72 12 045 Removing and installing/replacing left or right AHPS2 head airbag

WARNING: Read and comply with safety regulations for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical belt tensioners.
Incorrect handling can activate head airbag and cause injury.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect negative lead from battery.
Follow instructions for disconnecting and connecting battery.
Remove roofliner

Fig 1: Holders, Roofliner Screws And Felt Strip
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws of holders (2).

Installation:

For tightening torque refer to 72 12 03AZ in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Pull holder (2) out of body.

NOTE: Retainers on holder may break off. These retainers serve as an installation aid during series production and are not important for repairs.

Release screws (3).

Installation:

For tightening torque refer to 72 12 04AZ . in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Remove AHPS2 (1).

Pull felt strip (1) off gas generator.

Installation:

Replace felt strip (1) in event of damage or poor adhesion.

Unlock plug (2) on gas generator of AHPS2 head airbag and detach.

Fig 2: AHPS2 Plug Gas Generator And Felt Strip

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NOTE: To release nut (1), use joint socket 10 A/F, drive 1/4".

Nuts can easily drop down after they have been released. If necessary, place some butyl in socket.

Insert joint socket from below between gas generator and instrument panel trim and fit on nut (1).

Fig 3: Panel Trim Nut

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Release nuts (1 and 2).

Pull gas generator (3) out of mounting.

Fig 4: Gas Generator And Nuts

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Installation:

Replace self-locking nuts.

Initially tighten nut (1) at threaded pin and turn back two turns.

Insert gas generator in mounting (2).

Fig 5: Gas Generator Mounting And Nut

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Installation:

Install gas generator (2) with slotted section of holder below nut (1) on threaded pin.

Turn gas generator (2) in direction of rotation until holder with opening (3) slides over threaded pin.

Screw in second nut partially.

Set tightening torque of 8 Nm on torque wrench.

Tighten down both nuts.

Nut (1) is tightened to lower torque due to joint socket. This torque is nevertheless sufficient for mounting the gas generator securely.

If necessary, prime scratches made on body.

Fig 6: Gas Generator, Nut, Opening And Installation Direction

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NOTE: View of retaining screw with anchor fitting of AHPS2 head airbag:

Anchor fitting, AHPS2 head airbag
Lock washer
Retaining screw

Fig 7: Lock Washer, Retaining Screw, Anchor Fitting And AHPS2 Head Airbag
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.