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Electrics and electronics

Problems with the electrical wiring: symptoms, cost and affected models

We have documented 160 faults with the electrical wiring in 16 engines and 133 cars, affecting 202 models of car in our database. The most important by severity and frequency: seat SRS connector fault with airbag and seatbelt warning light on (Rover 75), additional turbo coolant pump with a risk of short circuit and fire (BMW N62 / N63) and main relay of the power relay assembly (overheating and fire risk) (1.6 GDi híbrido (Kappa)).

Documented faults
160
107 of high or critical severity
Engines
16
with at least one fault on this part
Affected models
202
car generations in our database
Garage repair
No data
No reliable published costs

13 sourcesHow we work

How it works and why it fails

Wiring, connectors and short circuits

A modern car has kilometres of wires and hundreds of connectors. Chafing against moving parts, moisture or an incorrectly rated fuse can cause intermittent faults that are hard to find and, in some cases, short circuits with a fire risk that have led to recalls.

What to do

If several warnings appear and disappear at the same time, suspect a connector or a wiring loom before each part separately. If you smell burning plastic or there is smoke, stop the car and disconnect the battery if it is safe to do so. Use the VIN to check for outstanding campaigns.

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 the electrical wiring. Open each one to see what other faults cause it.

Problems with the electrical wiring 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: 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.
  2. 2Critical 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.
  3. 3Critical 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.
  4. 4High severityFrequency: Occasional1.3 TCeBlown fuel pump fuseOn the Renault Captur II and Clio V with the 1.3 TCe engine, a 20-amp fuse can blow and leave the car without an engine. According to L'argus, in April 2021 this fault still had no factory fix; the official service centre's diagnosis includes checking, and sometimes replacing, the catalytic converter.
  5. 5High 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.
  6. 6High severityFrequency: Occasional1.9 TDIUnit injector tappet wear and injector wiring damageOn the unit injector system, the tappets that operate the injectors can wear if the oil is not changed on time, and the injector wiring can be damaged by contact with oil, causing misfires or loss of power.
  7. 7Medium severityFrequency: CommonM111Camshaft adjuster oil leak into the wiringYes: the magnet (solenoid valve) of the M111 camshaft adjuster can lose its seal, and the oil creeps up by capillary action to the connector and the wiring loom. Mercedes-Benz has the same repair cable as for the M271 (part number A2711502733), which is cheap to fit.
  8. 8Medium severityFrequency: CommonM271Oil leaking from the camshaft adjuster solenoids into the wiringYes: the camshaft adjuster solenoids (magnets) of the M271 can lose their seal, and the oil wicks up to the connector and the wiring loom, and can even reach the control unit. Mercedes-Benz has a specific repair cable (reference A2711502733) that is cheap to fit.
  9. 9Medium severityFrequency: CommonM270/M274Oil leaking from the camshaft adjuster into the electrical connector (M274)Yes: on the M274, the camshaft adjuster solenoids can lose their seal over the years and let oil wick up to the connector and the wiring harness, potentially reaching the ECU. It is fixed relatively cheaply with a specific repair cable.
  10. 10Medium severityFrequency: Occasional1.0 EcoBoostMisfires and engine warning light caused by the wiring harnessFord documented in a technical service bulletin that the engine wiring harness can rub against the exhaust heat shield on the 2018-2019 automatic EcoSport, which turns on the engine warning light with misfire fault codes. Spark plugs and coils are also common wear items on this turbocharged three-cylinder.
  11. 11Medium severityFrequency: Occasional1.2 HR12DE and 1.2 DIG-S (HR12DDR)Short-circuited ignition coil: the engine stalls and will not restartIn Micra and Note 1.2 DIG-S built between July 2015 and January 2016, a short circuit in the ignition coil could blow a fuse and stop the engine, which would then not restart. Nissan notified owners and the remedy is a new coil.
  12. 12Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault-Nissan CMF-EV (Mégane E-Tech, Ariya)Charging faults on the Mégane E-Tech: on-board charger, fast charging and connectorOn the fiches-auto.fr entry, charging is the most frequently reported fault in the electrical system of the Mégane E-Tech: 20 of 86 reports describe charging that stops or is rejected on AC (22 kW charger) or on fast charging, with warnings that charging is impossible.
  13. 13Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault-Nissan CMF-EV (Mégane E-Tech, Ariya)Campaign 0EKN: connector in the battery cooling circuit of the Mégane E-Tech that may corrodeIn April 2025 Renault warned owners of the Mégane and Scénic E-Tech that a connector could corrode and leave the traction battery uncharged or limit power. The free repair consists of inspecting the connector and replacing the end of the battery cooling pipe. The information comes from owner forums that cite the manufacturer's letter.
  14. 14Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalSubaru bóxerShort-circuiting ignition coils on the Forester, XV and Impreza (2016-2019)Two British campaigns (2020 and 2021) affect 2,338 Forester, XV and Impreza cars built from September 2016 to October 2019: one reprograms the control unit because the coil stays powered after the engine is switched off, and the other replaces all the coils, which can short-circuit and leave the car unable to start.
  15. 15High 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.
  16. 16High severityFrequency: Rare2.3 dCi (M9T)Fuel pipe rubbing against the wiring harness (recall 0EC1)In July 2024 Renault recalled 35,039 Master 2.3 dCi vans built from 23-09-2014 to 27-09-2023 because of possible rubbing of the fuel pipe, which could leak. The fix is a spacer.
  17. 17Medium severityFrequency: RareBMW i3 / Mini Cooper SEFailure of the on-board charger and the charging port on the i3There are owner testimonies on fiches-auto.fr of a charger that stopped working after around 800 charges (120,000 km) on a 2014 i3, of a charging port that failed at 49,000 km (covered by warranty) and of a 2016 i3 REx that would not charge. These are isolated cases from a very small sample.
  18. 18Medium severityFrequency: RareNissan Leaf and e-NV200Locking and communication faults at the CHAdeMO fast-charging socketSome Leaf IIs have locking or communication defects at the CHAdeMO socket: fast charging cuts out, does not start or stops before completing, at several different chargers.

