A small number of 2018 BMW 540d xDrive vehicles, equipped with Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) modules could experience an internal glycol coolant leak that may result in an engine fire.
BMW first became aware of the problem in October 2018 when they opened an investigation into reports of certain BMW vehicles experiencing engine fires. What they found was; that these vehicles were equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module with an integrated cooler that could leak coolant internally. The coolant mixed with diesel engine soot, combined with the high EGR temperatures could result in smoldering, fire, and a melted intake manifold.
During vehicle operation, the driver may be alerted there is a problem through:
- A warning symbol in the instrument cluster displaying a loss of engine coolant.
- A reduction in engine power.
- An unpleasant exhaust odor.
- Unusual noise from the engine compartment.
- Smoke from the engine compartment.
NHTSA campaign number 18V-755 – BMW recalled 44,368 vehicles.
This recall campaign affected certain 2013-2018 BMW vehicles with the N47T and N57T diesel engines that were produced from September 12, 2012, to June 29, 2017.
The vehicles affected include:
| 2013-2018 328d |
| 2013-2018 328d xDrive |
| 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon |
| 2014-2018 328d xDrive Sports Wagon |
| 2014-2016 535d |
| 2014-2016 535d xDrive |
| 2015 740Ld xDrive |
| 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV |
| 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV |
NHTSA campaign number 21V-907 – BMW recalled 50,404 vehicles.
After continued field monitoring and review of field data, BMW determined that the EGR cooler may not be sufficiently durable to last the lifetime of the vehicle. They decided to issue a recall that would replace the EGR module on all potentially affected vehicles, with an improved cooler design. The intake manifold was inspected and replaced as necessary, and the EGR pipe connecting the cooler to the manifold was cleaned.
NHTSA campaign number 22V-614 – BMW is recalling 298 vehicles.
The vehicles subject to this recall have a different design and manufacturer of the EGR cooler than the vehicles previously recalled. After further monitoring and review of field data, it was found that the specific EGR cooler for certain 2018 BMW 540d xDrive vehicles may not be robust to last the vehicle’s lifetime. BMW has decided to perform a recall for these vehicles as well.
Owners receiving notices will be asked to return to their BMW dealer to have the EGR module replaced and the intake manifold inspected and replaced as necessary.
