CarRecallWatch- Component
- AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Problem
- BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000-2003 525i Sedan, 530i Sedan, 540i Sedan, 2001-2003 525i Sports Wagon and 540i Sports Wagon vehicles, and 2000-2004 X5 SAV 3.0i, X5 SAV 4.4i, and X5 SAV 4.6is vehicles. This recall affects certain vehicles where the original steering wheel has been replaced with the optional sports steering wheel. The sports steering wheel has a frontal air bag inflator that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Risk
- An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle for an optional sports steering wheel with an affected inflator. Dealers will replace the air bag module as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Notes
- Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
What this recall means for you
Certain BMW vehicles from 2000 to 2004 that have the optional sports steering wheel may have a driver-side frontal airbag inflator that can explode. The propellant inside can degrade after long exposure to high humidity, heat, and repeated temperature changes.
An inflator explosion can send sharp metal fragments toward the driver or other occupants, which may cause serious injury or death. Owners are advised not to drive the affected vehicle until it has been repaired.
The repair is free. Check whether your vehicle is affected, and if it is, contact an authorized BMW dealer to have the inspection done and the airbag module replaced as needed. You can also reach BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Check your VIN for open recalls to confirm the status of your vehicle.
Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle
Official recall notice
Affected vehicles
| BMW 525i | 2000200120022003 |
|---|---|
| BMW 530i | 2000200120022003 |
| BMW 540i | 2000200120022003 |
| BMW X5 SAV | 20002001200220032004 |