2014 BMW X5 recalled over faulty child-safety locks

Tue, 27 May 2014

BMW is set to recall some 6,400 of its new-for-2014 X5 SUVs built between December 12, 2013 and March 10, 2014 due to concerns that the child safety locks, if set, might deactivate without warning. The problem affects only those vehicles with the automatic soft-closing option.

According to the bulletin issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the lock mechanism on the rear doors "may not have been manufactured to correct tolerances," meaning the safety locks could disengage with a simple pull of the door handle. Basically, with a pair of tugs, the rear doors could be opened from the inside, regardless of child safety locks.

BMW is in the process of notifying owners of affected vehicles. Any necessary repairs will be conducted free of charge. Take a look below for the official press release from NHTSA.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC

SUMMARY:
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014 X5 SAV vehicles manufactured December 12, 2013, through March 10, 2014, and equipped with the Soft Close Automatic (SCA) option. The rear side door lock mechanisms may not have been manufactured to correct tolerances and when the inside door handle is pulled, the previously engaged child safety lock can disengage.
CONSEQUENCE:
A disengaged child safety lock would allow the rear seat occupant to pull the door handle twice and open the door while the vehicle is parked or in motion, increasing the risk of injury.
REMEDY:
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear side door locks and any affected door locks will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in May 2014. 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.

By Brandon Turkus