BMW Recalls Cars After Faulty Brake Welds
Why manufacturing in industries such as automotive and aerospace is subject to such stringent standards is evident from the criticality of the welded manufacturing stages.
BMW has expanded its recall to over 1.5 million cars due to a braking system defect, potentially linked to faulty welding in components supplied by Continental AG. The recall affects models produced between 2022 and 2024, including the X1, XM, i7, 750e, and others. The oldest vehicles impacted, such as the X7 and the six-cylinder 740i, were from the 2023 model year.
The issue involves a potential failure in the braking system, which could reduce braking assist and increase stopping distances. In the event of brake failure, only the emergency brake function would remain operational on the rear axle. While the exact cause is under investigation, there are concerns that improper welding during the manufacturing of brake parts may have contributed to the defect. Welding defects could compromise the strength and integrity of critical components, leading to the kind of failures reported.
BMW and Continental are working together to address the problem, focusing on how the welded connections within the braking components may have been compromised. This includes the possibility of cracks or weak welds that could impact hydraulic pressure in the braking system.
BMW owners are encouraged to use the company’s recall site to determine if their vehicle is affected, and if so, they will be instructed on the necessary repairs.
Source:
William Wilkes
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