Engines with faults with the electrical wiring

Problems with the electrical wiring by car

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

  1. 1Critical severityFrequency: CommonRover 75Seat SRS connector fault with airbag and seatbelt warning light onAuto Express warns that the Rover 75's seat SRS connector can cause the airbags to fail, and dealers were fixing it with revised connectors. The Dutch APK inspection puts the airbag or seatbelt fault warning among the most frequent defects across almost all series.
  2. 2Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAlfa Romeo GiuliettaShort circuit from badly routed wiring that can prevent gear shifting (KBA campaign, 2010-2015)Yes: according to Germany's KBA, on Alfa Romeo Giulietta cars built between 2010 and 2015 inadequate cable routing could cause a short circuit and, as a result, gear-shift failure.
  3. 3Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAlfa Romeo TonaleFaulty wiring under the floor: loss of lights, power steering and brake servo (Tonale 2022-2023)Yes: a Safety Gate alert from March 2023 (campaign 6574) covers 607 Tonales built between 15 September 2022 and 13 February 2023, whose wiring under the floor can knock out the lights, hazard lights, power steering and brake servo.
  4. 4Critical 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
  5. 5Critical 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
  6. 6Critical 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.
  7. 7Critical 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.
  8. 8Critical 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.
  9. 9Critical 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.
  10. 10Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalCupra FormentorFront airbag wiring faultYes: in June 2022 Cupra recalled more than 10,000 Formentors over a problem with the front airbag wiring, which could stop it working properly in a crash. The inspection and, where needed, the wiring repair were carried out free of charge at official dealers.Repair: €0
  11. 11Critical 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.
  12. 12Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalDacia Duster IIIPoorly secured R107 connector next to the pedals on the Duster IIIAccording to the fiches-auto.fr entry, campaign 0EFZ corrects a poorly secured electrical connector (R107) near the pedals, which the driver's foot can pull apart, causing the loss of several functions (drive, power steering, airbags, parking sensors).
  13. 13Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalDS DS 3 CrossbackRisk of a short circuit in the 12 V battery under the bonnet (built February-July 2020)DS recalled DS3 Crossbacks built between February and July 2020 because a short circuit can occur in the 12 V battery under the bonnet, which increases the risk of fire while charging or driving.
  14. 14Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat FreemontIncorrectly installed steering wheel wiring: short circuit and risk of unintended driver airbag deploymentYes: an EU alert notified by Germany in November 2017 (44/2017) warns that, on Freemont cars built between October 2010 and April 2015, incorrectly installed steering wheel wiring can chafe and cause a short circuit, with a risk of the driver's airbag deploying while the car is being driven.
  15. 15Critical 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.
  16. 16Critical 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.
  17. 17Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalJaguar XF ICrossed wiring in the airbag control module (RCM): curtain airbag may not open or may open lateYes: Jaguar recalled XFs built between April 2013 and August 2015 because the wires of the C-pillar impact sensors were crossed at the airbag module connector. In a crash, the curtain airbag could fail to deploy or deploy late. It is corrected by redoing the wiring.
  18. 18Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalLand Rover Defender IICorrosion of the driver's airbag connector in the steering columnYes: a 2026 campaign covers Defenders built between April 2019 and June 2026 because the driver's airbag connector, in the steering column, can corrode and the airbag might not deploy in a crash. The repair consists of applying a protective lubricating gel to the connector terminals.
  19. 19Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalLand Rover Discovery 5Corrosion of the driver's airbag connector in the steering columnYes: a 2026 campaign covers Discoverys built between April 2019 and June 2026 because the driver's airbag connector, in the steering column, can corrode and the airbag might not deploy in a crash. The repair consists of applying a protective lubricating gel to the connector terminals.
  20. 20Critical 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.
  21. 21Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase E W21480 A fuse and fuse box incorrectly reworked on 2023 E-Classes, with risk of losing driveYes: two Safety Gate alerts (A12/00939/24 and SR/02431/25) cover E-Classes built in 2023 because of a faulty 80 A fuse and a fuse box incorrectly reworked, which could cause loss of drive, brake retarder or instrument cluster failure, and a fire.
  22. 22Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase G W463AFront door wiring poorly routed, with possible failure of restraints, unlocking and eCall (2018 production)Yes: a recall affected 11,528 G-Class from 2018 because the front door wiring may have been poorly routed and could limit restraint systems, unlocking after a crash or the eCall position. The harness is checked and replaced if necessary.
  23. 23Critical 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.
  24. 24Critical 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.
  25. 25Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz EQC N293Side impact sensor connector not properly locked: the side airbags could deploy lateMercedes recalled 2,607 cars of several models, including the EQC built from 31/07/2020 to 11/11/2020, because the side impact sensor connector may not be properly locked and could come loose. If that happens, the restraint systems could act late in a side collision.
  26. 26Critical 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.
  27. 27Critical 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.
  28. 28Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLE V16712 V connection bolts (wiring and earth under the seats) with insufficient tightening torqueMercedes recalled 33,825 plug-in hybrid GLE models over a bolt on the 12 V wiring harness tightened with insufficient torque, and 399 2021 GLE models over a loose bolt on the 12 V earth cable under the driver's seat: resistance can increase, the area can heat up and there is a risk of fire.
  29. 29Critical 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.
  30. 30Critical 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.
  31. 31Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel CrosslandRisk of short circuit from chafing of the electrical wiring harness (units up to 2018)fiches-auto.fr documents a campaign on Crossland X units built up to 2018 in which the electrical wiring harness chafing against another component could cause a short circuit and, in the worst case, a fire.
  32. 32Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Grandland IWiring chafing under the seat with a risk to the side airbag and of a short circuit (2024 build)fiches-auto.fr documents a campaign on Grandland X models built between March and November 2024 in which the wiring under the seat can chafe and become damaged, causing incorrect operation of the side airbag and a risk of short circuit and fire.
  33. 33Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Omega BElectrical connector of the airbag system on Omegas built between 1991 and 1995: the airbag might not deployAccording to the UK DVSA, a 1995 recall covered Omegas built between August 1991 and February 1995 because an airbag system electrical connector might not be properly seated, so the airbag might not deploy. The database does not distinguish between Omega A and Omega B.
  34. 34Critical 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.
  35. 35Critical 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
  36. 36Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSuzuki Jimny IVDamaged door wiring harnesses that can prevent the side and curtain airbags from deployingThe 97GN campaign (Safety Gate, July 2021) covers Jimnys built up to 2 December 2020: due to an inadequate design, the wiring in the driver and passenger doors can be damaged or cut when the doors are opened and closed, and the side and curtain airbags might not deploy properly.
  37. 37Critical 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
  38. 38Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Multivan T7Curtain airbag clips and roof wiring harness poorly fittedYes: in July 2022 Volkswagen recalled (campaign 69DP) 7,896 Multivan T7s worldwide because the head airbag anchors could be incorrectly positioned and a wiring harness, badly routed, could damage the insulation and cause a short circuit. At the garage the interior roof is removed to check and correct both.
  39. 39High severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 3 E90Battery positive cable connector failureBMW recalled 2006-2011 petrol and 2009-2011 diesel 3 Series E90 cars over a faulty battery positive cable connector that can cause an electrical and engine failure, according to gebrauchtwagenberater.de.Repair: €0
  40. 40High 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.
  41. 41High severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 6 E63/E64Battery drain and loose positive cableThe battery and alternator are frequently cited by Fiches-auto, and there is a recall for the battery's positive cable, which can work loose.
  42. 42High severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën Xsara PicassoAirbag warning light on due to connectors under the seats, and a recall on the first models (2000)The Xsara Picasso's airbag warning light comes on fairly often because of faulty connectors under the seats or intermittent faults in the control unit; Citroën also ran a recall in 2000 on airbag control on the first models.
  43. 43High severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat Doblò ISteering column wiring that chafes and can set off the driver's airbagA campaign from April 2002 recorded in the United Kingdom (DVSA R/2002/080, Fiat reference 4427) affected 1,522 early-series Doblòs: the wiring harness can chafe against the steering column and cause the driver's airbag to deploy unintentionally. It appears in the British register and we have not been able to confirm its scope in Spain.
  44. 44High severityFrequency: OccasionalFord Focus IVThe engine wiring harness can rub against the gearbox and cause a short circuitFord recalled Focus IV cars three times between 2020 and 2021 because the engine wiring harness could rub against a bolt or stud on the gearbox casing, with a risk of a short circuit; a third campaign also corrected vehicles in which the first repair had been done incorrectly.
  45. 45High severityFrequency: OccasionalFord Transit CustomDual-battery positive cable incorrectly fitted, with loss of power and risk of overheatingCampaign 20S03 covers Transit Custom built from 20 May to 10 October 2019: the dual-battery positive cable may have been fitted incorrectly and come loose, with loss of engine power or even localised overheating with melting of components. Safety Gate labels it as a fire of electronic origin.
  46. 46High 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.
  47. 47High severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai Kona IIRecall over 12 V battery wiring in a frontal collisionHyundai recalled Kona IIs built between April and December 2023 because the 12 V battery wiring could come into contact with the engine control unit bracket in a frontal collision, with a risk of short circuit; in Spain it affected about 3,600 units and is fixed with a free check of about 50 minutes.
  48. 48High severityFrequency: OccasionalJaecoo 7Loose ECU wiring harness: engine warning light and stallingIn March 2026 Jaecoo issued a recall in the UK for up to 7,500 Jaecoo 7 1.6 TGDI units (April-December 2025) because a clip on the engine control unit (ECU) wiring harness may not be secured properly, with a risk of the engine warning light coming on and the engine stalling. In Austria it affected 15 J7 AWD petrol cars. The plug-in hybrid is not affected.Repair: €0
  49. 49High severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Ceed IIIClutch hydraulic actuator on the Ceed PHEV with short-circuit riskA Safety Gate alert from January 2025 records that the electronic board of the clutch hydraulic actuator on the plug-in hybrid Ceed (2019-2023) can become contaminated with fluid and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire.
  50. 50High 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.
  51. 51High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Citan W415Unintended tailgate opening from moisture in the reversing camera wiring harnessYes: on Citans with a reversing camera built between 25 February 2015 and 16 November 2020, moisture could get into the camera wiring harness and make the tailgate open by itself, even while driving. There is a recall; it does not affect every car.
  52. 52High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase C W205Wiring harness rubbing against the driveshaft (risk of loss of drive)Yes: the German KBA registered a campaign in 2023 for the C-Class W205 because a wiring harness of the wrong length can rub against the driveshaft, wear through and cause a loss of drive. The manufacturer has not recorded any accidents because of this.
  53. 53High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase C W206Wiring harness with a faulty connection that can cause loss of propulsionMercedes-Benz has recalled C-Class W206 units because an incorrect connection in a wiring harness can generate high electrical resistance and, in the worst case, a sudden loss of propulsion.
  54. 54High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase C W206Incorrectly installed fuse box that can affect critical systemsMercedes-Benz has recalled C-Class W206 units built in 2023 because an incorrect installation of the fuse box can cause power cut-outs or leave critical vehicle systems without adequate protection.
  55. 55High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase E W214Gearbox wiring harness routed incorrectly and rubbing against the front axle on 4MATIC E-Classes (December 2022 to February 2024)Yes: a KBA recall (13712) covers all-wheel-drive W214 E-Classes built between December 2022 and February 2024 (4,781 cars worldwide) because the gearbox harness can rub against the front axle and cause loss of drive without warning.
  56. 56High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase G W463AFront axle wiring harness that rubs against the auxiliary radiator and may affect ESP and ABS (2018 to 2022)Yes: a KBA recall (012572) covers 126,042 G-Class built between 2018 and 2022 because the front axle wiring harness may rub against the auxiliary radiator and damage the ESP and ABS. It is checked and replaced if necessary.
  57. 57High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Sprinter 906Overheating of the air suspension compressor fuse holderAlert A12/1326/19 warns that the fuse holder of the air suspension compressor and its cables can overheat and increase the risk of fire. It covers Sprinters built between September 2009 and August 2018; by its nature it only concerns units with air suspension.
  58. 58High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Vito W639Starter motor wiring harness fitted the wrong way round that can touch the exhaust manifold (March to September 2006)On Viano models built between March and September 2006, the starter motor wiring harness may have been fitted twisted and sit too close to the exhaust manifold, with a risk of it burning. A known-problems sheet lists it; it is a single source.
  59. 59High severityFrequency: OccasionalMitsubishi ASX IOverheating of the engine control unit power relayThe relay that powers the engine control unit on 2015 ASX cars can overheat and fail; the power supply is then cut, the engine warning light comes on and the car may stall and not restart. Mitsubishi corrected it with a recall that replaces the relay (Safety Gate A12/0099/18).
  60. 60High severityFrequency: OccasionalMitsubishi LancerOverheating of the engine control unit relay and the valve lift control relayA Safety Gate alert from October 2018 (A12/1462/18) states that the engine control unit relay or the valve lift control relay can heat up abnormally and the engine can stall while driving. It covers the 2015-2016 Lancer and Lancer Sportback, and also Outlander models.
  61. 61High severityFrequency: OccasionalMitsubishi Outlander IIIOverheating of the engine control unit power relayThe engine control unit relay (or the valve lift control relay) on the 2014-2017 Outlander and Outlander PHEV can heat up abnormally and fail; the engine may stop working and not restart. Mitsubishi put it right with a recall that replaces the relay (Safety Gate A12/1462/18).
  62. 62High severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Talisman2015 electrical recalls: battery sensor earth and additional heater wiringTwo 2016 recalls affected the earliest Talisman: a poorly routed earth braid on the battery current sensor could stall the engine without warning (notice reported by Spain), and a loose earth on the additional cabin heater could cause a fire.
  63. 63High severityFrequency: OccasionalSeat Alhambra IIStarter motor relay spring wrongly positioned: risk of overheatingA 2018 Safety Gate alert covers the Alhambra, Altea, Leon and Ibiza built from 18-03 to 28-05-2011: the starter relay spring could be wrongly positioned, overheat the relay and cause a fire.
  64. 64High severityFrequency: OccasionalŠkoda KaroqSeat frames with a manufacturing defectIn July 2019, Škoda recalled part of the Karoq production run because the seat frames had a manufacturing defect.Repair: €0
  65. 65High 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.
  66. 66High severityFrequency: OccasionalSubaru Forester IVDamaged wiring harness at the steering column (2016 recall)Subaru recalled 2013-2014 Forester models because the wiring harness may rub against the steering column and cause a short circuit that disables the wipers, headlights or horn, or even stalls the engine. The alert (A12/0217/16) was notified by Greece.
  67. 67High severityFrequency: OccasionalSuzuki Swift IIIPassenger airbag wiring poorly secured (2008 recall, three-door Swift)In 2008 Suzuki recalled three-door Swifts from 2005-2008 (15,286 in Germany) because the passenger airbag wiring, poorly secured, could chafe and trigger the airbag by mistake.Repair: €0
  68. 68High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota GR Supra A90Corrosion of the starter motor relayAn EU alert from October 2025 records that water can reach the starter motor relay of GR Supras built from February 2019 to September 2020, corrode it and, in the worst case, cause a fire.
  69. 69High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Hilux VIIIMain engine bay harness clip poorly fixed next to the steering columnAn August 2017 European alert affects 2016–2017 Hilux cars built in South Africa: a clip holding the main engine bay harness, behind the steering column shaft, may not be properly fixed and can let the wiring rub against the shaft; damage to the harness could cause the engine to stall.
  70. 70High 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.
  71. 71High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Prius IIShort circuit in the electric water pump of the hybrid cooling circuitYes: Toyota recalled Prius cars from 2003 to 2009 because the wire of the coil in the electric pump that cools the hybrid components could corrode or break. The pump then stops, warnings light up and, in the worst case, the hybrid system can shut down with the car in motion.
  72. 72High severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Amarok ISeat wiring harness that can be damaged when the seat is lowered to its lowest positionYes: in 2019 Volkswagen recalled Amaroks built between May 2016 and May 2018 because a wiring harness could be damaged when the seat is adjusted to its lowest position. A damaged wire can cause localised burns and make the seat move on its own, with a risk of losing control.
  73. 73High 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.
  74. 74High severityFrequency: OccasionalVolvo S40 IIWasher fluid leaking from the windscreen washer pump into the wiring and central electronic module on the Volvo S40Washer fluid can seep into the pump, run down the wires to the central electronic module and affect several functions of the car or, in serious cases, cause a fire. UK campaign R/2011/163 covers the C30, S40, V50 and C70 and replaces the pump's wiring harness.
  75. 75High severityFrequency: OccasionalVolvo V50Washer fluid leaking from the windscreen washer pump into the wiring and central electronic module on the Volvo V50Washer fluid can seep into the pump, run down the wires to the central electronic module and affect several functions of the car or, in serious cases, cause a fire. UK campaign R/2011/163 covers the C30, S40, V50 and C70 and replaces the pump's wiring harness.
