BMW Australia has launched a recall covering more than 10,000 vehicles from the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, X3, X4 and Z4 ranges after identifying a faulty switch that may overheat and cause a fire.

The company states that a manufacturing defect in the starter motor solenoid switch can lead to greater wear and potentially create an internal short circuit.

If the issue arises, drivers might find the engine will not start, and in extreme cases overheating could result in a fire while the vehicle is in use.

Such a fire or inability to restart the engine raises the chance of injury to occupants or damage to property.

BMW advises owners not to leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running and to avoid the Remote Engine Start function. The short circuit may cause localised overheating of the starter motor, and drivers could notice smoke or smell it while operating or exiting the car.

A total of 10,559 vehicles are affected across the 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, X3, X4 and Z4 model lines, produced between 2020 and 2025
The Vehicle Identification Number list is available from BMW
The original recall notice is available from BMW

Owners of affected vehicles should book a service appointment at an authorised BMW dealer, where the starter motor will be replaced at no cost.

Further questions can be directed to the BMW Australia Recall Hotline on 1800 243 675.

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