BMW Recall 20V-016: Air bags – inflator module

Affected: 2007–2012 BMW X5, 2008–2012 BMW X6. Filed with NHTSA on January 15, 2020, covering about 4,007 vehicles.

Do not drive: the manufacturer advises owners not to drive affected vehicles until they are repaired.

The problem

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2012 X5 xDrive35d, 2008-2012 X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2007-2012 X5 30si, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 48i, X5 xDrive48i, X5 xDrive50i and X5 M and 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid vehicles equipped with non-desiccated, passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSPI-2) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high 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 this remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign20V-016 (20V016000)
ManufacturerBMW of North America, LLC
ComponentAir bags › Frontal › Passenger side › Inflator module
Report dateJanuary 15, 2020
Owners notifiedMarch 11, 2020
Vehicles affected4,007
Initiated byNHTSA investigation

Vehicles covered

Plus 2 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.

Owner complaints about the air bags

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 20V-016 repair free?

Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until this remedy is performed. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 11, 2020.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 4,007 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.