Faulty electrical system in BMW 5 and 6 – how to check if I am at risk of fire?

BMW AG has announced that a certain group of 5-Series and 6-Series vehicles have a defect in the form of a faulty plus wire connector. In extreme cases, this defect can lead to a vehicle fire even when parked with the ignition off.

What is the plug connector in the BMW 5/6 electrical system? What is the factory defect of this component?

The plus power wire is routed on E60, E61, E63, E64 models from the battery through a screw connector in the trunk floor further to the front of the vehicle. The main power supply is routed through this wire.

The location of the screw connector and the influence of the weather often leads to corrosion of the connector. In addition, the inherent vibration of the vehicle can cause it to come loose. As a result, there is a significant increase in electrical resistance at this location. This can eventually cause the component to heat up to high temperatures and ignite vehicle components.

What models and vintages are affected by this fault?

The problem with the plug connector affected 5 and 6 series vehicles (E60, E61, E63, E64 models) from the entire production period. About 12,500 vehicles were affected by the Service Action in Poland.

Am I in danger of a fire if there is a faulty electrical system in mine?

Yes. If the plus wire heats up while drawing significant amounts of current, it can melt the insulation and ignite vehicle components in the trunk.

Activities that require significant power:

• starting the vehicle,
• heating the windows,
• seat heating,
• blowing,
• parking heating.

What symptoms might suggest a problem with the electrical system?

Initial problems with the plug connector can be associated with errors in the vehicle’s electrical supply. Suddenly, automatic transmission messages will appear, audio, navigation, iDrive systems will be disconnected, etc. Extremely, there may be a problem with starting the engine and discharging the battery at a standstill.

How to check if my BMW has a faulty electrical system?

A visual inspection will check the condition of the plus wire from the battery deep inside the vehicle, especially around the trunk floor.

Our service has access to the official database of BMW AG. By VIN number, we are able to verify and advise you on what to do in each case.

Will BMW Authorized Service repair the electrical system in my car for free?

Yes. The scope of the Technical Action includes checking and replacing the plus wire connector at the expense of BMW AG. We wrote more about such repairs in this article:

• How to get your car repaired due to BMW’s Technical Action?

What if I can’t get my electrical system repaired at a BMW Authorized Service Center?

BM Cars is a specialized BMW service 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.

Related articles to the topic of electrical installations in BMW

• Repair of Electrical Installations in BMW
• Used electric cars – what should you know about servicing?
• What are the consequences of amateur engine replacement in BMW and how to fix them?
• Defective EGR in BMW – how to check if I am at risk of fire?

I am too far 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.