Many BMW X5 SAVs were produced that may be subject to problems with their power steering systems.

The situation effects the BMW X5 xDrive. That’s the 3.0 liter force fed diesel engine powered one.

In particular this flaw might be seen on model years  from  2009 to 2012. That’s a fairly large time span and as a result, some 29.800 units in the US are affected by the problem.

As far as understood, the problem stems from the engine accessory belt idler pulley bolt. After a while, this bolt might loosen and, possibly break.

If the bolt becomes worn enough to loosen and break, it will lead to a loss of power steering. If that happens, the problem becomes very obvious.

A heavier steering  at the wrong time could end up in leading the driver towards a crash. Despite this, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) isn’t yet involved in the recall.

BMW has announced that the recall will begin early next year and they have set up a line for customers to check if their car is affected.

If you have an X5 from this period you can call 1-800-525-7417 to find out if there’s any chance that your car might be affected.