BMW Recalls 1.6 Million 3-Series Cars For Airbag Defects

German automaker BMW is expanding a recall of its most popular vehicle models for potential airbag defects.

According to an Associated Press news report, the automaker is recalling 1.6 million 3-Series cars from model years 2000 to 2006 globally including 574,000 in the United States.

BMW is issuing this recall as a precaution because other automakers using similar airbag systems have reported problems.

Problem Linked to Japanese Supplier

Airbag inflators in systems made by Takata Corp. can rupture causing shards to fly out and injure vehicle occupants. This defect could cause the airbags to not work properly.

This auto defect has been responsible for millions of recalled vehicles over the past few years made by manufacturers such as Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Mazda, Nissan and Toyota.

BMW said it has no reports of problems in its vehicles. However, when the recall begins, dealers will replace the passenger-side front airbags.

The new recall excludes 42,000 BMWs recalled in May 2013 for the same problem. The company says it is going ahead with this recall because of the potentially faulty airbag systems, regardless of where the vehicles were sold.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in June initiated investigation of airbags manufactured by Takata, a Tokyo-based supplier of vehicle components including seatbelts, airbags and steering wheels.

Dangerous and Defective Airbags

Airbag technology has significantly improved over the years and we have come to depend on airbags for that additional layer of protection in the event of a crash. However, when airbags are defective, the consequences can be devastating.

With the Takata airbags, when the airbags deploy with extreme explosive force, not only do they propel metal shards into the passenger compartment causing serious injury to occupants, but the airbag is rendered useless, thereby unable to protect anyone in the vehicle.

It is important that anyone whose vehicle is a part of this recall ensure that the necessary repairs are made. This is an important step that must be taken to protect yourself and your family. No vehicle recall should be taken lightly.

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective auto, please contact an experienced auto product liability lawyer who can help evaluate your case and help you obtain fair and full compensation for your injuries, damages and losses.