(September 20, 2013) BMW said today it will recall 134,000 model year 2008-2010 5-series cars to address electrical problems that can result in taillights, brake and other rear lights not working. The recall includes the M5.

The German automaker estimates that 15 percent of vehicles will have a problem with the rear bulb carrier. But BMW doesn't believe the vehicles need to be recalled, and cited the fact that no injuries or crashes have been reported.

BMW has battled with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration over the issue previously. In 2011, it agreed to recall 241,000 2002-05 3-Series sedans for the same issue and said less than 20 percent had the problem. NHTSA had opened two investigations into the issue in 2009 and upgraded its investigation to an engineering analysis. After talks, BMW agreed to recall the vehicles in August 2011. Citing the earlier precedent, BMW agreed to the new recall.

BMW will replace the rear lamp bulb carrier with a new version with an improved electrical connection. BMW will notify owners starting next month.

Source: The Detroit News