405

    Issued 27 October 2025

    For affected vehicles there is a concern involving water ingress and corrosion to the starter motor for where a short circuit cannot be ruled out. It is strongly recommended to park the vehicle outdoors and not in the immediate vicinity of buildings until the repair has been carried out.

    Remedy:Replacement of the starter motor.

    Affects cars built Feb 2017 to Jun 2020

  6. Hydraulic Brake System Unit Replacement

    R/2024/414

    Issued 24 October 2024

    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.

    Affects cars built Apr 2024 to Jul 2024

  7. Check Driver’s Airbag for Conversion Takata SDI & PSDI-5

    R/2024/403

    Issued 21 October 2024

    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.

    Affects cars built Jul 2009 to Feb 2017

  8. Replace Double Universal Joint (Steering)

    R/2024/409

    Issued 21 October 2024

    On affected vehicles there may have been a deviation in the production of the double universal joint on the steering column. Certain steering movements could result in the component failing.

    Remedy:Affected vehicles will have the double universal joint replaced.

    Affects cars built Jun 2024 to Sept 2024

  9. Integrated Braking System

    R/2024/383

    Issued 13 September 2024

    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.

    Affects cars built Mar 2023 to Aug 2024

  10. Replace VANOS bolts N51 N52 N55

    R/2024/191

    Issued 1 May 2024

    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.

    Affects cars built Sept 2009 to Dec 2009

  11. Integrated Braking System

    R/2024/119

    Issued 7 March 2024

    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

    Affects cars built Jun 2023 to Jul 2023

  12. ISOFIX fixing G60

    R/2024/109

    Issued 28 February 2024

    On affected vehicles the rear seat ISOFIX bracket may have been damaged during the production process and may allow the seat to detach in the event of an accident

    Remedy:On affected vehicles the ISOFIX fixing will be inspected and if necessary replaced

    Affects cars built Jan 2024 to Jan 2024

53 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

BMW 5 Series MOT record

From 189,287 recorded MOT tests, 17.6% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20233114.5%36,897 mi
20222,2249.5%35,797 mi
20211,8268.3%43,509 mi
20204,11610.5%46,023 mi
201915,16011.1%58,943 mi
201818,60211.8%69,312 mi
201714,87713.8%78,452 mi
201615,27612.9%89,042 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements37.7%
  2. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn22.5%
  3. A tyre seriously damaged17.5%
  4. A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened11.3%
  5. A shock absorber damaged to the extent that it does not function or showing signs of severe leakage11.0%

Figures cover every BMW 5 Series tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

BMW 5 Series official figures

Median across 38 variants on sale, electricity / petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
46.3 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
131 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the recall history of the BMW 5 Series?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

How can I find out if a specific BMW 5 Series has been recalled?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

What should I do if my BMW 5 Series is recalled?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Are recalls common for the BMW 5 Series?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Will a recall affect the resale value of my BMW 5 Series?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

How do I know if a recall repair has been completed on my BMW 5 Series?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

What types of issues have led to recalls for the BMW 5 Series?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Is there a time limit for getting a recall repair done on my BMW 5 Series?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Sources