BMW is recalling approximately 6,800 model-year 2012-13 BMW X3 xDrive 28i and xDrive35i SUVs, and M6 convertibles, and model-year 2013 M6 coupes. The recall bulletin states that the driver’s frontal airbag inflator may have been improperly welded. This could lead to the inflator housing separating from the base plate in a crash necessitating deployment of the airbag, which may result in metal striking the vehicle occupants, potentially causing serious injury or death.
A notice to BMW from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that the affected airbags were manufactured by Japan’s Takata Corp., and although the defect poses a similar danger to that of the massive ongoing recall involving Takata-manufactured airbag inflators in cars in high-humidity areas, this latest issue is not related to that action.
“Takata believes that a manufacturing error occurred whereby the inflator housing may have been incorrectly welded,” NHTSA said in a statement.
Dealers will replace the driver’s frontal airbag module for free.
BMW will begin notifying owners Oct. 9. Owners can call the automaker at 800-525-7417, NHTSA’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or visit www.safercar.gov to check their vehicle identification number and learn more.
