BMW is recalling 280,000 of its new 3-series range after problems were discovered with both the airbags and the braking system. Every 3-series produced between its launch last September and April 17 is being recalled at an estimated cost to the German manufacturer of £5million. Fleets should take cars to dealers where the airbag software will be modified and the brakes checked free.

The problem arose when BMW was made aware of cases where the side airbags had gone off after a heavy collision with a kerb or vibration from a 'deep' pothole. Only two such cases have been recorded in the UK out of the 16,636 BMWs being recalled in this market. A spokesman said: 'The sensitivity of the side airbags will have to be adjusted to prevent any repeat incidents.' The problem with the brakes was found on a test car, where a safety clip around the connection linking the brake pedal and brake booster could be loosened, depending on the extent and type of braking.