2012 BMW X5 diesel models recalled for belt-tensioner issue

If you have a diesel 2012 BMW X5 in the garage, it's time to talk to your local dealer. NHTSA has issued a recall action on 923 copies of the 2012 X5 xDrive35d built between March 31 and May 19, 2011, for an engine belt-tensioner issue.

What's the problem? Apparently there are flaws in some of the tensioner welds that could cause the part to fail in service. From NHTSA's perspective, the major safety concern is a loss of power steering if the belt fails as a result of a tensioner malfunction.

BMW will replace the tensioner free of charge. You can contact customer relations at (800) 525-7417 or customerrelations@bmwusa.com.

By Andrew Stoy