Driver frontal air bag inflator may explode
Defect Summary
Bmw of north america, llc (bmw) is recalling certain 2000-2002 325i and 325xi sedan, and 323ci, 325ci, and 330ci convertible vehicles. this recall affects certain vehicles that may have had a driver-side air bag module installed as replacement equipment such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bag, or as a remedy part for a prior recall. the frontal air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Safety Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. bmw will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. the recall began november 7, 2019. owners may contact bmw customer service at 1-800-525-7417. note: this recall is an expansion of previous recalls, numbers 17v-047 and 19v-015.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Bmw Of North America, Llc or involving Air Bags.
FAQ: Recall 19V698000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 19V698000?
NHTSA recall 19V698000 was issued by Bmw Of North America, Llc on October 2, 2019. It addresses: Driver frontal air bag inflator may explode. The recall affects approximately 3,924 vehicles, with the defect involving the Air Bags component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Bmw Of North America, Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 19V698000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
What does "Do Not Drive" mean for this recall?
NHTSA has flagged this recall as Do Not Drive, meaning the defect poses an immediate safety risk and affected vehicles should not be operated until they are repaired. Owners should contact their dealer immediately and may be eligible for free towing or a loaner vehicle while awaiting parts.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.