The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. During assembly of these vehicles, the lower end of the spindle May not have been inserted completely into the coupling. In such a case, the fastening bolt used to secure the connection May not completely engage the spindle within the coupling. During driving, it would be possible for the spindle to disconnect.
The risk
This could result in a loss of steering capability and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the spindle to ensure proper insertion in the coupling, and, if necessary, the spindle will be fully inserted and the fastening bolt replaced. Owner notification began February 6, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 01V-030 (01V030000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Steering › Linkages › Knuckle › Spindle › Arm |
| Report date | February 6, 2001 |
| Owners notified | February 6, 2001 |
| Vehicles affected | 13,791 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 01V-030 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the spindle to ensure proper insertion in the coupling, and, if necessary, the spindle will be fully inserted and the fastening bolt replaced. Owner notification began February 6, 2001.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 13,791 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.