Toyota Supra Among 196,000 BMW Cars Recalled Over Fire Risk

A massive recall affects BMW and Toyota vehicles with the B48 engine, including the Supra, due to potential fire hazards caused by starter relay corrosion.

BMW has announced a recall affecting 196,355 vehicles from the 2019 to 2022 model years, including the 2020-2022 Toyota Supra, due to a serious fire risk. The issue centers on the B48 four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which is also found in models like the X3, X4, Z4, 230i, 330i, 430i, and 530i. Documents from the NHTSA indicate that corrosion in the engine starter relay may lead to a short circuit, which could ignite a fire either while driving or when the car is parked.

How the Fire Risk Happens

The problem occurs if the starter relay becomes wet, leading to corrosion that can impair engine start-up. In some cases, this short circuit risk creates the possibility of a fire, posing a serious safety threat. BMW advises owners of affected vehicles to park outdoors and away from buildings until the recall remedy is completed, emphasizing the urgency of the fix for preventing potential damage or injury.

Steps BMW Is Taking

Starting in mid-November, BMW will notify affected owners and instruct them to visit dealerships for a replacement of the faulty engine starter with an updated unit. Those who have already performed the replacement at their own expense may qualify for reimbursement, highlighting BMW’s commitment to addressing the recall proactively.

Vehicles Included in the Recall

The recall encompasses a broad range of vehicles with the B48 engine, including multiple BMW sedans, coupes, SUVs, and the Toyota Supra. Owners are urged to check their VIN numbers and follow dealership instructions promptly to ensure safety, as the fire risk, although rare, is potentially catastrophic.

Why This Matters for Drivers

This recall underscores the importance of engine component reliability, even in performance vehicles like the Toyota Supra. It also demonstrates the ongoing collaboration between BMW and Toyota on shared powertrains. Drivers should act quickly to avoid hazards, as safety remains the top priority when dealing with affected high-performance cars.