The 2001 BMW 328i has 3 recalls, all involving Takata airbag inflators on both the driver and passenger sides that can rupture or explode during deployment, sending metal fragments into the cabin.
On the driver side, two separate inflator types are affected: certain vehicles may have received a replacement driver airbag inflator that can rupture in a crash, and the original inflator on some vehicles can also explode and leave the airbag underinflated, meaning it may not cushion the driver properly even if it does deploy. The passenger side carries a similar risk, where the frontal airbag inflator can explode and throw sharp metal fragments toward the front occupants.
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.
