Inflators in sports steering wheels may explode
Defect Summary
Bmw of north america, llc (bmw) is recalling certain model year 2000-2003 525i sedan, 530i sedan, 540i sedan, 2001-2003 525i sports wagon and 540i sports wagon vehicles, and 2000-2004 x5 sav 3.0i, x5 sav 4.4i, and x5 sav 4.6is vehicles. this recall affects certain vehicles where the original steering wheel has been replaced with the optional sports steering wheel. the sports steering wheel has a frontal air bag inflator that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Safety Consequence
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. bmw will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle for an optional sports steering wheel with an affected inflator. dealers will replace the air bag module as necessary, free of charge. the recall began march 14, 2019. owners may contact bmw customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Bmw Of North America, Llc or involving Air Bags.
FAQ: Recall 19V015000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 19V015000?
NHTSA recall 19V015000 was issued by Bmw Of North America, Llc on January 14, 2019. It addresses: Inflators in sports steering wheels may explode. The recall affects approximately 157,549 vehicles, with the defect involving the Air Bags component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Bmw Of North America, Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 19V015000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
What does "Do Not Drive" mean for this recall?
NHTSA has flagged this recall as Do Not Drive, meaning the defect poses an immediate safety risk and affected vehicles should not be operated until they are repaired. Owners should contact their dealer immediately and may be eligible for free towing or a loaner vehicle while awaiting parts.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.