BMW Recalling All 2000-06 3 Series Models Over Airbags, 1.6M Globally

The Bavarian automaker is issuing a recall for certain 3 Series models to replace the passenger-side, front airbag inflator.

Specifically, the campaign covers 3 Series models from the 2000 through 2006 model years built between May 1999 and August 2006. "It's only the E46" generation of cars that are affected, which are now two model revisions old, according to BMW of North America spokesperson Matt Russell, speaking to Autoblog.

These models suffer the same problem as the rest of the vehicles with the faulty inflators. It's possible for the part to rupture during airbag deployment and possibly spray shrapnel at the occupant. However, according to BMW, the automaker isn't aware of any actual cases of this happening in any of its vehicles.

This is at least the third inflator recall for these 3 Series models. The first was issued in 2013 to cover 42,000 units of the 2002 and 2003 model years. Barely a month ago, the company also issued a campaign for certain 2001 through 2005 vehicles in hot weather states to inspect both the driver- and passenger-side inflators. With the passenger units being replaced, the analysis "will now focus on the driver-side airbag," said Russell.

BMW will notify owners if they have one of the potentially affected models and repairs will begin "as soon as we have the parts available," said Russell.