BMW of North America informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the automaker is recalling 76,565 vehicles to correct a seat issue that might make the airbag malfunction.

Included in the campaign are:

—2006: 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans and 325xi sports wagons

—2007: 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi sedans and 328i and 328xi sports wagons

—2006-2007: 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i sedans and 530xi sports wagons

—2006: 760i sedans

—2006-2007: 750i, 750Li and 760Li sedans

—2006: X5 SUVs

“The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if and how the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks, which could lead to a system failure,” NHTSA officials said.

“Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury,” they continued.

BMW told the agency that the company will notify owners with an interim notification letter in January since parts are not currently available.

When parts are available, anticipated to be in March, BMW will send a second letter and franchised dealers will repair the occupant detection mat to eliminate the possibility that it may crack, free of charge.

Additionally, owners of model year 2006-2007 3 Series with standard seats, 5 Series with comfort seats and Z4 models, will receive an extended warranty on their front passenger seat occupant detection mat.

Owners can contact BMW customer relations at (800) 525-7417 or send an email to BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

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