BMW Automotive (Ireland) Limited has announced a voluntary safety recall affecting certain BMW passenger vehicles due to a starter motor defect that could increase the risk of accidental vehicle start-up or a potential thermal reaction.
The recall applies to 197 vehicles in the Republic of Ireland produced between May 28, 2020 and October 4, 2024.
What Is the Safety Issue?
The defect concerns the RSW22 starter, type RWT (reinforced for water tightness).
BMW has identified that:
- Increased abrasion of the magnetic contact within the starter relay may occur over time
- This abrasion can create deposits inside the relay
- Deposits may increase electrical resistance at the relay contact
In certain circumstances, the increased resistance may:
- Cause unintended or accidental engine start-up
- Lead to an electrical short circuit
- Trigger a thermal reaction, potentially increasing the risk of fire
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall affects certain BMW models, including:
- 1 Series
- 2 Series
- 3 Series
- 4 Series
- 5 Series
- 6 Series
- X3
- X4
- X5
Production Dates: 28 May 2020 – 04 October 2024
Affected Vehicles in Ireland: 197
BMW Ireland has not indicated that vehicles outside the specified production window are affected.
Visual Risk Meter
Risk Level: HIGH
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High Risk – Prompt inspection recommended
Why This Risk Rating Matters to You
Starter motor defects can occur even when the vehicle is parked. Because this issue may lead to accidental start-up or an electrical short circuit, it presents both inconvenience and potential safety concerns. Owners should arrange inspection and repair promptly to reduce the risk of unexpected electrical issues or fire.
Risk Assessment
Electrical system defects involving starter motors are treated seriously due to their connection to high-current circuits.
Key risk considerations include:
- Increased electrical resistance inside the starter relay
- Risk of unintended engine activation
- Potential electrical short circuit
- Thermal reaction risk under certain conditions
Although no do-not-drive instruction has been issued, the possibility of fire-related consequences justifies a high risk classification.
How This Compares to Similar Recalls
How This Compares to Similar Recalls
- Compared to recalls involving minor starter performance issues, this recall is considered higher risk due to the potential for electrical short circuit and thermal reaction.
- Similar recalls typically involved relay or electrical contact wear.
- Unlike some past BMW recalls, this issue does not involve airbag or braking systems, but it does carry a potential fire risk.
What Should Owners Do Now?
Owners of affected BMW vehicles in Ireland should:
- Contact an authorized BMW dealer to confirm recall eligibility.
- Schedule the recall repair, which will address the starter motor issue.
- Remain attentive to unusual electrical behavior or unexpected engine activity.
All recall repairs will be completed free of charge.
Are There Any Warning Signs?
Potential warning signs may include:
- Difficulty starting
- Unusual electrical behavior
- Starter operating unexpectedly
However, issues may develop without clear warning, making recall completion important even if no symptoms are present.
Source of Recall Information
This article is based on an official recall notice issued by BMW Automotive (Ireland) Limited through the appropriate Irish vehicle safety reporting channels.
Owners should contact BMW Ireland or their local dealer for confirmation and further details.
Final Takeaway
BMW Ireland’s latest recall addresses a starter motor defect that could potentially lead to accidental start-up or an electrical thermal reaction. While only 197 vehicles are affected, owners are strongly encouraged to schedule the recall repair promptly to reduce the risk of electrical faults or fire.
This recall information is provided for consumer awareness purposes only. Owners should rely on official communications from the manufacturer or authorized dealers for confirmation, repair instructions, and eligibility.
