BMW Recall 21V-401: Air bags – inflator module

Affected: 1999–2001 BMW 3 Series, 2000–2001 BMW 323ci, 1999–2001 BMW 323i and 6 more. Filed with NHTSA on May 27, 2021, covering about 4,511 vehicles.

The problem

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2001 BMW 3 Series (323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci and 330Ci), 1999-2001 323i, 328i, 330i, 330xi, and 2000 323i, 328i stationwagon vehicles equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) manufactured by Takata. These vehicles are equipped with driver-side air bag inflators that were previously inspected, but not replaced under recall numbers 19V-851, 19V852, or 19V-853. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to explode or the air bag cushion to underinflate.

The risk

The inflator could explode during air bag deployment, resulting in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.

The fix

Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign21V-401 (21V401000)
ManufacturerBMW of North America, LLC
ComponentAir bags › Frontal › Driver side › Inflator module
Report dateMay 27, 2021
Owners notifiedJuly 12, 2021
Vehicles affected4,511
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.

Owner complaints about the air bags

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 21V-401 repair free?

Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflator with a newly designed inflator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 12, 2021. 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 4,511 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.