BMW issued a recall on approximately 85,000 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicles built between 2006 and 2010 for an airbag-related issue. Refreshingly, the recall does not involve Takata airbags or exploding inflators. In fact, the airbag itself is not the problem. The recall is to replace the front-seat passenger occupant-detection mats contained within the seat. If the mat does not detect a person in the seat, the airbag may not deploy upon impact.
According to BMW, the mat, which is made by Continental Automotive Systems, can wear over time and develop cracks that might interfere with the mat sending signals to the control unit that the seat is occupied. The mats are part of the system that determines how the airbags inflate if children or small adults occupy the seat.
Normal seat usage may cause tiny cracks in the mat that interfere with electrical conductivity. There should be a warning light when the system is not functioning. The front passenger airbag might not activate, although the head airbag should still deploy.
Specific models involved include 2006–2010 BMW X3 2.5i, X3 3.0i, and X3 xDrive30i vehicles.
BMW has stated that it knows of no injuries or fatalities related to defective occupant-detection mats.
BMW dealers will replace the mats at no charge starting November 20, 2017. Affected owners may contact their dealers or BMW customer service at (800) 525-7417. BMW owners can always check to see if any recalls affect their vehicles by typing their vehicle identification number into this web site: https://www.bmwusa.com/safety-recalls.html.—Scott Blazey
[Photo courtesy of BMW AG.]
