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BMW issues limited recall for 2018 328d models after fire concern
BMW of North America has announced a targeted recall for a small cohort of 2018 328d sedans and Sports Wagon models sold in the United States. The action stems from a potential coolant leak in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler that, under certain conditions, could generate smoldering deposits and — in rare, extreme cases — cause the plastic intake manifold to melt or ignite.
How the defect can lead to a fire
The EGR cooler sits in a hot, sooty environment by design. If coolant escapes into that module it can mix with carbon deposits and other combustion residues. Those mixtures, combined with the high temperatures that EGR components routinely reach, create a risk that smoldering particles will form and damage nearby plastic parts. BMW’s engineers found that the intake manifold — a thermoplastic part on these cars — may be vulnerable to that heat and contamination.
What prompted the recall
BMW began investigating the issue after a thermal event reported in July 2025. A follow-up audit showed that a small group of 2018 328d vehicles had been inadvertently excluded from an earlier, broader recall (NHTSA campaign 21V-907) that addressed suspect EGR coolers. The original 21V-907 recall covered more than 50,000 cars; this new, narrow action corrects an omission.
- Manufacturer supplier: Korens (South Korea)
- Parts involved: three specific EGR cooler part numbers
- Vehicles affected: 89 sedans and 23 Sports Wagon (112 total)
- Drivetrains included: both rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive
Remedy and timelines
BMW of North America has instructed dealers to replace the suspect EGR coolers free of charge. Technicians will also inspect the plastic intake manifold and replace it if they find heat-related damage. In addition, the EGR pipe that links the cooler to the intake will receive a thorough cleaning to remove soot and residues that could contribute to the problem.
Dealers were notified earlier in the month; affected owners are scheduled to receive mailed notices by December 5, 2025. That same day BMW will upload VINs for the recall to its online database and the NHTSA recall lookup. Owners can check their 17‑character VIN (U.S.-market VINs for these models typically begin with “W”) on BMW’s site or NHTSA’s portal to confirm eligibility.
Practical advice for owners
If you own a 2018 328d sedan or Sports Wagon, contact your dealer promptly once you receive notice. Until the repair is completed, consider parking in open areas away from flammable materials and avoid leaving the vehicle idling unattended. BMW will handle the repairs at no cost to customers.
"BMW will replace affected EGR coolers and inspect intake manifolds free of charge; owners will be notified by December 5, 2025."
Technical and market context
The 2018 328d uses BMW’s 2.0‑liter turbocharged diesel inline-four rather than the historic six-cylinder implied by the model number. It produces about 181 hp and 280 lb-ft (≈380 Nm) of torque, delivering strong torque for highway cruising and solid fuel economy: up to 36 mpg combined (6.5 l/100 km) for rear-wheel-drive models and approximately 34 mpg combined (6.9 l/100 km) with xDrive. BMW withdrew turbo diesel models from its U.S. lineup after the 2018 model year.
For comparison, the most efficient 2026 3 Series with a 2.0‑liter turbo gasoline engine returns roughly 31 mpg combined (RWD) or 29 mpg with xDrive — respectable figures, but the older 328d remains the frugal choice in mixed driving.
This recall is narrow in scope but important for owners of the affected cars. Check your VIN, watch for BMW’s mailed notice, and schedule the free repair at an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
Source: autoevolution
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