BMW is recalling more than 29,000 vehicles due to a fire risk, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recall stems from an issue with the engine starter. In some cases, water can come into contact with the starter’s electrical relay, leading to corrosion over time, the recall report states. Corrosion inside the starter relay could affect the relay’s electrical connections and the engine’s ability to start.
The issue could lead to a short circuit and possible overheating of the starter. Extreme instances could result in a thermal event during vehicle operation when the car is parked and the ignition is off, the report states.
The cars were produced from 2015 to 2020.
The manufacturer issued the recall after a November field incident involving a U.S. Model Year 2019 BMW 5 and a May field incident involving a U.S. Model Year 2017 BMW 3 Series.
A voluntary recall was issued July 1. There have been no reported instances of injuries or accidents relating to the recall.
Which Models Are Included in the BMW Recall?
The recall covers 29,119 cars across four models, including:
2018-2020 BMW 530e xDrive (5,803 vehicles)
2017-2019 BMW 740Le xDrive (1,058 vehicles)
2018-2020 BMW 530e iPerformance (14,406 vehicles)
2016-2018 BMW 330e iPerformance (7,852 vehicles)
What Owners of Recalled BMW Vehicles Should Do
The company will replace the engine starter with one of a different design. Vehicle owners will be notified of the recall by first class mail and will be instructed to take their car to an authorized BMW dealer to have the service completed.
Car owners should park their cars outside and away from structures until they are repaired, the report advises.
Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter at USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected].
