BMW announces cars recall from S. Africa due to safety concerns

(MENAFN) BMW, in collaboration with South Africa’s consumer protection authority, has initiated a recall affecting more than 12,000 vehicles from multiple production lines, marking the second major safety action by the automaker in the country within a short span.

The recall covers several popular BMW models, including the 3 Series (G20), 4 Series (G22), 5 Series (G30), Z4 (G29), X3 (G01), and X4 (G02), as stated by reports. BMW Group South Africa has warned that water may enter the starter motor in these models, causing corrosion. This could prevent the engine from starting, trigger a short circuit, and “in the worst case, this may result in a vehicle fire.”

“BMW has submitted that 12,491 vehicles are affected by the recall, and these vehicles were made available in South Africa from 2016,” the consumer regulator stated. Vehicle owners are advised to avoid driving through deep water that could submerge the starter motor.

BMW continues to dominate the South African premium car market, selling 12,057 units in 2024, making it the leading brand in its segment. In the first quarter of 2025, approximately 3,200 BMWs were sold, capturing a 40.6% share of the premium segment, according to reports.

Reports indicate that vehicle defects have been identified across multiple automakers in South Africa, with Ford, Toyota, and Land Rover among the most recalled brands this year. Notable issues include Ford’s 2021–2022 Mustang models with low-pressure fuel pump faults, BMW X3 vehicles with rear headrests that may fail in collisions, and Volkswagen Polos produced between 19 and 23 May 2025 with rear axles that could detach.

In a separate action in July, over 1,000 Ford Ranger and Everest models were recalled in the region due to engine stalling problems, with the majority of affected units located in South Africa.

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