According to BMW, a valve in the aforementioned pump is prone to leak a small amount of lubricant oil over time. As the liquid builds up, it can contaminate the brake booster and subsequently lead to poor breaking performance.
The German carmaker says that in extreme cases, the problem may lead to a complete loss of power assist braking, increasing of course the risk of serious crashes. Mechanical braking will still be available, the carmaker says.
BMW however did not mention in the notification posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website whether it received any reports of incidents caused by the problem.
It appears that this is so new, that the automaker didn't have time to announce a remedy. The NHTSA says that a schedule for the recall is also yet to be announced. According to csmonitor.com, the carmaker plans a similar announcement for an extra 150,000 vehicles worldwide, including Rolls Royce models manufactured in between 2002 and 2010.
The models affected by the problem are 2004-2010 BMW 545i and 550i, 2004-2010 BMW 645i and 650i, 2007-2008 BMW Alpina B7, 2002-2008 BMW 745i/Li, 750i/Li, and 760i/Li and 2003-2010 Rolls-Royce Phantom.
BMW customers as well as all other interested in learning more about the problem can visit the NHTSA website or call 1-888-327-4236. We'll keep you updated as more info becomes available.
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