Drivers are urgently being warned to double-check if their car is one of the 575,000 vehicles being recalled due to a dangerous issue.
BMW issued a worldwide recall of a number of cars due to what they believe is a potential fire risk for several of their models, as well as one type of Toyota.
Some 25,000 cars in the UK are included in the recall for the potential defect which has been found in the starter system of several models.
In rare circumstances, the defect could cause a fire, with BMW saying the issue focuses on the starter motor's magnetic switch, which can wear down over time.
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They warn that you may notice your car is becoming harder to start, and if it continues to wear down, it can generate sparks, which 'can lead to a vehicle fire during operation'.
BMW say a 'mid-six figure' number of cars are at risk, with German trade publication kfz-betrieb putting the number at up to 575,000.
The car manufacturer's warning stated: "A short circuit in the electromagnet cannot be ruled out. As a result, local overheating of the starter may occur. In the worst case, this can lead to a vehicle fire while driving."
It is said that the at-risk starter relay components were manufactured between July 2020 and July 2022, so cars made between those dates are most at risk.
However, it complicates matters because the components made between those dates may still have been fitted to cars later, or installed in older vehicles which need a replacement.
Drivers are urged to make sure they don't leave their car unattended with the engine running after start-up, particularly if they used remote start.
They are also being asked to park outside and away from buildings, until the necessary repairs can be done.
At-risk models
- 2021-2024 BMW 5 Series
- 2021-2022 BMW Z4
- 2022-2023 BMW 2 Series Coupe
- 2022-2024 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
- 2021-2024 BMW 4 Series Convertible
- 2021-2023 BMW 4 Series Coupe
- 2021-2024 BMW 3 Series
- 2021-2023 BMW X4
- 2021-2024 BMW X3
- 2021-2023 Toyota GR Supra - The Toyota shares many of the same components as the Z4, and can experience the same problems as the BMW.
What to do
If you think your vehicle might be one of those at risk, BMW is asking owners to look up their vehicle identification number (VIN) using their online tool.
They advise you to book in with a dealer as soon as possible for the replacement if your vehicle is included as one of the 575,000.
This recall is just the latest nightmare for BMW, who just months ago recalled 200,000 cars due to yet another starter issue.
The previous fault 'risked corrosion, breakdowns and possible fires'.
Topics: Cars, Travel, World News
Jen Thomas