A significant recall has been announced by BMW, impacting nearly 200,000 vehicles, including certain BMW models and the Toyota GR Supra. This recall addresses a critical safety concern: the potential for vehicle fires even when the cars are parked and the engine is off. The issue stems from the engine's starter motor, a component shared across various models and brands.
The root of the problem lies within the engine starter. According to investigations by BMW and its supplier, Valeo, water can infiltrate the starter's electrical relay, causing corrosion. This corrosion can disrupt the necessary electrical connection for starting the vehicle and, in severe cases, result in a short circuit that overheats the starter. BMW engineers initiated an inquiry in mid-2024 following multiple reports of thermal incidents, leading to a voluntary recall decision on September 16, 2025. Fortunately, no accidents or injuries have been attributed to this defect so far.
The recall encompasses 196,355 vehicles manufactured between early 2018 and late 2021. This includes a substantial number of BMW 3 Series, X3, and 5 Series units, alongside the BMW X4, Z4, various 4 Series variants, a limited number of 2 Series coupes, and the 2020–2022 Toyota GR Supra. Owners of affected vehicles will receive a complimentary replacement starter with an improved design. Until the repair is completed, BMW recommends parking these cars outdoors and away from any structures. Dealerships were notified on September 23, 2025, with owner notifications commencing on November 14, at which point vehicle identification numbers (VINs) will also be added to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) database. Individuals who have already incurred costs for similar repairs are eligible for reimbursement.
This recall, while not on the colossal scale of some past automotive recalls, underscores the pervasive impact a single flawed component can have across multiple vehicle platforms and even different manufacturers. It highlights the constant vigilance required in automotive engineering and manufacturing to ensure consumer safety, serving as a reminder that even when vehicles appear dormant, underlying issues can pose significant risks. This situation emphasizes the importance of timely recalls and proactive measures by manufacturers to uphold product integrity and public trust.