Recall 21V199 affects 17 2021 BMW X3 and X4 SUVs for a fuel tank inlet-check-valve weld defect. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.
BMW is recalling 17 2021 X3 and X4 vehicles because the inlet check valve weld on the fuel tank filling pipe can fail. If it fails, fuel can leak and increase the risk of a fire; BMW dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The fuel tank on the 2021 BMW X3 and X4 stores gasoline and feeds it to the engine through the fuel system. The filling pipe is the tube used when the tank is refueled, and the inlet check valve helps control fuel movement at the tank opening so fuel stays where it belongs.
On these vehicles, the weld that attaches the inlet check valve to the fuel tank was not performed to specification. BMW traced the problem to a welding plate that was not properly secured during supplier production. A weak weld can let the filling pipe separate from the tank, which creates a path for fuel to escape under or near the vehicle.
The warning signs are a fuel odor or fuel leaking under the vehicle. Either sign points to fuel escaping near the tank or filling pipe.
Who's affected?
Covers both X3 and X4 SUVs from the same model year, with the same fuel tank assembly in scope.
| 2021 BMW X3 | fuel system |
|---|---|
| 2021 BMW X4 | fuel system |
| Units affected | 17 |
| 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 this recall applies to your specific SUV.
What's the safety risk?
A failed fuel tank weld can let fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire. Treat fuel odor or fuel under the vehicle as a reason to stop safely, shut the vehicle off, and call a BMW dealer. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2021 BMW X3 or X4 is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised BMW dealer to schedule the free fuel-tank replacement that fixes the failed inlet check valve weld and fuel-leak risk.
- Bring the recall notice if BMW sent one. If not, reference recall number 21V199 when you call.
- Avoid driving if you smell fuel or see a leak, and call the BMW dealer before moving the vehicle.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a BMW technician replaces the fuel tank, including the failed inlet check valve area tied to the filling pipe separation. BMW says the recall remedy is free, and all repairs have been completed. Out-of-pocket repairs already paid are handled through the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty program, not through a separate reimbursement program. If you have prior repair paperwork for this fuel tank condition, ask the BMW service desk how warranty coverage applies.
| Reimbursement | Warranty coverage applies |
|---|
Timeline
| March 24, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| March 24, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| March 24, 2021 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 10, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
| May 17, 2021 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| May 17, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V199?
Recall 21V199 covers 17 2021 BMW X3 and X4 vehicles with an inlet check valve weld that can fail and let the filling pipe separate from the fuel tank. BMW dealers replace the fuel tank for free.
What should I do if my 2021 BMW X3 or X4 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific vehicle is included in recall 21V199. If it still shows an open recall, contact a franchised BMW dealer to schedule the fuel tank replacement. Reference recall number 21V199 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to repair safety defects at no cost, and BMW's remedy is a free fuel tank replacement at a franchised BMW dealer. Parts and labor are covered for included vehicles.
What is the safety risk for recall 21V199?
The safety risk is a fuel leak. If the inlet check valve weld fails, fuel can leak through the failed weld, increasing the risk of a fire. If you smell fuel or see a leak, stop driving and contact a BMW dealer.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V199000 |
|---|---|
| BMW customer service | 1-800-525-7417 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V199 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V199000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (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 →