One problem related to side/window air bag has been reported for the 2004 BMW 5 Series. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The contact owns a 2004 BMW 5 Series. The contact noticed a burning smell and felt something burning her leg. She sustained burns to her thigh and buttocks area due to the seat warmer. The manufacturer was unable to assist. The contact was able to locate NHTSA campaign id number 08v384000 (air bags:frontal) for the same year, make, and model vehicle. She also stated that the passenger side air bag was inoperable. The manufacturer advised her to expect a recall on the air bag; however, without a recall, they could not assist. The manufacturer stated that there were no open recalls based on her VIN, but NHTSA campaign id number 04v575000 (seats:front assembly:seat heater/cooler) was referenced. The failure and current mileages were less than 54,000.