Component
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
What Happened
The air bag system in your BMW has a sensor that helps decide if the air bags should deploy in a crash. In some 2011 BMW 5 series models, this sensor might have been installed incorrectly during a repair.
Risk if Unfixed
If you're in a bad crash, the air bags, seatbelts, and head restraints might not work properly, which could lead to serious injury.
Free Fix
Your BMW dealer will replace the faulty sensor with a new one, free of charge, as soon as you get the recall notice. This repair is urgent, so schedule it as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011 BMW 528i, 528xi, 535i, 535xi, 550i and 550xi vehicles manufactured March 1, 2010, through August 31, 2011. The affected vehicles may have received a replacement Sensor Cluster Unit (SCU) during a service visit. These SCUs have an acceleration sensor that may have been incorrectly programmed and, as a result, the SCU may not accurately determine if activation and deployment of the air bags, safety belt pre-tensioners and head restraints is necessary in the event of a crash.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Depending on the severity of the crash, inadequate activation of the driver and/or passenger air bags, safety belt pre-tensioners and active head restraints may increase the risk of injury.
Original — Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the SCU, free of charge. The recall began on December 16, 2016. 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 →