BMW recalls 1.3 million cars worldwide

BMW has announced a huge global recall of previous-generation 5 Series and 6 Series models, which affects 1.3 million cars built between 2003 and 2010.

The worldwide recall is to rectify an incorrectly mounted battery cable cover inside the boot.

In some cases, says BMW, this can result in malfunctioning of the electrical system, with symptoms ranging from the vehicle failing to start, to the risk of charring or even fire.

BMW says it is not aware of any accidents or injuries caused by this fault.

Every version of the previous generation E60 5 Series and E63 6 Series is affected, including around 10,000 sold in Australia: BMW is now writing to owners to advise them on the recall.

The firm says the repair will take around 30 minute at a BMW workshop – “the service, of course, being free of charge to the customer”.