WASHINGTON, D.C. -

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said BMW North America is recalling more than a half-million vehicles in two separate campaigns.

The vast majority — 504,545 vehicles to be exact — is associated with a recall stemming from the electric system. In this campaign, BMW is recalling:

—2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through July 2011
—2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through July 2011
—2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011
—2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011
—2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011

Officials explained the connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, they said the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.

“If there is a loss of electrical power to the vehicle, the vehicle may unexpectedly stall, increasing the risk of a crash,” NHTSA said.

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin next month.

Meanwhile the remaining amount — 30,265 units included in BMW’s other recall campaign — is associated with a brake issue.

BMW is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 X5 SAV vehicles, manufactured on Sept. 12, 2006 through March 18, 2010 and equipped with an 8-cylinder engine.

Officials said the brake vacuum pump may leak a small amount of lubricating oil into the hose. The contamination could result in a loss of power assist braking.

“The loss of power assist in braking could increase stopping distance and lead to a vehicle crash,” NHTSA said.
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake vacuum line with one that contains a check valve, free of charge.

This recall starts this month, according to the OEM.

Owners of vehicles associated with either recall can call BMW at (800) 525-7417 or email the automaker at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

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