BMW Vehicles Recalled for Brake Defects
BMW Vehicles Recalled for Brake Defects
BMW is recalling 76,200 of its 3-series vehicles for potential brake problems. According to a news report in Edmunds.com, the auto defect recall involves 2012-2014 BMW 380i and 328i sedans. Officials say these vehicles may experience a loss of power brake assist. This action is part of a larger global recall of 176,000 vehicles by the German automaker.
Other vehicles involved in the U.S. recall are the 2012-’14 BMW 320i and 328i xDrive sedan; 2014 328i xDrive Sports Wagon; 2012-13 528i and 528i xDrive sedan; 2013-’14 X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i; 2013-’14 X3 xDrive28i and 2012-’14 Z4 sDrive28i.
Loss of Power Brake Assist
According to the report, the braking system remains operational, but the amount of pedal pressure required to bring the vehicle to a full stop will be “significantly greater.” Drivers will still have the ability to stop the car. However, in rare cases, company officials say, the oil supply that provides lubrication to the vacuum pump that operates the power assist brake booster may be interrupted. When that happens, the driver will experience a loss of the power braking assist and stopping distances could be longer than normal.
Owners of these affected vehicles will be notified by mail when the recall begins. Dealers will repair the cars at no charge when parts become available. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-525-7417 for more information. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not posted any information about this recall due to the government shutdown.
Auto Product Liability Issues
Brake defects can be extremely dangerous because it affects the driver’s ability to stop the vehicle in time. This could obviously result in serious injury crashes. Anyone who has been injured as the result of a defective auto product can file an auto product liability claim against the carmaker. Such claims seek compensation for damages including medical expenses loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Families of deceased victims can file what is known as a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages such as medical and funeral costs, lost future income and loss of love and companionship. In the aftermath of a crash, it is important the victims preserve the vehicle in its current condition unaltered so that it can be thoroughly examined by an expert for defects, malfunctions and design flaws. An experienced auto product liability lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
