Recalls Issued for BMW, Ford

Models: BMW X5 Year: 2003 Number Potentially Involved: 357 Dates of
Manufacture: March – April 2003 Defect: On certain SUVs, it is possible that the distance
between the brake line and the steering shaft joint is not sufficient. If this occurs, the
brake line could come into contact with the joint and eventually suffer damage and
corrosion. A loss of brake fluid, indicated by a warning light in the instrument panel,
could occur. This will be accompanied by a reduction in front brake performance, increasing
the risk of a crash. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the distance between the brake line and
the steering shaft joint and, if necessary, increase the distance. The manufacturer has
reported that owner notification was expected to begin during early June 2003. Owners may
contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117. [NHTSA Recall No. 03V197] Models: Ford F150/F250
Year: 1997; Ford Expedition Year: 1997 Number Potentially Involved: 171,446 Dates
of Manufacture: March – September 1996 Defect: On certain pickup trucks and SUVs, the
intermediate shaft yoke can separate from the steering gear input shaft. This could result
in loss of steering control, potentially resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering intermediate shaft yoke to determine if the yoke
is fully seated on the steering gear input shaft. If the yoke is fully seated, no service
is required. If the yoke is not fully seated and the bolt groove and spline are visible,
the intermediate shaft and bolt will be replaced as well as the bolt at the steering column
connection. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began June 2, 2003.
Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. [NHTSA Recall No. 03V196/Ford Recall No. 03S02]