BMW Recalls 2022 i4 and 2022-2023 iX Over High Voltage Battery Problems

Electric vehicles have gained popularity in recent years. Compared to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles, however, electric vehicles are still relatively new – and they can pose a host of issues. 

BMW recently acknowledged one such problem in a recall of its 2022 I4 and 2022-2023 Ix vehicles. In the recall, BMW notes that “some high-voltage battery modules may not have been produced to specifications” and require replacement. 

Problems With the i4 and iX Batteries

In an April 2023 recall notice delivered to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), BMW notes that the recall applies to its 2022 Model Year i4 Gran Coupe. 

According to the recall notice, the batteries in the vehicles were not “produced to specifications.” Specifically, problems in the high voltage battery combined charging unit (CCU) include incorrect assembly of components. 

As a result, the batteries may short-circuit, leading to a potential battery fire. The recall encourages BMW owners to bring their vehicles to a certified dealership, where the battery will be replaced free of charge. 

The recall notice warns that “affected vehicles are not to be driven or charged and to be parked away from any buildings.” It also warns dealerships that “only properly trained personnel” should be assigned to perform the stated repairs on any BMW vehicle. 

The BMW i4 has been the subject of several recalls in recent years. For instance, the 2023 BMW i4 is currently the subject of several recalls related to the electrical system and one for problems with the backover prevention system’s warnings. Similar recalls also apply to the 2022 BMW i4.

Recalls of the 2022-2023 iX xDrive50 and iX M60 focus on a similar battery problem. In these vehicles, improper assembly of the CCU may cause interruptions in the vehicle’s electrical power flow while driving. If this happens, the vehicle may stall suddenly, resulting in a crash. 

BMW began investigating concerns about the iX vehicles’ batteries in May 2023. Although BMW’s supplier stated that the parts under investigation had passed end-of-line testing, the automaker discovered in June that the CCU still risked functioning incorrectly. 

To date, the 2022 BMW iX has also been the subject of other recalls. These include recalls for problems with the airbags, multiple issues with the electrical system, and problems with the vehicle’s cruise control. Similar issues have been reported with the 2023 BMW iX. 

What to Do If Your Vehicle is Affected by the Recall

If you’re experiencing problems with any vehicle system, it’s important to take the vehicle to the dealership as soon as possible. Don’t hesitate to take the vehicle back to the dealership if the problem isn’t fixed the first time.

Each time you experience problems with the vehicle or take steps to respond to a recall notice, keep records of what you do. Write down the date, time, and who you speak to at the dealership, for example. Keep copies of any paperwork from the dealership.

Also, keep copies of any paperwork for expenses that are related to your vehicle problems. For example, if you have to call a tow truck to take your stalled BMW to the dealership, keep a copy of the receipt from the towing company. If you have to rent a car, pay for Uber or Lyft, or use public transportation while your car is in the shop, keep copies of paperwork or screenshots from the app to show how much you paid for this alternative transportation. 

Finally, locate copies of your original warranty or certified pre-owned (CPO) warranty, if you have them. Keep this warranty paperwork with your paperwork from the dealership and your receipts. If the dealership cannot fix your vehicle, you may have a valid claim under California lemon law. Your warranty will play a key role in establishing a valid lemon law claim and helping you seek the compensation provided under state law. 

How an Experienced California Lemon Law Attorney Can Help

Under California lemon law, a vehicle owner can seek compensation for a covered problem that the dealership cannot repair even after multiple “reasonable repair attempts” are made. Compensation for a lemon vehicle can include the following:

• A refund or a replacement vehicle (whichever you choose),
• Compensation for related expenses like towing fees, rental cars, or bus passes, 
• Attorney’s fees and litigation costs paid by the automaker

Talk to an experienced California lemon law attorney as soon as possible to learn how the lemon law might apply in your situation. The team at Wirtz Law APC can help.