BMW recalls over 291,000 SUVs over increased injury risk

FILE - The BMW badge on the hood of a BMW X3. (Credit: Lino Mirgeler/picture alliance via Getty Images)

BMW is recalling more than 291,000 SUVs that were sold in the United States because the interior cargo rails are at risk of becoming detached in a crash, which could potentially increase the risk of injury. 

The recall affects certain X3 SUVs from the 2018 through 2023 model years. 

The company said in documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration  that dealers will replace the rear cargo rail bolts that attach to the vehicle body. The company expects to notify owners by letter starting Aug. 30.

In rare cases, the attachment to the body could be damaged, BMW said in documents posted by the NHTSA. 

BMW said that the issue was brought to its attention in August 2022 after an "extreme rear crash" involving a 2022 BMW X3. The company was served legal documents in the case in March 2024 when it was able to inspect the vehicle. 

BMW did not say in the documents whether anyone was injured due to the issue. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report. This story was reported from Los Angeles.