BMW stops delivery and recalls plug-in hybrids due to fire risk

Published 20 October 2020

BMW and MINI are recalling all plug-in hybrid models built in 2020, due to a battery fire risk. The recall affects 26,700 vehicles worldwide and 2930 in the UK.

The delivery stop and recall affects the 2 Series Active Tourer, 3 Series, 3 Series Touring, 5 Series, 5 Series Touring, 7 Series, long-wheelbase 7 Series, X1, X2, X3, X5, i8 and MINI Countryman built between 20 January and 18 September 2020.

BMW has told HonestJohn.co.uk that there has been no vehicle fires in the UK as a result of the issue. The manufacturer says that internal analysis showed that in very rare cases, particles may have got into the battery during the production process. When the battery is fully charged, this could lead to a short circuit within the cells.

A BMW spokesperson said: "BMW Group has launched a worldwide safety recall and stopped delivery of a small number of plug-in hybrid vehicles as a preventative measure to check the high voltage battery."

Around 26,700 vehicles are affected worldwide including 2930 in the UK, some of which are already with customers with the remainder awaiting delivery. BMW has apologised for the inconvenience caused to customers, but of course safety must come first.

The issue follows an ongoing safety recall for the Ford Kuga plug-in hybrid, which is also a fire risk.