The Independent reported BMW is recalling 720,796 U.S. vehicles from model years 2012-18 after the company identified 10 fires potentially linked to the defect in vehicles serviced under a 2024 recall.
The issue involves an electrical connector on the water pump. The Independent quoted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as warning that water reaching a poorly sealed connector could trigger a short circuit and raise the fire risk while a vehicle is parked with its engine off. NHTSA advised owners to leave affected cars in open-air parking, separated from buildings and other vehicles, until repairs are made.
The affected lineup, according to The Independent, includes 2012-16 3 and 5 Series vehicles, 2012-15 X1s, 2012-16 Z4s, 2013-17 X3s and 2015-18 X4s. It also includes 2016-18 X5 xDrive40e vehicles; 2014-16 2 Series coupes, 3 Series sportswagons, 328xi Gran Turismos, and 4 Series coupes and convertibles; plus 2015-16 2 Series convertibles and 4 Series Gran Coupes.
BMW is developing a repair that will be available at no cost through dealerships, The Independent reported. Federal regulators said BMW was not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the issue.
The Independent reported that NHTSA expects owner notices to start going out Dec. 25, 2026. The agency’s recall site is also expected to allow searches by vehicle identification number and license plate number from that date.
