1997 BMW M3 Recalls & Safety Issues
Official recalls, technical service bulletins (TSBs), and safety issues from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
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All Recalls
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES ARE BUILT WITH A SIDE AIR BAG SYSTEM CONSISTING OF DOOR-MOUNTED THORAX AIR BAGS (REAR DOOR AIR BAGS ARE OPTIONAL), A CENTRAL ELECTRONIC SENSOR AND DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM, LEFT AND RIGHT SATELLITE IMPACT SENSORS, AND ASSOCIATED WIRING. THIS SYSTEM IS UNDULY SENSITIVE TO CERTAIN NON-CRASH IMPACTS, SUCH AS CONTACTING LARGE POTHOLES OR CURBS AT SUBSTANTIAL SPEED.
NHTSA 99V063001THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE CABLES ARE ATTACHED TO THE SAME THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATING LEVER AT THE THROTTLE HOUSING. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHING ON EITHER CABLE COULD BREAK DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES COUPLED WITH VIBRATION. IF THE BUSHING BREAKS, THE OUTER CABLE HOUSING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE BUSHING. IN THIS CASE, DURING APPLICATION OF THE THROTTLE PEDAL WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL BEING ENGAGED, THE OUTER TUBE COULD CATCH ON THE EDGE OF THE BROKEN BUSHING.
NHTSA 97V131000Where to Find VIN for Recall Check
To check for recalls on your 1997 BMW M3, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.
Understanding VIN Structure for Recall Verification
Each character in your 1997 BMW M3 17-digit VIN helps identify specific recalls affecting your vehicle. Learn how the VIN structure works for accurate recall lookup.
How to Check 1997 BMW M3 Recalls in 3 Steps
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 1997 BMW M3 dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.
Enter VIN in Checker
Input your VIN into our free recall checker tool above to search NHTSA database for safety recalls, TSBs, and service campaigns specific to your vehicle.
Review & Schedule Repair
Check the recall details including affected components, consequences, and remedy. Contact your BMW dealer to schedule free recall repair appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many recalls does the 1997 BMW M3 have?
The 1997 BMW M3 currently has 2 recalls according to NHTSA records. All recall information is sourced directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration database.
Are 1997 BMW M3 recalls free to fix?
Yes! All safety recalls for 1997 BMW M3 vehicles must be repaired free of charge by authorized dealers, regardless of vehicle age or mileage. Contact your local BMW dealer to schedule a recall repair.
How do I check if my 1997 BMW M3 has open recalls?
You can check for open recalls by entering your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in our VIN decoder tool. The 17-character VIN can be found on your vehicle registration, insurance card, or on the driver's side dashboard visible through the windshield.
Where can I find my 1997 BMW M3 VIN number?
Your 1997 BMW M3 VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.
What should I do if my 1997 BMW M3 has a recall?
Contact your nearest BMW dealership immediately to schedule a free recall repair. Bring your vehicle registration or VIN number. All safety recalls must be fixed free of charge by the manufacturer, regardless of vehicle age or mileage.
Are NHTSA recalls mandatory to fix on 1997 BMW M3?
While not legally required for vehicle owners to fix recalls, it's strongly recommended for safety. However, dealerships and manufacturers must offer free repairs for all official NHTSA recalls on 1997 BMW M3 vehicles.