BMW is recalling as many as 26,900 plug-in hybrids globally as a preventative measure to check the high-voltage battery after a potential problem with their sealed battery units emerged.
Internal BMW analysis has shown that in very rare cases particles may have entered the battery during the production process. When the battery is fully charged, this could lead to a short circuit within the battery cells, which may lead to a fire.
The recall impacts several models manufactured during the 2020 calendar year, including the X1, X2, X3 and X5 hybrid SUVs, plus hybrid versions of the 3-, 5- and 7-Series.
Also affected are the 2-Series Active Tourer, i8 and the Mini Countryman PHEV if assembled since January 2020.
BMW says that affected customers will receive an in-car message with clear instructions, which will be followed up by letter, email or phone call.
Engineers are currently developing a remedy to the problem. Until a solution is found, BMW is asking owners of affected cars not to charge the battery pack, not to drive in manual mode, not to engage sport mode, and not to use the shift paddles.
