Recall Radar

1999–2001 BMW 330CI, 3 Series, 328CI and more recall: Air bags: frontal, driver side, inflator module

NHTSA campaign 21V-401 · May 27, 2021 · BMW of North America, LLC

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Recall at a glance

Campaign number
21V401000
Reported
May 27, 2021
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
Part
Air bags: frontal, driver side, inflator module
Vehicles affected
About 4,511

What is wrong

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2001 BMW 3 Series (323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci and 330Ci), 1999-2001 323i, 328i, 330i, 330xi, and 2000 323i, 328i stationwagon vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These vehicles are equipped with driver-side air bag inflators that were previously inspected, but not replaced under recall numbers 19V-851, 19V852, or 19V-853. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to explode or the air bag cushion to underinflate.

Safety risk

The inflator could explode during air bag deployment, resulting in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.

The fix

Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 12, 2021. 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.nhtsa.gov.

Frequently asked questions

Which vehicles are affected by this recall?

BMW 3 Series (1999, 2000, 2001); BMW 323CI (2000, 2001); BMW 323I (1999, 2000, 2001); BMW 325CI (2000, 2001); BMW 328CI (2000, 2001); BMW 328I (1999, 2000, 2001); and more. Check your VIN to confirm.

What is the safety risk?

The inflator could explode during air bag deployment, resulting in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.

What is the fix?

Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 12, 2021. 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.