BMW Recalls Over 1.3 Million Vehicles in China Due to Takata Airbag Inflators
Chinese officials announced on Friday that BMW is recalling more than 1.3 million vehicles in China due to concerns over Takata airbag inflators. This comes after a similar recall in the United States last month, highlighting the global impact of this safety issue.
The recall in China affects nearly 600,000 vehicles manufactured in the country between 2005 and 2017, as well as over 750,000 imported vehicles made between 2003 and 2018. A wide range of models are included, such as 1 Series to 6 Series cars and the X1, X3, X4, X5, and X6 SUVs.
The reason for the recall is the potential danger posed by the Takata airbag inflators. In certain circumstances, the inflator can explode when the airbag deploys, causing fragments to be propelled into the car and potentially injuring occupants. This issue has been linked to at least 35 deaths in the United States, Malaysia, and Australia since 2009.
The United States also experienced a recall from BMW last month, affecting over 390,000 vehicles. The recall in the U.S. was prompted by the possibility that the original steering wheel may have been replaced with a sport or M-sport steering wheel equipped with a Takata inflator. This demonstrates the global nature of the problem, as automakers strive to ensure the safety of their vehicles across different markets.
Other automakers have also been impacted by the Takata airbag inflator issue. Ford and Mazda recently issued warnings to owners of over 475,000 vehicles in the U.S., advising them not to drive the vehicles due to the presence of Takata airbag inflators. These vehicles were built between 2003 and 2015. Stellantis, formerly known as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, also urged the owners of certain 2003 Dodge Ram pickups to stop driving them if their airbag inflators had not been replaced following a fatal explosion in the U.S. last year.
In response to the recall in China, BMW has offered a solution for affected owners. They can either visit a dealer to have their steering wheel checked or upload a photo of their steering wheel and vehicle identification number for a response within two weeks. BMW has also committed to replacing the driver’s side airbag free of charge in all affected vehicles.
This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of prompt action by automakers to address potential safety risks. It is crucial for vehicle owners to stay informed and take advantage of manufacturer recalls to ensure their safety on the road. By proactively addressing these issues, automakers can maintain the trust and confidence of their customers.