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

We have documented 131 faults with a fire risk in 22 engines and 101 cars, affecting 172 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
131
131 of high or critical severity
Engines
22
with at least one fault on this part
Affected models
172
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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi e-tron / Q8 e-tronBattery cell modules with a risk of overheating and fireYes: in February 2024 Audi recalled 42,668 e-trons and e-tron Sportbacks built between March 2018 and March 2022 (1,453 in Germany) because voltage loss in some cell modules can cause thermal overload and fire.
  6. 6Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW eDrive de 5.ª generación (iX3, i4, iX)Cells with a damaged cathode in the high-voltage battery (fire risk)Yes: in September 2022 Safety Gate listed a BMW recall for a manufacturing defect in the high-voltage battery of the iX, i4 and i7 built from 5 July 2021 to 8 July 2022. A supplier may have damaged a cathode plate and a fragment may have entered a cell; the defective modules are replaced, and BMW asked owners not to charge or drive the car until then.
  7. 7Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  8. 8Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  9. 9Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat 500eTraction battery fire risk (2023 and 2024 recalls)Fiat has recalled the 500e over traction battery fire risk on two occasions: April 2023 (contaminated materials, built from October 2020 to July 2021) and 2024 (negative terminal clamp not tightened properly). Both are precautionary recalls.
  10. 10Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  11. 11Critical severityFrequency: Occasional1.6 GDi híbrido (Kappa)Main relay of the power relay assembly (overheating and fire risk)Yes, on the first units: Hyundai and Kia recalled 2016–2018 Ioniq and Niro hybrids and plug-in hybrids because the main relay that connects the high-voltage battery could come loose, overheat and, in the worst case, cause a fire.
  12. 12Critical severityFrequency: Occasional1.6 GDi híbrido (Kappa)Clutch hydraulic actuator (HCA): leak or moisture with risk of short circuit and fireYes, this is the most documented hybrid system fault: the hydraulic actuator that engages the combustion engine with the hybrid assembly has had two recalls (2018 for a leak on the Niro and 2025 for moisture in its electronic board on the Niro, Ceed and XCeed PHEV), with a risk of short circuit and fire.
  13. 13Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai-Kia eléctrico (Ioniq, Kona, e-Niro, Soul EV)Traction battery: fire risk from defective cells or insufficient supervisionHyundai and Kia have recalled their electric cars because of the battery: Ioniq (2019-2022), Kona (2018-2023), e-Niro (2020-2022) and Soul EV (2014-2018). The supervision software may fail to detect cell instability or short circuits in time, creating a fire risk.
  14. 14Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes EQA / EQBInternal short circuit in the high-voltage battery: fire risk, software update and battery replacementYes: Mercedes has launched two recalls over a possible internal short circuit in a battery cell of the EQA (and EQB), with a risk of fire. The 2025 one updated the battery software; the 2026 one plans to replace the battery. In the meantime, Mercedes recommends not charging above 80% and parking outdoors.
  15. 15Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  16. 16Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPorsche TaycanHigh-voltage battery cell modules with a risk of short circuit and fireYes: several recalls (ARA4, ARA5, ARB5, ARB6 and APB5) cover Taycans built between July 2018 and March 2024 over manufacturing defects in cell modules that can cause an internal short circuit and a fire. The battery is inspected and the affected modules are replaced.
  17. 17Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault ZoeRisk of internal short circuit in the traction battery (recalls)Renault has recalled the Zoe three times (2020, 2022 and 2024) because of manufacturing defects in specific batches of the battery that can cause an internal short circuit and risk of fire. The known numbers are small compared with the more than 420,000 Zoe built.
  18. 18Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolvo-Polestar CMA eléctrico (Polestar 2, C40, XC40)Fire risk from overheating of the high-voltage battery in the XC40 Recharge (2020–2022)Safety Gate (EU) published alert SR/01964/26 on 10 July 2026: the high-voltage battery of Volvo XC40s built between 2020 and 2022 can overheat and cause a fire (code R10388). The notice does not distinguish between the plug-in hybrid and the fully electric version.
  19. 19Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMEB (ID.3, ID.4, ID.7, ID.Buzz, Enyaq, Born, Q4 e-tron)Faulty modules in the high-voltage battery with fire riskYes: in March 2026 Volkswagen and Cupra recalled around 74,600 ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID. Buzz and around 19,500 Born built between 2022 and 2024, because some battery modules can overheat while charging and, in the worst case, catch fire. It is fixed with software and by replacing modules.
  20. 20High severityFrequency: 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.
  21. 21High severityFrequency: 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.
  22. 22Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  23. 23High severityFrequency: 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.
  24. 24High severityFrequency: 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.
  25. 25High severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: 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 severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 4 G22Starter motor corrosion from water ingress (fire risk)Yes: in September 2025 BMW recalled 4 Series cars (G22, G23 and G26 among them) because the starter motor can let in water and corrode; in the worst case, a short circuit overheats the part and can cause a fire. The press reports that replacing the starter is free of charge.
  12. 12Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 4 G22Wear of the RSW22 starter motor relay contact (fire risk)Yes: in 2026 BMW extended the starter motor recall because, in the RSW22 model with a water-resistant reinforced relay, the magnetic contact wears and builds up deposits, which can cause false starts or a short circuit with fire risk. It affects the 4 Series from 2020, and the starter is replaced with one from a different supplier.
  13. 13Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  14. 14Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  15. 15Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW X5 G05Overheating of the starter motor and its relay, with a risk of fireSince 2024 BMW has launched several campaigns that include the X5 over the starter motor: insufficient software protection, electrical contacts that overheat, a relay that corrodes through water ingress and a relay with deposits from contact wear. In the worst case there can be a short circuit and a fire, while driving or shortly after parking.
  16. 16Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW X6 G06Overheating of the starter motor and its relay, with a risk of fireSince 2025 BMW has launched several campaigns that include the X6 over the starter motor: electrical contacts that overheat, a relay that corrodes through water ingress and a relay with deposits from contact wear. In the worst case there can be a short circuit and a fire, while driving or shortly after parking.
  17. 17Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW X7 G07Overheating of the starter motor and its relay, with a risk of fireSince 2024 BMW has launched several campaigns that include the X7 over the starter motor: insufficient software protection, electrical contacts that overheat, a relay that corrodes through water ingress and a relay with deposits from contact wear. In the worst case there can be a short circuit and a fire, while driving or shortly after parking.
  18. 18Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  19. 19Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  20. 20Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  21. 21Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  22. 22Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  23. 23Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  24. 24Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHonda Civic XINegative terminal of the Civic e:HEV's lithium-ion battery, with risk of electrolyte leak and fireYes: Honda recalled (campaign 6LB) Civics built between June 2022 and January 2023 because the negative terminal of the lithium-ion battery can degrade through contact with the electrolyte and break, leaving the car stranded or, if the battery is still live, causing sparks and a fire. The battery module is replaced.
  25. 25Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  26. 26Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  27. 27Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  28. 28Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  29. 29Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  30. 30Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Picanto IInternal leak in the ABS/ESC hydraulic unit: short-circuit and fire riskYes: Picantos built between 17 December 2009 and 11 January 2011 are covered by a campaign (Safety Gate alert 7/2025) because an internal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC unit can cause a short circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of fire. It is corrected at an official dealer.
  31. 31Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  32. 32Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  33. 33Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  34. 34Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalLand Rover Freelander 2Short circuit in the auxiliary PTC cabin heater with fire riskBetween 2008 and 2015 there were three British recalls for a possible short circuit in the auxiliary PTC cabin heater of the Freelander 2. Typically the battery is drained and the car will not start; it can also produce a smell of melting components and, in extreme cases, a fire.
  35. 35Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalLand Rover Range Rover Evoque IIFire risk in the high-voltage traction battery of plug-in hybridsIn 2026 the British DVSA published a recall because the high-voltage traction battery of some plug-in hybrid Evoques has overheated, with smoke or fire under the rear of the car. The root cause is not yet known; batteries are being inspected and those at risk replaced.
  36. 36Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMazda 6 IIIRecall over DC-DC converter failure with fire riskYes: an electronic component in the DC-DC converter could fail and, in the worst case, burn; the 2013 European alert covers Mazda6 GJ cars built between July 2012 and March 2013.
  37. 37Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  38. 38Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz CLA C117Recall for an overloaded starter motor current limiter, with fire riskYes: the starter motor's current limiter can become overloaded and overheat to the point of setting fire to nearby components; the campaign covers CLAs built between February 2014 and February 2017.
