BMW has issued a recall for over 700,000 vehicles in the United States due to a potential electrical short in a water pump connector that could lead to a fire. The affected models include the X1 station wagon, the Z4 two-door, the X5 SUV, and the 2 Series Coupe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that around 720,796 vehicles may be defective.
The Safety Recall Report reveals that the vehicles may have been manufactured with a poorly sealed water pump, which can result in fluid ingress near the electrical plug connector. This can cause liquid from the positive crankcase ventilation system to collect on the intake air hose and potentially drip onto the plug connector. The NHTSA warns that this could lead to a short circuit and, in rare cases, a fire.
To address the issue, BMW will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector if necessary. Additionally, a shield will be installed to divert any fluid that may drop down onto the pump from the positive crankcase ventilation system’s intake air hose. The NHTSA will notify owners by mail to take their vehicles to authorized BMW dealerships for free repairs. Owners who have already paid for repairs are entitled to reimbursement.
The NHTSA conducted a thorough review of vehicle assembly information and supplier production records to determine the number of potentially affected vehicles. BMW initiated the voluntary safety recall on August 6, 2024, as a precautionary measure. So far, there have been 18 customer complaints, concerns, or field instances related to this issue, but no accidents or injuries have been reported.
This isn’t the first recall for BMW this year. In June, the company recalled over 390,000 vehicles due to airbag inflators that could potentially explode, causing harm to drivers and passengers. In July, more than 291,000 SUVs were recalled because the interior cargo rail could detach in an accident and pose a safety risk.
It’s important for BMW owners to heed the recall notice and bring their vehicles in for repairs to ensure their safety. BMW has not yet provided a comment on the matter, but it is crucial for affected owners to take action promptly to prevent any potential risks.
