BMW Recall: 350,000 Cars affected

BMW Recall affects only V8 & V12 BMWs and Rolls Royces

We don’t tend to do every tuppeny-ha’penny recall on Cars UK. Any more than we do exotic car accidents. But some recalls affect so many people we do – occassionally – feel the need to do sensible reporting and let readers know what’s occurring.

We did it a while back with the Toyota sticky throttle debacle, which also affected PSA stuff. We also reported on the 458 Italia fires, more because it was intriguing rather than the vast numbers affected. And we’re doing it again with the BMW Recall, in this case because big numbers are involved and, understandably, owners are concerned.

So, what’s the deal with the BMW and what’s affected? Well, unless you’ve get a V8 or a V12 or you drive a Rolls Royce you can ignore the problem. The only BMWs affected are 5,6 and 7-Series cars built between July 2001 and November 2009. And only those with V8 or V12 lumps. In addtion, any Rolls Royce built during the same dates.

So what’s the problem? BMW has found that some cars may have a fault with the power braking system. It seems there is a possibility that a leak may develop which could potentially cause a vacuum and a loss of brake assistance. But that doesn’t means the brakes will fail, just that you’ll need to work a bit harder to stop as the power assistance will be affected.

So it’s not a huge deal (unless you’re BMW having to foot the bill) and nothing to panic. over. There have been no incidents reported as a result of the possible fault (although you can bet your socks there will be a few nutters cropping up now to attempt to sue BMW for gazillions). Just wait to hear from BMW. But if you want reassurance you can call their customer helpline – 0800 325600.

The parochial bit is that in the BMW UK will be recalling 10,544 BMW 5,6 and 7 Series and 905 Rolls Royces.

Public Service Announcement over. Normal service will now resume.

By Cars UK