The 2002 BMW 3 Series has 3 recalls, the most serious being a Takata-related airbag inflator that can rupture during deployment and send metal fragments into the cabin, and a brake rotor defect on 325xi models where the drum can fully separate from the disc while driving.
The brake recall affects only 325xi models: the rear brake rotors can develop a crack where the disc meets the parking brake drum, and repeated braking can cause the drum to break completely away from the rotor, which would severely compromise stopping ability. There is also a lighting recall in which one or more rear lamp functions, including tail, brake, and turn signal lights mounted in the body panels, can stop working, making the vehicle harder for other drivers to read. The trunk-mounted lamp sections are not affected by that issue.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger airbag inflator may build excessive pressure during deployment, causing it to rupture and send fragments toward occupants. This can injure occupants, damage the airbag module so it won't deploy in a crash, or cause fire.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger airbag.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The rear lamps mounted on the body (not the trunk) may lose tail, brake, or turn signal functions. This makes the vehicle less visible at night and prevents other drivers from seeing your intentions, increasing crash risk.
What the fix does
The dealer will add an electrical ground connection to the rear lamp circuits and check all functions. If needed, the 8-pin connector housing will be replaced.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A manufacturing defect may have created a crack where the rear brake rotor disc meets the parking brake drum. Braking forces can cause this crack to grow, potentially causing the drum to separate from the disc. If separation occurs, that wheel loses braking power.
What the fix does
Both rear brake rotors will be replaced.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
