The key facts

  • NHTSA recalls 720,796 BMW vehicles over fire risk from the water pump connector
  • Owners are asked to park their vehicles outside, away from buildings, until the repair is completed
  • The new recall replaces the 2024 campaign; the repair is still being developed and will be free of charge

Regulator advises not to park vehicles near buildings

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is recalling 720,796 BMW vehicles due to a defect that can lead to a fire. According to the recall documentation, the problem is related to the electrical connector of the water pump: water can penetrate inside and cause a short circuit. In a letter dated November 12 confirming the BMW recall, the agency advises owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until the repair is completed.

The previous repair did not solve the problem

The new campaign replaces the 2024 recall, which covered the same vehicles: those who already had their vehicle repaired under that program will need a new repair. In its filings, BMW reported that degradation of the connector material can allow moisture into the pump, increasing the risk of overheating and, in rare cases, fire. The previous repair involved installing a protective shield to divert fluids away from the connector, inspecting the connector and wiring, and replacing damaged parts. However, in January the company identified new cases of overheating or thermal overload in already repaired vehicles; subsequent testing showed embrittlement and cracks in the connectors.

Which models are affected and what comes next

BMW made the decision on the new recall on October 28 and submitted a report to NHTSA on November 4. At the time of the decision, the company was aware of approximately ten incidents in the US related or possibly related to the defect; no reports of crashes or injuries had been received. The recall covers certain 2012–2016 3 Series, 5 Series and Z4 models, 2012–2015 X1, 2013–2017 X3, 2015–2018 X4 and 2016–2018 X5 xDrive40e, as well as certain versions of the 2014–2016 2 Series Coupe, 3 Series Sportswagon, 328xi Gran Turismo, 4 Series Coupe and Convertible, and the 2015–2016 2 Series Convertible and 4 Series Gran Coupe. The repair is still being developed and will be performed free of charge at authorized BMW dealers. Letters to owners are expected in December, and VINs for campaign number 26V733 should become searchable on the regulator's website starting December 25.