BMW Recall: 375,000 3 Series Cars at Risk of Dangerous Takata Airbags
BMW has issued a recall for over 375,000 3 Series cars, all of which are over a decade old. The reason for the recall is due to the presence of potentially dangerous Takata airbags in the steering wheels of these vehicles. Interestingly, the recall isn’t targeting airbags installed by the factory, but rather unauthorized Takata airbags that may have been mistakenly installed by owners who replaced their original steering wheel with the sport or M-sport option. BMW is taking this precautionary measure out of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety of its customers.
Investigation and Discovery of Unauthorized Airbags
The recall covers a range of model years, body styles, and powertrains. The majority of the affected cars, totaling 378,263, are the 2006-2011 BMW 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 330xi, 335i, and 335xi models. Additionally, BMW is also checking the 2006-2012 BMW 3 Series SportWagon, which includes 10,089 325xi, 328i, and 328xi cars, as well as 5,677 2009-2011 335d models.
BMW initiated the investigation into these older 3 Series models after receiving reports from non-US dealers that some cars were showing up for service with potentially affected inflators, despite not being part of any previous recalls. Upon further examination, the company discovered that owners who had replaced their original steering wheel with the sport or M-sport option may have unknowingly installed an unauthorized airbag inflator.
Takata Airbag Recalls and Safety Concerns
The Takata airbag recalls have been a major concern for automakers since 2013. The scandal involves approximately 67 million inflators in tens of millions of vehicles sold by nearly every automaker in the US. The issue arises from the degradation of the ammonium nitrate propellant in the airbags over time, especially when exposed to long-term temperature changes, high heat, and high humidity. This degradation can cause the inflator to explode during deployment, releasing shrapnel into the passenger compartment.
The consequences of these faulty airbags have been severe, with 27 deaths reported in the US as a result of Takata airbag ruptures. Older vehicles are particularly at risk, leading BMW and other automakers to issue do-not-drive orders for certain early 2000s models to encourage owners to address the issue promptly.
BMW Taking Proactive Measures
BMW has stated that it is unaware of any accidents or injuries related to the unauthorized Takata airbags found in the 3 Series cars subject to the recall. However, the company emphasizes the importance of proper due diligence and is taking proactive steps to address the issue and ensure the safety of its customers.
In light of the seriousness of the Takata airbag recalls and the potential risks posed by these faulty inflators, BMW is urging affected owners to take their vehicles to a dealer’s service center for inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the airbag inflator. By addressing the problem promptly, owners can help prevent any potential safety hazards associated with the unauthorized Takata airbags in their vehicles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BMW’s recall of over 375,000 3 Series cars highlights the ongoing challenges and safety risks posed by the Takata airbag recalls. By identifying and addressing the presence of unauthorized airbags in these vehicles, BMW is demonstrating its commitment to ensuring the safety of its customers and taking proactive measures to mitigate any potential dangers associated with the faulty inflators.
Owners of the affected 3 Series cars are encouraged to visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s dedicated landing page for more information on the Takata airbag recall and to take immediate action to address the issue. By working together with automakers and regulatory agencies, we can help prevent further accidents and injuries caused by these defective airbags and ensure the safety of all motorists on the road.