BMW Recalling 200,000 Vehicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. --- BMW AG is recalling 200,000 vehicles because of concerns that the front passenger air bag may not deploy in a crash.

The recall involves the 2006 3 Series, the 2004-2006 5 Series, and the 2004-2006 X3 compact sport utility vehicles in the United States.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that small cracks could develop in a seat detection mat and deactivate the front passenger air bags. BMW spokesman Tom Plucinsky told the Associated Press there have been no injuries or accidents reported, however. The company first learned about the problem after customers said they noticed that the air bag light indicated a deactivated air bag even when a passenger sat in the seat.

NHTSA first opened an investigation into the issue in September 2007 and upgraded its probe in January. The ongoing investigation also includes the 2004-2006 Z4, 2006 X5, 2006 6 Series and some 2004-2006 7 Series vehicles. However, it hasn't yet been determined whether a recall will be necessary on the additional vehicles under investigation.