When in doubt recall them all, as BMW has done here after paying $3 million in fines imposed by NHTSA last month for delaying or covering up a series of recalls. Toyota still holds the record at $50 million in fines for its safety defect coverups.
BMW AG is recalling all BMW 5 and 6 Series models from the previous generation, built between 2003 and 2010 for possible fires. About 1.3 million vehicles worldwide are affected.
The battery cable cover inside the trunk of these BMWs may be mounted improperly. This can result in the electrical system malfunctioning, failure to start and, smoldering mats and in some cases, charring or fire. Complaints date to 2006, and the problem can occur with the ignition turned off.
In a terse statement BMW said, “We are not aware of any accidents or injury to persons” from this safety defect, but did not elaborate on the problem, when it was discovered and how many incidents there are. More details will be available when the required filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is made public. This large BMW recall follows fines imposed by NHTSA on BMW last month for delaying a series of recalls. (See BMW Follows Toyota by Paying $3 Million Fine for not Reporting Safety Defects within Five Days to NHTSA)
Vehicle owners will be notified in writing. Affected vehicles will take about 30 minutes to repair. The service is free of charge to the customer as is required by U.S. safety regulations.
