Stop That: BMW Recalls Vehicles for Brake Issues
Pursuant to federal law (we’ve always wanted to start a post in that manner), BMW is recalling approximately 80,000 machines from the 2023 and 2024 model years for vexing problems with braking systems.
Models run the gamut, including some 5- and 7-Series sedans plus their electric i5 and i7 counterparts. On the crossover and SUV side of the ledger, the company has identified certain copies of the X1, X5, X6, X7, and the strange-looking XM as requiring attention. Even the Rolls Royce Spectre is mentioned in the campaign. A full list can be found here.
At issue is the so-called integrated brake system, a unit which may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the antilock brake and dynamic stability control systems to not function properly. In one of the most obvious statements ever put forth by a large agency (which is saying a lot), the NHTSA says a loss of power brake assist “can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle.” You don’t say.
Most drivers on the road have not had the misfortune of driving anything without power brakes; those who have, like numerous of you lot in the comments, know it requires stomping on the pedal like a vintner stomps grapes in order for anything meaningful to happen. They also point out malfunctioning ABS and haywire stability control can cause heartburn, though anyone who’s still driving a GM W-body from the ‘90s has those skills down pat. Other clues to calamity apparently include a warning lamp and message displayed in the instrument cluster and, in some cases, the vehicle may refuse to start.
As a remedy, BMW says dealers will replace the integrated brake system, a task which will surely add many hours of work orders to this brand’s service departments nationwide. According to a copy of the recall note found on a fan forum, the integrated brake system may not have been produced by its supplier according to BMW specifications.
Letters about this issue won’t go out until sometime in April. With that in mind, it’s never a bad idea to hit up the NHTSA website to check for recalls.
[Image: BMW]
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Matthew buys, sells, fixes, & races cars. As a human index of auto & auction knowledge, he is fond of making money and offering loud opinions.
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- Kwik_Shift_Pro4X As much problems as I had with my '96 Chevy Impala SS.....I would love to try one again. I've seen a Dark Cherry Metallic one today and it looked great.
- Susan O’Neil There is a good reason to keep the Chevrolet Malibu and other 4 door family sedans! You can transport your parents and other somewhat handicapped people comfortably and safety! If someone can stand and pivot you can put them in your car. An armrest in the back seat is appreciated and a handle above the door! Oh…and leather seats so your passenger can slide across the seat! 😊Plus, you can place a full sized wheelchair or walker in the trunk! The car sits a little lower…so it’s doable! I currently have a Ford Fusion and we have a Honda Accord. Our previous cars were Mercury Sables-excellent for transporting handicapped people and equipment! As the population ages-sedans are a very practical choice! POV from a retired handicapped advocate and daughter! 😊
- Freddie Remember those ads that say "Call your doctor if you still have...after four hours"?You don't need to call your doctor, just get behind the wheel of a CUV. In fact, just look at one.I'm a car guy with finite resources; I can't afford a practical car during the week plus a fun car on the weekend. My solution is my Honda Civic Si 4 door sedan. Maybe yours is a Dodge Charger (a lot of new Chargers are still on dealer lots).
- Daniel J Interesting in that we have several weeks where the temperature stays below 45 but all weather tires can't be found in a shop anywhere. I guess all seasons are "good enough".
- Steve Biro For all the talk about sedans vs CUVs and SUVs, I simply can’t bring myself to buy any modern vehicle. And I know it’s only going to get worse.
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Recall notices in April? No instruction to "Park it outside in an open field, and don't drive it until it's fixed" notice? I thought safety recalls were more stringent, but I guess dragging a foot will get the job done.
Looking forward to buying 2 of these with all of those Rubles we have been earning lately.