The problem
BMW is recalling certain model year 2004-2010 5-series, 6-series, and model year 2002-2008 7-series vehicles. A check valve of the brake vacuum pump May leak a small amount of lubricating oil. Over time this could result in contamination of the brake booster.
The risk
Power assist braking performance could be adversely affected. In extreme cases there could be a complete loss of power assist braking. An unexpected reduction or loss in power braking assist May increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
BMW will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on November 24, 2010. Owners May contact BMW at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 10V-446 (10V446000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist › Vacuum |
| Report date | October 1, 2010 |
| Owners notified | November 24, 2010 |
| Vehicles affected | 198,352 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 2004 BMW 5 Series
- 2005 BMW 5 Series
- 2006 BMW 5 Series
- 2007 BMW 5 Series
- 2008 BMW 5 Series
- 2009 BMW 5 Series
- 2010 BMW 5 Series
- 2004 BMW 6 Series
- 2005 BMW 6 Series
- 2006 BMW 6 Series
- 2007 BMW 6 Series
- 2008 BMW 6 Series
- 2009 BMW 6 Series
- 2010 BMW 6 Series
- 2003 BMW 7 Series
- 2004 BMW 7 Series
- 2006 BMW 7 Series
- 2007 BMW 7 Series
- 2008 BMW 7 Series
Plus 2 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the brakes
- 2004 BMW 5 Series brake problems 3
- 2005 BMW 5 Series brake problems 3
- 2006 BMW 5 Series brake problems 7
- 2007 BMW 5 Series brake problems 1
- 2008 BMW 5 Series brake problems 4
- 2009 BMW 5 Series brake problems 1
- 2005 BMW 6 Series brake problems 1
- 2006 BMW 6 Series brake problems 1
- 2003 BMW 7 Series brake problems 1
- 2004 BMW 7 Series brake problems 5
- 2006 BMW 7 Series brake problems 5
- 2008 BMW 7 Series brake problems 1
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 10V-446 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: BMW will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on November 24, 2010. Owners May contact BMW at 1-800-525-7417.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 198,352 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.