Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Manufacturer
BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
What Happened
The air bag control module in your vehicle is a critical computer that triggers the front and side air bags, seatbelt pretensioners, and the safety system that prevents the battery from draining. In some cases, this module can malfunction and cause the air bags to deploy unexpectedly.
Risk if Unfixed
If the air bags deploy unexpectedly, you could be seriously injured if you're too close to them. Additionally, the battery safety system could be activated, causing the starter cable to disconnect from the battery and leaving you stranded with an engine that won't restart.
Free Fix
Your BMW dealer will replace the faulty air bag control module at no charge. You should schedule this repair as soon as you receive the recall notice to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, A MICROPROCESSOR IN THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE, WHICH ACTIVATES THE FRONT AIR BAGS, THE SIDE AIR BAGS, THE FRONT SEAT SAFETY BELT PRETENSIONERS, AND THE BATTERY SAFETY TERMINAL, MAY HAVE A MALFUNCTION THAT COULD LEAD TO AN UNINTENDED ACTIVATION OF ONE OR MORE OF THESE COMPONENTS.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
UNEXPECTED DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG(S) COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY IF AN OCCUPANT IS TOO CLOSE TO THE DEPLOYING AIR BAG(S). IN ADDITION, THE BATTERY SAFETY TERMINAL MAY ALSO BE ACTIVATED. IF THAT HAPPENS, THE STARTER CABLE WOULD BECOME DISCONNECTED FROM THE BATTERY, AND THE ENGINE COULD NOT BE RESTARTED.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER10, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →