Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
What Happened
The air bag in your vehicle's steering wheel is designed to inflate in a crash to protect you. In certain models, a faulty inflator in the optional sports steering wheel could explode, causing metal fragments to fly towards you and other occupants.
Risk if Unfixed
If the air bag inflator explodes, sharp metal fragments could hit you or your passengers, causing serious injury or even death. This is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate attention.
Free Fix
Your BMW dealer will inspect the steering wheel and replace the air bag module if necessary, completely free of charge. Please don't drive your vehicle until this crucial repair is done. Your dealer will contact you with a schedule for the repair.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
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.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — 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.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →