Skip to content
MotorFiable
en

Airbags and safety

Problems with a fire risk: symptoms, cost and affected models

We have documented 89 faults with a fire risk in 12 engines and 70 cars, affecting 113 models of car in our database. The most important by severity and frequency: EGR cooler leaks with risk of engine fire (BMW B47 and BMW N57), fire risk from the ABS control module (HECU) (Hyundai Tucson III) and short circuit in the ABS/ESP unit with fire risk (Kia Sportage IV). At an independent garage, the repair costs from €500 to €1,500 depending on the engine or car.[1]

Documented faults
89
89 of high or critical severity
Engines
12
with at least one fault on this part
Affected models
113
car generations in our database
Garage repair
€500–€1,500
Depending on engine and car, including VAT

16 sourcesHow we work

How it works and why it fails

Fire risk

Here we group all the documented faults that can cause a fire: short circuits, fuel or oil leaks onto the exhaust, EGR coolers, high-voltage batteries or parts that overheat. Most have been corrected with recalls, so the important thing is to check that your car has had them done.

What to do

Use the VIN to check whether your car has outstanding campaigns and go as soon as you are notified. If you smell burning, see smoke or several warning lights come on at once, stop in a safe place, switch off the engine and get out of the car.

General explanation by MotorFiable. The specific faults of each engine and car, with their sources, are on the linked pages.

Common symptoms

The symptoms that come up most often in the documented faults with a fire risk. Open each one to see what other faults cause it.

Problems with a fire risk by engine

From most to least important (severity × frequency). Each page details the affected versions and years, symptoms, cost and how to check for it.

  1. 1Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBMW B47EGR cooler leaks with risk of engine fireYes: the EGR valve cooler can suffer internal coolant leaks which, mixed with soot and oil, can reach combustion temperatures; BMW has launched several technical campaigns since 2018 to inspect and replace it because of the risk of engine fire.Repair (garage): €500–€1,500
  2. 2Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentBMW N57EGR cooler leaks with risk of engine fireYes: like the N47 and B47, the N57 is covered by BMW's service campaign for EGR cooler leaks, which can mix coolant with soot and oil to combustion temperatures. BMW checks free of charge the 6-cylinder engines built between July 2012 and June 2015 because of the fire risk.
  3. 3Critical severityCommonFrequency: Common1.6 EcoBoostCracked cylinder head from overheating, with fire riskYes: Ford acknowledges that a loss of coolant circulation can overheat the engine, crack the cylinder head and let oil escape onto hot areas, with a risk of fire. It has issued recalls in South Africa (2017-2018) and in the US/Canada (2013 and 2017); we have not found an identical campaign in Spain.
  4. 4Critical severityCommonFrequency: Common2.0 and 2.5 HybridLow-pressure fuel pump failure: loss of power and fire riskYes: a low-pressure fuel pump with a defective impeller (Denso) affects millions of Toyotas and Lexuses, including Corolla, C-HR, RAV4 and Camry models with these engines. It can cause loss of power or stalling, and in the EU there is also a risk of leaks and fire on 2018-2022 Corolla, C-HR and Auris models.
  5. 5Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW N20Electric water pump failure (BMW campaign in the US over fire risk)The N20 has an electric water pump whose connector can suffer ingress of blow-by liquid; a short circuit can cause local overheating and, very rarely, a fire. BMW recalled 720,000 vehicles in the US in 2024, not including the European Union or Spain.
  6. 6Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW N62 / N63Additional turbo coolant pump with a risk of short circuit and fireIn 2011 BMW recalled 5, 6 and 7 Series, X5 and X6 models built between 2007 and 2011 because of the additional turbo coolant pump: moisture, a short circuit and, in extreme cases, a fire. In 2012 there was another campaign for a crack in the pump, with a more robust version.
  7. 7Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: Occasional1.5 EcoBoostFuel leak from cracked injectors, with a fire risk (Kuga Dragon)Yes: Ford has recalled the Kuga with the three-cylinder 1.5 EcoBoost because a high-pressure injector can crack and release fuel onto the engine, with a fire risk. The broadest campaign, 25S76 (2026), covers units built between 2018 and 2024.
  8. 8Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalOM656Leak in the vacuum-driven coolant pump (fire risk)Mercedes-Benz recalled OM654 and OM656 diesels built between 2017 and October 2021 because the vacuum-driven coolant pump can lose its seal and, in individual cases, a fire risk cannot be ruled out. The remedy: replace an electric valve and update the software.
  9. 9High severityOccasionalFrequency: Occasional2.2 JTDm Multijet IIAlternator cable touching the exhaust gas recirculation pipe (fire risk)An Alfa Romeo campaign covers diesel Stelvio built between 18 January 2017 and 18 September 2018: an alternator cable may rub against the exhaust gas recirculation pipe and cause a short circuit, with a fire risk in the worst case.
  10. 10High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalM264/M254Poorly tightened 48 V earth wiring in the mild-hybrid system (fire risk)Mercedes-Benz has issued several recalls (2022-2025) because the 12 V and 48 V earth connections of some cars with a 48 V system may be poorly tightened: resistance rises, the connection heats up and a fire cannot be ruled out. The official workshop checks them and repairs them if necessary in an hour or more.
  11. 11Critical severityRareFrequency: Rare2.0 and 2.5 HybridLoosely tightened inverter bolt on the latest Camry Hybrid (US): fire riskToyota issued a recall in the US for more than 51,000 Camry Hybrid models (and around 3,760 Corolla Cross Hybrid) from 2025-2026: an inverter bolt may be under-tightened and cause loss of power, loss of drive or fire. It is a more powerful generation than the one sold in Spain (218 hp), and it is unconfirmed whether it will come here.
  12. 12High severityRareFrequency: Rare2.3 MultiJetFractured EGR pipe with a risk of short circuit and fireOn some Euro 6 Ducato built between February 2016 and September 2017, the EGR pipe could break and touch the alternator, with a risk of short circuit, loss of battery voltage and, according to the European alert, fire. Fiat checked it in a preventive campaign.
  13. 13High severityRareFrequency: RareM264/M254Oil leak at the turbo oil line connections (fire risk)In 2020 Mercedes-Benz recalled the four-cylinder petrol engines built from March 2018 to March 2020 (C-Class 205, E-Class 213 and 238, S-Class 222, GLC 253, CLS 257): the tightening of the turbo oil lines had not been documented and, if they were not properly tightened, they could drip onto hot parts.
  14. 14High severityRareFrequency: Rare2.2 MultiJet / BlueHDi (Stellantis)Unvulcanised fuel return pipe: fuel leak and fire riskStellantis is recalling Ducato, Boxer, Jumper and Movano vans built between November 2024 and July 2025: the fuel return pipe is not vulcanised and can come away from the valve and drip onto hot parts. It is precautionary and no fire has been reported.

Engines with faults with a fire risk

Problems with a fire risk by car

Faults documented on specific cars, which occur with any engine. From most to least important.

  1. 1Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentHyundai Tucson IIIFire risk from the ABS control module (HECU)Yes. Hyundai recalled the Tucson TL built between February 2017 and August 2020 (campaign 11DC03) because the ABS module can fail internally and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked. In the US the same campaign (20V543000) covered model years 2016-2021.
  2. 2Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentKia Sportage IVShort circuit in the ABS/ESP unit with fire riskYes: Germany's KBA and the US NHTSA have recorded several campaigns (2021 and 2025) over a short circuit in the ABS/ESP unit that can cause a fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked and switched off.
  3. 3Critical severityVery frequentFrequency: Very frequentKia Sportage IVFaulty connector in the electric auxiliary heater with fire riskYes: in August 2022 the KBA recorded a campaign over a faulty connector in the electric auxiliary heater of some Sportage QL cars, with a fire risk.
  4. 4Critical severityCommonFrequency: CommonFord Kuga IIIFire risk in the plug-in hybrid high-voltage battery (recall 25SC4)The cells of the Kuga PHEV's high-voltage battery (made by Samsung SDI) can suffer an internal short circuit because of a damaged separator, with a risk of power loss and fire; Ford has recalled units built between August 2019 and November 2023.
  5. 5Critical severityCommonFrequency: CommonOpel Grandland IRisk of overheating and fire of the high-voltage battery on plug-in hybrid versions (2019-2022)The plug-in hybrid versions of the Grandland X built between 2019 and 2022 have been the subject of several successive campaigns - first a software update and then physical replacement - over the risk of overheating and fire of the high-voltage battery.
  6. 6Critical severityCommonFrequency: CommonOpel Zafira BFire risk from the heater fan resistorYes: Opel/Vauxhall recalled Zafira B cars built between 10 February 2005 and 24 October 2014 because the heater fan resistor can overheat and cause a fire. A first recall at the end of 2015 did not stop the fires and Opel extended the recall in August 2016.
  7. 7Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalAudi A4 B9Risk of short circuit and fire due to moisture in electrical componentsAudi recalled A4 B9 units built between May 2017 and March 2020 because moisture can seep into an electrical component and cause a short circuit, with a risk of the vehicle catching fire.Repair: €0
  8. 8Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalAudi Q5 IIRisk of short circuit and fire from moisture in electrical componentsAudi recalled Q5 II cars built between May 2017 and March 2020 because moisture can get into an electrical component and cause a short circuit, with a risk of the vehicle catching fire.Repair: €0
  9. 9Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW i3BMW i3 high-voltage battery recall because of fire riskAccording to the fiches-auto.fr fiche, the i3 battery was the subject of a recall in October 2022 because of a fire risk; the fiche does not detail the scope, and we have not been able to verify it from an official source.
  10. 10Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 3 G202025 campaign for corrosion of the starter motor relay (risk of fire)Yes: in September 2025 BMW recalled, among other models, the 2019 to 2021 330i (G20) because the starter motor relay can corrode, overheat and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire even when the car is parked.
  11. 11Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 5 G30Two successive campaigns over a fire risk in the starter motor relay (2025 and 2026)Yes: BMW recalled the 5 Series G30 twice for the same risk in the starter motor relay - which can corrode or build up deposits, overheat and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire - first in September 2025 and again in July 2026 for more recent cars.
  12. 12Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW X3 G01Two successive campaigns for a fire risk in the starter motor relay (2025 and 2026)Yes: BMW recalled the X3 G01 twice for the same risk in the starter motor relay, which can corrode or build up deposits, overheat and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire, first in September 2025 and again in July 2026 for more recent cars.
  13. 13Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C4 IIIFire risk from the small gap between the particulate filter and the 48 V starter-generator (mild-hybrid version)In the 48 V mild-hybrid versions of the C4 III (1.2 PureTech 136 hp with e-DCS6 gearbox) built between October 2023 and January 2026, the gap between the petrol particulate filter pipe and the 48 V starter-generator may be less than 10 mm, which poses a fire risk in the engine bay.
