BMW recalls 2019–2022 models due to fire risk, impacting multiple vehicles
BMW of North America has issued a new park outside recall for nearly 200,000 model year 2019-2022 vehicles due to fire risk.
According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) press release, the risk exists while the vehicles are parked or driven.
“Owners should park outside and away from buildings and other vehicles until they either confirm their vehicle is not subject to the recall or have their vehicle remedied,” the release states.
The recalled BMW models are:
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- 2019-2022 Z4
- 2019-2021 330I
- 2020-2022 X3
- 2020-2022 X4
- 2020-2022 530I
- 2021-2022 430I standard and convertible
- 2022 230I
The recall also affects 1,469 model year 2020-2022 Toyota Supra vehicles manufactured by BMW.
On July 2, 2024, an engineering investigation was initiated based on continuous field monitoring and field cases involving vehicles that had experienced a thermal event, according to the safety recall report.
Following various tests and monitoring between July 2024 and July of this year, including possible water ingress to the starter, BMW determined that the engine starter relay in the recalled vehicles may corrode. This can cause the starter to overheat and short-circuit, potentially leading to a fire.
BMW says it has not received any reports, nor is it otherwise aware, of any accidents or injuries related to this issue.
The starter will be replaced by BMW dealers free of charge with one that is designed differently, according to the report. Due to parts availability, BMW says it will conduct a phased recall.
Interim notification letters are scheduled to be mailed to owners on Nov. 14, followed by a second notice as remedy parts become available.
Owners can call BMW customer service at 800-525-7417 with questions.
Beginning on Nov. 14, owners can visit NHTSA.gov/recalls and enter their license plate number or 17-digit VIN to see if their vehicle is under recall, or call NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.
NHTSA also encourages everyone to download its SaferCar app to stay informed on current recalls.
According to CNN, BMW was fined $10 million in 2018 by the South Korean government after 50 BMWs caught fire in one year. An investigation by the country’s transport ministry revealed BMW attempted to “hide” the issue and delayed recalling 172,000 affected vehicles, the article states.
Images
Featured image: 2019 BMW Z4 Roadster (Provided by BMW)