BMW Fire Recall Just Got a Lot Bigger—Here’s What Owners Need to Know
BMW’s Fire Recall Just Got a Lot Bigger, significantly expanding the number of vehicles affected by a starter motor fire risk. Initially, BMW recalled approximately 196,000 vehicles in late September. However, the company has now announced a second recall, adding over 145,000 additional units. This brings the total number of affected vehicles to well over 340,000 in the United States alone, all facing the risk of the starter motor potentially catching fire hours after being parked.
The Root of the Problem: Moisture and Corrosion
The core issue stems from moisture infiltration into the starter motor units. When water penetrates these components, the starter relay can corrode, overheat, and short circuit. The most alarming aspect of this defect is the potential for these fires to ignite long after the vehicle has been parked and vacated, posing a significant safety hazard to property and lives. Due to this severe risk, BMW has urgently advised affected owners not to park inside garages or near buildings until the necessary repairs are completed.
Expanded Recall: Models and Scope
The initial recall in late September covered a wide range of models, including:
- 2019-2021 BMW 330i sedans
- 2019-2022 Z4 roadsters
- 2020-2022 models of the 530i, X3, and X4
- 2021-2022 versions of the 430i and its convertible variant
- 2022 BMW 230i models
- Notably, some Toyota Supras were also included due to their shared BMW components.
The recent second recall specifically targets:
- 2020 model year 340i sedans
- Additional X7 and X5 SUVs
Combined, these recalls encompass nearly all BMW model lines produced between September 2015 and September 2021, with the exception of some compact models and M performance variants that utilize different suppliers for their starter motors. This broad scope indicates a pervasive issue across a significant portion of BMW’s recent production.
What BMW Owners Can Do To Safeguard Their Cars
For affected BMW owners, the immediate priority is to verify if their vehicle is part of the recall.
- Check Your Vehicle: Owners should check BMW’s recall lookup tool or wait for official notification.
- Repairs: BMW will replace the faulty starter motor, and some models will also receive a new battery as part of the fix. All repairs will be handled free of charge through authorized dealerships.
- Part Availability: Unfortunately, BMW has not yet made replacement parts readily available, meaning owners will have to wait for the components to become accessible before scheduling appointments.
- Parking Advisory: Until repairs can be completed, it is crucial for owners to follow BMW’s guidance: park outside, away from other vehicles and structures.
While the fix is free, the waiting period presents an unsettling challenge, with the company acknowledging the “spontaneous combust[ion]” risk before repairs can be made. This situation underscores the seriousness of the recall and the importance of adhering to the safety advisories.
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