  14. 14Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C4 XFire risk from insufficient clearance between the petrol particulate filter and the 48 V starter-generatorYes: on petrol C4 X cars built between 25 October 2023 and 12 January 2026 the particulate filter pipe sits less than 10 mm from the protective cap of the 48 V starter-generator and, in damp conditions, an electric arc can occur with a risk of fire. Recall published on Safety Gate in March 2026.
  15. 15Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalCupra BornFire risk from defective modules in the high-voltage batteryYes: in March 2026 Cupra recalled Borns built between 7 February 2022 and 21 April 2024 (around 19,000-20,000 units worldwide, about 6,000 in Germany) because some high-voltage battery modules do not meet specification and, in very isolated cases, can overheat to the point of causing a fire.Repair: €0
  16. 16Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalCupra LeónDefective fuse in the high-voltage battery of the Cupra Leon e-Hybrid (risk of short circuit and fire)Yes: Seat recalled 16,210 Cupra Leon and Formentor e-Hybrids built between 10 October 2020 and 28 February 2022, because a defective fuse can cause an electric arc and a fire in the event of a short circuit. The fix is to install an insulating sheet.
  17. 17Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalFiat 500eTraction battery fire risk (two campaigns: 2023 and 2024)Fiat recalled the 500e twice for fire risk in the traction battery: in April 2023 for contaminated materials in cars built between October 2020 and July 2021, and in 2024 (codes 6923/6924) for a negative terminal clamp or nut that was not tightened properly in cars built up to November 2023 (Fiat) or January 2024 (Abarth).
  18. 18Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalFiat FreemontPoorly secured engine sound-insulation cover: fire risk in the engine bayYes: an EU alert notified by Germany in February 2016 (A12/0141/16) warns that, on Freemont cars built between April 2011 and April 2015, the engine sound-insulation cover is poorly secured, which can cause a fire in the engine bay, even with the engine off.
  19. 19Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalFiat Scudo IIIBattery positive cable routed badly next to the starter motor: risk of electrical arcing and fireAccording to car-recalls.eu (July 2026), Germany's KBA lists a recall of 2,076 Scudos built between 15 October 2025 and 22 January 2026: the battery positive cable may rub against the starter motor housing, causing electrical arcing and a short circuit. It is protected with tape and corrugated tubing.
  20. 20Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalFord TransitWiring damaged by insufficient clearance from the transmission housing: power steering failure and fire riskRecall 25SC5 covers 9,121 Transits built between 10 May 2024 and 11 November 2025: the wiring harness sits too close to the transmission housing and can be damaged, with a risk of power steering failure and a fire caused by a short circuit.
  21. 21Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalHyundai i20 IThe 12-volt socket can overheat and cause a fire when used with the tyre repair kit compressorYes: Hyundai recalled 16,765 i20 cars built between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2012 in Germany because a poorly secured 12-volt socket can overheat and cause a fire when the compressor from the tyre repair kit is used, according to gebrauchtwagenberater.de.
  22. 22Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalHyundai ix35Fire risk from the ABS control moduleYes. A European safety alert (Safety Gate, reference 41D091) covers ix35s built between 26 May 2009 and 31 October 2014: the ABS module can fail internally and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked.
  23. 23Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalHyundai Santa Fe IVFuel tank with a risk of leaking and fire on 2020 and 2022 unitsYes: there are two Safety Gate alerts. The 2021 one covers units from November 2020 with too narrow a gap between the tank and its retaining strap, which can damage it and cause a leak in a side collision. The 2023 one covers 728 units from April to July 2022 whose tank may leak.
  24. 24Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalKia Carens IIIInternal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC hydraulic unit with fire riskA February 2025 Safety Gate alert includes Carens built between September 2009 and December 2012. An internal brake fluid leak can cause a short circuit in the ABS/ESC electrical circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of an engine fire.
  25. 25Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalKia Niro IFire risk from a battery software fault in the Kia e-NiroYes: in 2026 Kia recalled e-Niro cars built between May 2020 and March 2022 because the battery software did not detect cell anomalies in time, with a risk of overheating and fire while the car is parked or charging.