  39. 39Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  40. 40Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase V W447Badly fitted brake pipes with brake fluid leak and fire risk (November 2018 to May 2019)Yes: a Safety Gate alert (A12/1375/19) affects V-Class and Vito models built between 28 November 2018 and 6 May 2019 because badly fitted brake pipes can leak fluid, lengthen braking and, on reaching hot parts, cause a fire.
  41. 41Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  42. 42Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  43. 43Critical severityFrequency: 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
  44. 44Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  45. 45Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  46. 46Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLE V16748 V earth cable under the passenger seat insufficiently tightened: risk of overheating and fireMercedes recalled 340,956 GLE and GLS models built between 2017 and 2023 because the 48 V earth connection under the passenger seat may have been left loose during assembly: electrical resistance rises, the area heats up and there is a risk of fire.
  47. 47Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  48. 48Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMG HSPoorly fixed PTC heater earth cable: fire risk on the MG HS plug-in hybrid (EHS)Yes: MG recalled the EHS (plug-in hybrid HS) because the PTC heater earth cable could be poorly fixed and come loose, with a risk of overheating and fire. The European alert (Safety Gate A12/00696/23, April 2023) covers units built from 20 January to 6 October 2022; the British DVSA extends the range from July 2020 to October 2022.
  49. 49Critical severityFrequency: 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
  50. 50Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  51. 51Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  52. 52Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  53. 53Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Frontera48 V belt alternator-starter cap in contact with the particulate filter pipe on the Frontera: fire riskYes: the KV7 campaign covers Frontera built between July 2024 and December 2025 because the petrol particulate filter pipe may touch, or come within 10 mm of, the cap on the 48 V alternator-starter; water could cause an electric arc and fire.
  54. 54Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Zafira LifeFaulty high-voltage wiring harness with fire risk (March–April 2022)In October 2022 Opel recalled 203 vehicles (Zafira Life and Vivaro) built between 15 March and 30 April 2022, because an unsuitable high-voltage harness could overheat and burn out the contacts of a connector, with a risk of fire (recall O7P).
  55. 55Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  56. 56Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPorsche Panamera IICorrosion of the auxiliary air conditioning pump control unitPorsche recalled Panameras built from 2017 to 2021 because moisture can corrode the control unit of the auxiliary air conditioning pump and cause a fire, even with the car parked. The pump is replaced with one with better sealing.Repair: €0
  57. 57Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  58. 58Critical severityFrequency: 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
  59. 59Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Aygo XFaulty auxiliary battery terminal: loss of power steering assistance and fire riskA Safety Gate alert from March 2023 includes the Aygo X among eight Toyota models built from 24 October 2021 to 26 October 2022: the auxiliary battery terminal may be faulty, switch off power steering assistance and overheat at low speed, with a risk of fire.
  60. 60Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Hilux VIIIFaulty auxiliary battery terminal: loss of power steering assistance and fire riskA Safety Gate alert from March 2023 includes the Hilux among eight Toyota models built from 24 October 2021 to 26 October 2022: the auxiliary battery terminal may be faulty, switch off power steering assistance and overheat at low speed, with a fire risk.
  61. 61Critical severityFrequency: 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
  62. 62Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Sharan IIStarter motor that may stay engaged and overheat, with a risk of fireVolkswagen recalled Sharans built in 2011 over the starter motor solenoid spring: the starter could stay engaged, overheat and cause a fire. The DVSA limits it to diesels with Start&Stop and counts 16,625 cars in the United Kingdom; the remedy is to replace the solenoid.
  63. 63Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Touareg IIIHybrid high-voltage battery cell modules with a fire risk when chargingThe Safety Gate lists a recall (code 93FK) of hybrid Touareg IIIs built between September 2018 and August 2024: the high-voltage battery cell modules could overheat during charging, with a risk of fire. The DVSA gives a battery management software update as the remedy.
  64. 64High severityFrequency: 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.
  65. 65High severityFrequency: 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.
  66. 66High severityFrequency: 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
  67. 67High severityFrequency: 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.
  68. 68High severityFrequency: 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.
  69. 69High severityFrequency: 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.
  70. 70High severityFrequency: 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
  71. 71High severityFrequency: 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
  72. 72High severityFrequency: OccasionalHonda CR-V IIMaster window switch with fire risk from liquid ingressYes: Honda has recalled CR-Vs built between November 2001 and October 2006 twice (in 2012 and 2020-2021) because the master window switch can collect liquid, overheat and, in the worst case, cause a fire.
