E39 Airbag Recall

[minimods]

Hey all,

A BMW recall notice just dropped on my door mat regarding the drivers' airbag on my 2003 E39 Champagne II. Obviously related to the well documented Takata manufacturing defect. I had a similar recall notice about 2 years ago on my E46 and had the recall done.

Two questions, if you can help answer?

1. How come it has taken so long for the E39 recall to come through? Did a previous owner ignore the notification and this is BMW just being diligent contacting new owners?
2. Do you know if the airbag will definitely be replaced? I've heard the issue only affects a small number of airbag modules - it seems like a lot of hassle if they're not going to replace the airbag. Has anybody been recalled but not had the airbag replaced?

[minimods]

Thanks guys.

It appears that they've expanded the scope of the recall to cover E39.

Once you get yours replaced please post back with your experience. I'll call up on Monday to get mine booked in!

[minimods]

Just a quick update, I had the airbag recall the Friday before last. The airbag was completely replaced and they gave the car a once over and clean. Really good service from BMW. I'm glad they still treat the older cars with respect and (hopefully) realise the drivers are enthusiasts and often drive these cars not because they can't afford something newer, but because they like the older generation cars.

While I was waiting I looked over some of the cars in the showroom. Does anybody else think that the interiors on the new models have gone downhill, some of the plastics were awful, no lovely leather and wood like the E39 OK, the tech was miles better but I obviously don't need any of that.