BMW Recall Issued Over Electrical Problems

About 570,000 BMW vehicles have been recalled due to problems with a battery cable connecter, which may degrade over time and cause the engine to stall, posing a risk of an auto accident. 

The BMW recall (PDF) was announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on February 16, after the agency was informed about the severity of problems the defect could cause and the quantity of vehicles that are impacted.

At least one accident has been linked to the faulty cable connectors in Canada, but no serious injuries have been reported.

The hazard stems from movement between the battery cable and the fuse box causing friction, which allows the cables to degrade over time. When the cables become dislodged, the entire vehicle may lose power and the engine may stall while in use, creating a heightened risk for drivers, passengers and potential bystanders.

The recall consists of BMW 3-Series sedans, wagons, convertibles, and coupe models from 2007 through 2011. The recall also includes 1-Series coupes and convertibles from 2008 through 2012, and the Z4 sports car from 2009 through 2011.

This is the second largest BMW recall in the company’s history, with the largest involving a 2012 recall for 1.3 million BMW vehicles due to problems where the battery cable cover was incorrectly mounted, causing a malfunction in the electrical systems.

BMW announced that consumers should contact their local BMW dealer, call (800) 525-7417 or email the company at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com to set an appointment to replace the battery cable connector and secure it for free. BMW will -start notifying owners in March to call and schedule a repair.

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