BMW is recalling 1.3m cars globally amid fears 5-series and 6-series models could catch fire. The recall affects 109,000 cars in the UK built between March 2003 and July 2010.
In a statement, BMW said it had: "announced a recall of certain 5 Series and 6 Series models built between March 2003 and September 2010. This is due to an issue with a battery cable cover which, in a small number of cases, has been incorrectly fitted.
"In rare cases this could result in owners not being able to start their vehicle. In extremely rare cases the electrical system could malfunction leading to a scorching of the boot floor and a fire may result."
The issue emerged through BMW's internal testing and development and some customer feedback. Fewer than 1 per cent of cars inspected so far have exhibited the problem. BMW said it had received nine reports of the defect. An official said: "No accidents or injuries to a person have been reported to us".
BMW 5-series saloon and Touring models are affected, alongside coupe and cabriolet versions of the BMW 6-series. The recall also includes BMW M5 and BMW M6 models.
No current 5 and 6 Series models (F10, F11, F12, F13, F10M) are included in the recall.
The car maker will write to owners of all cars affected. It said checks will take around 30mins at a BMW service centre free of charge.
The recall affects around 368,000 cars in America, 283,000 in Germany, 109,000 in Britain and a further 102,000 in China.
