BMW recall cars amid electrical fire fears

A 2019 BMW 3 Series, one of the models affected by a safety recall. - Photo: File

Some models from prestige marque BMW sold in Cayman have been recalled to fix a “high priority safety concern” that could cause a fire.

The government said owners of affected cars should avoid parking near buildings or flammable materials until their cars had been fixed.

The recall centred on a fire risk from engine starter relays in six models from the upmarket German marque, as well as one from Toyota which used the same component.

BMW said the part, fitted in about 196,000 vehicles in the US and in other markets, could suffer water intrusion or corrosion over time, which can weaken the electrical connection.

The car firm warned that could lead to overheating or even, in circumstances said to be rare, a short circuit that could spark a fire, even when the vehicle was parked.

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Cayman’s BMW authorised dealer, George Town-based GT Automotive, said the recall involved the replacement of the starter relay with a redesigned component.

The company’s Managing Director Stephen Gunby added the recall affected just 22 cars sold by GT Automotive, although there may be other cars which were personal imports.

He said, “I don’t know what else is on the island.”

Gunby added, “Our customers will be contacted when we have the parts.”

The affected models include BMW 3 Series made between 2019-22, 5 Series cars manufactured between 2010-22 and BMW X3 and X4 SUVs made from 2020-22.

Z4 sports cars manufactured from 2019-22 are also affected, and well as BMW 4 Series and the BMW 2 Series 230i model from 2022.

Japanese Toyota Supras manufactured between 2020 and 2022, which used the same part are also subject to the recall.

The Department of Vehicle and Drivers’ Licensing and the Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing and Infrastructure said anyone with a vehicle that may be affected should visit BMW’s recall site or contact GT Automotive, where they can schedule a repair.

They also want to “remind all motorists to stay informed about vehicle recalls and ensure that safety-related repairs are completed promptly to reduce risk on our roads.”