Vehicles Affected: Approximately 36 model-year 2017 BMW X5 sDrive35i, xDrive35i, xDrive50i, xDrive35d and xDrive40e luxury SUVs
The Problem: The passenger frontal airbag modules use certain airbag inflators that may not vent properly in a crash necessitating passenger frontal airbag deployment. This could cause the inflator to rupture and propel metal fragments into the cabin, striking occupants and causing serious injury or death.
Despite the similarity, this issue is unrelated to the massive ongoing safety crisis involving airbag inflators manufactured by Japan’s Takata Corp., a BMW spokesman confirmed to Cars.com.
The Fix: Dealers will replace the airbag modules for free.
Former Assistant Managing Editor-News Matt Schmitz is a veteran Chicago journalist indulging his curiosity for all things auto while helping to inform car shoppers.