Recall 94V-151: automatic 325 and 1995 M3 failed a frontal crash standard
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What causes "Recall 94V-151: automatic 325 and 1995 M3 failed a frontal crash standard" on the BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999), and how is it fixed?
In a 30 mph FMVSS 208 compliance test, unbelted dummies exceeded the chest and femur load limits. Fix: On automatics, dealers replaced the transmission support crossmember with the manual-car part, changed the rear transmission bushings and the steering column firewall bearing, and added a knee-bolster brace.
Symptoms
None; this is a crash-test compliance recall.
Cause
In a 30 mph FMVSS 208 compliance test, unbelted dummies exceeded the chest and femur load limits.
Fix (summary)
On automatics, dealers replaced the transmission support crossmember with the manual-car part, changed the rear transmission bushings and the steering column firewall bearing, and added a knee-bolster brace. Check by VIN.
Related build entries
Other E36 problems
- Cooling system plastics fail with age (pump impeller, tanks, thermostat housing)
- Rear shock mounts crack and can tear the body
- Rear subframe bushings wear, then mounts crack
- Power window regulators wear and jam
- Recall 98V-178: heater core end piece can split if the engine overheats
- Recall 97V-131: throttle or cruise cable bushing can break and hold the throttle open
More for this car
- All BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999) fitment answers · E36 common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- NHTSA recall 94V-151: FMVSS 208 non-compliance, automatic 325 and 1995 M3 — NHTSA (received 10 Aug 1994) (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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