52 17 886 Replacing gas cartridge for crash-active headrest on left or right (from 09/2007)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5 M, 2012 BMW X5 M, 2011 BMW X5 M, and 2010 BMW X5 M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Read and comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical belt tensioners.
Incorrect handling may result in triggering of the crash-active headrest and thereby cause injury.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary tasks

Adjust head restraint towards top to maximum extent
Disconnect BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE

IMPORTANT: Renewal of pyrotechnics may be carried out up to 5 times.
Triggering frequency is denoted on the sticker on the head restraint carrier.
Labels are available as spare parts.

Starting situation:

Head restraint is in the crash position after activation.

NOTE: Firing unit can only be removed in the triggered state.
The complete crash-active head restraint must be replaced in the event of a head restraint fault message and an untriggered firer.

Fig 1: Moving Head Restraint

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Removing cover:

Raise cover (1) and pull rearwards.

Fig 2: Removing Headrest Cover

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Removing pyrotechnics:

Press together mounting (1) for pyrotechnics at tabs.

Feed out pyrotechnics.

Fig 3: Pressing Pyrotechnical Device Bracket Tabs

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Removing pyroactivator:

Pull pyroactivator (2) out of mount (1) for pyrotechnics.

Unlock PLUG CONNECTION (3) and disconnect.

IMPORTANT: Dispose of plastic element and pyroactivator.

Fig 4: Identifying Pyroactivator, Plug Connection And Mounting

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Procedure for installing pyrotechnics:

Bringing head restraint together (multifunction seat):

Pull apart spring catches and push together head restraint.

Maintain position.

Fig 5: Pushing Head Restraint

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Locking release plate:

Hold pushed-together head restraint in position and push release plate (1) upwards up to limit position.

Release plate (1) must audibly snap into place.

Fig 6: Pushing Release Plate

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Fig 7: Locating Release Plate End Positions

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Checking head restraint lock:

Check end position of release plate (1).

All four springs (2) must be engaged.

Replacing pyrotechnics:

Connect connector (1) to new pyroactivator (2) and LOCK .

Clip pyroactivator (2) into new mount (3).

Fig 8: Identifying Pyroactivator, Connector And Mounting

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Installing pyrotechnics:

Press together mounting for pyrotechnics at tabs.

Insert mounting for pyrotechnics into release plate and tilt in upward direction.

Mounting for pyrotechnics must audibly snap into place.

NOTE: Check seating of retaining lugs in mounting.

Fig 9: Installing Pyrotechnical Device

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Laying wiring harness:

Secure wiring harness in support section with strain relief.

Fig 10: Identifying Carrier Section Wiring Harness

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Mounting cover:

Clip cover onto support section.

Cover must audibly snap into place.

Fig 11: Removing Support Section Clip Cover

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