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BMW M5 Recall 16V540: Driveshaft may fracture, causing loss of rear-wheel drive

NHTSA campaign 16V540, reported July 19, 2016, 956 vehicles potentially affected.

What this recall means for you

A driveshaft in certain 2015 BMW M5 and M6 vehicles may have been inadequately welded during manufacturing. Because of the weak weld, the driveshaft can fracture and fail, causing a loss of drive to the rear wheels and a loss of propulsion. In addition, if the car is turned off and exited without the parking brake applied, the vehicle may roll. Either condition raises the risk of a crash.

BMW will notify affected owners. Authorized dealers will inspect the driveshaft and replace it if necessary, at no cost to the owner. The recall is expected to begin in September 2016. To check whether your vehicle is affected, contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417, and check your VIN for open recalls.

Until the repair is done, always apply the parking brake before exiting the vehicle, and watch for any loss of power to the rear wheels.

Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle

The repair is normally free at an authorized dealer.

Official recall notice

Safety recall 16V540BMW of North America, LLC
Component
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Problem
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 BMW M5 sedans manufactured September 4, 2014, through December 4, 2014, 2015 M6 coupes manufactured September 3, 2014, through December 3, 2014, 2015 M6 convertibles manufactured September 8, 2014, through December 4, 2014, and 2015 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles manufactured September3, 2014, through December 4, 2014. The affected vehicles have a driveshaft that may have been inadequately welded during manufacturing.
Risk
Due to the improper weld, the driveshaft may fracture and fail, causing loss of drive to the rear wheels and a loss of propulsion. Additionally, if the car is turned off and exited without the parking brake applied, the car may roll. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the driveshaft, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during September 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Affected vehicles

BMW M52015
BMW M62015