BMW Issues Do Not Drive Order for Older Models With Takata Airbags

• BMW recently issued a Do Not Drive warning for 90,000 vehicles.
• Models affected include older 3 Series, 5 Series and X5 models.
• The parts are readily available and owners can check if their car is affected on BMW's website.

As the airbag inflators continue to age, the risk of injury or death continues to rise, hence the Do Not Drive order. As with some other Takata recalls, the propellant in the airbag inflator breaks down after years of exposure to the elements, especially temperature swings and humidity.

“We cannot state strongly enough just how urgent it is for our customers to take this warning seriously. We know these airbags only become more dangerous over time, which is why we are taking yet another step to get these parts out of our vehicles. Customers must park these vehicles immediately and take a few moments to check if their vehicle is safe for them and their family members to drive,” says Claus Eberhart, VP of aftersales for BMW North America. “Repairing these vehicles is quick, easy to arrange, and is completely free of charge,” he concluded. What he means by checking to see if the car is safe to drive is for drivers to ensure that their car isn't affected, and they can do this by inputting their vehicle identification number (VIN), which is located under the windshield on the driver's side, on BMW's website here.

BMW says it's addressed around 87% of all its recalled airbag inflators. The brand has continually made efforts to reach customers regarding repair, and its announcement stresses that the parts are readily available and the repairs are free of charge. BMW has tried to reach affected customers via phone, text, letters, social media and postcards. As a final note, BMW adds that the repair typically takes less than an hour, and says notification of affected owners started in May, with emails followed by letters sent out this month.

Edmunds says

BMW is getting out in front of yet another Takata recall. It’s a smart move from the brand, but the smarter move for you, if your car has been affected, is to get this repair done as soon as possible. It is totally free, easily done, and takes little time.