The problem
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2007-2013 X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M vehicles, 2008-2014 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M vehicles, 2009-2013 X5 xDrive35d vehicles and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
The risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 19V-017 (19V017000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Air bags › Frontal › Passenger side › Inflator module |
| Report date | January 14, 2019 |
| Owners notified | March 14, 2019 |
| Vehicles affected | 83,016 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
- 2007 BMW X5 airbag problems 46
- 2008 BMW X5 airbag problems 74
- 2009 BMW X5 airbag problems 48
- 2010 BMW X5 airbag problems 39
- 2011 BMW X5 airbag problems 70
- 2012 BMW X5 airbag problems 86
- 2013 BMW X5 airbag problems 52
- 2008 BMW X6 airbag problems 2
- 2009 BMW X6 airbag problems 3
- 2010 BMW X6 airbag problems 2
- 2011 BMW X6 airbag problems 2
- 2012 BMW X6 airbag problems 2
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 19V-017 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 83,016 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is it safe to drive?
No — the manufacturer says owners should not drive affected vehicles until the repair is done. Contact a dealer to arrange towing.
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.