The problem
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 MINI Clubman vehicles manufactured August 19, 2015, through July 14, 2016. The side curtain air bags for the front seat occupants may deploy in the intended positions in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
The risk
If a side curtain air bag does not inflate as intended in the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury to the front seat occupants.
The fix
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will modify the driver and passenger side curtain air bag covers, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 12, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-553 (16V553000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Air bags › Side/window |
| Report date | July 25, 2016 |
| Owners notified | September 9, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 7,810 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-553 repair free?
Yes. Mini dealers will fix the problem at no cost: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will modify the driver and passenger side curtain air bag covers, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 12, 2016.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 7,810 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.