Bmw 330ci problems
The fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars is designated under the model code E46, which was produced by the German automaker BMW from 1997 to 2006, and was the successor to the E36 3 Series which ceased production in 2000. First introduced in November 1997, the E46 was available in sedan, coupé, convertible, station wagon and hatchback body styles. The latter has been marketed as the 3 Series Compact.
The M3 performance model was introduced in June 2000 with a 2-door coupé body style, followed by the convertible counterpart in April 2001. The M3 is powered by the BMW S54 straight-six engine with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission.
The E46 line-up was phased out starting from late 2004, following the introduction of the E90 3 Series sedans. However, the E46 coupé and convertible body styles remained in production until August 2006.
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Bmw 330ci model years
Common Bmw 330ci problems
The BMW 330ci, a popular model in the E46 generation, is known for its performance and luxury. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners may encounter.
- Alarm System: Some BMW 330ci models may not have an alarm system, despite the presence of a red light on the mirror. This can be a source of confusion for owners, but it is essential to understand that not all models come with an alarm.
- Maintenance Issues: For cars with high mileage, such as a 2004 BMW 330CI with 149,000 miles, it is crucial to check for any maintenance issues or upcoming major repairs. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and replacing worn-out parts, can help prevent significant problems down the line.
- Original Shocks/Struts: The original shocks and struts on a BMW 330Ci can wear out over time, causing a rough ride and reduced handling performance. Replacing them with new ones can improve the driving experience and safety of the vehicle.
- Intake Manifold DISA Valve: The intake manifold DISA valve can also wear out over time, causing misfiring and reduced performance. Replacing it can help restore the vehicle's performance and prevent further damage.
- Oxygen Sensors: Over time, the oxygen sensors on a BMW 330Ci can become dirty or worn out, causing reduced fuel efficiency and performance. Replacing them can help restore the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
- Alternator and A/C Drive Belts and Tensioners: The alternator and A/C drive belts and tensioners can wear out over time, causing reduced performance and potential engine damage. Replacing them can help prevent significant problems and improve the vehicle's performance.
- Water Pump: The water pump is a common weak point in BMW 330ci models, and it can fail over time, leading to overheating and engine damage. Replacing it can help prevent significant problems and improve the vehicle's performance.
- Front Lower Arm Bushes: The front lower arm bushes are another common weak point in BMW 330ci models, and they can wear out over time, causing a knocking noise and reduced handling performance. Replacing them can help prevent significant problems and improve the vehicle's handling.
- Rear Coils: The rear coils are also a common weak point in BMW 330ci models, and they can snap over time, causing low ride height and reduced handling performance. Replacing them can help prevent significant problems and improve the vehicle's handling.
In summary, BMW 330ci models can have several common problems, including coolant leaks, alarm system issues, maintenance needs, and worn-out parts. Regular maintenance and preventative measures can help prevent significant problems and improve the vehicle's performance and safety.
Is the BMW 330Ci reliable?
Great, reliable and affordable BMW to own
Go for the older 330, and we have the convertible 330ci. Reliable, high performance and wears well over time. Great cars. Would buy this over new any day.
How many miles will a 330Ci last?
How to Get the Most Out of Your BMW 3 Series. While a BMW 3 Series can last 200,000-250,000 miles, there are many cases where 3 Series models have been driven more than 300,000 miles with no serious mechanical issues.
What is the most common problem with BMW E46?
S54 Engine Bearings
This issue is seen on the E46 M3. The high-performance nature of the S54 inline-six engine puts a lot of stress on engine internals. Unfortunately, the engine bearings will wear out and need to be replaced at around 60k miles.
How much is a BMW 330Ci worth?
