BMW has announced the recall of more than 1,500 2009-2010 BMW X5 diesel models to correct a fuel filter heater issue.
The xDrive35d models, manufactured from June 13, 2009 through November 9, 2009, could be affected by an issue that causes the filter heater to remain on and overheat.
The fuel filter heater is used to warm up the diesel fuel in low temperature conditions. Diesel becomes more viscous in cold conditions, potentially clogging up fuel pumps and lines.
A faulty unit could experience an "electrical overload condition", causing it to become permanently activated. If such an overload occurs, the heater could potentially drain the car's battery, preventing owners from starting the car--but may also overheat and lead to a fire.
This recall is near-identical to a 2011 recall of X5 xDrive35d models, also the result of a fuel filter heater remaining on. The X5 has also been subject to two power steering-related recalls over the last few years.
According to our sister site The Car Connection, no accidents or injuries have been reported as a result of the issue, though the data is based on 16 "possibly related" field reports outside of the U.S.
BMW is recalling all 1,540 potentially-affected models to replace the fuel filter heater free of charge. Owners can contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
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