According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, BMW is recalling 30,265 X5 models for issues with the brake vacuum lines that could cause the power assist to fail.
In a filing with NHTSA, BMW says that the models affected are from 2007-2010 production and equipped with the V8 engine. A check valve in the brake vacuum pump connected to the engine — a one-way valve that releases pressure and is supposed to keep an airtight seal — can leak small amounts of lubricating oil into the vacuum hose that connects to the brake booster, which is responsible for providing power assist. The booster may then become contaminated with oil and the power-assist system could fail, although the brakes would still be operable, BMW said.
BMW said that the X5’s hose was routed upward, as opposed to horizontally, which should have eliminated the problem.
Back in 2010 BMW issued a similar recall for 5, 6 and 7 Series models.
BMW dealers will replace the brake vacuum hose and the brake booster and master cylinder if needed. The recall should begin by the end of February, and owners can contact BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or by email atCustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
