The 2000 BMW M3 has 3 recalls, all involving Takata airbag inflators on both the driver and passenger sides that can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.
Both front airbag inflators are affected. The driver-side inflator can rupture during deployment, and the passenger-side inflator faces the same risk, with metal fragments capable of striking the driver or other occupants. Prior repair attempts did not fully resolve the issue across all affected vehicles, which is why multiple recall campaigns exist for what is ultimately the same defect. Any unrepaired 2000 M3 should be treated as having an unresolved safety concern with both front airbags.
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 passenger side front air bag may build up excessive internal pressure and rupture when it deploys.
What the fix does
BMW dealers will replace the passenger side front air bag at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver-side air bag module may have an inflator that ruptures due to propellant breakdown from long-term exposure to low humidity, temperature changes, and temperature cycling.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the driver-side air bag module and replace it if necessary at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
