Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Manufacturer
BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
What Happened
The air bag control module is a critical computer that activates your front and side airbags, as well as your seatbelt pretensioners and battery safety terminal. In some 2003 BMW models, this module can malfunction, causing unexpected airbag deployment.
Risk if Unfixed
If an airbag deploys unexpectedly, it could seriously hurt anyone sitting too close. What's even more concerning is that the malfunction could also trigger the starter cable to disconnect from the battery, leaving you stranded with a dead engine.
Free Fix
Your BMW dealer will replace the faulty air bag control module at no cost to you. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible, and you can contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117 to get started.
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.
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Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →