BMW Recalls 1.4 Million Vehicles Because of Risk of Fire

BMW has issued two separate recalls of its vehicles, because some of their cars and SUVs have been catching fire. Replacement parts will become available on December 18^th. If you own one of the affected vehicles you’re entitled to a free replacement at any BMW dealership. To find out if your car is on the recall and replace list, enter your car’s VIN here.

The first recall includes more than 740,000 vehicles, and involves a heater for a piece called the “positive crankcase ventilation valve.” Per ABC News, the “Documents posted Friday by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that a heater for the positive crankcase ventilation valve can overheat and cause the valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire even when the vehicle is not in use.”

The second recall affected almost 673,000 cars, and affects the wiring used in the heating and air conditioning systems. These wires can corrode and overheat, and the connectors can melt. This can lead to the car catching fire even when it is unattended.

A total of four injuries have been reported, related to the second recall. No injuries have been reported related to the first.

Which models of BMW have been recalled?

The Chicago Tribune reports that BMW has filed its documents with the NHTSA. The first recall involves the 2008–2011 128i, and the following vehicles manufactured between 2007­2011:

• 328i
• 328xi
• 328i xDrive
• 525i
• 525xi
• 528i
• 528xi
• 530i
• 530xi
• X3 3.0si
• X3 xDrive30i
• X5 xDrive30i
• Z4 3.0i
• Z4 3.0si
• Z4 sDrive30i

The second recall involves:

• All 3-Series vehicles (2006–2011)
• The M3 (2006–2011)
• 328i xDrive (2007–­2011)
• 335i xDrive (2007–2011)
• 335is (2007–2011)
• 335d (2009–2011)

This is not the first time BMWs have caught on fire

In May of this year, ABC News reported on “dozens of incidents” where parked BMWs, including some which had been turned off for hours, spontaneously burst into flames. At the time, BMW claimed there was no discernible pattern that would indicate a product defect, and the makes and models were not recalled. As of right now, BMW has not made any statements claiming the two issues are related. If evidence is found to the contrary – if a defect in the manufacturing of those vehicles is, indeed, to blame for their spontaneous combustion – then BMW may be liable for the damage those owners sustained. Luckily, no one reported injuries in those cases, but people’s homes did catch fire, and they did sustain serious losses and property damage. If you or anyone you know was one of those unlucky owners, check the VIN number: if the car is on this list and BMW didn’t pay for the loss, a claim for damages may be appropriate.

We want you to be safe while you are on the road. We encourage you to check your VIN against the NHTSA’s site, whether you drive a BMW or not, and to schedule your appointment to replace the defective part as soon as you can.

If, however, a defective part caused you injury or harm, or if you suffered property damage or loss, Plattner Verderame, P.C. may be able to help. Our skilled team of Phoenix injury attorneys is committed to helping clients throughout Arizona. Please call 602-266-2002 or contact us to find out how we can help.