BMW to recall over 3000 cars in SA

BMW is recalling 489 000 vehicles worldwide due to a possible engine-bolt defect. The biggest markets affected are China with 232 000 vehicles and the US with 156 000 vehicles.

SA CUSTOMERS AFFECTED

A total of 3120 BMWs in South Africa are affected by the company’s voluntary recall.

According to BMW the recall is a precautionary measure: "BMW is taking the precaution of checking the bolts on the Vanos unit in selected vehicles with six-cylinder engines. Depending on the results, the bolts or the Vanos unit will be replaced."

The Vanos unit is a variable valve timing system produced by BMW.

BMW communications manager Edward Makwana said: "We will be contacting all the affected customers to check the Vanos unit on the affected vehicles. Depending on the results of this check, either the bolts or the complete Vanos unit will be replaced.

"Vehicles will spend approximately four hours in the BMW workshop and this service will be free of charge."

The affected models are as follows: (Built from September 2009 to November 2011)

BMW 1 Series
BMW 3 Series
BMW 5 Series
BMW 6 Series
BMW 7 Series
BMW X1
BMW X3
BMW X5
BMW X6
BMW Z4