BMW Tells Owners to Park Outside: 29,000+ Plug-In Hybrids Recalled for Fire Hazard

, warning owners to park them outdoors and away from structures due to a potential fire risk. The recall affects certain 2020-2024 model year 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3, X5, and X6 plug-in hybrids, as well as the 2023-2024 XM SUV. The problem stems from a battery cell defect that could cause a short circuit, leading to overheating and, in rare cases, a fire even when the car is turned off and not charging.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says the issue involves high-voltage battery packs manufactured by Samsung SDI. BMW has received one report of a thermal event, a fire, linked to the defect, though no injuries have been reported. As a precaution, the automaker is asking owners to park outside and not charge their vehicles until a fix is available.

Dealers will replace the entire battery pack free of charge. Notification letters are expected to go out starting October 21.

For Boca Auto Care customers, this recall is a reminder to check your vehicle’s status regularly. If you own a BMW plug-in hybrid from these model years, you can enter your VIN on the NHTSA website or call BMW’s recall hotline. In the meantime, follow the parking instruction: keep it out of the garage and away from your home.

Our shop can help verify if your car is affected and assist with any recall-related service once the repair parts arrive.