BMW has initiated a significant recall campaign impacting over 720,000 vehicles after identifying a short circuit risk in their electrical systems, which may lead to fires. Affected models were produced in various years and include the X1, X3, X4, X5, Z4, 228I, 528I, 428XI, among others. This problem results from fluid from the positive crankcase ventilation system potentially causing a short circuit via the water pump’s electrical plug connector.
The recall affects a wide range of models equipped with the N20 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. BMW is notifying vehicle owners urging them to contact authorized service centers. Repairs, including inspections and replacements of water pumps and plug connectors, will be performed at no additional cost to customers.
The immediate concern stems from insufficient sealing of the water pumps, which can lead to fluid ingress specifically at the electrical plug connector. Blowby liquid from the ventilation system may collect on the intake air hose and drip onto the plug connector, causing an electrical shortage. This situation is serious as it increases the risk of fire in these vehicles, although, to date, there have been no injuries reported.
BMW recalls over 720,000 cars due to fire risk from water pump failure https://t.co/ewF3h9X6Ee
— 8 News Now (@8NewsNow) August 21, 2024
Impact on Vehicle Owners
Vehicle owners will start receiving recall notifications in October. BMW encourages owners to bring their cars to an authorized center promptly. Despite the recall accounting for 720,796 vehicles, the defect is estimated to affect only about one percent of the total.
BMW will also provide installment of a protective shield that diverts fluid away from the pump to mitigate future risks. This preemptive measure is essential to ensure the safety of car occupants and prevent potential hazards.
Previous BMW Recalls
BMW has recently undertaken other significant recalls, including a notable recall on July 24 for over 290,000 vehicles due to faulty bolts that could cause the interior cargo rail to detach during an impact.
BMW has faced a number of issues this year, leading to multiple recalls. The Takata airbag inflator issue prompted another significant recall for over 394,000 vehicles on July 10, due to the risks posed by potentially exploding airbags. The Takata issue is particularly severe, having resulted in at least 27 deaths and 400 injuries in the United States.
Customers concerned about whether their vehicle is included in the recall can contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or the NHTSA’s safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236. The recall number for this issue is “24V-608,” and the inspection and subsequent repairs will be free of charge for all affected vehicle owners.
