BMW Recalls 200,000 Cars in U.S. Over Brake Leak

BMW’s recall of nearly 200,000 luxury vehicles in the U.S. to fix leaks that could develop in the power braking system may extend to another 150,000 cars of the same series around the globe, a spokesman said Friday.

Globally, some 345,000 BMWs of the 5 Series, 6 Series and 7 Series vehicles powered by V8 and V12 engines and almost 6,000 Rolls Royce Phantom models could be affected by the problem, BMW AG spokesman Frank Strebe said. He stressed there have been no reports of accidents or injuries.

Whereas in the U.S. BMW has set up specific legal procedures to enact a recall, it has not done so yet in other countries.

BMW says it is up to the various countries’ headquarters to decide what measure is the most appropriate for their market. In Britain, BMW said it is offering a voluntary recall and owners of some 10,500 BMWs and 900 Rolls Royces may seek repairs.

He said the company went ahead with the recall in the U.S. because it’s the biggest market concerned and because of the legal situation there.

The German automaker, based in Munich, said in a statement that a leak could develop in the power braking system, leading to a vacuum loss and the reduction of power braking assistance, but mechanical braking would still available to slow and stop the vehicle.

The company said Thursday in the U.S. that drivers who experience reduced power braking assistance should immediately schedule a service appointment.

BMW said it had prepared an inspection-and-repair procedure and would distribute replacement parts throughout its North American dealer network. Owners will be notified by mail in the coming weeks and asked to schedule an appointment with their dealer to check their vehicle.