BMW Issues Major Recall for Over 720,000 Vehicles Due to Fire Hazard

BMW. The recall centers on BMW’s N20 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

BMW has recently announced a significant recall that affects more than 720,000 cars and SUVs due to a potential fire risk. If you own a BMW with a four-cylinder engine from the mid-2000s, it’s crucial to check if your vehicle is part of this recall.

What’s the Issue?

The recall centers on BMW’s N20 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) discovered that the water pump’s electrical plug connector in these engines could short-circuit due to the accumulation of blow-by fluid. Blow-by fluid is a byproduct that forms when air and fuel leak between the pistons and cylinder wall, and while it’s common for all engines to produce some amount, these engines are producing excess. The fluid can then drip into the water pump’s electrical system, creating a risk for a short circuit that could lead to an engine fire.

Affected BMW Models

The recall covers a wide range of BMW models, including:

2012-2015 X1 / X1 xDrive
2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i
2012-2016 528i / 528i xDrive
2012-2016 328i / 328i xDrive
2016-2018 X5 xDrive 40e
2014-2016 228i / 228i xDrive
2014-2016 428i / 428i xDrive
2014-2016 328xi Gran Turismo
2013-2017 X3 / X3 xDrive
2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i
2015-2016 428xi

These models are particularly at risk due to the identified issue, and the company has recorded 18 instances of thermal events, including cases in the United States and South Korea. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far.

What’s Next for Owners?

Luckily, the company has moved quickly to address the problem. The company plans to inspect and, if necessary, replace the water pump and plug connector in affected vehicles. Additionally, a shield will be installed to prevent any fluid from reaching the electrical components.

Owners of the affected vehicles will receive a notification by mail this October, and the necessary repairs will be performed free of charge at BMW dealerships.

Stay Informed

If you think your car might be affected by this recall, it’s advisable to contact your local dealership or check the NHTSA website for more details. Safety is a top priority, and taking swift action can help prevent any potential risks associated with this defect.

This recall highlights the importance of staying up-to-date with vehicle recalls to ensure your car is safe on the road.