BMW Is Facing a Massive Recall
BMW is recalling over a million vehicles worldwide due to engine fires. Close to 800,000 of them models were recalled twice. Is the third time a charm?
Written by Clare Behe
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Table of Contents
BMW
is facing frustration from customers worldwide as the company is recalling over a million vehicles, the majority of which had been recalled and supposedly repaired
in 2017 and 2019. In each previous recall, the issue remained vague. This time around the German automaker is looking to the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve system as the cause of short circuits. What’s the problem this time?
The PCV system is a multitasker that regulates tailpipe emissions and filters “blowby”—gasses that can damage the engine if left alone—out of the engine. It’s an important component of a well-functioning vehicle, and, if faulty, can cause a domino effect of issues.
According to BMW
, the PCV valve heater “may not have been produced by the supplier to specifications,” and is overheating in some models, causing engine fires. The company is assuring customers that these fires are so rare that it’s safe to continue driving recalled vehicles, but that they should park outside and away from buildings or other flammable objects.Affected models
range from 2006-2013 makes, including the X3, X5, Z4, and 1-, 3-, and 5-series. Even if a vehicle was recalled previously, it is eligible for dealer inspection and repair, says BMW. The prevention for underhood fires is due to be announced mid-year, and BMW is mailing instructions to owners.Burning more than rubber
However, if drivers prefer to take a proactive approach, there is the option to
plug a VIN
into the NHTSA’s website to determine if an individual car is included in the 2022 recall. Whether a model is recalled or not, if signs of overheating—such as smoke issuing from underneath the hood or the scent of burning plastic—are noted, the car should pull over and be turned off as soon as it is safe to do so. BMW
claims
that no injuries connected to engine fires have been reported. Unfortunately, there have been incidents involving damage to buildings. In 2018 a North Carolina home was all but burned to the ground due to an engine fire
in a parked BMW. Car insurance helps alleviate the stress of car damage in instances that you can't foresee, such as a faulty part. But if you're not regularly comparing quotes from different providers, your car insurance bill can become the source of stress itself!
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