A serious issue has led to the recall of over 15,000 vehicles across Australia. The problem? A potentially dangerous fault in the starter motor that could lead to electrical failures or even fires. If you’re driving a vehicle in this recall, here’s everything you need to know.
What’s the Issue?
BMW Australia has recalled 15,352 vehicles due to a defect in the starter motor. The issue affects several of the brand’s popular models, from sedans to SUVs and even the Z4 sports convertible, built between 2016 and 2020. The fault comes from inadequate sealing on the starter motor, which can allow moisture to enter. If moisture gets in, corrosion can occur, which could stop the engine from starting. In more severe cases, this could lead to the starter motor overheating and, in rare instances, catching fire—whether the vehicle is on the move or parked.
This could put you, your passengers, and other road users at risk. BMW has emphasized that while no fire incidents have been reported in Australia, the recall is necessary to prevent any future dangers. The issue is serious enough that the company has decided to act swiftly, following a similar recall in North America that affected over 340,000 vehicles.
Which BMW Models Are Affected?
The affected models include a variety of BMW cars, such as the 3 Series, including the 320d, 320i, and 330i. The recall also covers the 4 Series, which includes the 420i and 430i, as well as the 5 Series, with the 520d, 520i, and 530i models. Additionally, the 6 Series, including the 620d and 630i, the X3 and X4 SUVs, and the Z4 sports convertible, are all part of the recall, reports Drive. These vehicles were produced between 2016 and 2020, although some might have been sold later.
Why the Recall Matters
The recall might feel like a minor inconvenience, but the potential risks make it crucial. Although no fires have been reported locally, the danger of electrical failure or fire is something that can’t be ignored. A faulty starter motor could result in serious safety hazards. By acting quickly, BMW is preventing what could be a catastrophic issue for drivers and passengers alike.
If your vehicle is affected, BMW Australia is already reaching out to owners. They’ll be requesting that you schedule a free repair at an authorized BMW dealership. The fix involves replacing the faulty starter motor to prevent any further moisture intrusion and corrosion. While the recall is a bit of a hassle, it’s worth taking the time to make sure your car is checked. After all, the potential for an electrical fire, even if it seems unlikely, is not something you want to ignore.
What Should You Do?
If you own one of the affected vehicles, don’t wait for something to go wrong. BMW is offering free repairs, so there’s no cost to you. The company is keen to get these faulty starter motors replaced, and they’re making sure that each customer is contacted directly. Make sure to book an appointment with an authorized BMW dealer as soon as possible.
It’s also a good idea to check whether your vehicle is on the recall list if you haven’t received any communication from BMW yet. The full list of affected vehicles can be found online, so it’s easy to check using your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