  26. 26Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalKia Optima IIIABS/ESC hydraulic unit (HECU) short circuit with fire riskYes: a Safety Gate alert (campaign 241A04QF) covers Optimas built between 11 August 2011 and 11 July 2013: an internal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC can cause a short circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of fire. The repair is free.
  27. 27Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalKia Rio IIIShort circuit in the ABS/ESC brake unit (HECU): fire riskYes: in December 2024 Kia recalled 59,379 Rio UB built between 15 December 2010 and 31 March 2017 because the hydraulic brake unit (HECU, which manages the ABS and ESC) can suffer an internal leak and a short circuit that, in extreme cases, overheats the fuse box with a risk of fire under the bonnet, according to the British DVSA.
  28. 28Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalKia Soul IIFire risk in the Soul EV: the high-voltage battery management system may not detect an abnormal voltageIt affects only the Soul EV: a 2024 Safety Gate alert (Kia campaign 231118) covers 22,915 cars built between June 2014 and November 2018, whose battery management system may fail to detect an abnormal cell voltage before a short circuit, with a risk of fire.
  29. 29Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalKia Sportage IIIShort circuit in the ABS/ESC brake unit (HECU): fire riskYes: Kia has recalled the Sportage SL at least twice (February 2023 and December 2024) because the hydraulic brake unit (HECU, which manages the ABS and ESC) can suffer an internal leak and an electrical short circuit that, in extreme cases, overheats the fuse box with a risk of fire in the engine bay, according to the UK's DVSA.
  30. 30Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalLancia Ypsilon IV48 V starter-generator cap too close to the particulate filter pipe: fire riskYes: Stellantis recalled the Ypsilon built between 18 March 2024 and 13 January 2026 because the petrol particulate filter pipe sits less than 10 mm from the cap of the 48 V starter-generator. In damp conditions an electric arc can form and set the engine bay alight.
  31. 31Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMazda MX-5 IVDC/DC converter control unit fault with risk of short circuit and fireA 2018 Safety Gate alert covers MX-5 ND models built between August 2014 and April 2017: the DC converter control unit could fail, cause a short circuit and damage the converter, with a risk of fire. It is a precautionary recall; check the chassis number at the official service centre.
  32. 32Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase B W246Overloaded starter motor current limiter, fire riskOn cars from the 2014 to 2017 model years, an overloaded starter motor current limiter can set nearby components on fire, the reason for a manufacturer campaign.
  33. 33Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz CLS C257Gearbox wiring harness connector with moisture: risk of short circuit and fireYes: the Mercedes campaign (codes 1595003 and 1595004; Safety Gate alert A12/01979/24) covers 57,988 vehicles worldwide — E-Class, E-Class Coupé/Cabriolet, CLS and AMG GT 4-door built between 7 June 2017 and 20 April 2022 — because of a poorly processed gearbox harness connector that can let moisture in.
  34. 34Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz CLS C25748 V earth cable bolt poorly secured: risk of fireYes: Safety Gate alert A12/00463/24 (Mercedes code 5491318) affects 75,159 vehicles worldwide — CLS, E-Class and AMG GT 4-door built from 1 July 2021 to 6 April 2023 — because the 48 V earth cable bolt, in the engine bay, may be poorly secured and overheat.
  35. 35Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLA H247Risk of short circuit and fire in the high-voltage battery (plug-in hybrid version)On the GLA 250 e (plug-in hybrid) built between 20 February 2021 and 23 January 2024, a short circuit in the high-voltage battery can cause a fire, according to a manufacturer campaign reported by a French reliability site.Repair: €0
  36. 36Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLC X254Incorrectly reworked fuse box: contact faults, wrong fuses and fire riskYes: Safety Gate alert SR/02431/25 (codes 8297014 and 8297015) affects 4,652 vehicles worldwide across nine model series, including the GLC, built between 31 January and 17 October 2023: a badly reworked fuse box can lose contact or carry fuses of the wrong rating and leave key systems without function.
  37. 37Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLC X254Dashboard bolts not tightened to the correct torque: less effective airbag and fire riskYes: Safety Gate alert SR/00307/25 (code 4692204) affects just 17 GLCs built between 23 February and 19 June 2023: some bolted joints in the dashboard area may not be tightened to the correct torque, which reduces airbag restraint and, according to the notice, involves a fire risk.
