BMW 1 Series recalls
Recalls to 31 Oct 2026, from DVSA's file. Each recall shows its own launch date.
DVSA lists 39 safety recalls naming the BMW 1 Series, launched from 2004 to 2026. Most recalls cover only cars built in certain dates or chassis number ranges, so check a specific car on GOV.UK's recall check.
BMW 1 Series recalls at a glance
- Recalls
- 39
- 2004 to 2026
- Latest recall
- 12 January 2026
- R/2025/327
Source: DVSA RecallsFile.csv, recalls launched from 1992 to October 2026, downloaded 31 October 2026. Open Government Licence v3.0.
Every BMW 1 Series recall
Newest first. The concern is the part or system affected, the defect is what can go wrong, and the remedy is what the manufacturer does to put it right.
Replace the Driver’s Airbag – Takata PSDI-5
R/2025/327, launched 12 January 2026. Also covers the 3 Series, X1, X3
Defect: Affected vehicles may be fitted with a drivers airbag which may deploy with too much explosive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released into the cabin. It has the potential to fatally or seriously injure vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Affected vehicles will have the airbag replaced.
Takata Driver and/or Passenger Airbag Recall (Global VINs)
R/2025/349, launched 18 December 2025. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, X5M, X6, X6M
Defect: 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.
Replace the Engine Starter Motor
R/2025/405, launched 27 October 2025. Also covers the 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X3, X4, Z4
Defect: 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.
Seat Belt Rear Outer Seats
R/2025/443, launched 23 October 2025. Also covers the 2 Series, X1
Defect: On affected vehicles either one or both of the outer most rear seats may not have been manufactured correctly and the sensitivity sensor may be deformed. If the sensor is not functioning correctly there is a risk the seat belt may not operate as intended.
Remedy: On affected vehicles the affected seatbelts will be checked and replaced.
Checking the Threaded Connection of Grounding Cable PCU48
R/2025/267, launched 18 July 2025. Also covers the 2 Series
Defect: On affected vehicles the ground connection cable on the 48V power supply control unit may not have been torqued to the correct specification.
Remedy: Affected vehicles will have the ground connection checked and re-torqued. If required the relevant cable and Power Control Unit will be replaced.
Rework Front End Threaded Connection (BMW)
R/2024/452, launched 8 November 2024. Also covers the 2 Series
Defect: On affected vehicles the screws connecting the front end to the vehicles body may have been tightened to a torque level lower than required.
Remedy: The screws will be replaced if necessary and correctly torqued.
Check Driver’s Airbag for Conversion Takata SDI & PSDI-5
R/2024/403, launched 21 October 2024. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, X6
Defect: 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.
Integrated Braking System
R/2024/383, launched 13 September 2024. Also covers the 2 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X1, X2, X5, X5M, X6, X6M, X7, Xm
Defect: 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.
Replace VANOS bolts N51 N52 N55
R/2024/191, launched 1 May 2024. Also covers the 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X1, X3, X5, Z4
Defect: 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.
Replacing the Driver’s Airbag PSDI-5
R/2024/132, launched 18 March 2024. Also covers the 3 Series, X3
Defect: On affected vehicles a possible degradation due to age of the propellant tablets may lead to over aggressive combustion if the air bag is activated and cause the inflator body to rupture.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the drivers air bag will be replaced.
A possible degradation of the propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
R/2023/016, launched 24 January 2023. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, X5M, X6, X6M
Defect: A possible degradation of airbag propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
Remedy: On affected vehicles the drivers airbag module will be replaced.
Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold
R/2022/255, launched 22 August 2022, 322,745 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, 8 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7
Defect: Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.
Remedy: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.
THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION COOLER MAY LEAK OVER TIME AND CAUSE THERMAL INCIDENT
R/2022/206, launched 1 August 2022, 319,399 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, X6
Defect: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.
THE MATERIAL QUALITY OF THE SCREWS USED FOR SEAT BELTS AND REAR SEATS MAY NOT BE TO SPECIFICATIONS.
R/2021/442, launched 29 December 2021, 38 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 5 Series, X1, X2, i3
Defect: The material quality of seat and seatbelt screws may not be according to specification.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the screws will be replaced in specific locations on the seat belts or rear seats.
THE BLOWER REGULATOR WIRING COULD BE DAMAGED AND COULD LEAD TO PARTIAL CONTACT OF INDIVIDUAL WIRE STRANDS
R/2021/064, launched 15 March 2021, 181,011 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: The blower-regulator wiring could be damaged and could lead to partial contact of individual wire strands.
Remedy: The blower regulator wiring harness will be inspected and a new part will be installed additional components will be replaced if necessary.
THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION COOLER COULD LEAK OVER TIME
R/2021/037, launched 9 February 2021, 63,888 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3, X4, X5
Defect: Leaking glycol coolant could create in combination with soot and oil sediments in the EGR module ignitable deposits.