  76. 76Medium severityFrequency: CommonBMW Serie 3 E46Central locking and immobiliser failure due to worn relaysThe central locking can become intermittent or stop responding to the remote, and the immobiliser can fail sporadically when starting; gebrauchtwagenberater.de attributes both faults to wear in the relays of the control modules, and fiches-auto.fr records numerous testimonies of unreliable locking.
  77. 77Critical 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.
  78. 78Critical severityFrequency: RareFiat TipoSteering wheel airbag wiring badly routed on the Fiat Tipo (2015-2016 campaign)Gebrauchtwagenberater.de and UK alert listings record a campaign for Tipos built between October 2015 and July 2016: the steering wheel wiring, badly routed, could short circuit and cause the airbag to fire unintentionally.
  79. 79Critical severityFrequency: RareFord Transit Connect ISide airbag wiring reversed at the control unit connectorYes: in 2004 the UK's DVSA recorded a recall (4C967SI) because the side airbag wiring was reversed at the control unit connector of 19 Ford Connects built between February and November 2004, meaning the wrong side airbag would deploy in a crash. The terminals are repositioned correctly.
  80. 80Critical 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.
  81. 81Critical severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz Clase E W212Short-circuit risk from moisture in conductive componentsMercedes-Benz recalled a range of vehicles, including the last E-Class W212 cars, because moisture in certain conductive components can cause a short circuit.
  82. 82Critical severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz Clase E W213Short-circuit risk from moisture in the wiring harness connectorsA specialist reliability listing records a Mercedes-Benz recall for E-Class W213 cars built between 2017 and 2022 over a risk of short circuit due to water getting into the wiring harness connectors.
  83. 83Critical severityFrequency: RareSuzuki IgnisShort-circuit risk from the 12 V positive cableIn a small series of Ignis and Swift of model year 2022 (465 units worldwide), the 12 V positive cable could rub against the negative cable or the bodywork and cause a short circuit with a fire risk.
  84. 84Critical 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.
  85. 85Critical 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.
  86. 86Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi A3 IVFaulty fuses on the plug-in hybrid A3 (TFSIe)In April 2022, Audi recalled 3,656 plug-in hybrid A3 (TFSIe) cars built between October 2020 and February 2022 because of a manufacturing defect in the fuses.Repair: €0
  87. 87Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi A3 IVPossible power supply failure on more than 100,000 carsIn August 2023, Audi recalled more than 100,000 A3 cars built between March 2020 and May 2023 because of a possible power supply failure.Repair: €0
  88. 88Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW i3Charger and charging socket fault on the BMW i3According to fiches-auto.fr, 5 of the 14 i3 testimonials mention charging problems: a charger that failed after about 800 charges (120,000 km) on the 170 hp electric version and a socket fault at 49,000 km, covered by warranty.
  89. 89Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW X5 E70Electronic module and connector faults caused by moisture on the X5 E70According to fiches-auto.fr, the X5 E70's electronics appear in 14 mentions out of 152 testimonies: DSC, ABS, airbag and cruise control faults, attributed to moisture and corroded connectors; one case cites a €1,300 module at around 90,000 km.
  90. 90Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C5 IIShort-circuit risk from rubbing of the starter motor cable (2015-2016 production)An EU alert (RAPEX A12/0997/17) covers C5s built between 30 June 2015 and 29 April 2016 in which the starter motor terminal was incorrectly positioned and could rub against the EGR valve, damaging the cable insulation and creating a risk of a short circuit.
  91. 91Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C8Repeated electronic faults in the BSI control unit and wiringThe fiches-auto.fr page counts 27 C8 owner reports of repeated electronic faults (BSI, automatic lights, controls); cars from 2002-2005 would be the most exposed to damp-related faults.
  92. 92Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën XsaraIntermittent faults caused by the door and boot wiring looms on the Citroën XsaraAccording to fiches-auto.fr, the Xsara's door and boot looms cause around 54 mentions of intermittent electrical faults (locking, instrument cluster, lights, wipers), made worse by damp. No public recall is recorded.
  93. 93Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalFord B-MaxPoor durability of the mechanism, locks and wiring of the rear sliding doorsfiches-auto.fr notes that the mechanism, locks and wiring of the B-Max's rear sliding doors may not be durable enough; Auto Express adds that, because the doors are heavy, they can close by themselves if the car is parked on a steep slope.
  94. 94Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalFord C-Max IRear wiper motor short circuit caused by water ingress (2003-2005)On cars built between 2003 and 2005, insufficient sealing of the rear wiper control housing lets water in and can cause a short circuit, according to two independent sources.
  95. 95Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalHonda FR-VFuel pump relay that can fail and leave the car stalled or unable to startOnly on specific units: in 2007 Honda recalled FR-Vs built in May 2005 in the UK because the fuel pump relay could fail and make the engine not start or stall. The relay is checked and replaced if necessary.
  96. 96Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Cerato ICabin fuse and relay box faults (BCM module)According to a used Kia Cerato I press review, the cabin fuse and relay box (BCM module) is the main source of electrical faults: its non-replaceable relays last about 10 years and the unit is prone to corrosion and swollen capacitors; replacing it means removing part of the dashboard.
  97. 97Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMazda 3 IIIWiper failure caused by corrosion in an electrical connectorYes: Mazda recalled Mazda3 BM cars built between July 2015 and July 2017 because a deposit of metal particles in a connector can interrupt the current feeding the wiper motor and leave the wipers not working.
  98. 98Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMazda CX-5 IISCR wiring harness worn by dirt (all-wheel-drive diesel CX-5, recall)Mazda issued a recall for all-wheel-drive diesel CX-5s built between May 2018 and September 2020: the routing of the SCR wiring harness can wear through its insulation and cut it, which switches on the SCR warning light and stops the system working; car-recalls.eu adds that the engine and 4WD warning lights may fail too.
  99. 99Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase M W163ABS/ESP hydraulic unit wiring that rubs at the front left wheel arch of the Mercedes M-Class W163Gebrauchtwagenberater describes how the hydraulic unit's wiring harness rubs against the front left wheel arch lining and ends up causing ABS and ESP faults. Only that source reports it.
