Westwood, N.J. – Feb. 22, 2017 – BMW has recalled more than 19,000 hybrid-electric models due to a serious fuel tank vent design flaw. The recall affects i3 four-door sedans with range extender engines produced between 2014 and 2017, according to a report from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
The Defect
BMW i3 models in this series feature closed engine compartments. Inside, one section of the fuel tank vent line makes contact with the rubber-coated B+ battery cable. In some cases, this friction causes the fuel tank vent line to abrade, leaking flammable vapor into the engine compartment and increasing the likelihood of a fire.
Timeline of Events
In November 2016, a dealer overseas reported the issue and hypothesized that the fuel tank vent line was chafing against the nearby B+ battery cable. Engineers from the German automaker conducted expansive field tests to see if the problem was common among i3 models at other dealerships. On Jan. 17, 2017, BMW personnel reviewed collected diagnostic data and determined that the issue was indeed widespread. Engineers performed further evaluations to better understand how the fuel tank vent line might degrade over time.
Soon after, BMW surveyed manufacturing records to determine which models might be affected. On Feb. 2, the automaker began the voluntary recall process. Dealers received notification Feb. 10. No vent line-related injuries have been reported.
The Solution
BMW has ordered all dealers to inspect the fuel tank vent lines in affected models and offer replacements if necessary. Additionally, all recalled i3s are to be outfitted with clips that keep fuel tank vent lines and B+ battery cables separate and prevent chaffing. Dealers will administer the repairs free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin April 3.