Remedy: The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION MODULE COOLER COULD LEAK OVER TIME
R/2020/179, launched 17 August 2020, 71,128 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, Clubman, Countryman, MINI Hatch, X1
Defect: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Module cooler could leak over time
Remedy: The EGR cooler will be inspected on the affected vehicles and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
CAMSHAFT SUPPORT HOUSING BEARING CAPS MAY BECOME LOOSE
R/2020/191, launched 27 July 2020, 39 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series
Defect: It is possible that the camshaft bearing cap screws could come loose on the affected vehicles.
Remedy: Check and replace camshaft support housing or complete cylinder head as required.
THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG FABRIC COULD BE DAMAGED BY THE AIR BAG COVER DURING DEPLOYMENT
R/2020/110, launched 27 April 2020, 1,121 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series
Defect: This airbag fabric could be damaged by the airbag cover during deployment.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the driver’s airbag will be replaced.
EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION MODULE COOLER COULD LEAK
R/2018/341, launched 7 December 2018, 225,449 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, X6
Defect: The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk
Remedy: A visual inspection of the EGR cooler to check for leaks and excessive build-up of deposits. The EGR cooler will be replaced on all affected vehicles
EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION COOLER COULD POTENTIALLY LEAK OVER TIME
R/2018/258, launched 5 November 2018, 153,602 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3, X4, X5
Defect: The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk.
Remedy: The EGR cooler will be replaced with an improved version.
SOFTWARE FAULT IN CRANKSHAFT SENSOR
R/2018/260, launched 15 October 2018, 1,642 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, Countryman, MINI Hatch
Defect: The affected vehicles may be equipped with a crankshaft sensor with a software fault.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.
SOFTWARE FAULT WITH CRANKSHAFT SENSOR
R/2018/211, launched 20 August 2018, 4,025 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, Countryman, MINI Hatch, X1, X2
Defect: The affected vehicles may be equipped with a crankshaft sensor with a software fault. The crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the crankshaft transmitter due to an improper firmware level. The firmware does not compensate sufficiently the temperature gradients and the magnetic field strength of the sensor electronic. If the crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the transmitter the Digital Diesel Electronic (DDE) will notice that and change to the emergency operation mode. The emergency mode will be displayed by the check control message ‘engine malfunction’. The driver may notice a rough running engine and a reduced driving power (70%). However an engine stalling during driving conditions cannot be excluded.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.
PLUG IN CONTACT CABLE MAY MALFUNCTION
R/2018/132, launched 7 June 2018, 311,848 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series, X1, Z4
Defect: The positive battery cable to the front distribution box behind the glove box can become damaged by vibrations and frictional corrosion. This may cause a loss of electrical connection to the distributions box. Symptoms include being unable to gain entry or start the car but the most common are a flickering instrument panel or uneven engine performance. However if the electrical connection is completely lost this will also affect the operation of the vehicles lighting systems; e.g. sidelights or hazard warning lamps.
Remedy: On affected vehicles carry out a suitable repair to the battery cable positive cable.
BACKREST COULD FOLD FORWARD UNDER HEAVY LOAD
R/2018/027, launched 5 February 2018, 1 vehicle affected across the models it covers
Defect: The latching element of the Easy Entry Kit on the driver's seat does not lock correctly into the lower swinging arm. As a result the backrest could fold under heavy load such as in a collision or unsecured load in the rear and harsh braking.
Remedy: The vehicle that is likely to be affected will be recalled and a new seat mechanism fitted. R/2018/027 refers.
DRIVESHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT MAY BREAK
R/2017/132, launched 11 April 2017, 10,849 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X1, Z4
Defect: Due to insufficient strength the front universal joint in the rear front universal joint of the rear prop shaft may fail.
Remedy: On affected vehicle replace the universal joint with a modified version
PLUG IN CONTACT CABLE MAY MALFUNCTION
R/2017/114, launched 10 April 2017, 36,410 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series, X1, Z4
Defect: It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme cases occur whilst the vehicle is in motion. The driver should be made aware of the issue by flickering of the instrument cluster (dash) or an engine mis-fire; but if the driver does not then the engine could cut-out without warning.
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles with petrol engines and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
POWER STEERING MAY NOT PERFORM CORRECTLY
R/2016/300, launched 21 December 2016, 41 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Sepies, X3, X5, X6
Defect: The electrical contact of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) is not sufficiently robust over the service life of the vehicle. As a result the power steering support may fail possibly leading to disconcerting driving situation for the driver. Additionally in a few cases a localised thermal event cannot be excluded.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the steering gear (EPS).
ENGINE MAY STALL
R/2015/109, launched 8 June 2015, 1,646 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Sepies
Defect: The in tank fuel pump may contain sub components that have not been correctly nickel plated. This may cause excessive friction leading to the fuel pump being inoperative. The driver may experience a no start condition or in the worst case an engine stall. A warning lamp and error message will display. Steering and brakes will still function.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the in tank fuel pump with a modified version.
