BMW Issues Recall for 29,000 Hybrid Sedans, Urges Owners to Park Away From Structures

BMW has issued a recall affecting roughly 29,000 hybrid sedans, warning owners to park their vehicles outside and away from garages, carports, or any structures. The reason: a potential fire risk tied to the battery system in certain models.

The recall specifically targets 2020 through 2024 versions of the BMW 330e, 530e, 745e, and X3 xDrive30e, as well as the 2020-2023 X5 xDrive45e. According to documents filed with federal safety regulators, an internal short circuit in the high-voltage battery pack could occur even when the car is turned off, leading to overheating and, in worst-case scenarios, a fire.

BMW says it is not aware of any injuries or crashes linked to the issue, but has received a handful of reports of thermal events globally.

Owners are being told to park outside and not charge their vehicles until a fix is available. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery pack at no cost. BMW expects to notify affected customers by mail starting late next month, with repair parts becoming available in the weeks that follow.

In the meantime, the company advises drivers to keep a close eye on any warning lights or unusual smells coming from the car.

This marks the second major battery-related recall for BMW in recent months, following a separate action earlier this year involving plug-in hybrid models in Europe. For now, the safest move for owners is to keep the car away from anything flammable and avoid plugging it in until the recall work is done.