BYD reinforces recall program for almost 89,000 plug-in hybrids in China in 2025 due to battery failure By Carolina Costa
4 min read
 |
BYD, the Chinese automotive giant, maintains a comprehensive recall program in 2025 that affects approximately 88,981 units of its model Qin Plus DM-i. The preventive measure aims to correct a consistency defect in the manufacturing of battery packs which, in extreme scenarios, could result in the loss of the vehicle’s pure electric mode or even the interruption of its operation. The call, originally initiated in 2024, follows the guidelines of Administração Estatal of Regulação of Mercado (SAMR) of China, ensuring the safety and performance of affected vehicles. Proprietários will have access to software updates and, if necessary, free battery replacement at authorized dealers throughout 2025, highlighting the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction in the face of technological challenges.
The failure was identified after an official investigation conducted by the Chinese regulatory body, which identified problems in specific components of the power modules. Este tipo de inconsistência na produção pode comprometer a capacidade de entrega de energia das baterias em diversas condições de uso, afetando a experiência de condução e a confiabilidade do veículo a longo prazo.
To mitigate risks, BYD implemented a protocol that includes remotely updating vehicle software, improving the battery diagnostic system. Além In addition, the company guarantees the free exchange of defective battery packs at dealerships, a service that will remain available throughout 2025 for owners of Qin Plus DM-i models manufactured between January 2021 and September 2023.
Technical details of the inconsistency
The defect is intrinsically linked to the uniformity in the production of battery packs. Essa lack of consistency can significantly limit the system’s ability to provide the necessary energy under certain operating conditions, which directly affects the vehicle’s performance.
When the on-board system detects any anomaly after applying the software update, an alert is displayed on the vehicle’s dashboard. Esta notification instructs the driver to contact an authorized brand for an in-depth assessment, ensuring adequate technical intervention.
Vehicle monitoring and safety
The over-the-air update implemented by BYD modifies the traction battery diagnostic system. Este advanced software now continuously monitors the performance of each module, ensuring an accurate, real-time assessment of battery health.
If any reduction in power or abnormal behavior that could indicate the presence of the defect is detected, the vehicle immediately activates a warning light on the dashboard. The driver receives instant guidance to schedule an inspection, allowing the fault to be verified promptly.
The complete replacement of the battery pack is only carried out after the technical diagnosis confirms the presence of the manufacturing defect. BYD reinforces that there is no record of accidents directly related to this specific problem at the time of the call, prioritizing user safety.
BYD call-up history
This current action represents one of several large recalls that BYD has undertaken in recent years, reflecting an ongoing effort to improve the quality and safety of its fleet. In previous periods, the company had already taken corrective measures for other models.
In October 2024, for example, the manufacturer recalled 115,299 vehicles from the Tang DM-i and Yuan Pro lines due to potential risks of battery fire, a proactive measure to safeguard consumers.
Before that, in September of the same year, another 96,853 units of the popular models Dolphin and Yuan Plus were recalled. The reason for the recall was a failure in the power steering control unit, which could also increase the risk of incidents.
These historic recalls add up to a significant number of affected vehicles, demonstrating the scale of BYD’s production and the complexity of quality control challenges in the electrified automotive industry.
Market overview and sales
BYD’s global sales registered variations in previous periods, such as in October 2024, when there was a 12% drop compared to the same month in 2023, totaling 441,706 units. Essa retraction was mainly influenced by the plug-in hybrid segment.
However, the electrified vehicle market continues to evolve, with trends that shape strategies for 2025.
The reduction in sales of hybrid vehicles occurs in a scenario of greater internal competition at China and a growing preference for purely electric models. Este context drives manufacturers to innovate and continually improve their products for the 2025 market.
Procedures for owners in 2025
Owners of the Qin Plus DM-i models affected by the recall will receive an official notification from BYD in the coming weeks of 2025. The company will provide channels for consultation, such as the official website and a customer service number, ensuring that everyone involved is properly informed about the next steps. The software update will be carried out automatically, taking advantage of the vehicle’s 4G/5G connection, while the physical inspection and eventual battery replacement will be scheduled at the nearest authorized network, with all services, including labor and parts, being offered at no additional cost to consumers.
Industry oversight and standards
The Chinese regulator has stepped up supervision over the quality of traction batteries in recent years. The requirement for uniformity in production has become a central criterion in the approvals of electric and hybrid vehicles, directly impacting manufacturers’ operations in 2025.
Leading manufacturers, such as BYD itself, CATL and CALB, face frequent audits of their cell and module assembly processes. The primary objective is to prevent large-scale safety risks by ensuring that vehicles that reach the market meet the highest quality standards.
