BMW Recalls Over 720,000 Vehicles in United States Due to Fire Risks

BMW of North America has issued a recall for 720,796 vehicles in the United States due to potential fire risks. The recall involves 14 different models manufactured between 2012 and 2018. This action follows a previous recall in 2024 that addressed similar water pump defects.

Water pump defect causes fire risk

The fire risk is caused by an improperly sealed electrical connector located on the water pump. This defect may allow moisture to enter the component, which can lead to a short circuit. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, this electrical failure can result in a thermal event or a fire. These incidents may occur even when the vehicle is parked and the engine is turned off.

Officials have identified approximately 10 field incidents involving fire that are related to this specific defect. Because the risk persists while the vehicle is stationary, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advised owners to park affected vehicles outdoors. Owners should also keep the vehicles away from buildings or other vehicles until the necessary repairs are completed.

Recall timeline and notification process

BMW dealers were officially notified of this recall on November 4, 2026. Owners of the affected vehicles are scheduled to receive official notices through first-class mail. While the manufacturer has not confirmed the schedule, the New York Post reported that owners will begin receiving these notices on December 25, 2026.

The company is currently working to address the issue through a permanent remedy. While a final solution for the electrical connector is still under development, the manufacturer is moving forward with the recall process to mitigate safety risks to the public. This current recall is necessary because the vehicles had previously undergone a recall in 2024 regarding water pump defects.

Scope of the vehicle recall

The scope of this recall is significant, covering 720,796 vehicles across 14 distinct models. The affected vehicles were manufactured over a seven-year period, specifically between 2012 and 2018. This broad range of manufacturing years means many older BMW models in the United States market may be subject to this safety notice.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stated that an improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short-circuit, increasing fire risks when parked. The agency continues to monitor the situation as BMW of North America develops the permanent remedy for the defective water pump components.

Glossary

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was established by Congress in 1970 with the Highway Safety Act of 1970. Its scope includes consumer information programs.
• thermal event — A thermal event is an occurrence within a battery that can include a possible fire. It can be caused by an electrical short resulting from coolant entering the battery compartment.
• water pump — A water pump is a component that can contain an electrical connector. Defects in the water pump can cause fire risks.
• electrical connector — An electrical connector is a component that can be improperly sealed. If moisture enters the connector, it can lead to a short circuit.