BMW's Diesel History Has Led to a Fresh Issue in America | Carscoops

      A diesel recall is making headlines again due to hidden engine leaks that may lead to fires.

      Over 100 models of the 3-Series Sedan and Sport Wagon are subject to the recall.

      There is a risk of coolant mixing with diesel soot, which could potentially cause a fire under the hood.

      BMW has stated that there are no known injuries or accidents associated with this problem.

      Although it has been several years since BMW attempted to sell diesel vehicles in the U.S., the brand's short-lived experience with compression ignition is back in the news, this time for negative reasons. More than 100 units of the 2018 328d are being recalled due to a fire hazard.

      The automaker has acknowledged one incident where a 3-Series showed signs of a "thermal event" and identified an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler supplied by a Korean manufacturer as the source of the issue.

      What Is Causing the Fire Hazard?

      BMW states that the EGR module in the affected 328d Sedan and Sport Wagon models contains an integrated cooler that may leak glycol coolant internally.

      If this occurs, the coolant can combine with typical diesel engine soot and sediment, potentially leading to smoldering particles. Over time, this could result in the intake manifold melting and possibly trigger a fire.

      In total, 112 vehicles in the United States are affected by this recall. Among these, 23 are 328d Sportwagon models manufactured between September 7, 2018, and December 10, 2018, while 89 are 328d Sedan models produced from September 6, 2018, to October 11, 2018.

      Owners of the affected vehicles may notice a warning light indicating a loss of engine coolant, a strange odor from exhaust emissions, smoke, or unusual engine noises, along with a decrease in power.

      EGR Cooler Responsible for the Fire Risk

      BMW was first notified about this issue on July 30 after a fire involving a 2018 3-Series. The investigation subsequently identified the EGR cooler as the likely cause.

      Further examination in September found that some affected vehicles had been overlooked in a previous recall campaign conducted in November 2021. The company reports no incidents or injuries related to this problem.

      Notification letters will begin to be sent to owners on December 5. Dealers are required to replace the EGR cooler and check the intake manifold for damage, replacing it if necessary. The EGR pipe linking the cooler to the manifold will also be cleaned as part of the repair process.