BMW recalling over 1mn cars in North America

German luxury car manufacturer BMW AG has announced two recalls covering over one million vehicles and SUVs in North America for two separate issues involving risks of fire under the hood.

The targets would mostly include the popular 3-Series models as well as 5-Series, X5, X3 and Z3 models which BMW said risk bursting into flame even when they are parked and the engine is off.

One recall of 670,000 2006-2011 US 3-Series vehicles would address trouble in the wiring of the heating and air conditioning system, which may cause the vehicle to overheat or increase the risk of fire, Reuters reported.

The second recall would cover 740,000 US 2007-2011 vehicles with a valve that could rust and lead to a fire in rare cases. The recall would include some 128i vehicles, 3-Series, 5-Series and X3, X5 and Z4 vehicles.

A spokesman for the German automaker – as quoted by US media - said the risk of fire is very low in both cases, but the vehicles should say outside “in an abundance of caution.” In both recalls, repairs could start on December 18.

About 80,000 vehicles also are being recalled in Canada for the crankcase ventilation valve heater, BMW was quoted to have announced in a statement as reported by US media. The company is reviewing whether the wiring recall will apply to Canadian vehicles.

The BMW had previously announced three injuries related to the first recall, and none connected with the second. However, the US media reported that there had been over 40 incidences over the last five years in which a parked and non-operating BMW burst into flames of its own accord.

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