BMW Recalls 1.3 Million Cars in China Over Airbag Issue

BEIJING (AP) — BMW has announced a significant recall of more than 1.3 million vehicles in China due to potential issues with Takata airbag inflators. This decision follows a similar recall in the United States last month. The Chinese State Administration for Market Regulation reported that the recall affects nearly 600,000 domestically produced vehicles manufactured between 2005 and 2017, as well as over 750,000 imported models made from 2003 to 2018. The recall encompasses a variety of BMW models, including series 1 through series 6 cars and several SUV models such as the X1, X3, X4, X5, and X6. The regulatory body noted that a small number of vehicles may have faulty Takata inflators if the steering wheel has been replaced by the owner. These inflators pose a serious risk, as they can explode upon airbag deployment, potentially injuring occupants with flying debris. Takata airbag inflators have been linked to at least 35 fatalities in the U.S., Malaysia, and Australia since 2009. In light of these dangers, U.S. regulators recently mandated BMW to recall over 390,000 vehicles due to similar concerns. Other automakers, including Ford and Mazda, have also issued warnings regarding vehicles equipped with Takata inflators. To address the issue, BMW has advised affected owners to visit a dealer for a steering wheel inspection or to submit a photo of their steering wheel along with their vehicle identification number online. The company will replace the driver’s side airbag at no cost to the owners of the affected vehicles.