Joburg – The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced a product recall involving BMW 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3 and X4 vehicles sold in South Africa from 2016 onwards.
The recall, as notified by BMW South Africa, affects 10 961 vehicles equipped with the Pinion Starter.
“According to the supplier, due to production-related factors, the affected vehicles may experience increased wear of the solenoid switch after a high number of start operations,” the NCC said in a statement on Thursday, 9 July 2026.
“As a result, the engine’s starting capability deteriorates.
“Under certain circumstances, the engine may no longer be able to start.
“In addition, a short circuit in the solenoid switch cannot be ruled out, which may lead to local overheating at the starter.”
In such a case, smoke may be visible or noticeable while driving or when leaving the vehicle.
BMW AG therefore recommends that the vehicle should not be left unattended after the engine has been started.
Consumers who own the affected vehicles are urged to refrain from using the “Remote Engine Start” function via the My BMW App or the remote-control key until the repair has been completed.
“Consumers are further urged to immediately visit their nearest authorised BMW dealership to arrange for an inspection and repair,” the statement said.
“Any corrective work relating to this recall will be carried out at no cost to the consumer.”
Consumers can check if their vehicle is affected by the safety recall using this link: https://www.bmw.co.za/en/service-portal/bmw-technical-campaigns.html. Questions and queries relating to this recall may be directed to: ProductRecall@thencc.org.za.
