Thousands of Mini Cooper SE electric cars recalled for battery system check

Thousands of Mini Cooper SE electric cars are being recalled into dealerships worldwide due to the potential of a fault with its battery management system.

Problems in the battery system can lead to overheating.

"A vehicle fire, even when the vehicle is parked, cannot be ruled out," said a BMW Group statement to Reuters.

Around 140,000 cars built between 2018 and 2024 are included in the recall, some of which are on UK roads.

The carmaker and its dealers are contacting owners requesting them to book their electric Mini into an authorised repairer for checks and a software update.

Separately, more than 450 Mini E models are subject to a recall for checks on their high voltage battery.

The DVSA recall notice states that on affected vehicles the seal on the high voltage battery housing may allow moisture to penetrate the battery and allow a fault to develop resulting in a check control message being displayed. In some cases the high voltage battery could switch off even when driving.

Mini dealerships will check the seal on affected vehicles and, if required, replace any faulty components.

• Car Review: The new Mini Cooper Electric makes fun go further.