BMW Recall: Takata Airbag in 374,891 Vehicles in Germany

BMW has started one of the largest Takata recalls in Germany: it affects the 1 Series, 3 Series (including M3), X1 and X3 with a production date between 2 January 2006 and 30 June 2015. According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), the cause is a defect in the driver airbag inflator.

The key figures

• KBA reference number: 15308R, BMW recall code 0032730300
• Germany: 374,891 vehicles
• Worldwide: almost 1.5 million vehicles
• Report: 19 May 2026

Which models are affected?

According to press reports (including autohaus.de) these are the 1 Series, 3 Series, M3, X1 and X3. A single source additionally names the series codes E81, E82, E87, E88 (1 Series), E90–E93 (3 Series, M3), E84 (X1) and E83 (X3). Please verify these codes with the manufacturer before relying on them.

What happens at the workshop?

The driver airbag is replaced completely with a new module. The measure is free of charge for owners and is carried out at any authorised BMW workshop.

Is there another BMW recall?

A forum portal reports a separate recall for the 3 Series and M3 of the E46 series, in which the Takata inflator in the passenger airbag is said to be affected (KBA 15309R). This comes from a single, unofficial source – please ask your authorised workshop and give them your VIN.

How to check your vehicle

Use the search on this site for a first indication. Only a lookup with the vehicle identification number (VIN) at BMW or at an authorised workshop is binding.