  38. 38Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Vito W447Badly fitted brake pipes with brake fluid leak and fire risk (November 2018 to May 2019)Yes: between 28 November 2018 and 6 May 2019 some Vito and V-Class vehicles left the factory with badly fitted brake pipes; fluid could leak, stopping distances could lengthen and, if it fell onto hot parts, the risk of fire increased. It is corrected through a recall.
  39. 39Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalNissan Qashqai IIIRecall for fire risk in the fuel lineYes: Nissan recalled Qashqais built between 4 May 2021 and 17 October 2024 (1.3 DIG-T and e-Power engines) because the fuel line rubbing against a clamp can wear through and cause a leak; in Germany it affected around 30,000 units out of a worldwide total of 390,595.Repair: €0
  40. 40Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalOpel Astra HFire risk from the heated windscreen washer nozzles (2004-2006)Yes: according to the KBA, on Astra Hs built between 2004 and 2006 defective heated windscreen washer nozzles can cause a vehicle fire. Opel recalled these cars; Gebrauchtwagenberater.de documents the same defect, with identical years, on the Opel Zafira B.
  41. 41Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalOpel Astra JFire risk from a short circuit in the radiator cooling fanYes: in 2014 Opel recalled around 60,000 Astra J/GTC cars from 2010-2012 because a deviation in the electrical design could cause a short circuit if the cooling fan seized, with a risk of fire.
  42. 42Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalOpel Corsa CFaulty heated windscreen washer nozzle: fire risk (2004-2006 recall)Yes: according to Germany's KBA, Opel Corsa C cars built between 2004 and 2006 could have a faulty heated windscreen washer nozzle capable of causing a vehicle fire.
  43. 43Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot RCZFire risk from a short circuit in the heating resistor near the fuel lineAccording to the fiches-auto.fr page, a campaign was announced in October 2015 over the risk of a short circuit in a heating resistor close to a fuel line, affecting 61,295 vehicles across the group, including the RCZ.
  44. 44Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalSeat AlteaA poorly secured earth cable in the optional parking heater could cause a fireThe KBA documented that, on Altea cars with a factory-fitted parking heater built between 1 November 2006 and 21 December 2007, a poorly secured earth cable could cause heat damage and even a vehicle fire.
  45. 45Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalSeat León IVRisk of short circuit and fire from an incorrectly sized fuse in the Leon e-Hybrid (2020-2022)Yes: on the Leon e-Hybrid (plug-in hybrid) built between 2020 and 2022, insufficient insulation in the high-voltage battery junction box may cause a short circuit, with a risk of fire. Seat fits a protective insulating sheet as the fix under an official campaign.Repair: €0
  46. 46Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Golf VIIIRisk of short circuit and fire from an incorrectly specified fuse on the plug-in hybrid versions (eHybrid/GTE)Yes: an incorrect fuse specification in the high-voltage battery junction box of the Golf 8 eHybrid and GTE can cause a short circuit, with a risk of electric shock or fire. Volkswagen is fitting a protective insulating sheet over the box as the fix, under an official campaign.Repair: €0
  47. 47Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen ID.3Fire risk from defective modules in the high-voltage batteryYes: in March 2026 Volkswagen recalled ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.Buzz models built between 24 June 2023 and 23 August 2024 (around 75,000 VW Group units worldwide) because some high-voltage battery modules do not meet their specification and, in very isolated cases, can overheat to the point of causing a fire.Repair: €0
  48. 48Critical severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen ID.4Fire risk from defective modules in the high-voltage batteryYes: in March 2026 Volkswagen recalled the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.Buzz built between 24 June 2023 and 23 August 2024 (around 75,000 VW Group units worldwide) because some high-voltage battery modules do not meet their specification and, in very isolated cases, can overheat to the point of causing a fire.Repair: €0
  49. 49High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 1 E87Loose positive battery connection, with risk of overheating and fireGebrauchtwagenberater.de documents a KBA campaign for the 1 Series E87 over a defect in the positive battery connection that can work loose and cause a failure of the vehicle's electrics, with a risk of fire.
  50. 50High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 1 F202025 recall for starter motor fire riskYes: in September 2025 BMW recalled, among other models, the 1 Series F20/F21 built between September 2015 and the end of its production, because of a starter motor that can let in water, corrode and short-circuit, with a fire risk even when the car is parked.
