The automotive world has seen its fair share of recalls, and recently, BMW has added a significant number of vehicles to that list. This time, the recall isn't limited to just the Bavarian brand; certain Toyota models are also affected, highlighting the interconnectedness of the global automotive supply chain.
The issue stems from a shared component: a starter relay susceptible to corrosion. This seemingly small part has the potential to cause significant problems, underscoring the importance of even the most minor components in a vehicle's overall safety and reliability.
BMW has already identified the problem and is preparing a remedy. This proactive approach aims to minimize inconvenience for vehicle owners and address the safety concern promptly. The company's response includes a plan for replacing the defective parts free of charge at authorized dealerships.
The recall impacts a wide range of BMW models, including sedans and SUVs. This broad reach underscores the potential scale of manufacturing defects and the importance of thorough quality control processes in the automotive industry.
Nearly 200,000 vehicles are affected by this recall, with a significant portion falling under the BMW umbrella. However, the inclusion of certain Toyota models demonstrates the ripple effect that can occur when manufacturers share parts or collaborate on vehicle development.
The Toyota Supra, a sports car known for its performance and sleek design, is among the affected models. This is due to BMW supplying the engines for these vehicles, demonstrating how collaborations in the automotive industry can lead to shared risks.
The underlying cause of the recall is a problem with the engine starter relay. This relay is vulnerable to corrosion, particularly in certain environmental conditions. Corrosion can compromise the relay's functionality and create a potentially hazardous situation.
A corroded relay can overheat and short circuit. This increases the risk of a fire, potentially endangering the vehicle and its occupants. This is why BMW is taking such a proactive approach to addressing the issue, prioritizing safety above all else.
Another potential consequence of a corroded relay is the inability to start the car. A faulty starter relay can prevent the engine from turning over, leaving drivers stranded and inconvenienced. This can be particularly problematic in emergency situations.
Furthermore, a corroded relay can become stuck in the "on" position, leading to a parasitic power draw. This means the relay continuously sends power to the starter solenoid, even when the engine is not running. This constant drain can deplete the car's battery over time.
The affected BMW models include a variety of popular vehicles, such as the 2019-2021 330i, 2019-2022 Z4, 2020-2022 530i, X3, X4, 2021-2022 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 230i. The wide range of models indicates a potential issue in the manufacturing or sourcing of the starter relay.
On the Toyota side, the recall affects 2020-2022 Toyota Supra vehicles. The inclusion of the Supra highlights the collaboration between BMW and Toyota in the development of this sports car. BMW's engine powers these Supras, making them susceptible to the same relay issue.
As a precautionary measure, BMW advises owners of affected vehicles to park their cars outside and away from structures. This minimizes the potential risk of fire spreading should a relay overheat. However, BMW has not explicitly recommended avoiding driving the vehicles altogether.
Owners of affected vehicles can take their cars to authorized BMW dealers once the remedy is available. Dealers will replace the defective starter relays with new, properly functioning parts free of charge. This demonstrates BMW's commitment to customer safety and satisfaction.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has confirmed that customers who previously paid for starter relay repairs related to this issue may be eligible for reimbursement. This provides financial relief to those who proactively addressed the problem before the official recall notification.
Dealers have already been notified of the issue, ensuring they are prepared to handle the influx of affected vehicles. Owners of affected vehicles will receive letters by November 14, informing them of the recall and providing instructions on how to proceed.
November 14 is also the date when owners will receive remedy notification letters and when affected Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) will be searchable in official NHTSA databases. This transparency allows owners to quickly determine if their vehicle is part of the recall.
In effect, customers should be able to begin scheduling their cars for repairs at authorized BMW dealers from November 14 onward. This timely response aims to minimize the potential risks associated with the defective starter relay.
If you own a car that's been recently recalled, you can easily check your VIN. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) makes it incredibly quick and easy for drivers to check and see if their vehicle is part of a recent (or past) recall.
The NHTSA also allows drivers to see whether or not the repair was completed within the last 15 years, making it an incredible tool for buyers of used cars.
All recalls initiated by the NHTSA mean free repairs for drivers, even if it's an engine or a transmission replacement. If your VIN shows an active recall that has not been repaired, it's important to make an appointment at your nearest dealership.
To schedule an appointment for a recall, first find out the recall number/ID from the manufacturer. Then, call your nearest dealership's service center with the ID number handy, and mention you'd like to schedule an appointment to repair the recall. The repair can only be done at a dealership, as they're authorized by the manufacturer to conduct the repair free of cost using genuine parts. Try to make the appointment as soon as possible. Once the repair is completed, the dealership will update the information associated with the VIN to reflect it's been completed.