Recall 21V031 affects 21 2021 BMW X5, X6, and X7 vehicles for loose steering-column hardware. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.
BMW is recalling 21 2021 X5, X6, and X7 vehicles because the steering column shaft's universal joint connection was not tightened to specification and can loosen. A loose connection can affect handling and control, increasing crash risk, and BMW dealers will complete the repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The steering column shaft on the 2021 BMW X5, X6, and X7 carries the driver's steering input from the steering wheel down toward the steering gear. Its universal joint is the hinged connection in that shaft. It lets the shaft work at an angle while still keeping the steering wheel connected to the front wheels.
On included vehicles, that universal joint connection was not tightened to the required specification during assembly. BMW traced the problem to vehicle sequencing information tied to an electronic torque tool, which let a vehicle leave the assembly line without the joint being fastened correctly. As the connection loosens, the steering column shaft has extra movement instead of holding firmly in place.
Drivers can notice unusual noise from the steering column area or extra play in the steering. That loose feeling is the warning sign BMW identified before the joint connection is inspected and corrected.
Who's affected?
Covers three BMW X models from the same model year, each tied to the steering column.
| 2021 BMW X6 | steering column |
|---|---|
| 2021 BMW X5 | steering column |
| 2021 BMW X7 | steering column |
| Units affected | 21 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific SUV is included.
What's the safety risk?
A loose steering column shaft universal joint connection can affect handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash. Unusual noise or looseness around the steering column is the warning sign. If you notice either, drive cautiously and schedule the inspection soon. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2021 BMW X6, X5, or X7 is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised BMW dealer to schedule the free inspection and steering-column repair that secures the loose universal joint connection.
- Bring the recall notice if BMW mailed one. If not, reference recall number 21V031 when you call.
- Drive cautiously until the repair is complete, and stop driving if the steering feels loose or vehicle handling changes.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a BMW technician inspects the steering column shaft universal joint connection. Depending on that inspection, the technician replaces the bolt and tightens it to specification, or replaces the steering column shaft, universal joint, and bolt, then tightens the connection to specification. The recall repair is free, with parts and labor covered. Out-of-pocket repairs already paid are handled through the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty, not through a separate reimbursement program. Ask the service desk how warranty coverage applies if you have prior repair paperwork.
| Reimbursement | Warranty coverage applies |
|---|
Timeline
| January 29, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| January 29, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| January 29, 2021 | Dealer notification ended |
| March 23, 2021 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| March 23, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| March 30, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V031?
Recall 21V031 covers 21 2021 BMW X5, X6, and X7 vehicles with a steering column shaft universal joint connection that was not tightened to specification. If that connection loosens, it can affect handling and control, increasing crash risk.
What should I do if my 2021 BMW X5, X6, or X7 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific BMW is included in recall 21V031. If it is, contact a franchised BMW dealer for the steering column inspection and repair. Reference recall number 21V031 when you call. The dealer repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. BMW dealers will inspect the steering column connection and replace the bolt, or replace the steering column shaft, universal joint, and bolt, free of charge.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is reduced vehicle handling and control. The steering column shaft universal joint connection can become loose, and that can increase crash risk. If your VIN is included, arrange the free dealer inspection and repair before putting off service.
What if I bought my BMW X5, X6, or X7 used?
The free recall repair still applies. Recall coverage follows the vehicle, not the first owner. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific 2021 BMW is included, then contact a franchised BMW dealer and reference recall number 21V031.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V031000 |
|---|---|
| BMW customer service | 1-800-525-7417 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V031 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V031000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 23, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →