72 12 045 Removing and installing/replacing left or right AHPS2 head airbag (version without slide/tilt sunroof)

WARNING: Read and comply with safety regulations for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnic belt tensioners, see 72 Safety precautions and general information
Incorrect handling can activate airbag and cause injury.
The AHPS head airbag must be replaced if it is damaged during removal or installation.
A damaged AHPS head airbag exhibits an impaired protective function and in extreme cases loses its protective function altogether.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove headliner (version without slide/tilt sunroof), see 51 44 002 REMOVING AND INSTALLING ROOFLINER (ON VERSION WITHOUT PANORAMA SUNROOF)
Remove instrument panel trim, see 51 45 030 REMOVING AND INSTALLING INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM .

Installation:

Microencapsulated screws (Loctite) must be replaced and may not be reused
Screw connection must be completed within 20 mins. (start of curing)
Microencapsulated screws must not be retightened
Thread of nut must be cleaned beforehand in event of repeated use

Installation summary, retaining elements, AHPS head airbag:

Fig 1: Retaining Screw, A - And D-Pillars And Gas Generator

G04786603

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: When removing AHPS head airbag, do not damage

AHPS head airbag
Windscreen
Retaining clips
Trim panels

Release retaining screw (1) on A-pillar.

Tightening torque: 72 12 4AZ, see 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

NOTE: Screw is held in end fitting by locking washer.

Fig 2: Retaining Screw On A-Pillar

G04786604

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release rear retaining screw (1).

Tightening torque: 72 12 4AZ, see 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

NOTE: Screw is held in end fitting by locking washer.

Fig 3: Rear Retaining Screw

G04786605

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on retaining clips (2).

Tightening torque: 72 12 3AZ, see 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Fig 4: Screws On Retaining Clips

G04786606

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock and disconnect plug (1) for AHPS head airbag gas generator (2), see 72 12 ... Unlocking/locking airbag plug connections .

Fig 5: Disconnecting Plug And AHPS Head Airbag Gas Generator

G04786607

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on gas generator (2).

Tightening torque: 72 12 2AZ, see 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Remove complete AHPS head airbag with gas generator.

Fig 6: Screws On Gas Generator

G04786608

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Procedure for cable repairs:

In event of visible damage to wiring harness, refer to 61 00 ... Repairing airbag cables .