The 2000 BMW 323CI has 4 recalls, all involving Takata airbag inflators in the driver and passenger frontal airbags that can rupture or explode during deployment, sending metal fragments into the cabin.
Both the driver and passenger side frontal airbags are affected. On the driver side, multiple recall filings cover different inflator types and vehicle populations, but the consequence is the same: the inflator can burst violently during a crash, throwing sharp metal fragments toward the driver and other occupants rather than cushioning them. In some cases the airbag may also underinflate, meaning it fails to provide the intended protection at the moment it is needed most. The passenger side inflator carries the same risk, with an explosion during deployment capable of sending metal fragments across the front of the cabin. These are among the most serious type of airbag defects, as the safety device itself becomes a source of injury in the event of a crash.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver-side air bag inflator may absorb moisture, causing it to explode or fail to properly inflate the air bag.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator may explode due to chemical breakdown of the propellant inside, which happens after prolonged exposure to high heat, humidity, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver air bag inflator can absorb moisture, which may cause it to rupture or prevent the air bag from inflating properly.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the driver air bag inflator at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver air bag inflator may absorb moisture due to a manufacturing issue, causing it to rupture or the air bag to not inflate properly.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the driver air bag inflator and replace it if necessary, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
