Another 87,000 BMWs Recalled Over Engine Starters That Can Catch Fire

BMW of North America has announced a recall of 87,394 vehicles due to a fire risk from an engine starter that could overheat. Submitted on January 30, 2026, this newest recall follows several months of analysis into the starters equipped to a range of BMW products. The issue came to light in September last year, when almost 200,000 models were initially recalled for a starter that could be a fire risk, even when the vehicle is parked. Since then, more tests have been conducted as BMW and its supplier, Valeo, work to resolve the issue.

BMW Starter Motor Recall: What Models Are Affected?

The latest recall (#26V056) affects multiple BMWs sold in the United States, along with the Toyota GR Supra, which shares a platform and many components with the BMW Z4. Here’s a look at all models implicated in the new recall:

• 2021-2023 Toyota GR Supra
• 2021-2024 BMW 5 Series
• 2021-2022 BMW Z4
• 2022-2023 BMW 2 Series Coupe
• 2022-2024 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
• 2021-2024 BMW 4 Series Convertible
• 2021-2023 BMW 4 Series Coupe
• 2021-2024 BMW 3 Series
• 2021-2023 BMW X4
• 2021-2024 BMW X3

Of the 87,394 vehicles recalled, the 3 Series population is the largest at 46,384 models, while only 1,186 2 Series Coupe models are implicated. A further 803 Supras are to be recalled, too. 

In September last year, several vehicles with engine starters showing thermal damage had been identified, but the root cause was unknown at that point. The new BMW starter motor recall states that wear on an internal component of the engine starter could result in starter overheating and a potential fire. A buildup of metallic material because of abrasion in the electrical relay chamber was also discovered last month. These findings go deeper than the thermal damage detected last September. 

Dealers will replace the engine starter at no cost to customers, with customer letters to be mailed on March 24, 2026. 

What Should Owners Do Now

If you want more information on what to do until your vehicle can be attended to, you can contact BMW customer service on 1-800-525-7417, while Supra owners can reach Toyota’s customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Confirming whether a specific vehicle is involved in the recall can be done with the VIN from March 24, 2026.

Until then, it may be wise to park your vehicle outside. BMW says it’s not aware of any accidents or injuries related to the latest recall, but in the extreme and unlikely case where your vehicle catches on fire, it’s obviously better if it’s parked outside and away from structures. You can also take the proactive step of reaching out to BMW/Toyota before the official owner letters are mailed out, as it may be possible to get your vehicle booked in before then. 

Fortunately, BMW has not requested that anyone stop driving their vehicles, which would be the most inconvenient outcome. Exercising caution is advised until your vehicle’s starter can be checked or replaced, though.

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