  51. 51High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 3 E90Campaign over fire risk from the heater fan connectorYes: in January 2021 BMW recalled around 430,000 3 Series E90/E91/E92/E93 cars in Germany (more than half a million worldwide) because the wiring connector of the heater fan regulator can corrode, cause a short circuit and set the vehicle on fire, even when parked. An earlier campaign, in autumn 2017, had already covered a first batch of cars in the United States.Repair: €0
  52. 52High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 5 E60Positive battery cable badly secured, with risk of overheating and fireBMW recalled the 5 Series E60 in May 2012 because the cover over the positive battery connection could be badly fitted, making it more likely to work loose, with excessive electrical resistance, starting problems and a risk of fire.
  53. 53High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalBMW X5 F15X5 F15 power steering control unit: recall for fire risk and loss of assistanceAccording to the owner reports collected by fiches-auto.fr (56 for the 2013-2018 X5), a December 2016 recall of the power steering electronic control unit is cited, with a risk of electrical fire and loss of assistance. The campaign is recorded only by the listing; we have not been able to cross-check it.
  54. 54High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalCitroën Berlingo IIIEngine undertray can trap material (fire risk)A 2022 recall (ref. R2022299) covers Berlingo IIIs built between November 2017 and September 2021 whose lower metal engine undertray can trap material next to the exhaust, with a risk of fire.
  55. 55High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalCupra Ateca2.0 TSI engine cover may come loose and touch the hot turbo area (fire risk)Yes: in 2022, 30,466 cars with the 2.0 TSI engine from the Cupra Ateca, Cupra Leon, Cupra Formentor and Seat Leon ranges, built between 24 July 2020 and 2 March 2022, were recalled because the engine cover can come loose and touch the hot area of the exhaust and turbo. The check is free of charge and takes about 30 minutes.Repair: €0
  56. 56High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalCupra LeónThe 2.0 TSI engine cover can come loose and touch the hot turbo area (fire risk)Yes: in 2022, 30,466 cars with the 2.0 TSI engine in the Leon, Cupra Leon, Cupra Ateca and Cupra Formentor ranges, built between 24 July 2020 and 2 March 2022, were recalled because the engine cover can come loose and touch the hot area of the exhaust and turbo. The check is free and takes about 30 minutes.Repair: €0
  57. 57High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalHyundai IoniqTraction battery: risk of short circuit and fire (Ioniq Electric)An EU Safety Gate alert (reference SR/01576/26) states that the high-voltage battery of the Ioniq Electric built between 2019 and 2022 can suffer voltage differences between cells that increase the risk of a short circuit and fire. Fiches-auto.fr also records an earlier campaign, from July 2021, for cars built between May 2018 and March 2020 because of a similar risk.
  58. 58High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalOpel Combo EThe engine undershield can trap material (fire risk)A 2022 campaign (ref. KAE/200511EE) covers Combo E vehicles built between 12 March 2018 and 17 September 2021 whose metal engine undershield can trap material next to the exhaust, with a risk of fire.
  59. 59High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot RifterEngine undertray can trap material (fire risk)A 2022 recall (ref. r2022298) covers Rifters built between October 2017 and September 2021 whose lower metal engine undertray can trap plant matter or other debris next to the exhaust, with a risk of fire.
  60. 60High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalRenault Master IIIInsufficient earth on the towing socket: lighting failure and fire risk (2019)A campaign notified in the EU in October 2020 (code 0DAB) affects Masters built between 27 February and 7 November 2019: the earth connection of the trailer socket is insufficient, which can cause the trailer lights to go out and increase the risk of fire.
  61. 61High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalToyota Corolla XOverheating of the front electric window switch (fire risk)Toyota has carried out two recalls over the Corolla's window switch: in 2012, for a poor lubricant that left carbon deposits and could cause a fire (4,032 Corollas in Spain, built between September 2006 and December 2008), and in 2015, for a possible short circuit in the driver's master switch (2005-2010 range).
  62. 62High severityOccasionalFrequency: OccasionalToyota ProAce CityThe engine undershield can trap material and cause a fireAccording to the German KBA, an unsuitable metal engine undershield can collect combustible debris (leaves, grass) that ignites next to the exhaust on Proace City models from 2019 to 2021; the Peugeot Rifter and Opel Combo campaigns describe the same type of undershield defect.
