The 2004 BMW M3 has 3 recalls, all involving Takata airbag inflators on both the driver and passenger sides that can rupture in a crash and send metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.
Both front airbag positions are affected. The driver-side inflator can explode during deployment, and the passenger-side inflator carries the same risk. Prior repair attempts have not fully resolved the issue across all affected vehicles, which is why multiple recall campaigns exist for what is essentially the same defect. Any owner who has not had both inflators replaced should confirm their vehicle's repair status by checking the VIN.
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 dual-stage driver front air bag can allow moisture inside. Over time, moisture can cause the inflator to rupture.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front driver air bag module at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
