The 2006 BMW X3 has 3 recalls, all related to the same issue: a sensor mat under the front passenger seat that can crack over time and cause the passenger airbag to shut off, leaving that occupant without airbag protection in a crash.
The mat is part of the system that detects whether the front passenger seat is occupied and adjusts airbag deployment accordingly. As it ages, the mat can develop cracks that cause the system to fail, disabling the passenger airbag entirely. In some cases, the airbag warning light and the passenger airbag indicator lamp will illuminate as a sign that the system has lost function.
At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger seat occupant detection mat may crack from fatigue, potentially causing the passenger air bag system to fail during a crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front passenger seat occupant detection mat at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger seat occupant detection mat can wear out over time, causing the passenger airbag system to deactivate unexpectedly and turn on warning lights.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the occupant detection mat with a new one.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger seat detection mat can wear out over time, causing the passenger airbag to turn off unexpectedly and trigger warning lights. If the airbag doesn't deploy in a crash when needed, it increases injury risk.
What the fix does
Your vehicle receives 10 years of special warranty coverage from first registration. If this problem occurs, the detection mat will be replaced at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
