BMW of North America has issued a recall for over 291,000 vehicles in the United States due to a potential rear cargo rail detachment risk.
In its Safety Recall Report dated July 17, 2024 to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety (NHTSA), BMW explained the reason for the recall:
“This safety recall involves the attachment between the rear cargo rails and the vehicle body. In an extreme rear crash, the attachment between the rear cargo rail and the vehicle body could become damaged.”
The affected vehicles include various X3 5-door sports utility vehicles (SUVs) with rear cargo rail configuration produced from 2018 to 2023.
This issue could lead to the cargo rail detaching while the vehicle is in motion, posing a significant safety risk.
BMW has acknowledged the problem, stating it stems from insufficient fastener bolts, which may cause the cargo rail to separate in a rear crash posing a significant safety hazard to the vehicle occupants.
Here’s the list of all affected models (from model year 2018-2023):
- X3 sDrive30i
- X3 xDrive30i
- X3 M40i
- X3 M
The NHTSA number for this recall is 24V-534.
Impact on Vehicle Owners
The rear cargo rail detachment can lead to cargo shifting unexpectedly, which can be hazardous, especially at high speeds.
Owners of affected vehicles informed BMW about the potential danger after an “extreme rear crash” incident two years ago involving a Model Year 2022 BMW X3.
BMW plans to reach out to inform owners through official mail notifications in August to encourage them to bring their vehicles in for inspection and repair as soon as possible.
Repair Process
BMW dealers will remedy the issue by removing and replacing the bolts connecting the rear cargo rail to the vehicle’s cargo area compartment. If necessary, the entire cargo rail assembly will be replaced.
The company assures that all repairs will be conducted free of charge and will take place as soon as possible to ensure owner safety.
Owners who encountered the issue and had it fixed at their own expense before the recall is announced may be eligible for reimbursement, according to BMW.
How to Check If Your Vehicle Is Affected
Owners can verify if their vehicle is part of the recall by visiting BMW’s official recall page or contacting customer service at 1-800-525-7417. By entering their vehicle identification number (VIN), they can determine if their car needs repairs.
In addition, you can also call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
BMW’s Response
BMW has committed to addressing this issue promptly, highlighting their dedication to customer safety.
The company is also reviewing their production processes to prevent future occurrences of similar problems.
Officials from BMW have emphasized their commitment to maintaining high safety standards and restoring customer trust.
Preventive Measures and Future Outlook
To improve vehicle safety, BMW is implementing stricter quality control measures and enhancing their inspection protocols.
Industry trends show a growing emphasis on automotive safety, and BMW aims to lead by example.
This recall may influence future models, driving advancements in safety features and manufacturing processes.
Consumer Protection and Lemon Law
Consumers have rights under the Lemon Law if their vehicle repeatedly fails to meet quality and performance standards.
If the defect persists despite multiple repairs, owners might be eligible for a replacement vehicle or a refund. Affected BMW owners should consult legal experts to explore their options.
About BMW
BMW, short for Bayerische Motoren Werke, is a renowned German automaker known for its luxury vehicles and innovative technology.
The company has a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable cars, but like all manufacturers, it has also encountered lemon law cases, periodic recalls over major safety issues, and class action lawsuits over some models found to be defective.
Legal Recourse for Affected Owners
Owners of defective vehicles have legal avenues to pursue compensation. Success stories of Lemon Law cases against manufacturers like BMW demonstrate that owners can secure favorable outcomes.
If you are experiencing issues with your BMW, seeking legal representation can help you navigate the process effectively.
In California, most Lemon Law attorneys take on these cases on a “no-win, no fee” basis, you don’t need to incur any out of pocket expenses with your attorney’s fees.
If you own an affected BMW model, contact your dealer immediately to arrange for the necessary repairs.
For BMW owners in California experiencing recurring issues, consider booking a free consultation with Lemon Lawyers to understand your rights and potential compensation. you can also call us directly at (323)553-7526.
Your safety and satisfaction are paramount, and taking prompt action ensures both.
Featured image: 2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i By Kevauto – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0