BMW announced a significant recall affecting nearly 395,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to concerns over potentially explosive Takata airbags. The recall targets specific models to inspect and replace sport or M-sport steering wheels that may have been equipped with these faulty airbags.
The recall involves the following models:
2006-2011 BMW 3 Series Sedan (324i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, 335xi)
2006-2012 BMW 3 Series Sportswagon (325xi, 328i, 328xi)
2009-2011 BMW 335d
According to BMW, “Certain vehicles may contain a sport or M-sport steering wheel equipped with a Takata driver’s front airbag module that contains a PSDI-5 inflator that could have been installed by an owner, even though it was not officially offered or approved by BMW as a replacement part. The originally equipped airbag module did not contain an inflator with ammonium nitrate.”
The main concern is that these airbag inflators, which contain ammonium nitrate, can degrade over time and potentially explode when deployed, posing a serious risk to vehicle occupants. BMW will replace any Takata airbag modules identified by an inspection.
BMW expects to begin mailing recall letters to owners Aug. 23. The company urges owners to respond promptly to ensure their vehicles are inspected and, if necessary, repaired without delay. For further assistance, owners can contact BMW customer service at 800-525-7417.
This recall adds to the long list of vehicles affected by the widespread Takata airbag issue, which has impacted millions of cars globally.
Owners of any vehicle can check for open recalls using a VIN or license plate number at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
