BMW recalling 720K vehicles over short-circuit concerns

BMW is recalling 720,796 vehicles over short-circuit concerns, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said Tuesday. 

The agency said the X1, X3, X5 and other models are included in the recall triggered by an improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump that, when exposed to water, could short-circuit.

“Blowby-liquid from the positive crankcase ventilation system may collect on the intake air hose. If this occurs, then this liquid could drip onto the plug connector,’ the agency said. “Over time, this could lead to fluid ingress into the plug and the possibility of a short circuit.” 

In rare cases, a fire could occur, according to the NHTSA. 

The agency said the German manufacturer was aware of approximately 18 customer complaints, concerns, and/or field instances of the flaw in the U.S. market. 

Both plug connectors and water pumps will be examined and swapped if needed. A shield will be installed to “divert any fluid that might drop down onto the pump from the positive crankcase ventilation system’s intake air house.” 

BMW owners of affected vehicles are to be notified regarding the recall in early October. The owners will directed to take their vehicles to an authorized BMW center to have the remedy performed for free of charge. 

BMW had to recall more than 1.3 million vehicles in China last week that may have Takata airbag inflators. A similar recall occurred in the U.S. last month.

Earlier in August, the German automaker had to recall more than 100,000 vehicles due to a motor defect that could result in overheating or, in rare instances, cause a fire.