BMW AG Recalls 29,000 Hybrid Vehicles Over Engine Starter Fire Risk

BMW AG is recalling more than 29,000 hybrid vehicles due to a defect in the engine starter relay. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration identified that the relay may corrode, causing the starter to overheat and potentially short-circuit, creating a fire risk regardless of whether the vehicle is running or parked with the ignition off.

The recall affects four specific models: the 2016 to 2018 330e iPerformance, the 2017 to 2019 740Le xDrive, and the 2018 to 2020 530e xDrive and iPerformance. BMW AG will notify affected owners by mail and provide free starter replacements at authorized dealerships. The company is also offering reimbursement to owners who previously paid for the repair.

Until the replacements are completed, officials and the company advise drivers to park their vehicles outside and away from structures to mitigate potential fire hazards.