Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
The BMW Engine Starter Problem recall addresses a potential overheating issue with the engine starter motor, which poses a fire risk.
About 1,055 of the 105,558 recalled vehicles are estimated to be affected by a faulty engine starter that can overheat during repeated attempts to start the engine.
- Recall Issue: Recalled vehicles can overheat during repeated attempts to start the engine, posing a potential fire risk.
- Potential Causes: The issue arises from an electrical overload in the starter motor, which occurs when the engine fails to start, and multiple attempts are made to restart it.
- Symptoms: Owners may notice difficulty starting the vehicle. In some cases, the starter motor may overheat, leading to smoke or, in extreme situations, a fire.
- Recall Solution: BMW will provide a free software update to prevent the starter motor from overloading.
- Contact Information: Affected owners can contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117 and reference NHTSA Campaign number 24V-576.
Why Is There a BMW Starter Motor Recall?
BMW has announced a Starter Motor Recall due to a potential problem with the engine starter motor. The issue arises from an electrical overload that can occur if the engine fails to start, and the driver repeatedly attempts to start it. This overload may cause the starter motor to overheat, leading to a fire hazard.
The recall includes several models, such as the X5, X7, 3 Series Sedan, X6, 7 Series Sedan, and various 8 Series models. To resolve this, BMW is offering a free software update designed to prevent the starter motor from becoming overloaded.
If your vehicle is among those affected, we highly recommend getting the software update promptly to ensure your safety.
How To Know if Your BMW Is Impacted
To find out if your BMW is impacted by the starter motor recall, follow these steps:
- VIN Lookup: Visit the BMW recall website and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), usually found on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s side door jamb.
- NHTSA Website: Use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup tool by entering your VIN, license plate number, or vehicle details.
- Notification Letter: BMW will send notification letters to affected owners, so watch for this important information in your mail.
- Contact BMW Customer Service: For assistance and recall information, call BMW customer service at 1-800-831-1117.
Be alert for any signs that might indicate your BMW is experiencing starter motor issues, such as difficulty starting the vehicle, repeated engine start attempts causing overheating, or unusual smells or smoke from the engine area.
If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the vehicle immediately and contact your local BMW dealer.
BMW’s Fix for the Engine Starter Problem
As part of the recall, BMW is offering a complimentary software update designed to prevent the starter motor from overloading. This update will be available at authorized BMW dealerships, ensuring that affected vehicles can be safely repaired.
If your vehicle is part of the recall, you should receive a notification letter from BMW with detailed instructions. To schedule the recall repair, contact your local BMW dealership and provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm your vehicle’s recall status.
Once the appointment is set, visit the dealership at the scheduled time to have the software update applied. After the repair, make sure to obtain documentation confirming the recall work’s completion.
Lemon Law for Repeat BMW Engine Problems
If your BMW has experienced persistent engine issues, including those related to the recent starter motor recall, you may be eligible for relief under the Lemon Law.
This law protects consumers whose vehicles have recurring defects that the manufacturer is unable to repair after a reasonable number of attempts.
If your BMW continues to have engine problems despite multiple repair attempts, you might qualify for a refund, replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement. Here’s a summary of average lemon law settlements for BMW vehicles included in the recall in recent years:
Affected Model | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
BMW X5 | $116,088 |
BMW X7 | $150,461 |
BMW X6 | $122,528 |
BMW 3 Series Sedan | $73,281 |
BMW 8 Series Sedan | $204,138 |
BMW 7 Series Sedan | $151,463 |
*Please be advised that the figures depicted in the chart are estimates that are derived from previous case results and should not be considered a guarantee or prediction. Each case is distinctive and necessitates tailored legal counsel.
Trust the Lemon Law Experts with Your BMW Issues
If you’re dealing with persistent engine problems or other defects in your BMW, particularly related to the recent starter motor recall, the Lemon Law Experts can provide the legal support you need.
With over a decade of experience serving California consumers since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have successfully helped thousands of clients recover millions of dollars in compensation for their defective vehicles.
Our team will meticulously evaluate your case, gather all relevant evidence, and develop a strong legal strategy tailored to your situation.
With extensive experience handling cases involving BMW and other major automakers, our seasoned lemon law attorneys are well-versed in countering the legal tactics used by large manufacturers, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact the Lemon Law Experts today for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. Our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support, helping you seek the justice you deserve so you can get back on the road with confidence. Reach out to the Lemon Law Experts to learn more.
Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Recall Report 24V-576. Retrieved from https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCRIT-24V576-3778.pdf
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Recall Report 24V-576 – Report. Retrieved from https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCLRPT-24V576-6186.PDF
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Recall Acknowledgment 24V-576. Retrieved from https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCAK-24V576-2334.pdf