BMW Recalls 740,561 Vehicles for PCV Valve Fire Risk
BMW is recalling 740,561 vehicles from 2007-2011 because a short circuit in the PCV valve heater can cause a fire.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).
The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk of fire, which falls under the 'Severe' criteria for significant injury/property-damage reports or structural vehicle defects, as fire poses a high risk of property damage and potential injury.
Plain-English summary
BMW of North America, LLC is recalling approximately 740,561 vehicles, including 2008-2011 128i, 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, and Z4 sDrive30i models. The recall addresses a defect in the heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve, which may short circuit.
An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use. This hazard applies to the specific model years and trims listed in the recall notice.
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the PCV valve heater free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017, and owners will receive a second notification by the end of October 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
The recalled product
- Product
- BMW 328I, 128I, X5, 530I
- Brand
- BMW
- Manufacturer
- BMW of North America, LLC
- Category
- Vehicle — Engine/Exhaust System
- Hazard
- Affected units
- 740,561
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (8)
- 328I
- 128I
- X5
- 530I
- 528I
- 525I
- Z4
- X3
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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