The 2001 BMW 330CI has 3 recalls, all involving the frontal airbag inflators on both the driver and passenger sides, where the inflators can rupture or explode during deployment and send metal fragments into the cabin.
Both the driver and passenger frontal airbag inflators are affected by separate but related concerns. On the driver side, the Takata-manufactured inflators can either rupture or explode when the airbag fires, scattering sharp metal fragments toward the driver and any nearby occupants. In some cases the airbag may also underinflate, leaving the driver without adequate cushioning in a crash. The passenger side carries the same fragmentation risk from a Takata inflator that can explode during deployment, with the potential for serious injury or death. These concerns cover the original inflators installed at the factory as well as replacement inflators that may have been installed during prior repairs, so vehicles that have already had airbag work done are not necessarily clear of the issue.
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.
