BMW is recalling 189,130 vehicles from its 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series lineups because a starter relay may not be adequately sealed against water, creating a potential short-circuit and fire risk. The recall covers vehicles built over a period spanning more than six years and involves a component shared across multiple generations of BMW sedans.
Which BMW Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall includes BMW 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series vehicles built between July 29, 2014, and November 12, 2020.
BMW has not provided a breakdown of the 189,130 affected vehicles by individual chassis code. The production period covers the F30-generation 3 Series through the early G20, the F10 into the G30 5 Series, and the F01/F02 into the G11/G12 7 Series.
The large recall count reflects the use of the affected component across two full model generations within BMW’s core sedan range.
Water Ingress Can Lead to Corrosion and Short Circuits
The starter relay in affected vehicles does not have sufficient protection against water ingress. Over time and with continued exposure, moisture can enter the component and cause corrosion of its internal contacts.
That corrosion can bridge a short circuit. Because the issue occurs near the starter motor, a resulting short circuit presents a potential fire risk.
BMW Will Replace the Entire Starter Motor
Owners will not need to diagnose the issue themselves. At authorized workshops, technicians will replace the entire starter motor rather than only the relay, a repair intended to eliminate the path through which water can enter the component.
The campaign is being conducted through BMW’s authorized dealer network worldwide. In Germany, it is being monitored by the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt under reference number 16791R.
BMW internal part codes 0012820600 and 0012840600 are tied to the affected units.
Recall Has So Far Been Issued in Germany
The recall has so far been issued in Germany. Owners of a BMW 3 Series, 5 Series, or 7 Series from the affected production period can check with their local BMW dealer using their VIN, as international recall timelines may not follow the same schedule.
The recall affects 189,130 vehicles and centers on a water-sealing issue that can cause corrosion, electrical short circuits, and a potential fire risk near the starter motor.
