Published July 15, 2026, 10:14 p.m. EDT
Dealers will replace the engine starter at no charge, and owners who have already paid for repairs may be eligible for a refund. BMW recalls nearly 30,000 vehicles on an engine starter problem that could pose a fire risk, federal regulators say.
The recall affects 29,119 plug-in hybrid sedans, including the 2018-2020 BMW 530e xDrive, 2018-2020 BMW 530e iPerformance, 2017-2019 BMW 740Le xDrive and 2016-2018 BMW 330e iPerformance.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), water can come into contact with the engine starter’s electrical relay, leading to corrosion over time.
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BMW recalls nearly 30,000 vehicles due to starter problem. (Chris Jung/NurPhoto via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Corrosion inside the starter relay could affect the relay’s electrical connections and the engine’s ability to start, the recall report states.
The problem could cause a short circuit and possible overheating of the starter even if parked with the ignition off, according to the NHTSA.
“A short circuit in the start relay can increase the risk of fire,” the NHTSA report states.
The problem could cause a short circuit and possible overheating of the starter while the car is driving. (REUTERS/Tingshu Wang/File photo/Reuters Photos)
THE a reminder has been issued after a November on-field incident involving a 2019 BMW 5 and a May on-field incident involving a 2017 BMW 3 Series.
No injuries or accidents have been reported so far in connection with the recall.
Vehicle owners are asked to park their cars outside and away from buildings until recall-related repairs are completed.
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No injuries or accidents were reported. (Matthias Balk/photo alliance via Getty Images / Getty Images)
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BMW will send notification letters to owners on August 28, advising them to take their vehicle to an authorized dealer to have the starter replaced. for free. Homeowners who have already purchased a replacement starter may also be eligible for a refund.