This page covers 3 recalls and EPA fuel economy for the 2012 BMW M3.
16 mpg combined
14.7 L/100km
Subcompact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
The 2012 BMW M3 has 3 recalls, the most serious being a defective driver's frontal airbag inflator that can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, risking serious injury or death to the driver and passengers.
The airbag inflator issue covers both the coupe and convertible body styles and has been the subject of multiple filings, reflecting the scope and seriousness of the defect. In any crash that triggers the driver's airbag, the inflator can burst rather than inflate properly, turning the housing into shrapnel directed toward the occupants. There is also an electrical concern: the positive battery cable connection at the fuse box can corrode or degrade over time, causing intermittent loss of power that can stall the engine without warning and leave the driver without control at an unpredictable moment.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver frontal air bag inflator may explode due to chemical breakdown after prolonged exposure to humidity, heat, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Replace the driver air bag inflator. On X5 and X6 models, only the inflator is replaced. Repair is free.
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Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The positive battery cable connection at the fuse box may degrade over time, causing the electrical system to intermittently lose power.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it properly at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver's front air bag inflator may build up excessive pressure and rupture when the air bag deploys.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the driver's front air bag module or inflator at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
