BMW Recalls Over 331,000 Vehicles Globally Due to Starter Motor Fire Risk: What Owners Need to Know

BMW AG is initiating a global recall affecting at least 331,000 vehicles due to a significant defect discovered in its starter motor.

This represents another setback for the prestigious German automobile manufacturer, which has been facing challenges with costly product flaws recently.

The issue involves the engine starter potentially catching fire as a result of possible corrosion. This problem impacts most BMW model lines manufactured between 2015 and 2021.

According to Friday's announcement, the company will need to repair approximately 195,000 vehicles in the United States and an additional 136,000 in Germany. However, BMW has not yet disclosed the total global figure for the recall or the financial impact of these necessary repairs.

This recall adds to BMW's recent difficulties, following last year's recall of 1.5 million cars due to defective braking systems produced by Continental AG. The escalating costs associated with fixing those defects previously led the company to issue a profit warning.

The timing of this recall is particularly challenging for BMW as it works to revitalize its product lineup amid increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers. Earlier this month at the Munich car show, BMW unveiled the iX3 electric sport utility vehicle, the first model in its Neue Klasse product line, which represents an investment exceeding 10 billion pounds ($11.7 billion).

BMW has made substantial investments in advanced software, high-performance computing systems, and extended battery range for its new model. However, the company faces significant challenges in catching up to Chinese competitors led by BYD Co., which are currently setting trends in mass-market electric vehicle technology.

Like other German automotive manufacturers, BMW is striving to regain market position in China, the world's largest automotive market. Chinese companies have not only increased their market share locally but have also attracted European customers with their affordable electric vehicles.

Regarding the current recall, BMW explained that water can penetrate the starter motor of affected vehicles, causing corrosion. This deterioration can eventually result in a short circuit with the potential to cause a vehicle fire "in the worst case." The company has advised affected customers to park their vehicles outdoors, maintaining a safe distance from buildings, until the necessary repairs are completed.

BMW has confirmed that all repairs will be provided free of charge, and the company will replace both the starter motor and battery in a "low number of vehicles."