The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, the software programming of the driver's seat occupant detection system (ods) May not be able to reliably determine if the driver's seat is occupied.
The risk
In certain crash conditions, the driver's front air bag, head protection system, safety belt pretensioner, and knee air bag May not deploy, increasing the risk of injury to a seat occupant.
The fix
Dealers will reprogram the software for the driver's seat occupant detection system. The recall began October 13, 2004. Owners should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-379 (04V379000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Seats |
| Report date | August 9, 2004 |
| Owners notified | October 13, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 3,940 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the seats
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-379 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will reprogram the software for the driver's seat occupant detection system. The recall began October 13, 2004. Owners should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 3,940 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.