2023 BMW X5, X6, X7 Exhaust Camshaft Follower Recall

Why This Matters

The return springs on the exhaust camshaft followers are critical components in the engine's valvetrain. If these springs break, it can lead to improper valve operation, potentially causing engine performance issues, misfires, or even internal engine damage. This voluntary emission recall, identified as 23E-A05, aims to prevent such problems by replacing the affected parts.

What's Being Recalled

BMW has issued Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 2024-01-02, Revision 5, which supersedes SI B11 07 23 dated November 2023. This bulletin outlines the procedure for a voluntary emission recall, campaign code 23E-A05, to address a potential defect where the return springs on the exhaust camshaft followers may break. The primary component subject to this recall is the switchable rocker arm, which includes these springs.

Symptoms

While the bulletin does not explicitly list owner-facing symptoms, a broken exhaust camshaft follower return spring could manifest as various engine performance issues. Owners might notice a rough running engine, reduced power, or the illumination of the Check Engine Light. The underlying problem is the mechanical failure of these springs, which can disrupt the precise timing and lift of the engine valves.

How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected

Vehicles requiring this campaign to be completed will show an "Open" status when checked in BMW's internal systems such as AIR, AWP, Campaign Summary, or Warranty Vehicle Inquiry. BMW dealers can also check your vehicle's status using the Inventory Campaign Details (ICD) under ROSS. It is recommended to contact your authorized BMW dealer to verify if your 2023 BMW X5 or other affected model is part of this recall.

Important Warnings

BMW has issued specific instructions for technicians during this repair. It is important to note that if any broken or missing parts are identified in the valvetrain during the procedure, a TSARA TC case must be created before continuing with the bulletin. Additionally, the repair instruction 11 33 055 specifies that it is only necessary to remove and replace the exhaust VANOS central bolt, not the intake VANOS central bolt. Technicians are also advised that the cylinder head cover gasket and high-pressure pump gasket can be reused if they are not damaged.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure for the 2023 BMW X5 exhaust camshaft follower issue involves a series of detailed steps. Initially, technicians must check the vehicle's history for any prior engine or cylinder head replacement, as this may clear the campaign. If no such repairs are found, the exhaust camshaft followers are replaced following Repair Instruction 11 33 055, which details the removal and installation of the switchable cam follower on the exhaust side.

Critical steps include pinning the crankshaft with special tool 2 288 380 and locking both camshaft adjusters (VANOS gears) with special tool 5 A53 587. The timing chain must be pretensioned using special tool 2 455 654 to ensure correct installation, and camshaft position is checked with test gauge special tool 5 A7A 5B9 and basic carrier special tool 5 A4D A16. Ignition coils and fuel injectors must be numbered and reinstalled in their original cylinder locations. The VVT motor needs to be placed in minimum lift before installing camshaft timing tools. The repair code for this action is 0011460700.

Required Tools and Key Parts

This repair requires several specialized tools and specific parts. Key special tools include:

• Crankshaft pinning tool: 2 288 380
• Camshaft adjusters locking tool: 5 A53 587
• Timing chain pretensioning tool: 2 455 654
• Camshaft position test gauge: 5 A7A 5B9
• Basic carrier special tool: 5 A4D A16
• Tool for rollers: 83 30 5 A4D A18

Key parts that will be replaced include the switchable rocker arm and the VANOS central bolt. Other components such as sealing sleeves, various hexagon bolts, profile seals, and a cylinder head cover seal set (if damaged) may also be required.

Manufacturer's Remedy

BMW will perform this voluntary emission recall, 23E-A05, free of charge to vehicle owners. Once the repair is completed, an "Emissions Recall Campaign Completed Label" (SD 92-435) will be affixed in the engine compartment. For vehicles registered in California, an executed orange "Vehicle Emission Recall - Proof of Correction" certificate (SD92-084) will also be provided to the customer.

NHTSA ID: 10249014