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NHTSA Recall 12V126000: Cables (electrical system)

BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 367,682 vehicles. It affects 4 models including the BMW 5 Series.

367,682
vehicles potentially affected
4
models affected
2012
owners notified (April 30)
NHTSA campaign12V126000
ComponentELECTRICAL SYSTEM › 12V/24V/48V BATTERY › CABLES
Report receivedMarch 26, 2012
Owner notificationApril 30, 2012
Initiated byManufacturer

Defect

BMW is recalling certain model year 2004-2010 5-series, model year 2004-2010 6-series, model year 2006-2010 m5, and model year 2007-2010 m6 vehicles. The insulated bulkhead connector for the positive battery cable may have been incorrectly attached to the trunk floor panel, which can lead to a loosening of the bolt connection. As it loosens, an increase in electrical resistance at this cable connection is possible and could cause the cable connection to overheat.

Safety risk

Overheating could lead to a fire, even while the vehicle is not in use. As a precaution, owners are advised to park outside until the remedy has been made.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the battery bolt cable connection as necessary, free of charge. The safety recall began on april 30, 2012. Owners may contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

Customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.

Vehicles covered by recall 12V126000

Make and modelModel years
BMW 5 Series2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
BMW 6 Series2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
BMW M52006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
BMW M62007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.