BMW In Third US Recall Since 2017

BMW will recall 917,106 vehicles in the United States over potential engine fire risks, the German carmaker said on Wednesday.

In the company's third such move on the same issue since 2017, the recall involves numerous vehicles built between 2006 and 2013, including some 1 Series, 3 Series, X3, 5 Series, X5 and Z4 models, because the heater for the positive crankcase ventilation valve (PCV) may short-circuit and in rare cases could increase the risk of a fire.

Previous recalls, in 2017 and 2019, involved 740,000 and 184,000 US vehicles, respectively. Many vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need a new fix, which is currently being developed, BMW said, adding that the remedy and sufficient inventory of parts are expected by mid-2022.

The new recall was prompted by a series of fire reports in vehicles previously recalled that had been repaired. BMW said its investigations showed supplier production issues could lead to PCV valve heater damage in the field.

The company stressed, however, that owners should only stop driving, pending the recall fix, if they see smoke from the area near the engine compartment, or if they smell smoke or a plastic burning odour. (Reuters)