— A problem with automakers using the exact same parts from the same manufacturer is what can happen if one of those parts is defective.
Numerous auto manufacturers recalled a total of 3 million vehicles in 2013, all because air bag manufacturer Takata supplied air bags with a defect that could cause the air bags to explode in a crash. During the 2013 recalls, BMW announced 200,000 of its cars would need repaired before sent back onto the roads.
It's déjà vu for BMW as it announced cars currently registered in Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands need the air bags repaired.
The problem is the metal air bag inflator that can rupture when the air bags deploy, so even if a crash doesn't hurt you, flying metal fragments from an air bag certainly could. BMW says the limited regional recall is based on humidity that can cause moisture in the air bags.
BMW said about 46,000 cars are involved, including the 2001-2005 BMW 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi, and 2001-2006 325Ci and 330Ci.
BMW dealers will replace both front air bags during the recall, which should begin sometime in August, 2014. With questions about the recall, contact BMW at 800-525-7417.
Curious about what BMW owners say about the cars named in the recall? Click here to read BMW complaints.
