BMW is Recalling Over 145,000 Vehicles Due To a Potential Fire Hazard

In the recent recall, BMW has covered more than 145,000 vehicles. As per the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the reason behind the recall is an overheated starter, which could increase the risk of fire. The impacted models are the  X5 (82,153), X6 (2,754), X7 (24,979), and the 2020 340i (10,867), 840i (12,456), and 740 LI (11,893).

As per the BMW report, the vehicle’s engine starter is not working properly, which leads to overheating of the starter. This issue can ignite the fire on the engine protection material and can cause injury, accident, or even death (in worst cases).

BMW is Recalling 145,000 Vehicles Due To a Potential Fire Hazard

This recall also covered the vehicles that were repaired in the August 2024 recall.

Advice: if the owner detects or experiences smoke or a smoky smell, kindly leave the vehicle immediately, as per the recall announcement.

Chronology

In March 2025, BMW received three field reports on the model X5, which showed thermal damage issues.

This led to further investigation in April under test programs for a comprehensive review.

Till august, the analysis related to the issue was continued by the company, leading to pointing out the root cause with suppliers’ support.

On September 18, BMW announced the voluntary safety recall.

Till now, they have received no report related to injury or accident.

1. Reason for recall: overheated starter motor.
2. Affected models: X5, X6, X7 and 2020 340i, 840i and 740 LI.
3. Number of vehicles covered: over 145,000, out of which mostly are assembled in Southern California.

What does BMW plan to do?

The authorised dealers will replace the engine starter for free, but with a different design. Those owners who fixed the issue and paid from their pockets will get money in the reimbursement plan, BMW said.

The dealers started to receive notification from September 25th, and the drivers will get the letter via mail by November 17th.

Till that, owners can get updates on the NHTSA official website, or can call on BMW’s customer service number at 1-800-525-7417.