BMW Recalls 2012-2013 BMW X3 and M6 Models

BMW has issued a recall for approximately 6,800 model-year 2012-2013 BMW X3 xDrive 28i and xDrive35i SUVs, and M6 convertibles, and model-year 2013 M6 coupes in the USA. BMW states that they want to prevent any untoward incidents as 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. The danger may sound similar to the massive ongoing recall involving Takata-manufactured airbag inflators in cars in high-humidity areas but this is a completely different issue.

“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, 2017.