BMW is recalling over 145,000 vehicles due to a potential fire hazard linked to overheating engine starters. The safety recall involves the engine starter, which may fail to start the vehicle properly in certain cases, leading to localized overheating. The issue affects 2020 model-year 340I, X7, and X5 vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
NHTSA stated that improper starting attempts could cause the engine starter to overheat, potentially igniting engine acoustic protection material if contaminated. In rare scenarios, this might result in a thermal event while driving or shortly after parking. BMW dealers will replace the faulty starters free of charge. Owners will receive notifications by mail and are advised to visit authorized service centers to address the issue.
The recall follows earlier warnings from NHTSA, which reported that BMW would recall nearly 196,000 U.S. vehicles from 2019–2022 model years over similar engine starter risks. Separately, Kia recalled approximately 40,000 2021–2023 Sorento models due to a faulty HVAC blower motor wiring harness that could increase fire risk.