BMW is recalling nearly 30,000 vehicles over an engine starter issue that could pose a fire risk, according to federal regulators.
The recall affects 29,119 plug-in hybrid sedans, including 2018-2020 BMW 530e xDrive, 2018-2020 BMW 530e iPerformance, 2017-2019 BMW 740Le xDrive and 2016-2018 BMW 330e iPerformance vehicles.
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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Corrosion inside the starter relay could affect the relay’s electrical connections and the engine’s ability to start, the recall report reads.
The issue could cause a short circuit and possible overheating of the starter even if it is parked with the ignition turned off, according to NHTSA.
“A short circuit in the starter relay may increase the risk of a fire,” the NHTSA report said.
The recall was issued after a field incident in November involving a 2019 BMW 5 and a field incident in May involving a 2017 BMW 3 Series.
No injuries or accidents have been reported thus far in connection with the recall.
Vehicle owners are urged to park their cars outside and away from buildings until the recall repair is completed.
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BMW will send out owner notification letters on Aug. 28, advising them to take their vehicles to an authorized dealer for the starter to be replaced free of charge. Owners who have previously purchased a starter replacement may also be eligible for reimbursement.
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