NHTSA Recall 93V015000: Heater core (visibility)
BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 375,000 vehicles. It affects 3 models including the BMW 318.
| NHTSA campaign | 93V015000 |
|---|---|
| Component | VISIBILITY › DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM › HEATER CORE |
| Report received | February 1, 1993 |
| Owner notification | June 4, 1993 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
The malfunction or failure of a coolant system component results in significantly increased coolant temperature and a resulting increase in system pressure.
Safety risk
Vehicles operated under this increased cooling systempressure condition can suffer damage or failure of parts of the cooling systemsuch as (1) leakage from a coolant hose, (2) leakage of the radiator orexpansion tank, (3) disconnection of a hose from a pipe or a fitting, and (4)cracks in the heater core end piece resulting in coolant leakage. In some cases,boiling coolant can contact the lower right leg of the driver resulting inburns. Also, escaping coolant in the passenger compartment can cause vaporfogging of the interior surface of the windows, reducing driver visibility.
Remedy
Dealers will install a thermostatic bypass valve in the engine compartment to control coolant temperature in the heater core. Also, a new design radiator cap will be installed, to control pressure and provide greater coolant overflow in the event of overheating.
Notes
System: coolant system.vehicle description: passenger cars.
Vehicles covered by recall 93V015000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| BMW 318 | 1984, 1985, 1991, 1992 |
| BMW 325 | 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993 |
| BMW M3 | 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991 |
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.