The 2011 BMW 325xi has 3 recalls, the most serious being a driver's side airbag inflator that can explode during deployment, sending sharp metal fragments into the cabin and potentially causing serious injury or death.
The airbag concern covers two scenarios: the original inflator may be defective, and on some vehicles the original steering wheel was replaced with a sport or M-sport wheel carrying the same faulty inflator. Both carry the same risk of an explosive rupture. There is also an electrical concern with the heating and air conditioning system, where wiring and connectors controlling airflow can overheat and melt, raising the risk of a fire even when the vehicle is parked and unattended.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver's air bag inflator in certain replacement sport or M-sport steering wheels can explode when the air bag deploys.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the driver's air bag module at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver frontal air bag inflator may explode due to chemical breakdown after prolonged exposure to humidity, heat, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Replace the driver air bag inflator. On X5 and X6 models, only the inflator is replaced. Repair is free.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The wiring and electrical connectors that control airflow in the heating and air conditioning system may overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the wiring and electrical connectors at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