  63. 63Critical severityRareFrequency: RareDacia Duster IILPG tank leak with a risk of fire (2023 cars)Yes: in November 2023 Dacia recalled Duster LPG (Eco-G) cars built between February and July of that year over a welding defect in the gas tank that can cause leaks and a risk of fire in the boot and the cabin.
  64. 64Critical severityRareFrequency: RareFiat 600Fire risk from water ingress into the 48 V belt-starter generator protection (built 2023-2025)Yes: a recall covers cars built between 28 July 2023 and 19 December 2025 in which insufficient clearance between the petrol particulate filter pipe and the protective cap of the 48 V starter-generator allows water in and can cause an electrical arc and a fire.
  65. 65Critical severityRareFrequency: RareFord Kuga IIFire risk from the B-pillar insulation after the seatbelt pretensioner is triggeredIn 2017 Ford recalled around 30,000 Kuga models built between July 2012 and June 2014 because the B-pillar insulation could catch fire in a collision in which the front seatbelt's pyrotechnic pretensioner was triggered.
  66. 66Critical severityRareFrequency: RareJeep AvengerFire risk from water ingress into the 48 V starter-generator protection (2023-2025 production)Yes: a 2026 campaign covers MHEV versions built between 9 March 2023 and 18 December 2025 in which insufficient clearance between the particulate filter pipe and the protective cap of the 48 V starter-generator lets water in and can cause an electric arc and a fire.
  67. 67Critical severityRareFrequency: RareKia XCeedFire risk from the hybrid clutch hydraulic actuator (PHEV)On the plug-in (PHEV) variant of the Kia XCeed, a recall (code 240S01) covers units built up to 14 August 2023: the printed circuit board of the hydraulic actuator that controls the clutch between the combustion engine and the electric motor can become contaminated with fluid and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire.
  68. 68Critical severityRareFrequency: RareMazda CX-3A DC converter fault can cause a short circuit and a fire riskOn cars built up to April 2017, the control unit of the DC converter can malfunction and cause a short circuit that damages the converter itself, with a risk of fire. Mazda corrects it by checking the component at an official dealer.
  69. 69Critical severityRareFrequency: RarePeugeot 3008 III48V auxiliary heater connector at risk of overheating and fireStellantis recalled Peugeot 3008 III units built between 26 June and 20 August 2025: the connection of the 48V battery wiring harness terminal for the auxiliary heater may not be properly seated, which can cause an electric arc, overheating and a risk of fire.
  70. 70Critical severityRareFrequency: RareRenault ZoeRisk of an internal short circuit in the traction battery (2020, 2022 and 2024 campaigns)Renault has recalled the Zoe three times (2020, 2022 and 2024) over manufacturing defects in very specific batches of the traction battery that can cause an internal short circuit and a fire risk; the known numbers are minimal compared with the more than 420,000 Zoe built.
  71. 71Critical severityRareFrequency: RareSuzuki Swift VRisk of short circuit and fire from the 12 V positive cableIn a very small run of 2022 cars, the 12 V positive cable can touch the bodywork or the negative wiring and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire. Suzuki recalled 465 vehicles worldwide (Swift and Ignis) in March 2022.
  72. 72Critical severityRareFrequency: RareToyota Aygo IIThe auxiliary battery terminal may fail, with a risk of fire and loss of power steering assistanceA 2023 European campaign inspected Aygo cars built between October 2021 and October 2022 because of a faulty terminal on the 12 V auxiliary battery that can overheat at low speed, with a risk of fire, and that can disable the electric power steering assistance.
  73. 73Critical severityRareFrequency: RareToyota Yaris IIThe driver's window switch can short-circuit and catch fireA 2015 recall covered Yaris built between 2005 and 2010 because the master window switch on the driver's side could short-circuit, overheat and, in the worst case, cause a fire.
  74. 74Critical severityRareFrequency: RareVolkswagen Tiguan IFire risk from the starter motor on 2011 vehiclesOn vehicles from the 2011 production year, a faulty solenoid in the starter motor could stay energised continuously instead of switching off, with a risk of fire; Volkswagen recalled the affected cars to put it right.Repair: €0
  75. 75High severityRareFrequency: RareHyundai IoniqRecall for possible hydraulic leak in the DCT gearbox clutch actuator (fire risk)According to fiches-auto.fr, Hyundai recalled the Ioniq Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid built between 15 December 2015 and 20 September 2017 because of a possible hydraulic fluid leak in the clutch actuator of the DCT gearbox, with a risk of fire.