  100. 100Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan PrimastarDashboard wiring loom poorly secured, chafing near the steering column and the clutch cylinderYes: the ADAC lists a November 2007 campaign over the dashboard wiring loom of Primastars built between May 2006 and April 2007: poorly secured, it could chafe and cause starting faults, engine overheating and lighting faults. It also affects the Renault Trafic and the Opel Vivaro.
  101. 101Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Meriva AWiring breaks in the tailgate with cascading electronic faultsOn the Meriva A's tailgate, the wiring can break and lead to a series of cascading electronic faults (rear brake light, rear wiper, lock, among others), according to Gebrauchtwagenberater.de.
  102. 102Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Vectra BCentral locking faults (right half due to water in the wiring loom and microswitches on the driver's door)According to Kolesa.ru, the Vectra B's central locking often fails on the right-hand half due to water in the cabin wiring loom after wet floors, and the locking microswitches on the driver's door are another vulnerable point. The actuator motor is inside and difficult to remove.
  103. 103Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 206Cascading electrical warnings caused by the BSI (fuse box)When the BSI (the fuse and relay box that centralises much of the electrical system) receives an unstable signal, several warning lights can come on at once with no mechanical fault behind them; it is usually due to a corroded earth, damp connectors or a weak battery.
  104. 104Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 207Cascading electrical warnings from the BSI (fuse box)When the BSI (the fuse and relay box that centralises the electrical system) receives an unstable signal, several warning lights (ABS, ESP, airbag...) can come on at once without any mechanical fault behind them; it is usually down to a corroded earth, damp wiring or a weak battery.
  105. 105Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Clio IIIAirbag warning light on because of a connector under the seatsThe airbag warning light comes on unexpectedly on some Clio IIIs because of a connectivity problem in the wiring under the front seats; repairing or soldering that connection usually fixes it, according to Caradisiac.
  106. 106Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Scénic IV12V battery that does not last and battery or starter fuses that blowAccording to owners cited by fiches-auto.fr, the Scénic IV's 12V battery is one of the most frequently reported faults: several owners have replaced it two or three times in a few years, and others have had problems with the battery or starter fuse, sometimes in cold weather.
  107. 107Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalŠkoda Fabia IEngine wiring harness corrosion from water collecting around itOn Fabia I units from before the 2004 facelift, the engine wiring harness sits in a recess in the bodywork where water collects, which can cause faults with the central locking, the windows and the wipers; the manufacturer's 97J7 service campaign should already have corrected it on most vehicles, according to gebrauchtwagenberater.de.
  108. 108Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalŠkoda Superb IIIElectrical fault caused by a poorly secured cable clampAt the end of 2015, Volkswagen-Audi recalled Superb III models from 2015-2016 because a clamp holding a cable could come loose and cause faults in the car's electronic functions.Repair: €0
  109. 109Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalSubaru Impreza IIIPoor connection at the fuel pump connectorYes: in the UK, Subaru recalled more than 6,600 Imprezas built between 2008 and July 2010 (together with Outback and Legacy models of other years) because of a poor connection at the fuel pump connector. The wiring is replaced and the pump flange is checked.
  110. 110Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalTesla Model YRisk of a short circuit in the central computer (Hardware 4.1) that can leave the reversing camera without an imageOn Model Y cars with the Hardware 4.1 computer (built 2023-2025), a reverse current when the car is switched on can cause a short circuit on the central computer board and leave the reversing camera without an image; Tesla fixes it with a software update or, if needed, by replacing the board.
  111. 111High severityFrequency: RareAudi Q5 ICorrosion in the auxiliary heater connectors of the Audi Q5According to the KBA, as cited by Gebrauchtwagenberater.de, contact corrosion in the auxiliary heater connectors can cause a short circuit with burning on Q5s built from 15/03/2011.
  112. 112High 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.
  113. 113High severityFrequency: RareCitroën C-CrosserCorrosion of the electric seat connectors under the rear matIn 2011 the DVSA registered a campaign (R/2011/015) because on some versions of the Citroën C-Crosser with electric front seats, the unused power connectors were left under the rear mat and could corrode from water or salty snow and heat up locally. The cables are relocated higher up, on the seat structure.
  114. 114High severityFrequency: RareDacia Duster IIRecall for the R107 electrical connector on the Duster II (2023-2024)Dacia recalled 27,641 Dusters built between June 2023 and July 2024 because a connector (R107) may not have been properly secured and could come loose, causing loss of traction, power steering assistance, airbags and brakes to fail.
  115. 115High 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.
  116. 116High 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.
  117. 117High severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz Citan W420Damaged instrument cluster board: moisture and internal short circuitThe Austrian club ÖAMTC records a Mercedes recall (April 2025) for the Citan and T-Class: the instrument cluster board may be damaged, allow moisture in and cause an internal short circuit. The speedometer, fuel gauge, warning lights and alerts could fail; the cluster is replaced at the workshop.
  118. 118High severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz CLA C117Recall for incorrectly fitted fuses on 2014 unitsYes: incorrectly installed fuses could stop the front passenger seat occupancy sensor, the airbag indicator, the instrument cluster and the windscreen wipers from working; it affected only CLAs built between September and November 2014.
  119. 119High severityFrequency: RareOpel Insignia AWater ingress in the tailgate module (Sports Tourer 2008–2011)Safety Gate lists a recall for water entering the tailgate control module of Insignia Sports Tourer vehicles built between June 2008 and August 2011, with a risk of short circuit and fire.
  120. 120High severityFrequency: RareOpel Meriva BEngine wiring harness rubbing against the gearbox: the engine may stall or not start (campaign 15-C-054)Opel issued a recall for Meriva Bs built between October 2013 and January 2015 because the engine wiring harness could rub against the gearbox casing and cause engine faults: warning light on, the car not starting, or the engine stalling while driving. The remedy is to change the routing of the harness and repair or replace it if necessary.
