The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, the engine auxiliary/cooling fan operation, including variable speed, is electronically controlled. Failure of the fan motor can cause the electrical circuitry of the fan control unit to overload and fail, causing the fan to stop operating.
The risk
If this were to occur, engine overheating and subsequent engine damage could result. In addition, it is possible for the failure of the electrical circuitry to cause a fire in the fan control unit located in the front of the engine compartment.
The fix
Dealers will replace the fan. Owner notification began September 28, 2001. This is a supplement to a recall that began during September 2001 (see recall campaign 01V206). 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 | 02V-138 (02V138000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system › Fan |
| Report date | May 16, 2002 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,550 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 2001 BMW 325ci
- 2001 BMW 325i
- 2001 BMW 330ci
- 2001 BMW 330i
- 2001 BMW 330xi
- 2001 BMW 525i
- 2001 BMW 525it
- 2001 BMW 530i
- 2001 BMW 540i
- 2001 BMW 740i
- 2001 BMW 750il
- 2001 BMW X5
Plus 10 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
- 2001 BMW 325ci engine problems 8
- 2001 BMW 325i engine problems 23
- 2001 BMW 330ci engine problems 9
- 2001 BMW 330i engine problems 10
- 2001 BMW 330xi engine problems 3
- 2001 BMW 525i engine problems 8
- 2001 BMW 530i engine problems 6
- 2001 BMW 540i engine problems 1
- 2001 BMW 740i engine problems 5
- 2001 BMW 750il engine problems 2
- 2001 BMW X5 engine problems 38
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 02V-138 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the fan. Owner notification began September 28, 2001. This is a supplement to a recall that began during September 2001 (see recall campaign 01V206).
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,550 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.