72 12 060 Removing and installing or replacing left or right head airbag

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 135i, 2009 BMW 135i, and 2008 BMW 135i. 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 pretensioners.
Incorrect handling can activate airbag and cause injury.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect battery negative lead . See 61 20 900 DISCONNECTING AND CONNECTING BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD .
Follow instructions for unlocking and locking airbag plug connections.
Remove roof liner . See 51 44 011 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING ROOFLINER (WITH SLIDE/TILT SUNROOF) .

Head airbag installation summary:

Fig 1: Identifying Head Airbag Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) from folding pack holders.

Tightening torque, see 72 12 04AZ in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Release screw (2) on end fitting.

Tightening torque, see 72 12 05AZ in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Installation:

If screws (1) and (2) slip, coat them with Loctite.

Fig 2: Identifying Folding Pack Holder Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) from folding pack holder.

Tightening torque, see 72 12 04AZ in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Installation:

Coat screws (1) with Loctite if they slip.

Fig 3: Identifying Folding Pack Holder Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Release screws (2).

Tightening torque, see 72 12 03AZ in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Release screw (3) on folding pack holder.

Tightening torque, see 72 12 04AZ in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Release screws (4) and remove ramp on B-pillar for folding pack.

Tightening torque, see 72 12 06AZ in 72 12 AIRBAG MODULES .

Remove gas generator with head airbag.

Fig 4: Identifying Plug Connection And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

The head airbag must be noiseless when installed.