BMW is recalling nearly 200,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to a serious engine starter flaw that may cause overheating, electrical short circuits, and potential fire risks. U.S. safety regulators issued the recall along with urgent advice for owners to park the vehicles outside until necessary repairs are made.
According to a Bloomberg report citing the automaker, the defect was found in 195,000 vehicles in the United States and an additional 136,000 in Germany.
The recall applies to select BMW models manufactured between 2019 and 2022, including:
- BMW 330i; model years 2019 to 2021
- BMW Z4; model years 2019 to 2022
- BMW 530i, X3 and X4; model years 2020 to 2022
- BMW 430i and 430i Convertible; model years 2021 to 2022
- BMW 230i; model year 2022
- Toyota Supra; model years 2021–2022
NHTSA reported that the issue stems from the engine starter relay, which can malfunction if it becomes corroded. This corrosion may cause overheating or short circuits, increasing the risk of a fire, whether the vehicle is in motion or parked.
Although BMW has agreed to replace the faulty starter relays free of charge, regulators recommend that owners park their vehicles outside and away from buildings or other cars until repairs are completed to minimize the risk of fire.
According to Reuters, formal recall notifications will be sent out starting November 14, after which affected owners can visit authorized BMW dealerships to have the defective starter component replaced. BMW also mentioned that customers who have already covered repair costs related to this issue may be eligible for reimbursement.
BMW has previously issued recalls over fire hazards linked to starter motor and electrical system issues. Notably, in 2024, the automaker recalled more than 720,000 vehicles globally due to water pump connection defects.
This latest recall comes at a pivotal moment for BMW, as the company accelerates its investment in the Neue Klasse electric vehicle lineup.
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