The 2001 BMW 325i has 3 recalls, the most serious involving both the driver and passenger frontal airbag inflators, which can rupture or explode and send sharp metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.
The two airbag recalls both involve Takata-manufactured inflators. The driver-side inflator may have been installed as a replacement part during a prior repair, and the passenger-side inflator contains a propellant that becomes unstable over time. Both pose the same core danger: metal fragments flying toward occupants if the airbag deploys. There is also a wheel rim concern, where the tire mounting equipment at the assembly plant may have damaged the inner rim flange on certain wheels, which can cause a sudden loss of air pressure and reduce handling and vehicle control.
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.
