More than 230,000 BMW fitted with potentially dangerous Takata air bags are being recalled in the U.S., the carmaker said.

The recall covers some 2000-2003 3 series cars, some 2001-2002 5 series cars and certain 2001-2003 X5 SUVs.

BMW said defective Takata air bags may have been installed to replace ones affected by a crash or a past recall. The original air bags were made by another company. 

Takata air bags have been the subject of a massive recall involving 69 million vehicles from 19 different automakers.

There have been at least a dozen deaths and about 180 injuries reported in the U.S. to date.

When deployed, metal shards in the air bag's inflator may spray into the passenger cabin, causing injury or death.

BMW said it will begin contacting affected car owners on March 15 to replace the air bags for free.

Rajeev Dhir may be reached at rdhir@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @googasmammoo. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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