BMW Recalls 720,796 Vehicles Over Water Pump Fire Risk

BMW of North America is recalling 720,796 vehicles from model years 2012 to 2018 due to a fire risk that can occur even when the engine is turned off. The defect involves an improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump that may short-circuit when exposed to water.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 10 fire incidents linked to this defect, including cases where vehicles had already received a previous water pump repair in 2024. While these fires have occurred, there are no known crashes or injuries associated with the issue.

Affected models include various 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5, and Z4 vehicles. Federal regulators have urged owners to park these vehicles outside and away from buildings and other cars until a remedy is available.

BMW is currently developing a no-cost repair to be performed at dealerships. The company will begin mailing notification letters to owners on December 25, 2026. On that same date, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will make affected vehicles searchable by identification and license plate numbers on its website.