BMW is recalling certain 2021 X5 models due to a loose steering column connection that may cause handling issues and crash risk. Owners must contact BMW for free inspection and repair.
A loose steering column shaft universal joint connection can affect vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash.
BMW is recalling specific 2021 X5 models because a loose steering connection could affect vehicle handling and increase crash risk. Affected owners should get their vehicles inspected by a BMW dealer for a free repair. Read more at govinfonow.com/recall/80269-bmw-2021-x5-steering-recall-loose-connection-risk.
Source Summary by GovInfoNow · govinfonow.com/recall/80269-bmw-2021-x5-steering-recall-loose-connection-risk · Updated October 4, 2026 · Official notice: NHTSA #21V031000
“BMW 2021 X5 Steering Recall: Loose Connection Risk.” GovInfoNow, updated October 4, 2026. https://govinfonow.com/recall/80269-bmw-2021-x5-steering-recall-loose-connection-risk. Based on NHTSA recall 21V031000 (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V031000).
A loose steering column connection can cause unpredictable vehicle handling and control. This increases the chance of a crash, especially during maneuvers requiring precise steering.
Owners of 2021 BMW X5 models with specific trim levels are affected. Drivers of these vehicles face the highest risk due to potential handling issues.
Check for 2021 X5 models with sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X5M, xDrive45e, sDrive40i, xDrive40i, or xDrive40i trim levels. The recall started March 30, 2021.
Call 1-800-525-7417 to schedule a free inspection at a BMW dealer.
Dealers will check the steering column connection and either tighten the bolt or replace parts as needed.
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, depending upon the inspection, either the bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, or the steering column shaft, universal joint, and bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5M, X5 xDrive45e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive40i, and X7 M50i models.
BMW will inspect your vehicle at a dealer and either tighten the bolt or replace the steering column parts for free.
The recall began March 30, 2021.
We’ve drafted a message you can send BMW to request your refund or repair — edit it as you like.
Subject: Recall 21V031000 — BMW BMW Hello, I own a BMW that is covered by recall 21V031000 from BMW. The official recall notice states: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, depending upon the inspection, either the bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, or the steering column shaft, universal joint, and bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. I’m writing to arrange the remedy described in the recall (a refund, repair, or replacement as applicable). Could you please tell me the next steps to resolve this? Thank you.
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The facts (hazard, remedy, dates, manufacturer) are pulled from the official NHTSA recall record. The plain-language summary and step-by-step checklist are written by GovInfoNow to make the official notice easier to act on — they don’t replace it.
