The logo of BMW is shown on a BMW car on March 20, 2019, in Munich, Germany.
DETROIT (AP) — BMW is recalling more than 917,000 older cars and SUVs in the U.S. — most for a third time — to fix a problem that can cause engine compartment fires.
The recall covers many 3 Series, 5 Series, 1 Series, X5, X3, and Z4 vehicles from the 2006 through 2013 model years.
Documents posted Wednesday by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration say there could be an electrical short in the positive crankcase ventilation valve heater. It can overheat and cause a fire.
The fire risk occurs while the vehicles are being driven or soon after they are parked. BMW says the vehicles can still be driven and don't have to be parked outdoors because fires have been rare. The company wouldn't comment when asked if fires have spread to any buildings.
BMW says in documents that if drivers smell smoke or burning plastic or see smoke from the engine compartment, they should pull to a safe location, shut off the engine and leave the vehicle.
People are also reading…
The German automaker is still developing a fix. Jay Hanson, a BMW spokesman in the U.S., said in an email that the remedy and a sufficient parts inventory are expected in mid-2022. Owners will be notified by letter starting April 25.
Most of the cars were recalled in 2017 and 2019 for the same problem. BMW documents say owners who had the previous repairs done will need to get their vehicles fixed again.
BMW says in documents that it has eight reports of fires, but no reports of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.
The company wouldn't say how many vehicles are being recalled outside of the U.S.
Owners can go to https://www.nhtsa.gov/ and key in their 17-digit vehicle identification number to see if their autos are affected.
5 vehicles for 5 personality types: Find the right car for you
Meet your match
For all the people trying to find Mr. or Mrs. Right, the same goes for cars. It isn’t easy finding the right one, and many have personalities of their own. So why not choose your next car as you would a date?
The car experts at Edmunds have evaluated five cars with distinct personalities in the hopes of matching you with the next automotive love of your life. (Destination fees are included in the listed starting price.)
The hopeless romantic: Mazda MX-5 Miata
A hopeless romantic can’t help but love someone who may not always make the most sense. The Mazda MX-5 Miata has attractive styling, is fun to drive, and can rekindle the love you once had for a manual transmission. But the Miata isn’t for everyone because it seats only two, doesn’t have much cargo space, and isn’t the best choice for colder climates.
Still, you’ll be smitten with its engaging handling, simple convertible top operation, and all-around fun. The rear-wheel-drive roadster is offered in three trim levels: the base Sport, the performance-enhanced Club and the premium Grand Touring.
Starting price: $28,315
The bad boy/bad girl: Dodge Challenger
Some people can’t resist someone with attitude, who maybe ruffles a few feathers. The large, loud and aggressive-looking Dodge Challenger coupe would be a perfect match in the car world.
The standard V6 engine is nice, but more muscle equals more attitude. That’s why getting one of the Challenger’s available V8 engines is essential. And you might as well go straight to the top with the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 found in the Challenger SRT Hellcat that cranks out 717 horsepower. But even bad boys and girls have soft spots, and the Challenger obliges with its comfortable ride, supportive seats and a quiet cabin.
Starting price: $31,275
The adventurous type: Jeep Wrangler
If you’re looking for a partner to venture off the beaten path with, then the Jeep Wrangler is the perfect companion. This American icon can take you just about anywhere thanks to its capable four-wheel-drive system, high ground clearance and advanced off-road features.
You can choose from a toned-down Sport model, a more premium Sahara Altitude or the outrageous V8-powered Rubicon 392. Off-road features such as large off-terrain tires and lockable axles are plentiful, but this off-roading explorer isn’t all brawn. You can option it with other goodies like an 8.4-inch touchscreen and adaptive cruise control.
Starting price: $31,320
The tech geek: Tesla Model 3
If you’re always the first to buy the latest gadgets or download the newest firmware update, there’s a great chance you’ll love the Tesla Model 3. This electric vehicle packs more advanced tech than an Apple store.
Its all-touchscreen interface can be distracting when driving, and its so-called Full Self-Driving system is still in beta. But there are other Easter eggs to keep you entertained. It even gets automatic over-the-air updates, allowing you to geek out for a long-term relationship.
The Model 3 comes in three versions, each with different driving ranges and power to best suit your desires.
Starting price: $46,190
The extrovert: Mercedes-Benz G-Class
They say that opposites attract, so if you’re an introverted person with money in your pocket, you might be drawn to the Mercedes G-Class. Extroverts tend to stand out and enjoy being the life of the party. The tall, boxy and loud off-roader will turn heads, whether it’s pulling up to your favorite nightclub or cruising down the boulevard.
The G-Class is powerful and quick thanks to its turbocharged V8 and has enough luxury and space to seat up to five people in comfort. If you want a further boost of extravagance, opt for the AMG model and pay extra for the eye-catching 22-inch wheels and bright Jupiter Red color.
Starting price: $132,800