The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·20V601000·Announced 2020-09-30

BMW recalls vehicles due to debris in hybrid battery cells

BMW is recalling certain 2020-2021 models due to debris in hybrid battery cells that could cause fire or injury. Owners are instructed not to charge vehicles or drive in manual mode.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm hazard (potential battery fire from debris-induced short-circuit) with no reported injuries or fires to date, meeting the rubric criterion for High severity.

Plain-English summary

BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2020 and 2021 model year vehicles equipped with hybrid battery systems, including BMW X3, 530e, 330e, 745Le, X5, i8, and MINI Countryman models. Approximately 4,509 vehicles are affected.

During production, debris may have entered one or more cells of the hybrid battery. If debris remains in the cells, it could cause an internal short-circuit, increasing the risk of fire or personal injury.

BMW will inspect the battery modules and replace them if necessary, at no cost to owners. The remedy is currently being developed. Until it is completed, owners must not charge their vehicles and should avoid driving in manual mode, sport mode, or using shift paddles. Owners were notified of this safety issue on October 23, 2020, with recalls beginning November 24, 2020.

For more information, owners can contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417, or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153). Additional information is available at www.safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
BMW, MINI 745LE, X5, 530E, X3
Brand
BMW
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
Category
Vehicle — Hybrid Battery System
Hazard
Affected units
4,509

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 (7)

  • 745LE
  • X5
  • 530E
  • X3
  • COUNTRYMAN
  • I8
  • 330E

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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