Problems with a fire risk by make

Problems with a fire risk in your car

25 cars have several documented faults with a fire risk. Choose yours to see only the ones that affect them, by engine and by year.

BMW 13
Cupra 1
Ford 2
Hyundai 1
Kia 1
Mercedes-Benz 5
Toyota 2

How much it costs to repair a fault with a fire risk

Sorted from the most expensive repair to the cheapest. Prices in Spain including VAT (parts and labour); what each figure includes is on its page.

How we calculate costs · The most expensive repairs across all engines

Frequently asked questions

Which engines have the most faults with a fire risk?

By severity and frequency, the BMW B47 (EGR cooler leaks with risk of engine fire, critical severity), the BMW N57 (EGR cooler leaks with risk of engine fire, critical severity), the 2.0 and 2.5 Hybrid (low-pressure fuel pump failure: loss of power and fire risk, critical severity), the 1.6 EcoBoost (cracked cylinder head from overheating, with fire risk, critical severity), the BMW N20 (electric water pump failure (BMW campaign in the US over fire risk), critical severity) and the BMW N62 / N63 (additional turbo coolant pump with a risk of short circuit and fire, critical severity). In total we have documented 12 engines with faults with a fire risk.

Which cars have problems with a fire risk?

Among those we have analysed: Kia Sportage IV (short circuit in the ABS/ESP unit with fire risk), Hyundai Tucson III (fire risk from the ABS control module (HECU)), Ford Kuga III (fire risk in the plug-in hybrid high-voltage battery (recall 25SC4)), Opel Grandland I (risk of overheating and fire of the high-voltage battery on plug-in hybrid versions (2019-2022)), Opel Zafira B (fire risk from the heater fan resistor), Cupra León (defective fuse in the high-voltage battery of the Cupra Leon e-Hybrid (risk of short circuit and fire)), Mercedes-Benz CLS C257 (gearbox wiring harness connector with moisture: risk of short circuit and fire) and Mercedes-Benz GLC X254 (incorrectly reworked fuse box: contact faults, wrong fuses and fire risk). In total, 70 cars with documented faults with a fire risk.

How much does it cost to repair a fault with a fire risk?

It depends a lot on the engine or car. At an independent garage, from €500 to €1,500; at a dealer, from €0 to €0, including VAT, based on the 14 faults with a documented cost. The most expensive is EGR cooler leaks with risk of engine fire (BMW B47).

What symptoms does a fault with a fire risk cause?

The most frequently cited in the documented faults: burning smell, coolant loss with no visible leak, gradual loss of power, persistent, dense white smoke, overheating or temperature warning light and smell of fuel.

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. 1.Motor BMW B47: problemas, modelos y qué revisarCarexam · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  2. 2.Fiabilité Audi A4 : pannes, rappels et témoignagesfiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  3. 3.Fiabilité Audi Q5 II : pannes, rappels et témoignagesfiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  4. 4.Cupra verschickt jetzt Rückrufschreiben an Halter des Modells BornPresseportal · General press · published 26 April 2026 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  5. 5.Fiabilité Mercedes GLA 2 (H247, depuis 2020) : pannes et rappelsFiches-Auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  6. 6.Nissan Qashqai III (J12): typische Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  7. 7.Rückruf Nissan Qashqai: Kraftstoffleitung kann undicht werdenAutoservicepraxis · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  8. 8.Erhöhte Brandgefahr! Rückruf von 30.000 Nissan QashqaiADAC · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  9. 9.Seat Leon IV (seit 2020) – Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · published 15 December 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  10. 10.VW Golf 8 (CD) – Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · published 22 April 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  11. 11.VW und Cupra rufen E-Autos in die Werkstatt: Brandgefahrad-hoc-news.de · General press · published 24 March 2026 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  12. 12.BMW E90Wikipedia (alemán) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  13. 13.BMW 3er E90/E91/E92/E93: ProblemeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  14. 14.Así es como una tapa del motor suelta puede provocar el incendio de tu cocheDiariomotor · Motoring press · published 22 April 2022 · consulted 5 October 2026 · in Spanish
  15. 15.Used Cupra Ateca (Mk1, 2018-date): sporty SUV is practical, stylish and funAuto Express · Motoring press · published 24 November 2025 · consulted 5 October 2026
  16. 16.VW Tiguan I (5N): Schwachstellen & KaufberatungGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German