The problem
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 BMW i3 electric and hybrid electric vehicles. Unbelted, small adult, drivers may be at a higher risk of neck injury in the event of a frontal crash. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
The risk
During a frontal impact, unbelted, small adult, drivers could be at a higher risk of neck injury.
The fix
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the Driver air bag control unit software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 8, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at the dedicated i3 recall number 1-855-269-3361.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 17V-720 (17V720000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Air bags › Frontal |
| Report date | November 16, 2017 |
| Owners notified | January 12, 2018 |
| Vehicles affected | 32,000 |
| Initiated by | OVSC |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 17V-720 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the Driver air bag control unit software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 8, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at the dedicated i3 recall number 1-855-269-3361.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 32,000 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.