Is My BMW a Lemon? BMW Recalls Older 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series Vehicles Over Safety Concern

Just over 5,760 BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, and 4 Series vehicles from the 2014 and 2015 model years have been recalled in the US market. According to BMW of North America, these cars have head airbag inflators that may rupture. This issue poses a serious safety concern, as a malfunctioning airbag inflator can fail to protect occupants during a crash.

Documents filed with federal authorities reveal that rapid separation of these inflators could cause injury or even death to occupants and nearby individuals. On April 12, 2024, their supplier informed BMW of North America of this defect. Although there have been no reports, complaints, or warranty claims related to this issue, BMW will replace the head airbag inflators in 5,761 vehicles as a precautionary measure. If you own one of these recalled BMWs, contacting a California lemon law attorney is crucial. They can guide you through the process and help protect your rights.

Common Issues in 2014-2015 BMW Models Indicating You Might Have a Lemon

The recent recall impacts over 5,760 BMW vehicles from the 2014 and 2015 model years. The affected models include various versions of the 2 Series, 3 Series, and 4 Series. The problem stems from head airbag inflators with part numbers 7239399, 7239400, 7311201, 7311202, 7390327, and 7390328, produced by Autoliv Steering Wheels Mexico. These inflators may corrode and fail at the weld joint, posing a severe safety risk.

Documents filed with federal authorities highlight that rapid separation of these inflators could cause injury or even death to occupants and nearby individuals. Despite no reports, complaints, or warranty claims, BMW is replacing the head airbag inflators in 5,761 vehicles as a precaution.

The impacted models include the following: 

• BMW 2 Series (2014-2015)— 228i (rear-drive and all-wheel-drive) M235i 195 units impacted;
• BMW 3 Series Sedan (2014-2015) —Includes F80-generation M3. 4,045 gas vehicles, 260 diesel vehicles (328d); and
• BMW 4 Series Coupe and Gran Coupe (2014-2015) — 428i, 428i xDrive, 435i, 435i xDrive, and M4. 1,088 Coupe units. 173 Gran Coupe units.

Some common issues include the following:

• Corrosion: The inflators may corrode over time, leading to failure at the weld joint.
• Partial Inflation: In a crash, the airbag may only partially inflate, compromising protection.
• Rapid Separation: The most significant risk is the potential for the inflator to separate at the joint, causing severe injury or death.

The production dates range from November 26, 2013, to September 4, 2014. Run the 17-character VIN on BMW’s or the NHTSA’s website to check if your vehicle is affected. Addressing this recall promptly is crucial to ensure your safety and that of others. If you have concerns about your vehicle, contact a California lemon law attorney for assistance.

Lemon Law Protections if my BMW is a Lemon?

If your 2014-2015 BMW is a lemon, you have rights under California’s Lemon Law. This law protects consumers like you who purchase or lease new vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards. 

Lemon Law requires manufacturers to repair vehicles with significant defects that affect their use, value, or safety. If the manufacturer cannot fix the defect after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund. If your BMW has been in the shop multiple times for the same issue or has spent an extended period out of service, it might qualify as a lemon. You deserve a vehicle that operates correctly and safely. The law is on your side to ensure you get what you paid for.

Navigating a Lemon Law claim can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. A California Lemon Law attorney at Wirtz Law can guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation or replacement you deserve. They can handle negotiations with the manufacturer and represent you in court if necessary.

Several defects in your 2014-2015 BMW could qualify it as a lemon under California’s Lemon Law, including: 

• Frequent engine problems
• Transmission issues
• Brake defects
• Electrical system failures
• Airbag malfunctions
• Steering problems

If your BMW experiences these or other significant defects that persist despite repair attempts, you may have a valid Lemon Law claim. Document all issues and repairs, and consult with a California Lemon Law attorney to explore your options for compensation or vehicle replacement.

Speak with a BMW Lemon Law Attorney Today

If you own a BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, or 4 Series, and have experienced repeated problems requiring you to frequently bring the vehicle into the shop, you may have inadvertently bought a lemon. If so, the California Lemon Law may require the manufacturer to either buy back or replace your vehicle, provided you can prove that your car is a Lemon. At Wirtz Law, APC, our dedicated team of Lemon Law attorneys has extensive experience recovering compensation on behalf of vehicle owners in California. We understand what it takes to convince auto manufacturers that their vehicles are Lemons, and how to maximize your compensation. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with a BMW Lemon Law attorney in California, call Wirtz Law, APC at 858-259-5009. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.