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Over 720,000 BMWs Recalled, Should Be Parked Outside Due to Fire Risk

Some of these cars and SUVs have been previously recalled for the same issue, which has to do with the water pump

2014 BMW X3 grille
A BMW X3
Photo: BMW

BMW is recalling nearly three-quarters of a million cars and SUVs because an electrical connection may short-circuit and cause a fire.

MORE ON RECALLS

If you own one of the following vehicles, federal safety regulators warn that you should park it outside until a recall repair is complete:

• 2012-2016 BMW 3 Series sedan

• 2012-2016 BMW 5 Series sedan

• 2012-2016 BMW Z4 convertible

• 2012-2015 BMW X1 SUV

• 2013-2017 BMW X3 SUV

• 2015-2016 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe sedan

• 2015-2016 BMW 2 Series Convertible

• 2014-2016 BMW 328xi Gran Turismo sedan

• 2014-2016 BMW 2 Series Coupe

• 2014-2016 BMW 4 Series Convertible

• 2014-2016 BMW 3 Series Coupe

• 2014-2016 BMW 3 Series Wagon

• 2015-2018 BMW X4 SUV

• 2016-2018 BMW X5 xDrive40e SUV

Many of these vehicles have already been recalled for the same problem, but will need another trip to the dealership for a further fix.

According to documents that BMW shared with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the problem is due to an electrical connector on the vehicle’s water pump, which may allow moisture in. If this happens, the water pump could short-circuit and start a fire. So far, BMW says there have been 10 incidents related to this recall, but no crashes or injuries.

BMW is currently developing a fix for the problem and says that owners should expect two notices: One in December to let them know if their vehicle has been recalled, and another when a free fix is available at dealerships.

How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact BMW at 800-525-7417.

NHTSA campaign number: 26V733. It replaces recall 24V608.

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Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.