  73. 73High severityFrequency: OccasionalHonda CR-V VUnfused battery cable with short-circuit and fire risk in a crashYes: Honda recalled CR-Vs built between May 2018 and July 2022 (code 6FA) because the cable linking the battery to the fuse box has no fuse: if it is crushed in a crash it can short circuit, overheat and cause a fire. The official workshop fits a fuse to the cable.
  74. 74High severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai InsterFaulty three-way refrigerant valve (recall for fire risk)The KBA registered a recall in July 2026 (16829R, Hyundai code 61D127) covering 40,045 Inster built between 14 February 2024 and 14 April 2026: a refrigerant leak from the three-way valve can cause a short circuit and a fire. It is replaced free of charge with an improved part.
  75. 75High severityFrequency: OccasionalLexus CTDefective weld between the fuel tank and the filler pipe: leak and fire riskYes: CT 200h vehicles built between November 2016 and April 2017 were recalled because the weld between the tank and the filler pipe could be insufficient and lead to a fuel leak, with a risk of fire. The repair consists of replacing the tank with a properly manufactured one.
  76. 76High severityFrequency: OccasionalMazda 2 IIDC/DC converter of the i-Eloop system on the Mazda 2 (DJ) with short-circuit and fire riskA 2018 European recall warned that a programming fault in the DC/DC converter control unit (Mazda 2 DJ and others) could cause a short circuit, damage the converter and cause a fire.
  77. 77High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLS X167Loose 48 V earth boltMercedes recalled the GLE and GLS built from October 2018 to November 2021 because the 48 V earth bolt under the front passenger seat may have too little torque. A loose terminal increases resistance and temperature and, in the worst case, can cause a fire.
  78. 78High severityFrequency: 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.
  79. 79High severityFrequency: 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.
  80. 80High severityFrequency: 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.
  81. 81High severityFrequency: OccasionalSubaru Forester IIISecondary air pump relay with fire risk (2017 campaign)Subaru recalled Foresters from 2009-2010 (SH and SHS types) because a faulty relay can make the secondary air pump overheat. The European alert is RAPEX 49/2017, notified by Germany.
  82. 82High severityFrequency: OccasionalSuzuki Swift IVSeat heater poorly secured with fire risk (campaign, Swift 2013-2015)The adhesive tape holding the front seat heater can lose strength, shift the heating element and overheat one part of the seat to the point of catching fire; it affects Swifts built between April 2013 and September 2015.
  83. 83High severityFrequency: 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).
  84. 84High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Land Cruiser J150Short circuit and fire risk in the heating element of the windscreen washer nozzlesYes: a 2020 Safety Gate alert covers Land Cruiser Prados (J150) built between May 2015 and February 2018. Moisture can enter the heating element of the washer nozzles, cause a short-circuit and overheat it, with a risk of fire.
  85. 85High severityFrequency: 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.
  86. 86High severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Golf VAuxiliary heater earth cable: campaign over overheating and fire riskIn 2007 and 2008 Volkswagen recalled tens of thousands of Golf Vs (around 10,000 built between 11/2006 and 01/2007, and around 27,000 of the 2007 and 2008 model years) because of a problem with the earth cable of the auxiliary air heater, which in the worst case could cause overheating and a fire.
  87. 87Critical severityFrequency: RareAudi A5 IIBelt-driven alternator-starter on the 2.0 TFSI mild hybrid with fire riskAudi recalled A5s with the 2.0 TFSI engine and mild hybrid system built between May 2017 and March 2020 because moisture could enter the belt-driven alternator-starter, causing a short circuit and overheating with a risk of fire.
  88. 88Critical severityFrequency: RareBMW X3 F25Power steering control unit: fire risk and loss of assistance (2011-2016 production)Yes: BMW recalled cars built between 2011 and 2016, including the X3, because the electric power steering control unit could be faulty, with a risk of fire even when parked and of losing assistance while driving.
  89. 89Critical severityFrequency: RareBMW X5 E70Power steering control unit: loss of assistance and fire risk (X5 E70 from 2011-2013)Yes: Gebrauchtwagenberater.de reports a power steering assistance fault on X5 E70s built in April-May 2012, and a European alert also covers BMW's electric power steering control unit from 2011 to 2016, with a fire risk.
