BMW Group NZ issues recalls
BMW Group New Zealand has issued recalls for a number of models after identifying potential problems with brake systems in some of its latest BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce vehicles.
The company has posted 11 recall notices on the NZTA database for models built between 2022 and 2024.
These affect more than 10 BMW models, Mini’s Countryman, Aceman and Cooper, and the Rolls-Royce Spectre.
For the BMW and Mini cars, the notices say tests revealed signal interference may occur in the brake system electronics in “very rare cases” and this may increase the risk of an accident or injury.
“We will therefore provide diagnostic software for your vehicle that will generally detect such a malfunction well before it occurs,” the company adds.
“This diagnostic software then generates a specific message on the central monitor of the vehicle that asks you to see a BMW / Mini partner in a timely manner.”
BMW vehicles affected by the action include the 1 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, 225XE, X1, X2, X5, X6, X7 and XM from the model years 2023-2024.
Versions of BMW’s 2 Series, pictured, 5 Series, 7 Series, 225XE, X1, X5, X5 MS, X7, XM for the model years 2022-2023 are also part of the recalls issued in late August, as are Mini’s Countryman, Aceman and Cooper from the 2024 model year.
One recall notice for the Mini Countryman, model year 2023, simply states “there is improved diagnosis software for the brake system”.
BMW Group NZ explains that where problems are diagnosed it will replace integrated brake system components free of charge.
“If a malfunction occurs that cannot be detected by the early warning diagnostic software, the vehicle will provide a notification before, or while driving, via the brake warning lamps in the instrument cluster and by a corresponding ‘check control’ message on the vehicle information display,” it continues.
“In this situation, the driver may be required to increase the operating force needed for braking.
“Other brake control functions such as the anti-lock brake system and dynamic stability control will also not be available and in certain conditions, braking distance may be extended, possibly increasing the risk of an accident or injury.”
The potential problems with the braking system are part of a global issue for the BMW Group, which has issued recalls for more than 1.5 million vehicles worldwide.
Reduced braking power
As for Rolls-Royce, its Spectre, pictured below, from the model years 2023-2024 is the subject of a recall issued on September 5.
The notice states a potential issue with the integrated brake system means it may not function according to specifications, leading to reduction in the power assist function.
“If this reduction occurs, the antilock brake system and dynamic stability control system may not function. Vehicles that have been identified within this recall will need to have the dynamic stability control integrated hydraulic unit replaced.”
It also advises if the integrated brake system module does not function according to specifications, a warning light and message will be displayed in the instrument cluster.
“There will be a reduction in braking power, which could increase the stopping distance,” the recall says.
“The antilock brake system and dynamic stability control system may also not function. Increased pedal force may be required, although please note the braking system will still operate in a safe mode and braking the vehicle will at all times be possible.”
Anyone noticing these problems is advised to refrain from further use of the vehicle and contact Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Auckland to have the vehicle remedied.
