BMW Group has announced a voluntary recall affecting approximately 150,000 Mini Cooper SE electric vehicles due to potential battery system defects. The issue stems from a risk of cracks in the battery casing, which can lead to moisture buildup and sealing problems.
The recall primarily impacts the previous generation of the Mini Electric, produced between 2018 and 2024. BMW has confirmed that no known injuries or accidents have resulted from the defect, but the company considers it a serious safety concern. There is a risk of overheating and potential fire if the battery malfunctions.
To address the issue, BMW is advising owners to visit authorized Mini dealerships for a software update. The updated software will monitor the battery system and alert the driver if a fault is detected. In such cases, the system will safely discharge the battery to minimize the risk of overheating.
Approximately 12,500 vehicles are affected in the United States, while 39,000 are subject to recall in Germany. In Israel, Delek Motors, the BMW and Mini importer, has confirmed that 148 Mini Cooper SE 3-door electric models produced between 2020 and 2023 are included in the recall.
The recall process involves a software update that is estimated to take approximately two hours to complete. The repair will be performed free of charge at authorized BMW service centers. It’s important to note that Israeli vehicle owners who fail to complete the recall within six months may face restrictions on vehicle registration and ownership transfer.
[source: NHTSA]
