The 2010 BMW 5 Series. Image: BMW Group
Announced by BMW as a “quality measure,” the automaker is recalling an estimated 1.3 million 5 Series and 6 Series automobiles, built between 2003 and 2010. At issue is potentially incorrect mounting of the battery cable cover, which can result in electrical system issues, failure of the vehicle to start, or in a worst case scenario sparking and a potential fire risk.
It’s worth noting that no accidents or injuries have been reported due to this defect, and that only a small percentage (less than one-percent, according to Reuters) of recalled vehicles actually exhibit the problem. Worldwide, the recall affects an estimated 1.3 million vehicles, of which roughly 368,000 were sold in the United States, 293,000 in Germany, 109,000 in the U.K. and 102,000 in China.
Owners will be notified in writing by BMW in regards to this voluntary safety recall, and BMW dealers will inspect affected cars and repair at no charge as necessary. Expect the service procedure to take approximately 30 minutes.
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
