BMW E39, Model years 2002-2003

The gas generator of the driver's airbag can malfunction if it was subjected to high levels of absolute air humidity over a period of several years and or there were quality issues during the production of the gas generator. An internal pressure in the gas generator which is too high can result during normal driver's airbag activation. In the worst-case scenario, the gas generator may explode and metal parts may be propelled out of the airbag. BMW is, as yet, not aware of any faulty driver's airbag activation due to moisture.