BMW has announced a major global recall affecting approximately 575,000 vehicles due to a critical fire hazard.
*Updated with BMW Group Malaysia’s Response*
A widespread defect in the magnetic switch of starter motors has forced BMW to recall hundreds of thousands of vehicles worldwide, as excessive wear could lead to localized overheating and vehicle fires.
The recall centers on the starter motor’s magnetic switch (solenoid). BMW revealed that after a high number of engine starts, this component can experience excessive wear and tear. This degradation may initially cause the vehicle to become difficult or impossible to start.
However, the primary safety concern is the potential for a short circuit within the magnetic switch. Such a malfunction can trigger localized overheating, which, in the worst-case scenario, leads to a vehicle fire while the engine is running or even while the car is in motion.
Affected Models and Production Dates
The recall spans 16 different model lines equipped with starter relays manufactured between July 2020 and July 2022. This is similar to the recall issued late last year on 200,000 vehicles with faulty starter motor relays. Vehicles that received a faulty starter motor as a replacement part during later repairs are also included. It’s not clear if this recall applies to models sold in Malaysia, but here’s the list of models affected:
Affected model series include:
- 2022-2023 BMW 230i
- 2021-2024 BMW 330i
- 2021-2024 BMW 430i
- 2021-2024 BMW 530i
- 2021-2023 BMW X3
- 2021-2023 BMW X4
- 2021-2022 BMW Z4
- 2021-2023 Toyota Supra
Safety Advice for Owners
BMW is advising owners of affected vehicles not to leave their cars unattended while the engine is running. This caution is particularly important when using remote start features. Drivers who notice smoke while driving or upon leaving the vehicle should exercise extreme caution.
To rectify the issue, authorized dealers will replace the defective starter motor at no cost to the customer. In some instances, the vehicle’s battery may also be replaced as part of the repair.
Owners are encouraged to check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on their local official BMW recall portal or the NHTSA website to confirm if their car is part of this global safety campaign.
Editor’s Note:
BMW Group Malaysia has reached out with the following message:
“BMW Group Malaysia is currently ascertaining the actual number of vehicles affected in Malaysia and our authorised dealer partners would be in touch directly with our customers affected by this campaign”
