BMW Oil Leak Recalls: Are The Rumors True?

Mark R
Jan 12, 2021

BMWs are well-known throughout the world as “the Ultimate Driving Machine” for their impressive performance. But even the most impressive BMW can still leave the factory with undiscovered issues. When this happens, it’s up to the manufacturer to issue a recall and correct these problems after the fact.

How many BMW recalls involve oil leaks?   

So far, there are only two recalls involving the following vehicles: 

  • 2004-2009 BMW 5 Series 
  • 2010 BMW 5 Series 
  • 2004-2010 BMW 6 Series 
  • 2002-2008 BMW 7 Series 
  • 2017-2018 M760Li xDrive  

Red M3 with sunset in background

This article goes into detail about the two recalls involving BMW oil leaks, plus you’ll also find steps you can follow to have a qualified repair professional correct these issues.

Brake Vacuum Pump

NHTSA Recall ID: 10V446000

The brake vacuum pump plays an important role in providing the braking power needed to safely stop your vehicle. A faulty check valve on this component may leak a small amount of lubricating oil. This small leak could eventually contaminate the brake booster.

If the brake booster fails, you could be without power assist for braking. This makes the brake pedal harder to push, possibly resulting in longer stopping distances and an increased risk of a crash in some cases.

Your BMW dealer will repair the leak at no cost to you.

Incorrect Engine Oil Cooler Line Installed

NHTSA Recall ID: 17V377000

Engine oil coolers help keep the engine oil at reasonable temperatures, thus ensuring both long oil and engine life. Certain 2017-2018 M760Li xDrive vehicles may have the wrong engine oil cooler line installed from the factory, which could result in an oil leak in the engine compartment.

Because of this issue, engine oil can leak onto the front brake discs, reducing their effectiveness. This could result in longer stopping distances and an increased likelihood of a crash.

To solve this issue, your BMW dealer will install the correct engine oil cooler line, free of charge.

Ways to Handle BMW Oil Leak Recalls

Worried that your BMW is involved in a pending recall? Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and enter your VIN or vehicle year, make, and model into the search field and click “Go.” The database will turn up any recalls that exist for your vehicle.

Once you’ve found a recall for your vehicle, get in touch with BMW’s customer service line at 1-800-525-7417. Not only will you find out where to take your vehicle for service, but you’ll also learn what to expect throughout the recall process.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle William J Higgins on May 11, 2022
Gasket Oil Leak
My 2014 BMW SUV, Series X3, with 42,123 miles has an oil leaks in the valve cover and oil filter gaskets. The BMW Dealer I purchased the car from valve cover and oil filter gaskets. The BMW Dealer I purchased the car from gave me an estimate to replace the two gaskets $3,624. Repair Estimate: valve cover gasket $2017.20, oil filter housing gasket $1,607.94 Gaskets should last the life of the engine an estimate to replace the two gaskets $3,624. Repair Estimate: valve cover gasket $2017.20, oil filter housing gasket $1,607.94 William J. Higgins WA2RXQ@Aol.Com 917.804.2900 Cell Phone Florida WA2RXQ@Aol.Com 917.804.2900 Cell Phone WA2RXQ@Aol.Com 917.804.2900 Cell
avatar Mark R
When it comes to cars, Mark’s been around the block in a wide variety of them, from vintage muscle cars to the latest sedans. In addition to writing about cars, he loves to sketch and photograph them as hobbies.
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