The 2001 BMW 330xi has 2 recalls, both involving Takata airbag inflators on the driver and passenger sides that can explode during deployment, sending metal fragments into the cabin and causing serious injury or death.
Both the driver and passenger frontal airbag inflators are affected. On the passenger side, the inflator contains a propellant that can rupture violently. On the driver side, the inflator can also explode and, if it fails short of a full rupture, may leave the airbag underinflated and unable to properly cushion the driver in a crash.
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.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
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.
