Recall Alert: 2002-2005 BMW 3 Series

Some trims of the 325i, 325xi, 330i and 330x — all built between Sept. 1, 2001, and March 1, 2005 — may have taillamps in which the lamp connector and housing unit can resist electrical inputs. If this happens, turning signals, braking and night illumination may be lost intermittently or permanently, and a motorist driving behind an affected vehicle may not be able to anticipate the driver’s intentions, increasing the risk of an accident.

BMW believes less than 20% of the near quarter-million vehicles affected by the recall actually have this problem, which develops over time and is affected by environmental factors. That means about 48,000 vehicles potentially need repairs.

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will repair the taillamps for free. The recall will begin in October. Owners can call BMW at 800-525-7417 or NHTSA’s vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 for more info.

This is the second BMW recall this week. On Wednesday, the 2009 BMW X5 was recalled for potential engine fires caused by a faulty fuel filter.