The problem
The cruise control and throttle cables are attached to the same throttle valve actuating lever at the throttle housing. It is possible that the plastic bushing on either cable could break due to environmental influences coupled with vibration. If the bushing breaks, the outer cable housing can separate from the bushing. In this case, during application of the throttle pedal without cruise control being engaged, the outer tube could catch on the edge of the broken bushing.
The risk
This could cause the throttle valve to remain partially open. It his were to occur, the car might not decelerate as expected increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will install a spring steel clip on the outer tube of each cable in the area of the adjusting screw and plastic bushing. The clip is designed to prevent the outer tube from dislodging from the bushing.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-131 (97V131000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Vehicle speed control |
| Report date | August 19, 1997 |
| Owners notified | October 30, 1997 |
| Vehicles affected | 410,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 1995 BMW 318i
- 1997 BMW 318i
- 1995 BMW 318ic
- 1996 BMW 318ti
- 1995 BMW 325i
- 1995 BMW 525i
- 1995 BMW 530i
- 1995 BMW 540i
- 1995 BMW 740i
- 1996 BMW 740i
- 1997 BMW 740i
- 1995 BMW M3
- 1997 BMW M3
- 1996 BMW Z3
- 1997 BMW Z3
Plus 16 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the speed control & acceleration
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-131 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a spring steel clip on the outer tube of each cable in the area of the adjusting screw and plastic bushing. The clip is designed to prevent the outer tube from dislodging from the bushing.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 410,000 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.