Fire risk for 721,000 cars: BMW drivers in the USA should not park their vehicles indoors

Another trouble in the United States for BMW drivers. After a major recall campaign two years ago, those affected now have to bring their vehicles back to the workshop. Until then, they should not use garages or carports.

More than 720,000 BMW drivers in the USA are initially supposed to park in the open on the instructions of the traffic safety authority NHTSA. The Munich car manufacturer announced that 720,796 cars that had already been recalled in 2024 because of a problem with the water pump would have to go back to the workshop.

There is a risk that the cars could catch fire even though they were parked and the engine was switched off. The NHTSA advised car owners to "park their car outdoors and away from buildings and other vehicles until it is repaired."

Two years ago, BMW recalled 720,796 cars to the workshops because of the risk of short circuits. "An improperly sealed electrical connection on the water pump could allow water to pass through and cause a short circuit," NHTSA said at the time. The recall affected, among others, the X1 and X5 models as well as some 5 Series sedans.