BMW issues major recalls for airbags in US and emissions in South Korea

BMW is facing significant recall actions in both the United States and South Korea involving safety and emissions components.

In the United States, BMW is recalling approximately 105,558 SUVs due to a defect in airbag control units manufactured by ZF Friedrichshafen. The software error in the control module could prevent front airbags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying during certain crashes. The recall affects 2022-2023 models of the BMW X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and X5M. BMW plans to notify owners by mail and provide free software updates at dealerships.

In South Korea, BMW has led the volume of mandatory emission-related recalls between 2022 and mid-2026. Data from the Climate, Energy and Environment Ministry shows BMW accounted for 132,176 mandatory vehicle corrections, which is 1.7 times the volume of Hyundai Motor. While mandatory recalls have declined in recent years, BMW continues to represent a significant portion of the country's forced corrective actions.