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BMW Recalls 29,000 Plug-In Hybrids Over Fire Risk
BMW is recalling more than 29,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles in the United States because an electrical problem inside the engine starter could lead to overheating, a short circuit, and, in extreme cases, a fire.
The recall covers 29,119 vehicles and has been assigned National Highway Traffic Safety Administration campaign number 26V441. The risk can develop while the vehicle is being driven or when it is parked with the ignition switched off. Owners are being told to park affected vehicles outdoors and away from homes, garages, other vehicles, and nearby structures until repairs are completed.
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Affected Models
The recall applies only to certain plug-in hybrid sedans produced during specific manufacturing periods. The affected models include:
- 2016 to 2018 BMW 330e iPerformance
- 2018 to 2020 BMW 530e iPerformance
- 2018 to 2020 BMW 530e xDrive
- 2017 to 2019 BMW 740Le xDrive
Of the recalled vehicles, the 530e iPerformance represents the largest group, with 14,406 potentially affected cars. The recall also covers 7,852 examples of the 330e iPerformance, 5,803 530e xDrive vehicles, and 1,058 740Le xDrive models.
Not every vehicle from those model years is included. Recall eligibility depends on the car’s production date, starter configuration, and vehicle identification number, commonly known as the VIN.
Why Are the Vehicles Being Recalled?
The problem involves the electrical relay inside the engine starter, rather than the plug-in hybrid battery. Water may reach the starter relay and cause corrosion over time. That corrosion can interfere with the electrical connection and make the engine difficult or impossible to start.
In more serious cases, the damaged relay may short circuit and cause the starter to overheat. BMW said this could produce a thermal event or vehicle fire, including when the car is parked and turned off. The company has not identified a clear warning that drivers can rely on before the problem occurs.
BMW began examining the plug-in hybrid models after an earlier recall involving other vehicles with a similar starter issue. The company reviewed field incidents involving 3 Series and 5 Series vehicles and collected about 150 starters for testing between January and April 2026. BMW decided to launch the voluntary recall on July 1 after completing further analysis. No crashes or injuries have been reported in connection with the defect.
What Is BMW Doing About the Problem?
Authorized BMW dealers will replace the complete engine starter with a redesigned version at no cost to owners. Dealers were notified about the campaign on July 8, while owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on August 28, 2026.
Owners who previously paid to replace the affected component may qualify for reimbursement under BMW’s reimbursement program. They should keep repair invoices, payment records, and other documents related to the work.
What Should BMW Owners Do Now?
Owners should park potentially affected vehicles outside and away from buildings until the repair has been completed. Affected VINs are expected to become searchable through NHTSA’s recall database beginning August 28. Owners can also check through BMW’s recall website, the My BMW app, or an authorized dealership. BMW customer service can be reached at 1-800-525-7417.
Once a vehicle has been confirmed as part of the recall, the owner should contact a BMW dealer to arrange the free starter replacement. The recall repair should not require owners to pay for parts or labor.
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