On July 12, 2026, I received notice that my 2025 BMW X4 xDrive30i is subject to NHTSA Recall 26V-438 involving the engine starter. I contacted BMW of Austin on July 13 and again on July 27 to schedule the recall repair. On both occasions, I was informed that the remedy was unavailable. No estimated repair date was provided. I then contacted BMW Recall Support Services. BMW confirmed in writing that the remedy remains unavailable and that there is no established timeframe for when it will become available. BMW also instructed me to park my vehicle away from structures until the recall repair is completed and not to use the Remote Engine Start feature through the My BMW App or remote key. BMW further instructed me to discontinue driving if I experience a delayed start, require multiple attempts to start the vehicle, or notice other starting-related concerns. However, BMW simultaneously stated that I may continue driving the vehicle and that it will not provide a loaner vehicle, rental vehicle, alternative transportation, or other accommodation while the safety defect remains unrepaired. I have not yet experienced a fire or starting-related symptoms. My complaint concerns the ongoing safety risk and the lack of an available remedy or estimated repair date. BMW has advised me to park away from structures because of the recall, but it has not explained whether the risk can occur while the vehicle is parked and turned off, what distance qualifies as “away from structures,” or how owners without access to remote outdoor parking can safely comply. I am concerned that BMW is permitting continued operation of affected vehicles while acknowledging a potential fire risk, imposing significant safety precautions, and providing neither a repair timeframe nor a practical interim solution. I request NHTSA review BMW’s current owner guidance, the ongoing unavailability of the remedy, absence of a repair timeline, and whether affected owners should receive clearer instructions
- NHTSA ID
- 11756165
- Incident
- Jul 13, 2026