NHTSA Recall 12V176000: Head restraint (seats)
BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 7,600 vehicles. It affects 2012 BMW 3 Series.
| NHTSA campaign | 12V176000 |
|---|---|
| Component | SEATS › FRONT ASSEMBLY › HEAD RESTRAINT |
| Report received | April 20, 2012 |
| Owner notification | May 30, 2012 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
BMW is recalling certain model year 2012 BMW 3-series vehicles manufactured from october 19, 2011, through march 18, 2012, that have front seat head restraints that exceed the downward movement limit of 25mm in the highest position. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 202a,"head restraints."
Safety risk
In the event of a vehicle crash, the head restraint may unexpectedly move down slightly if it was adjusted to the fully extended position, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will attach a clamp to the front seat head restraint posts, free of charge. The safety recall began on may 30, 2012. Owners may contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.
Notes
Customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
Vehicles covered by recall 12V176000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| BMW 3 Series | 2012 |
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.