Petit Parisien - BMW Recalls Over 720,000 Vehicles in U.S. Amid Fire and Electric Shock Risks

BMW has announced two separate safety recalls for vehicles sold in the United States, affecting a combined total of more than 720,000 cars. The announcements address distinct mechanical and electrical defects: one involving a water pump connector that poses a fire risk, and another concerning high-voltage batteries in electric models that can cause electric shocks.

The larger recall encompasses 720,796 vehicles in the U.S. market. According to the report submitted to the National Highway Traffic Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the defect lies in a connector on the water pump that may not have been properly sealed during manufacturing. BMW states that the material used in this connector can degrade over time, allowing moisture to enter the pump unit.

If moisture penetrates the pump, it can lead to a short circuit, which ultimately creates a fire risk. While BMW estimates that less than 0.1% of the affected population will experience this issue, the manufacturer is advising owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until they are assessed. This precautionary measure is intended to mitigate the potential danger posed by a fire occurring in a garage or near residential buildings.

The remedy for this defect is currently under development. BMW has stated that it will notify affected owners by mail once the fix is ready. Owners can check if their specific vehicle is included in the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website, with search functionality becoming available starting December 25. When the remedy is identified, owners will be instructed to take their vehicles to a BMW dealership for the repair, which will be performed free of charge.

BMW also recalled 286 electric vehicles in the U.S. due to issues with their high-voltage batteries. The defect involves the battery not charging properly. In rare instances, this malfunction can cause an electric shock, increasing the risk of injury to the owner or others handling the vehicle during charging.

The company notes that less than 0.2% of the vehicles in this second recall group are expected to be affected by the charging issue. Unlike the water pump defect, this problem can be resolved through a software update. However, owners must still visit a BMW dealership to have the update installed at no cost.

Similar to the first recall, BMW will notify owners of the electric vehicle defect by mail. The NHTSA database will also list these vehicles for VIN checks beginning December 25.

At the time of reporting, Transport Canada had not listed equivalent recalls on its official website for Canadian owners. However, the automaker indicated that updates would be provided if such information became available. Canadian vehicle owners are advised to check their VINs on the Transport Canada website to determine if their cars are subject to any pending safety notices.

A previous recall for similar water pump issues was issued in 2024, which included 78,381 units in Canada. BMW clarified that this new recall replaces the earlier one. Consequently, vehicles that were already repaired under the previous notice will need to undergo the new remedy when it becomes available.

The recalls affect specific models within BMW’s lineup, though a comprehensive list of every affected VIN range was not fully detailed in the initial summary. The company emphasized that the safety of its customers remains its priority and urged owners to remain vigilant regarding any unusual signs from their vehicles, such as warning lights or unusual odors, while waiting for official notification.

L.Marion--PP