BMW has initiated a recall of nearly 60,000 vehicles after federal safety officials determined that electrical wiring linked to the air‑conditioning system could become damaged and increase the risk of a vehicle fire. According to recall documentation filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue involves wiring that may short‑circuit under certain conditions, creating a potential ignition hazard.

The affected models span multiple years and series. In its official notice, NHTSA states that the air‑conditioning system’s electrical lines could chafe against nearby components, damaging the insulation and exposing conductive material. If this occurs, a short‑circuit may develop. BMW’s filing indicates that the manufacturer will notify vehicle owners and perform necessary inspections and repairs.

This recall was also described in reporting by KGW, which noted that the issue was identified by federal regulators reviewing potential fire‑risk patterns.

Although the recall is national in scope, it affects owners across Southwest Washington, including Cowlitz County residents who operate the impacted models. According to NHTSA’s filing, BMW dealerships will inspect the vehicles and replace damaged wiring or apply protective measures as needed. The recall documentation indicates that owners will be contacted directly with instructions.

Drivers seeking to determine whether their vehicle is included can check recall status using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through NHTSA’s official lookup system, which the agency maintains for all federally recognized safety recalls.

Why this matters

Vehicle recalls tied to fire hazards carry elevated local significance due to the potential for rapid escalation, especially in residential areas or confined parking structures common throughout Longview and Kelso. When federal regulators identify risks involving electrical failures, timely repairs help mitigate both personal safety threats and broader community impacts.

Sources

U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Recall filing (BMW)

KGW: BMW recalls nearly 60,000 vehicles over fire risk from potential A/C short‑circuit issue