A: The average price of a BMW 330Ci - E46 is $14,796.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 330ci years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 330ci cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw 330ci model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 330ci model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 330ci years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw 330ci car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 330ci , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 330ci vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 330ci model years
A total of 6 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 330ci model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 330ci model years
There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 83 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 330ci . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 330ci vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-12
- VIN: WBABS53411J
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 BMW 330CI. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH at night, the front headlights were flickering on and off. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-28
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBABS53471E
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 BMW 330 Ci. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle was involved in a head-on crash. The contact stated he was not aware of any warning lights. The contact stated that the front end was crumpled past the wheel wells and almost to the firewall. The front end frame had buckled. The contact stated that all the air bags had deployed except for the driver's air bag and both side curtain air bags. The contact had received cuts on both hands and had neck and back pains. The contact stated that emergency medical services had arrived but he was not treated or transported to an ER. The driver of the other vehicle was not injured, and both vehicles were towed away. The contact had his vehicle towed to his residence. The police were on the scene and had written a report. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact stated that he had received NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V047000 (Air Bags) from the manufacturer, however, the dealer would not perform the work on his vehicle when he had attempted to set a recall appointment. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-29
- VIN: WBABN53451J
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas tank strap that holds up the gas tank tore off on the part that is supposed to be welded on the car. One end is bolted on, the other has a welded bracket. That bracket broke off and my gas tank and bracket were dragging until I pulled off of the road. Luckily the entire gas tank didn’t fall out because if it would have, the tank would’ve broke and caused a massive spill of gas, since the tank was full of fuel. There is no warning lamps for this, a weld shouldn’t just break off, and I can’t find any replacements to fix it or replace it at all.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-25
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-26
- VIN: WBABS53481J
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Tire exploded and completely blew off the wheel while driving at 45 MPH. Yes, there are two exact Luckily the position of the vehicle, time of day, and other vehicles all aligned to prevent further destruction/collision. Yes, it was inspected today, 5.26.2021.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2020-08-31
- VIN: WBABN53411J
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE WELDS ON THE FRONT STRAP THAT HOLDS THE GAS TANK IN PLACE BROKE WHILE DRIVING,RESULTING IN GAS TANK DROPPING HALF WAY DURING DRIVING. THERE IS NO OTHER DEVICE HOLDING THE GAS TANK MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE AND INOPERABLE.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2019-10-08
- VIN: WBABN534X1J
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: STRAP THAT SUSPENDS THE FUEL TANK BROKE CAUSING THE FUEL TANK TO HANG AND ALMOST TOUCH THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT A SLOW RATE OF SPEED ON A CITY STREET.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-26
- Date Complaint: 2019-03-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBABS53451J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR HAD BEEN SITTING UNUSED SINCE 6:00PM THE PREVIOUS DAY. AT 6:30AM I HAD ENTERED MY CAR PARKED AT PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY AND ANAHEIM STREET IN LONG BEACH,CA. (WHICH IS A SURFACE STREET). I STARTED MY CAR THEN DROVE A HALF OF A BLOCK THEN STOPPED AND TURNED OFF MY CAR AT THE STORE 7/11. I WENT IN MADE A PURCHASE CAME OUT MY CAR. I STARTED MY CAR AND THEN LEFT 7-ELEVEN DRIVING DOWN ANAHEIM ABOUT .2-.3 MILES. I CAME TO THE LIGHT AT ANAHEIM STREET AND PARK. BOTH SURFACE STREETS. I WAS IN THE TURN LANE TO TURN LEFT ONTO PARK. I BEGAN SMELLING SOMETHING ELECTRICAL. THE TIME WAS 6:40 AM. I LEANED MY HEAD OUT THE WINDOW AND COULD NOT SMELL THE ELECTRICAL SMELL OUTSIDE. I DISCERNED THAT THIS WAS COMING FROM INSIDE THE CAR. THERE WAS NO VISIBLE REASON FOR THE SMELL AT THIS TIME.THE LIGHT CHANGED I TURNED LEFT ONTO PARK. AS I BEGAN TO TURN LEFT WHITE TO GREY SMOKE BEGAN COMING OUT OF THE DRIVER SIDE VENT WHICH IS LOWER BY DOOR AND THAT FACES THE DRIVER. I GOT OUT OF MY CAR. I RAN OVER TO ANOTHER VEHICLE TO SEE IF THEY HAD A FIRE EXTINGUISHER. HE SAID HE WOULD FIND IT. I RETURNED TO MY CAR AND BLACK SMOKE BEGAN ROLLING OUT OF THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR. FLAMES BEGAN ENGULFING THE DASHBOARD. TWO GENTLEMAN CAME OVER, ONE WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND BEGAN SPRAYING INTO THE DASHBOARD. THE OTHER GENTLEMAN WENT AROUND TO THE TRUNK AND DISCONNECTED THE BATTERY. THE LAST TIME I HAD SOMETHING DONE TO THE VEHICLE WAS BMW REPLACING THE AIRBAG FOR A RECALL. THERE WAS NO REASON FOR THE FIRE.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2018-08-25
