Almost 200,000 vehicles, mostly BMWs and a small number of Toyota Supras, are being recalled in the United States due to a fire hazard linked to their engine starters, federal safety officials announced Friday.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 196,355 cars manufactured between 2019 and 2022 are affected.
The agency explained that the engine starter relay can corrode, which may cause it to overheat and short circuit. This defect could lead to a fire whether the vehicle is parked or in use.
"Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete," NHTSA warned in its recall notice.
Dealers will replace the faulty starter at no cost to customers, but the fix will roll out in phases depending on parts availability.
According to CBS News, the recall covers several BMW models, including the 2019–2021 330i, 2019–2022 Z4, 2020–2022 X3, X4, and 530i, the 2021–2022 430i (standard and convertible), and the 2022 230i. Roughly 1,469 Toyota Supras built by BMW are also included.
❗CONSUMER ALERT: BMW is issuing a park outside recall for nearly 200,000 vehicles from model years 2019–2022 due to a risk of fire when parked or driving.❗
— nhtsagov (@NHTSAgov) September 26, 2025
More: https://t.co/0healkQ9U1 pic.twitter.com/5Mn3FImvRf
BMW Recall: VIN Check Starts Nov. 14
Starting November 14, owners will receive letters with detailed instructions. They will also be able to confirm whether their car is affected by entering its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website at NHTSA.gov/recalls.
Interim notices will go out first, with a follow-up once replacement parts are ready.
BMW began investigating after reports of 10 cars catching fire, though no injuries or accidents have been linked to the defect.
The company's US customer service can be reached at 1-800-525-7417 for questions.
This is not BMW's first large-scale recall tied to fire risks. In 2023, the automaker pulled back more than 720,000 vehicles across North America due to issues with an electric water pump.
And in 2018, BMW faced penalties in South Korea after being accused of delaying action when more than 50 of its vehicles burst into flames, CNN reported.
Federal officials stress that parking vehicles outdoors until repairs are made is the safest precaution.
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