The fault could cause moisture to enter the starter motor, which may lead to an electrical failure or fire, according to the recall notice.
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BMW Australia has recalled 15,352 examples of its vehicles, including 3, 4, 5, 6 Series cars, X3 and X4 SUVs, and the Z4 sports convertible, citing a potential fault with the starter motor. This follows a North American recall of over 340,000 vehicles for the same issue.
The affected vehicles are stamped between 2016 and 2020 models, but may have been sold at a later date. Models include 320d, 320i, 330i, 420i, 430i, 520d, 520i, 530i, 620d, 630i, X3, X4 and Z4.
The recall notice, lodged with the Department of Infrastructure, says: "Due to a manufacturing defect, inadequate sealing of the starter motor may allow moisture to enter into the unit. If this occurs, corrosion may result in the engine not starting. In rare cases, it could also cause a short circuit leading to overheating of the starter motor and in theworst case, to a vehicle fire while parked or driving."
"A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users, bystanders and/or damage to property."
| Date of recall notice | 8 October 2025 |
| Make | BMW |
| Model | 320d, 320i, 330i, 420i, 430i, 520d, 520i, 530i, 620d, 630i, X3, X4 & Z4 |
| Year | 2016-2020 |
| Vehicles affected | 15,352 |
| VIN list | Click here to download the list of affected VINs |
| Contact link | Click here to contact the manufacturer |
Speaking with Drive, a BMW Australia spokesperson noted: "No reported thermal incidents have been reported relating to this recall locally."
A full list of vehicle identification numbers for the 15,325 vehicles involved in the recall can be found here.
BMW Australia advises that "owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by BMW requesting that they schedule an appointment immediately with their preferred authorised BMW dealer to replace the starter motor, free of charge."
To have your vehicle checked, find your closest BMW dealership by clicking here.
With over 20 years of experience in digital publishing, James Ward has worked within the automotive landscape since 2007 and brings experience from the publishing, manufacturer and lifestyle side of the industry together to spearhead Drive's multi-media content direction.