ENGINE EMERGENCY MODE MAY BE ACTIVATED DURING DRIVING
R/2014/068, launched 28 July 2014, 2,967 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X1, X3, X5, Z4
Defect: The screws retaining the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) housing may loosen and under certain circumstances the heads may break off. This can lead to the VANOS leaking oil internally and adversely affect the valve timing adjustment. If found to deviating from targeted data the engine emergency mode will be activated. This will be indicated by a distinct change in engine running. The orange engine management warning lamp and a check message; On vehicles with N51/N52 engines this will appear at ignition recycle on N55 engine it will display immediately.
Remedy: Repalce bolted connection of the VANOS adjustment unit
POSSIBILITY OF FIRE
R/2013/095, launched 10 September 2013, 21,502 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 5 Series, 7 Series, X3, X5, X6
Defect: Due to a fault with an internal connection within the Fuel Filter Heater (FFH) it is possible that during temperatures below freezing the FFH can remain permanently activated. This will normally cause the FFH to overheat which will result in the inability to start the vehicle due to a flat battery. This can occur even when the ignition is turned off. However in extreme cases it could cause a vehicle fire.
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the FFH.
LOSS OF DRIVE
R/2013/080, launched 5 July 2013, 4 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series, X1, Z4
Defect: It is possible that over a period of time the bolt securing the clutch cover/pressure plate may become loose. The drive should be warned of this by the behaviour of the clutch noise from it or inability to select gears. Under certain conditions complete loss of drive could occur which could place the driver and occupant of the vehicle in a prone position.
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the clutch bolts.
ENGINE MAY CUT OUT
R/2013/024, launched 4 April 2013, 36 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series, X1, Z4
Defect: It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme cases occur whilst the vehicle is in motion. The driver should be make aware of the issue by flickering of the instrument cluster (dash) or an engine mis-fire; but if the driver does not then the engine could cut-out without warning.
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
EPS MAY NOT PERFORM AS SPECIFIED
R/2012/081, launched 30 July 2012, 701 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series, X1, Z4
Defect: Due to a component in the integrated control module not being to specification it is possible power steering assistance may fail. If this happens the EPS warning lamp will illuminate and a check control message will appear on the dashboard display. Directional control will be maintained albeit with additional driver input.
Remedy: Recall vehicles likely to be affected to replace the steering box.
RISK OF FIRE
R/2011/123, launched 5 October 2011, 21,923 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 5 Series, 7 Series, X3, X5, X6
Defect: Moisture may enter the fuel filter heater at an electrical connection. Should this occur it can cause a discharge of the battery causing non starting of the vehicle. Also if it occurs whilst the vehicle is in motion it could result in a fire when the vehicle is left unattended.
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the fuel filter heater.
FIRE MAY OCCUR
R/2010/102, launched 4 August 2010, 25 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: The top seat belt automatic reel with pyrotechnic ignited pre-tensioner fitted is mounted too close to the sound insulation both nearside and offside. If the vehicle is involved in a substantial collision where the pre-tensioners are deployed a fire may occur as it is possible for the hot gases to ignite the sound insulation.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to rework the sound insulation fitted to both nearside and offside and if necessary fit new top seat belts
FRONT SIDE AIRBAG OR SEAT BELT TENSIONER MAY NOT OPERATE CORRECTLY
R/2009/065, launched 30 June 2009, 1,756 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series
Defect: It has been identified that due to faulty crimping of the component parts of the airbag wiring harness and seat belt tensioner the side airbag or seatbelt tensioner may not trigger in the vent of a collision.
Remedy: Recalled vehicles will have the harness checked and repaired as necessary.
POSSIBLE LOSS OF BRAKING POWER ASSISTANCE
R/2006/207, launched 28 November 2006, 287 vehicles affected across the models it covers. Also covers the 3 Series
Defect: A temporary fault in the greasing system on the brake servo sealing ring could lead to the sealing ring being subject to wear. In unfavourable conditions the seal may be pressed into the brake servo housing as a consequence of increased friction. The arising leak will cause a hissing sound audible within the vehicle interior with the additional consequence that there may be a risk that loss of brake assistance will ensue.
Remedy: Recalled vehicles will have the brake servo replaced.
CONNECTIONS ON THE CONTROL ARM TO THE REAR AXLE MAY BECOME LOOSE
R/2004/172, launched 29 September 2004, 30 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: The rear axle control arms may not have been fitted as intended. In consequence the connections on the control arms concerned may become loose causing unacceptable lateral forces to be applied to the securing bolts. In this situation exact alignment of the wheels can no longer be guaranteed.
Remedy: Recalled vehicles will have the subject control arms checked for correct alignment and if found not to have been fitted as intended they may require to be replaced.
Source: DVSA RecallsFile.csv, recalls launched from 1992 to October 2026, downloaded 31 October 2026. Open Government Licence v3.0.
What to do next
If you own a BMW 1 Series, check its registration on GOV.UK and ask a BMW dealer whether any recall work is outstanding. If you are buying one, ask the seller for proof the work was done, and run a Motoring Insider history check for finance, write-offs and the MOT history.