If you own a mid-2000s BMW with a four-cylinder engine, there’s a high likelihood that your vehicle is now part of a recall issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Over 720,000 BMW models are included in this recall, which centers around a potential fire hazard linked to a component within the engine.
According to the NHTSA, the recall affects BMW’s N20 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which may experience a short circuit at the water pump’s electrical plug connector. This issue arises from an accumulation of blow-by fluid—a mix of air and fuel that escapes between the pistons and cylinder wall—from the positive crankcase ventilation system.
While some level of blow-by fluid is normal in engines, these particular BMW models are generating an excessive amount, which then leaks into the water pump’s electrical system. The worst-case scenario involves this leak leading to a short circuit, potentially igniting a fire within the engine.
To date, 18 instances of such thermal events have been reported globally, including cases in the United States and South Korea. The recall spans 11 different BMW models, although no injuries have been reported in connection with this issue.
BMW has already devised a solution to address the problem. Dealerships will inspect the water pump and its plug connector, replacing them if necessary. Additionally, a protective shield will be installed to prevent fluid from the positive crankcase ventilation system from dripping into the electrical components.
The recall affects a total of 720,796 vehicles, but the NHTSA estimates that only about one percent of these cars and SUVs are actually defective. BMW’s response to the issue has been prompt, with the company first alerted to the problem by South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport in March.
By April, BMW had collected samples of the faulty water pumps and related components, and by July, they had identified the root cause. Dealerships have already been informed about the recall, and vehicle owners will receive notification by mail in October. The repair will be provided to affected customers free of charge.