BMW and Toyota Recall 283,749 Vehicles for Potential Engine Fires
Cars get recalled for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes the trunk’s emergency release wears out quickly. Other times, the backup camera image appears upside-down. But BMW’s latest recall is for a slightly more serious problem: engines that may catch fire when you try to start them. Here are some of the models and years affected:
- 2020-2023 Toyota GR Supra
- 2021-2024 BMW 5 Series
- 2019-2022 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
- 2019-2024 BMW 3 Series
- 2021-2023 BMW X4
- 2021-2024 BMW X3
The NHTSA reports that the safety recall involves the electric motor used to start the engine. It launched an engineering investigation last September and discovered a potential “build-up of metallic material in the electrical relay chamber.” This build-up caused a ton of friction and even heat. “Due to unexpected wear on an internal component, the starter may not function properly. In some cases, this could lead to a non-starting engine. In an extreme case, this could cause a thermal event or fire when starting the engine or while the
engine is running.” Because the Toyota Supra uses a BMW engine, it can suffer a similar failure.
The fix is simple: “The engine starter will be replaced with one involving a different design.” In the meantime, the NHTSA recommends drivers don’t run their vehicles and park them outside.
BMW actually recalled 196,355 vehicles in fall 2025, from model years as early as 2019. But the automaker and the NHTSA continued running tests and decided more model years could be affected. In early 2026, BMW recalled another 87,394 vehicles. This brings the total to 283,749.
Curious if your BMW or Toyota is subject to a recall? You can always call your local dealership with your VIN ready. You can also plug your VIN in at NHTSA .gov.
