Recall: Takata airbag inflators can rupture (2000-2006, incl. M3)

Added 2026-10-26 · Updated 2026-10-26

Symptoms

None before a crash. In a crash, a ruptured inflator can throw metal fragments into the cabin.

Cause

Several recalls cover Takata inflators: the passenger frontal airbag on 2002-2003 cars, the driver airbag on 2002-2006 cars, and interim-remedy passenger parts on 2000-2006 cars, M3 included.

Fix (summary)

Run the VIN through NHTSA's lookup and have the dealer replace the affected airbag.

Related build entries

• Check E46 airbag and strut recalls by VIN first

Other E46 problems

• Rear subframe mounts tearing out of the floor
• Cooling system plastics fail with age (expansion tank, pump, radiator)
• Double VANOS seals harden: low-end torque loss and rough idle
• DISA intake flap wears loose and can break into the engine
• Power window regulators fail (clips, cables)
• M3 S54 connecting rod bearing failures

More for this car

• All BMW 3 Series (E46, 1999-2006) fitment answers · E46 common problems
• Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry

Sources

• NHTSA recall record 13V-172 (2002-2003 3 Series incl. M3, passenger frontal airbag inflator) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
• NHTSA recall record 15V-318 (2002-2006 3 Series incl. M3, driver airbag inflator) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
• NHTSA recall record 20V-018 (2000-2006 3 Series incl. M3, passenger airbag inflator interim-remedy parts) — NHTSA recalls API (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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