The 2001 BMW 325i has 3 recalls, the most serious being two separate Takata airbag inflator defects that can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, risking serious injury or death to the driver or passengers.
Both the driver and front passenger airbag inflators are affected. The driver-side recall involves replacement inflators that may have been installed during a prior repair, meaning some vehicles received a defective part as a fix. The passenger-side inflator uses a propellant that can break apart explosively in a crash, scattering sharp metal pieces. Both defects pose their greatest danger during airbag deployment in a collision. On the chassis side, the wheel rims on some vehicles may have been damaged during tire mounting at the assembly plant, leaving the inner rim flange compromised. That damage can cause a tire to lose air suddenly and without warning, reducing the driver's ability to steer or maintain control of the vehicle.
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.
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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 tire-mounting equipment at the factory may have damaged the inner rim flange on your wheels.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect all five wheels for damage and replace all of them if any damage is found.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
