NHTSA (USA)Critical
At a glance
What can fail
The head air bag inflator may crack at a weld joint, causing gas to leak or the inflator to rupture.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the head air bags at no cost.
This page covers 3 recalls and EPA fuel economy for the 2015 BMW M3.
19–20 mpg combined
11.8–12.4 L/100km
Compact 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 2015 BMW M3 has 3 recalls, the most serious involving airbag inflators that can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin or toward occupants and bystanders.
The driveshaft on certain vehicles contains a slip-joint that may not have been properly greased during assembly. Without lubrication, that joint can seize and fail, cutting power to the rear wheels and leaving the vehicle unable to move in traffic. There is also a structural concern tied to prior service work: during rear differential repairs performed under an earlier service action, technicians may have reused the rear subframe bolts rather than replacing them as required. Reused bolts can work loose over time, and loose subframe bolts allow the rear suspension mounting point to shift, degrading handling and reducing the driver's ability to control the vehicle in corners or during sudden maneuvers.
At a glance
What can fail
The head air bag inflator may crack at a weld joint, causing gas to leak or the inflator to rupture.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the head air bags at no cost.
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Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
During prior service, rear sub-frame bolts may have been reused instead of replaced. Reused bolts can loosen over time.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the rear sub-frame bolts with new bolts at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driveshaft's slip-joint may lack adequate grease, causing it to fail over time.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the driveshaft and replace it if necessary at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.