The BMW recall warns that, in extreme cases, a fire could break out even when the affected vehicles are parked and the ignition is off.
WASHINGTON — BMW is recalling more than 29,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles in the U.S. because of an engine defect that could lead to a fire, according to federal safety regulators.
The recall affects 29,119 vehicles from the 2016 through 2020 model years.
The automaker identified a problem involving the engine starter, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. According to the recall documents, water can come into contact with the engine starter’s electrical relay, causing corrosion over time.
The corrosion can damage the relay’s electrical connections and affect the engine’s ability to start.
In more severe cases, it can lead to a short circuit and overheating of the starter, creating a potential fire risk.
The report warns that, in extreme cases, a fire could break out while the vehicle is running or even after the car has been parked with the ignition switched off.
Owners are advised to park affected vehicles outside and away from structures until repairs are completed.
Which BMW models are affected?
The recall includes the following plug-in hybrid models:
- 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
The affected vehicles were produced between 2015 and 2020.
Here’s how to check if your car is included
BMW said the recall followed two field incidents involving U.S. vehicles: a 2019 BMW 5 Series reported in November and a 2017 BMW 3 Series reported in May.
The automaker issued the voluntary recall on July 1. According to the recall documents, BMW is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the defect.
BMW dealers will replace the engine starter with a redesigned unit free of charge. Owners will receive notification letters by first-class mail instructing them to schedule the repair at an authorized BMW dealership.