The problem
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X3 xDrive30e, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, X4M, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, M850i xDrive Gran Coupe, M8 Gran Coupe, X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, and 840i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The sensors in the front seat belt buckles may inaccurately detect a belted occupant as unbelted, possibly causing the air bag and seat belt pretensioners to deploy improperly in the event of a crash.
The risk
If the air bag and/or seat belt pretensioners deploy improperly in the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.
The fix
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the front seat belt buckles, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 20V-164 (20V164000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Seat belts › Pretensioner |
| Report date | March 19, 2020 |
| Owners notified | May 18, 2020 |
| Vehicles affected | 3,316 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the seat belts
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 20V-164 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the front seat belt buckles, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 3,316 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.