- VIN: WBABS53441J
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IN MOTION TRANSMISSION DOWN SHIFTS, CLUNK THEN EXCLAMATION POINT APPEAR NEXT TO DASHBOARD GEAR INDICATOR.1ST GEAR DISAPPEARS-THEREFORE DANGEROUSLY SLOW TAKEOFF SPEED.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2018-08-25
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: GROUND WIRE TO TWILIGHTS CAN'T HANDLE CURRENT AND THEREFORE BLOWS OUT AND TRIGGERS THE LIGHT CONTROL MODULE WHICH MAKES THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKER AND DIE PREMATURELY AND CAUSES LIGHTS ON THE DASH THAT ARE IN ACCURATE
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-14
- Date Complaint: 2018-01-20
- VIN: WBABS53421J
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SPARK PLUGS AND COILS THAT WHERE INSTALLED IN MY BMW AT THE BMW SERVICE CENTER DID NOT WORK PROPLERLY OR WHERE INSTALLED PROPERLY THEY DIDN'T EVEN GIVE ME A WARRANTY TIME FRAME IT ONLY RAN 4,000 MORE MILES SINCE THEY DID A SERVICE ON IT MY CAR JUST STOPED WORKING IT WOULDN'T TURN ON ANYMORE I DON'T WANT THIS HAPPENING TO ANYONE ELSE THEY PUT MY LIFE AT RISK AND ANYONE IN THE CAR WITH ME OR AROUND IT COULD HAVE JUST STOPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET BUT THANKFULLY I WAS AT A PARKING LOT I JUST WOULD LIKE THE BMW SERVICE CENTER TO BE MORE CAUTIOUS ABOUT WHAT THEY DO AND TO REPAIR MY CAR THE RIGHT WAY THEY USED PARTS THAT STOPED WORKING.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-19
- Date Complaint: 2017-12-19
- VIN: WBABN53451J
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 330CI. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V047000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AN APPOINTMENT WAS SCHEDULED WITH BMW OF SOUTH ATLANTA (4171 JONESBORO RD, UNION CITY, GA 30291, (770) 969-0755). UPON ARRIVAL, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE AND THEY WOULD ARRIVE IN SIX WEEKS, WHICH WAS OVER THREE MONTHS AGO. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PATS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. *TT
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2017-09-13
- VIN: WBABN53431J
- Components: AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: I BOUGHT A USED 2001 BMW 330CI 2DR COUPE ON THE DATE OF MAY 5TH 2017. I HAD THIS VEHICLE FOR A VERY SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME APPROXIMATELY 7 WEEKS TIME. THE TAKATA AIR BAG WAS PRESENT IN THIS MODEL, ON TOP OF THAT THE WELL KNOWN OVERHEATING ISSUE CAME MY WAY. MY MODEL WOULD OVERHEAT AT THE POINT WHERE THE AUXILIARY ELECTRICAL FAN WOULD NOT KICK IN TO AVOID OVERHEATING. ELECTRICAL STABILITY WAS AT LOST DUE TO THESE PRESENT ISSUES. ODDLY ENOUGH THE FAN WOULD ACTUALLY RUN IN REVERSE POLARITY PUSHING AIR OUT OF THE ENGINE WHEN IT SHOULD BE PULLING THE AIR IN. WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET MY CAR OVERHEATED CAUSING ME TO BREAK DOWN, A THERMOSTAT ISSUE COULD BE PRESENT ALL OF THIS OCCURRED IN MOTION.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2017-08-15
- VIN: WBABS53471J
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - I RECEIVED A NOTICE BY MAIL THAT MY CAR IS SUBJECT TO TWO RECALLS. I WILL HAVE THESE RECALLS PERFORMED AT BMW DEALER SOON. I REQUEST BEING PART OF THE CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT.
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2017-06-08
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE RUBBER OR SEALS AROUND MY WINDSHIELD HAS DETERIORATED BADLY AS WELL AS SIDE WINDOWS TO. IT SHOULD BE THE COMPANY'S RESPONSIBILTY TO REPAIR THIS PROBLEM AS SO MANY OTHER BMW OWNERS HAVE THE SAME ISSUE IT'S AN OBVIOUS DEFECT FOR THIS MODEL. ALSO THE CLEAR COAT OF THE PAINT ON THIS MODEL HAS PEELED REALLY BAD. IF SO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING THESE ISSUES IT'S AN OBVIOUS RECALL. I WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER BMW. TAKE CARE OF YOUR CUSTOMERS. 2001 BMW 330 CI
Bmw 330ci 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2016-04-15
- VIN: WBABS53401J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DASH INDICATED LEFT TAILLIGHT WAS OUT WHEN IT WASN'T, THIS WAS RANDOM ON AND OFF FOR A FEW MONTHS. AFTER A FEW MONTHS THE DASH PANEL INDICATOR LIGHT STAYED ON. AS I WAS DRIVING ONE DAY I NOTICED THE SMELL OF SMOKE COMING FROM THE TRUNK. I STOPPED, AND NOTICED THE MELTED WIRES FROM THE TAIL LIGHT HARNESS. AS I LOOKED AT THEM I COULD SEE THEM SPARKING WHEN CERTAIN MOVEMENTS OCCURRED., VERY DANGEROUSLY AND ERRATIC. BOTH MALE AND FEMALE SIDES MELTED. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AS IT IMPEDES THE ABILITY TO WARN OTHER DRIVERS WHEN TURNING OR STOPPING. THIS WAS BROUGHT TO THE DEALERSHIPS ATTENTION BUT THEY DO NOT CONSIDER THIS AN IMPORTANT ENOUGH ISSUE TO REPLACE IT AS PART OF A RECALL OR SERVICE RECOVERY.
Latest 5 recalls Bmw 330ci
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 25 recalls for different components of the Bmw 330ci.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw 330ci 2001
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-27
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
- Model: Bmw 330ci 2000
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-27
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
- Model: Bmw 330ci 2005
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 330ci 2004
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 330ci 2002
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-15
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2000-2005 323iT, 325iT, 325xiT, 320i, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i and 330xi and 2000-2006 323Ci, 325Ci, 328Ci, 330Ci, M3 Coupe, 323Cic, 325Cic, 330Cic, and M3 Convertible vehicles equipped with non-desiccated frontal Takata PSAN inflators and PSPI passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's front air bag, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.