  90. 90Critical severityFrequency: RareCupra FormentorFaulty fuse with risk of electrical arc and fire (2022 recall)Yes: a Safety Gate alert from May 2022 covers Formentor and León built from October 2020 to February 2022 because of a faulty fuse that could cause an electrical arc and fire in a short circuit; Auto Zeitung and Auto Express place it on plug-in hybrids.
  91. 91Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  92. 92Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  93. 93Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  94. 94Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  95. 95Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  96. 96Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  97. 97Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  98. 98Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  99. 99Critical severityFrequency: 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.
  100. 100Critical severityFrequency: 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
  101. 101High severityFrequency: RareBMW Z4 G29Relay and starter motor with fire riskTwo European campaigns affect the Z4 starting system: one from 2025 for water in the starter relay (2015-2021) and one from 2026 for wear of the RSW22 starter contact (2020-2026), both with a fire risk.
  102. 102High severityFrequency: RareDacia Logan IIPositive battery terminal touching the alternator (fire risk)A Safety Gate alert (8/2020, Dacia code 0D9F) warns that on the Logan II built before 26 July 2019 the positive battery terminal may touch the alternator heatsink, with a risk of short circuit and fire in the engine bay.
  103. 103High severityFrequency: 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.
  104. 104High severityFrequency: RareJaguar XJ X351Alternator positive cable can loosen: fire riskOn Jaguar XJs built between August and October 2014, the alternator positive cable can come loose and increase the risk of fire; the campaign also checked the mountings of the belt-driven ancillaries, whose failure can reduce power steering assistance.
  105. 105High severityFrequency: RareLand Rover Range Rover IVAir-conditioning fan earth cable poorly specified with fire riskIn 2015 4,860 Range Rovers built between October 2014 and February 2015 were recalled for inspection, because the earth cable of the air-conditioning blower fan in the dashboard harness could overheat and melt its insulation, with a burning smell and, if ignored, a risk of fire. The cable was replaced.
  106. 106High severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 207Fire risk from heated seat wiring (built 2009-2015)A Safety Gate alert (A12/0817/16, July 2016) covers 207s built between 29 June 2009 and 29 May 2015: the heated seat wiring harness can overheat and cause a fire even with the car parked.

Problems with a fire risk by make

Problems with a fire risk in your car

30 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 14
Cupra 1
Fiat 1
Ford 2
Hyundai 2
Kia 2
Mercedes-Benz 7
Toyota 1

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 1.6 GDi híbrido (Kappa) (main relay of the power relay assembly (overheating and fire risk), critical severity) and the Audi e-tron / Q8 e-tron (battery cell modules with a risk of overheating and fire, critical severity). In total we have documented 22 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), BMW Serie 4 G22 (starter motor corrosion from water ingress (fire risk)), Cupra León (defective fuse in the high-voltage battery of the Cupra Leon e-Hybrid (risk of short circuit and fire)) and Mercedes-Benz CLS C257 (gearbox wiring harness connector with moisture: risk of short circuit and fire). In total, 101 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 12 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, hard starting or engine will not start, heavy steering or power steering warning, the plug-in hybrid's electric range has dropped, intermittent electronic warnings or sensor faults and coolant loss with no visible leak.

Sources

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

  1. Motor BMW B47: problemas, modelos y qué revisarCarexam · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  2. Fiabilité Audi A4 : pannes, rappels et témoignagesfiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  3. Fiabilité Audi Q5 II : pannes, rappels et témoignagesfiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  4. Fiabilité Mercedes GLA 2 (H247, depuis 2020) : pannes et rappelsFiches-Auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  5. Nissan Qashqai III (J12): typische Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  6. Rückruf Nissan Qashqai: Kraftstoffleitung kann undicht werdenAutoservicepraxis · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  7. Erhöhte Brandgefahr! Rückruf von 30.000 Nissan QashqaiADAC · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  8. Porsche Panamera Recalls in EU (page 1)Car-Recalls.eu (Safety Gate) · Official body · consulted 29 October 2026
  9. Porsche Panamera: humedad en la centralita, riesgo de incendio (KBA)Car-Recalls.eu · Official body · consulted 29 October 2026 · in another language
  10. Seat Leon IV (seit 2020) – Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · published 15 December 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  11. VW Golf 8 (CD) – Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · published 22 April 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  12. BMW E90Wikipedia (alemán) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  13. BMW 3er E90/E91/E92/E93: ProblemeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  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. 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. VW Tiguan I (5N): Schwachstellen & KaufberatungGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German