  121. 121High 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.
  122. 122High severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 4007Corrosion of the electric seat connectors under the rear floor matIn 2011 the DVSA recorded a campaign (R/2011/014) because on some Peugeot 4007 versions with electric front seats, the unused power connectors were left under the rear floor mat and could corrode with water or salted snow and heat up locally. The cables are relocated higher up, on the seat structure.
  123. 123High severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 508 IStarting system faults: starter motor and wiring (2013-2017 production)Two campaigns cover the 508 I starting system: one from 2017 (ref. R2017215) over a starter motor power cable that could rub and wear through, on vehicles built between October 2013 and April 2017; and another, also from 2017 (ref. R2017140), over a starter motor that might not work properly, on vehicles from May-October 2016.
  124. 124High severityFrequency: RareSeat León IIStarter motor relay that can overheat (campaign, León built in 2011)León IIs built between 18 March and 28 May 2011 were recalled because the starter motor relay spring can be incorrectly positioned, overheating the relay and causing a fire.
  125. 125High severityFrequency: RareToyota Prius IVA short circuit can occur in the instrument cluster (July 2019 batch)In a very specific range of ZVW50/ZVW55 units built between 12 and 31 July 2019 (about 239 units), an electrical short circuit can occur in the instrument cluster, making the speedometer, odometer or fuel gauge fail. Toyota recalled these units in 2020.
  126. 126Medium severityFrequency: RareAudi A8 D5Moisture in the engine control unit due to a connector without a sealing pinAudi recalled 583 A8 and S8 built between April 2018 and October 2020 because a sealing pin was missing from a connector on the engine control unit, allowing moisture in, with emergency mode or stalling possible.
  127. 127Medium severityFrequency: RareLancia VoyagerDriver's door switch unit without water drainageAuto Bild reports that the Lancia Voyager's first recall was for the driver's door switch unit, which in the early units did not drain water and caused short circuits. The magazine gives no dates, number of units or part reference.
  128. 128Medium severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz Clase A W176Fuse box incorrectly installed in a 2016 production periodMercedes-Benz recalled a batch of A-Class cars built between March and April 2016 because the fuse box might not have been installed correctly.
  129. 129Medium severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz Clase S W22312 V earth bolt and poorly repaired fuse boxThere are two electrical campaigns on the W223: a 12 V earth bolt in the boot that does not meet specification (built 2020-2023), and a fuse box poorly repaired in 2023 model-year units, with loose contacts or fuses of the wrong rating.
  130. 130Medium severityFrequency: RareNissan Micra IIIAirbag warning light comes on because of a faulty connectorOn some Micra III cars, a faulty connector in the airbag system can switch on the corresponding warning light on the dashboard without there being a mechanical problem in the airbag itself.
  131. 131Medium severityFrequency: RareOpel Vivaro BMain wiring harness touching the windscreen wiper mechanismThe Vivaro B's 2015 campaign included chafing between the main wiring harness and the windscreen wiper mechanism, which could prevent starting or stop the wipers unexpectedly.
  132. 132Medium severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 108Heated seat wiring that can cut power to the rear lights (2014-2015)A 2015 recall covers 108s built between June 2014 and April 2015: the wiring for the driver's seat heater could rub against the frame and be damaged, so the rear lights could stop working.
  133. 133Low severityFrequency: OccasionalMG TFElectric windows, central locking and hood wiringParkers notes that on the MG TF the electric windows and central locking can fail, and that the wiring for the hood's heated rear window frays over time, although these are simple repairs.
  134. 134Low severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan Qashqai IISteering column wiring harness faults affecting the steering wheel controlsAutopista describes electrical faults related to the steering column wiring harness that can leave the steering wheel controls not working, especially on units with the Xtronic automatic gearbox.
  135. 135Low severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan Qashqai IIISteering column wiring harness fault affecting the steering wheel controlsYes: the specialist press describes electrical faults in the Qashqai's steering column wiring harness that can leave the steering wheel controls (audio, phone or cruise control) not working, above all on units with the Xtronic automatic gearbox.
  136. 136Low severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Zafira ARear door wiring fault (windows and central locking)The wiring harness that runs to the Zafira A's rear doors can break internally and cause short circuits that leave that door's window or central locking out of action.
  137. 137Low severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Mégane E-TechCharging connector flap fault on the Mégane E-TechAccording to the fiches-auto.fr profile, there are testimonies of a charging connector flap that opens and closes by itself, or gets stuck without closing; the profile mentions a campaign during servicing, without detailing its scope.
  138. 138Low severityFrequency: OccasionalŠkoda RoomsterIntermittent breaks in the front left door wiring loomfiches-auto.fr cites recurring electrical faults from the front left door wiring loom, repaired twice in one case, with intermittent breaks caused by repeated opening and moisture in the connectors.
  139. 139Low severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Golf PlusWindow switches, locks and door wiring loomFiches-auto notes that the window switches, boot locks and door wiring looms give trouble on the Golf Plus; a cable cut at the hinge can knock out the windows, mirrors and central locking all at once.
  140. 140Low severityFrequency: RareBMW Serie 5 E60Tailgate wiring harness broken on the 5 Series TouringAUTO BILD says the tailgate wiring harness on the Touring is prone to breaking, and that BMW offers repair kits. It also mentions battery drain after long periods parked.
  141. 141Low severityFrequency: RareFiat Panda IIEngine cutting out due to a loose main relay, a damp ECU connector or a loose earthThe Dutch roadside assistance service ANWB flags three minor Panda II faults that stop the engine: the main relay in the fuse box that vibrates loose, damp in the engine control unit connector, and a loose earth cable.
  142. 142Low severityFrequency: RareLotus Elise S2Windscreen wiper motor and fuseIf the Elise's wiper motor fails, it can blow the fuse, and Auto Express says both the motor and the fuse need replacing.

