BMW is recalling a substantial number of its current electric vehicles due to an issue causing sudden power loss.
BMW is recalling over 71,000 electric vehicles in the United States due to a software issue affecting the electric drive motor. The models impacted include the 2022–2024 BMW i4, 2025 BMW i4 EDrive35 and EDrive40, 2024 i5, 2023–2024 i7, and 2022-2024 iX.
The recall was initiated after approximately 40 potential issues were identified via previous warranty claims. The software glitch in certain vehicle production configurations causes a shutdown of the high-voltage system after a warning message is displayed. This can lead to a sudden loss of drive power while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of an accident.
However, it is important to note that the power steering and power brakes functionality remain unaffected during this power loss. BMW reported no accidents related to this issue in the U.S. market, despite a low rate of occurrence globally.
The resolution for this issue is a software update, which can be applied over-the-air (OTA) for vehicles with this capability. Alternatively, BMW dealerships can perform the update at no cost for owners. The software update aims to prevent the high-voltage system from shutting down unexpectedly, thus ensuring continued drive power.
Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail, with letters expected by early August. In the meantime, owners can check if their vehicle is involved by contacting BMW customer service or visiting the NHTSA website. The recall number for this issue is 25V395.
The issue, initially thought to be related to manufacturing debris, was later identified as a software problem during ongoing analyses from 2021 through 2024. The fail-safe measure, designed to protect against electrical shorts, was likely being triggered by phantom electrical faults. The new software's fail-safe mode should not trigger at random.
This recall underscores the importance of addressing potential safety concerns in electric vehicles. The software issue is a potential safety concern that could cause damage to major components, injure occupants, or even start a fire. BMW encourages all owners of affected models to promptly have their vehicles updated to ensure the continued safety and reliability of their electric vehicles.
- The recall of BMW's electric vehicles affects several models within the automotive industry, including the i4, i5, i7, and iX, raising questions about the safety of electric-vehicles in the lifestyle segment.
- Interestingly, finance experts are keeping a close eye on this issue, as the recall could potentially impact the growing trend of electric-vehicle adoption in the transportation sector, given the increasing investment in this Industry.
- As the issue was initially thought to be related to manufacturing debris but later identified as a software problem, it serves as a reminder of the critical role of software in modern vehicles, particularly electric ones, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and verification in the finance, industry, and automotive sectors.
