BMW Vehicle Recall Due to Engine Starter Issues

Sebastian Mackensen, the president and CEO of BMW of North America, recently emphasized the company’s dedication to manufacturing in the U.S., especially as it wraps up a significant $1.7 billion expansion of its facility in South Carolina.

In a recent turn of events, BMW is initiating a recall of nearly 30,000 vehicles due to a potential fire hazard linked to issues with engine starters, as reported by federal regulators.

This recall impacts 29,119 plug-in hybrid sedans, notably the 2018-2020 BMW 530e xDrive, 2018-2020 BMW 530e iPerformance, 2017-2019 BMW 740Le xDrive, and 2016-2018 BMW 330e iPerformance models.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated that prolonged exposure to water can lead to corrosion in the electrical relay of the engine starter.

The report suggests that this corrosion can disrupt the electrical connections within the starter relay, ultimately affecting the vehicle’s ability to start. Furthermore, there’s a risk that a shorted starter relay may cause the starter to overheat even when the vehicle is parked and the ignition is off.

The NHTSA warned that “a shorted starter relay can increase the risk of fire,” highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

This recall was prompted by two recent incidents: one involving a 2019 BMW 5 Series in November and another with a 2017 BMW 3 Series in May. Fortunately, as of now, no injuries or accidents related to these issues have been reported.

Owners of the affected vehicles are advised to park outside and away from structures until the necessary repairs are conducted. BMW plans to send out letters on August 28, instructing affected owners to visit an authorized dealer for a free starter replacement. Interestingly, owners who had previously replaced the starter might be eligible for a refund.