Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
What Happened
The airbag in your front passenger seat and driver's seat is designed to deploy in a crash to protect you. In some 2000-2004 BMW models, the inflator that makes the airbag work may degrade over time, especially in humid conditions.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator fails, it could explode and send sharp metal fragments into the driver or passengers, causing serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your BMW dealer will inspect your vehicle for a specific steering wheel, and if it's affected, they'll replace the airbag module with a safe one, completely free. Don't drive your vehicle until it's been inspected and repaired.
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 →