BMW Engine Starter Recall Results in Warning for Owners To Park Outside, Due to Fire Risks

Nearly 200,000 BMW vehicles are being recalled due to the possibility that engine starters may short circuit, increasing the risk of a car fire.

BMW is recalling eight vehicle models from the 2019 to 2022 model years, due to a fire risk that may occur while the vehicles are parked or being driven, resulting in a warning for owners to park their BMWs outside and away from buildings or other vehicles.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the BMW engine starter recall on September 26, indicating that the engine starter relay on certain BMW and Toyota vehicles may corrode, causing it to overheat and short circuit.

The engine starter is a small electric motor that engages when the driver turns the key or presses the start button. A short-circuit in the starter can increase the risk of a fire under the hood, potentially causing property damage, injuries or even death if occupants cannot escape the vehicle.

BMW has issued a voluntary safety recall (PDF) affecting eight vehicle models due to a potential fire risk associated with the engine starter. The recall decision was made on September 16, 2025, following an internal investigation and ongoing monitoring of field reports. The recall impacts the following vehicles:

• 2019–2022 BMW Z4
• 2019–2021 BMW 330i
• 2020–2022 BMW X3
• 2020–2022 BMW X4
• 2020–2022 BMW 530i
• 2021–2022 BMW 430i (standard and convertible)
• 2022 BMW 230i
• 2020–2022 Toyota Supra

According to the Safety Recall Report (PDF), BMW first became aware of the issue on July 2, 2024, after launching an engineering investigation in response to reports of “thermal events” involving damaged or disconnected engine starters.

Further analysis suggested that physical damage, caused by a prior accident or improper repairs, may have contributed to the overheating incidents. Investigators also considered external factors such as water intrusion or other environmental exposure. However, the findings were ultimately inconclusive.

As of now, BMW is not aware of any accidents, injuries or warranty claims linked to the issue.

Until a fix is available, owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from buildings or other vehicles, as the fire risk may occur while the vehicle is parked or in use. The recall will be carried out in phases, depending on parts availability.

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