Defective EGR in BMW – how to check if I am at risk of fire?

What is EGR and what is the factory defect of this component?

EGR – English. “Exhaust Gas Recirculation” is an exhaust gas recirculation system. It is a system by which part of the exhaust gas escaping from the engine is routed back into the intake system and burned together with clean air.

Thanks to the use of this system, it has been possible in diesel engines to significantly reduce the amount of harmful components coming out of the exhaust system. In new BMW models, the EGR valve and exhaust gases are cooled by means of an additional coolant-fed radiator.

A leak in the cooling system causes coolant (a mixture of glycol and water) to enter the exhaust cooler and, under extreme conditions, ignition can occur when in contact with hot exhaust gases.

What models and vintages are affected by this defect?

The fault in the EGR system mainly affects models of the F10 and F11 lineup with 2.0 and 3.0-liter diesel engines of 2010-2017 vintages, although other models equipped with diesel engines may also be affected. The Official Technical Action announced at BMW applies to specific vehicles identified by VIN number.

Am I in danger of catching fire if there is a faulty EGR in mine?

There is no definite answer to this question. If there is a burning smell in your car while the engine is running or the coolant is running out to a significant degree, this is a signal to check the cooling system and EGR system immediately.

What symptoms might suggest an EGR problem?

The most common symptom is the depletion of coolant and a frequently appearing message that the coolant level is too low. In addition, there may be a burning smell in the vehicle cabin.

Based on the vehicle’s history, how do you determine whether there may be an EGR problem?

The defect we are discussing is not related to the vehicle’s operating history. The defect can appear in both heavily used cars and those used occasionally.

What vehicles are in the “risk group”?

The risk includes all BMWs with 2.0 and 3.0-liter diesel engines.

How do I find out if my BMW has a faulty EGR?

BM Cars, as a specialized BMW service center, has access to an official database where it can check any car by VIN number. This database is maintained by BMW AG and includes all technical stocks.

In our online store we offer the possibility to purchase an extract from this database. The generated PDF file will allow you to:

• reliably verify whether your car has a defective EGR,
• showing the defective component, in the case of buying/selling a car,
• possibly arranging a repair at the ASO.

Will an Authorized BMW Service repair the EGR in my car for free?

Yes. The Technical Action announced by BMW to check and possibly replace EGR modules applies to all markets where BMW vehicles are sold. Each vehicle reporting to an Authorized Service Station should be verified by VIN number whether it is covered by the above Action. All work performed under the Technical Action is paid for by BMW AG.

What if I can’t get my EGR repaired at an Authorized BMW Service Center?

BM Cars is a specialized BMW service center in Silesia. We are well-known experts in the industry who openly share technical advice. We work with BMW Poland to purchase genuine parts and have access to official information, recommendations and procedures.

As an independent service center, we have more freedom to publish our expertise, select branded parts and repair all BMWs. Regardless of whether they are covered by Technical Action.

I’m too far away from BM Cars. What should I do?

We have many customers who commute to us from far away. However, we know that not everyone has the opportunity to come to our branch in Katowice. It is worth remembering that regardless of where and by whom the repair is carried out, you are entitled to a warranty.

If there is no trustworthy service in your region and you cannot come in person, consider transporting your car on a trailer. For details and costs, please go to the Make a Visit page.