BMW issued a recall on the X5 model

On certain vehicles equipped with a diesel engine, the fuel filter heater (used for warming diesel fuel during vehicle operation at low ambient air temperature) could malfunction. This could allow permanent activation of the fuel filter heater, including activation on a parked vehicle with the ignition in the OFF position, which could drain the battery. A discharged battery would prevent engine start-up. In certain cases the heater unit could overheat, which could result in a vehicle fire causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel filter heater assembly. Note: This is an expansion of recall 2011-310.