BMW and Toyota recall more than 87,000 cars over fire risk tied to starter motor

"In a blog post BMW said the defect involves "unexpected wear on an internal component" which may "cause the starter to stop working properly-sometimes surfacing first as a no-start condition-but the higher-stakes concern is heat." It continued, "NHTSA's report says that 'in an extreme case; the issue could cause a thermal event or fire when starting the engine, or while the engine is running.'""

"Just months ago, BMW issued a similar recall. In October, the company recalled 145,000 vehicles over a starter defect that could overheat and spark a fire. Prior to that, it recalled 200,000 vehicles for the same reason. Still, BMW is not the only car company to appear plagued by recalls as of late. At the end of last year, Ford recalled over 270,000 electric and hybrid vehicles over a parking function issue. Porsche recalled over 173,000 vehicles over a problem with the rearview camera image."

BMW recalled 87,394 vehicles made between 2021 and 2024 for a defect that can cause engine overheating and potentially start a fire. The recall covers nine BMW models and the Toyota Supra, with dealers replacing the engine starter at no cost. The defect stems from unexpected wear on an internal component that may cause starter failure and, in extreme cases, a thermal event while starting or running the engine. BMW previously recalled 145,000 and 200,000 vehicles for similar starter defects. No accidents or injuries have been reported. Owner notification letters will be mailed March 24, 2026.

Read at Fast Company