Problems with the electrical wiring by make

Problems with the electrical wiring in your car

32 cars have several documented faults with the electrical wiring. Choose yours to see only the ones that affect them, by engine and by year.

Audi 1
BMW 3
Cupra 1
Dacia 1
Ford 1
Hyundai 1
Kia 2
Mercedes-Benz 12
Nissan 2
Peugeot 1
Renault 2
Seat 1
Škoda 1
Subaru 1
Volkswagen 2

How much it costs to repair a fault with the electrical wiring

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

OBD fault codes with the electrical wiring

The codes the ECU usually stores when this part fails: what they mean, causes and what to check.

Frequently asked questions

Which engines have the most faults with the electrical wiring?

By severity and frequency, the 1.6 GDi híbrido (Kappa) (main relay of the power relay assembly (overheating and fire risk), critical severity), the BMW N62 / N63 (additional turbo coolant pump with a risk of short circuit and fire, critical severity), the 1.3 TCe (blown fuel pump fuse, high severity), the M264/M254 (poorly tightened 48 V earth wiring in the mild-hybrid system (fire risk), high severity), the 1.9 TDI (unit injector tappet wear and injector wiring damage, high severity) and the M111 (camshaft adjuster oil leak into the wiring, medium severity). In total we have documented 16 engines with faults with the electrical wiring.

Which cars have problems with the electrical wiring?

Among those we have analysed: Rover 75 (seat SRS connector fault with airbag and seatbelt warning light on), Cupra Formentor (front airbag wiring fault), Mercedes-Benz Clase E W214 (80 A fuse and fuse box incorrectly reworked on 2023 E-Classes, with risk of losing drive), Mercedes-Benz Clase G W463A (front door wiring poorly routed, with possible failure of restraints, unlocking and eCall (2018 production)), Mercedes-Benz CLS C257 (gearbox wiring harness connector with moisture: risk of short circuit and fire), Mercedes-Benz GLE V167 (48 V earth cable under the passenger seat insufficiently tightened: risk of overheating and fire), Alfa Romeo Giulietta (short circuit from badly routed wiring that can prevent gear shifting (KBA campaign, 2010-2015)) and Alfa Romeo Tonale (faulty wiring under the floor: loss of lights, power steering and brake servo (Tonale 2022-2023)). In total, 133 cars with documented faults with the electrical wiring.

How much does it cost to repair a fault with the electrical wiring?

It depends a lot on the engine or car. At a dealer, from €0 to €0, including VAT, based on the 12 faults with a documented cost. The most expensive is risk of short circuit and fire due to moisture in electrical components (Audi A4 B9).

What symptoms does a fault with the electrical wiring cause?

The most frequently cited in the documented faults: intermittent electronic warnings or sensor faults, engine stalls or cuts out while driving, hard starting or engine will not start, airbag warning light on, electric windows or central locking not responding and engine fault warning light (check engine).

Sources

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

  1. Fiabilité Audi A4 : pannes, rappels et témoignagesfiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  2. Fiabilité Audi Q5 II : pannes, rappels et témoignagesfiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  3. Used Cupra Formentor (Mk1, 2020-date) buyer's guide: stylish and family-friendlyAuto Express · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026
  4. Seat Leon IV (seit 2020) – Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · published 15 December 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  5. VW Golf 8 (CD) – Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · published 22 April 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  6. BMW 3er E90/E91/E92/E93: ProblemeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  7. Jaecoo 7 recalled: quarter of all 2025 UK cars going back to dealersAuto Express · Motoring press · published 6 March 2026 · consulted 30 October 2026
  8. Omoda & Jaecoo J7 AWD: Probleme mit dem Innenraum-Boden-KabelbaumÖAMTC · Official body · published 2 March 2026 · consulted 30 October 2026 · in German
  9. Used Skoda Karoq reviewAuto Express · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026
  10. Gebrauchtwageninfo: Suzuki Swift (2005-2010)ADAC · Reliability study · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
  11. Used Audi A3 Mk4 (2020-date) buyer's guide: classy used hatchbackAuto Express · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026
  12. FACUA alerta de la llamada a revisión de los Skoda Superb III de 2015-2016FACUA-Consumidores en Acción · Consumer association · published 3 January 2016 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
  13. Used Skoda Superb (Mk3, 2015-2024) review and buyer's guideAuto Express · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026