Recall alert: BMW recalling 50K vehicles over braking defect

BMW announced Thursday that it is recalling more than 50,000 vehicles to address a software problem that hampers braking.

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The automobile company said it was recalling cars and SUVs from 2019 to 2021 because of the braking assist defect, according to Consumer Reports. The defect can increase the possibility of a crash, the magazine reported.

Vehicles impacted by the recall include 2020 540i and M340i sedans and X3 SUVs; model-year 2020-21 745Le sedans, X4 SUVs, and Toyota Supra sports cars; and model-year 2019-21 Z4 sports cars, according to Cars.com.

BMW said that when consumers start up the vehicles, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist, the website reported. The company added that full mechanical braking without assist remains available.

The defect causes drivers to press harder on the brake pedal to stop.

BMW said that under certain starting conditions, the engine management software could damage the oil/vacuum pump that enables the brake assist, according to Consumer Reports.

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This defect was discovered after an increase in warranty claims early this year, the magazine reported. BMW conducted an internal engineering review of the claims between February and April.

A BMW spokesperson told Consumer Reports in an email that the automaker is not aware of any crashes attributed to this issue.

BMW said it will notify owners by mail, with letters expected to be sent on Oct. 1. Consumers can contact BMW customer service at 800-525-7417. Supra owners can contact Toyota customer service at 800-331-4331.

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