2000–2004 BMW 540I, 525I, X5 Sav and more recall: Air bags: frontal, driver side, inflator module
Recall at a glance
- Campaign number
- 19V015000
- Reported
- January 14, 2019
- Manufacturer
- BMW of North America, LLC
- Part
- Air bags: frontal, driver side, inflator module
- Vehicles affected
- About 157,549
What is wrong
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.
Safety risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix
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.
Affected models
Model years listed by NHTSA for this campaign. Only vehicles within the build range in the notice are affected.
Notes from the notice
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Frequently asked questions
Which vehicles are affected by this recall?
BMW 525I (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003); BMW 530I (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003); BMW 540I (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003); BMW X5 Sav (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004). Check your VIN to confirm.
What is the safety risk?
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
What is the fix?
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.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall data for passenger vehicles, recalls since 2013, shown as published. This site is independent and not affiliated with NHTSA or any manufacturer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and follow your manufacturer’s notice. Terms and disclaimer.