BMW 128I, 135I, 328I and others: Electrical system

Date

Feb. 7, 2013

Filed by

BMW of North America, LLC

Vehicles

BMW 128I (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012); BMW 135I (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012); BMW 328I (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011); BMW 335I (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011); BMW Z4 (2009, 2010, 2011)

Component

Electrical System; Electrical System › 12V/24V/48V Battery › Cables; Electrical System › Wiring › Fuses And Circuit Breakers

Description of the defect

BMW is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011. In February 2013, BMW recalled 504,545 vehicles. In July 2013, BMW informed the agency that it was adding 1-Series, 3-Series, and Z4 vehicles, representing an additional 12,094 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 516,791. The connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection, and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.

Potentially affected

516791

What can happen

If there is a loss of electrical power to the vehicle, the vehicle may unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2013. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

Recall notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Owner notification date

March 13, 2013

Recall type

V (vehicle)

Influenced by

MFR

Recall number

13V044000

What should I do? Car recall: how to check your car and get it fixed

Source: NHTSA · Vehicle record. View the agency notice. The agency notice governs; check it and the company before acting.