Boston, MA – BMW is recalling nearly 400,000 older vehicles in the United States due to potentially dangerous airbags that can explode, posing a serious risk to drivers. This recall is part of a larger issue with Takata airbags that has been ongoing for over a decade. The affected vehicles include certain BMW 3 Series sedans and sportswagons from model years 2006 through 2011.
One particular concern for regulators is that some of the vehicles may have been modified by owners to include sport or M-sport steering wheels, which use Takata airbags manufactured by the now-defunct company. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is urging owners to check if their vehicles have these steering wheels, as they could pose an increased safety risk in the event of an airbag deployment.
The inflater in these older airbags can experience excessive internal pressure when deploying, leading to a rupture that sends metal fragments outward. While BMW has not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to this issue, it is essential for affected owners to be aware of the potential dangers and take action promptly.
This latest recall adds to a series of safety problems associated with Takata airbags, which led the company to declare bankruptcy in 2017. Despite efforts by various auto manufacturers to recall millions of Takata airbags, many vehicles still remain equipped with these potentially hazardous components.
According to Michael Brooks of the Center for Auto Safety, millions of vehicles with Takata airbags are still on the road, increasing the likelihood of ruptures up to 50 percent as these airbags age. This ongoing issue underscores the critical need for swift action to address the safety risks posed by these defective airbags.
As BMW dealers prepare to address the recall, it is essential for owners of affected vehicles to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety on the road. With millions of vehicles still at risk, efforts to remove and replace Takata airbags remain a top priority for vehicle safety agencies and manufacturers alike.