52 17 385 Replacing gas cartridge for active head restraint on left or right front seat

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 545i and 2004 BMW 545i. 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. Improper handling can lead to triggering of the pyrotechnical seat belt tensioner or side airbag, resulting in injuries.

Switch off ignition!

Necessary Preliminary Tasks:

Remove head restraint. Refer to 52 17 390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD RESTRAINT (COMFORT) .
Remove rear panel on front seat backrest. Refer to 52 17 205 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING BOTH REAR PANELS ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT BACKREST (COMFORT) .

Disconnect plug connection on gas cartridge.

Detach retaining points (1).

Slide active head restraint carrier downwards.

Fig 1: View Of Retaining Points

G03271313

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release springs (1) and (2).

Fig 2: Releasing Gas Cartridge Retaining Springs

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove gas cartridge complete with holder (2).

Fig 3: Removing Gas Cartridge With Holder

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on left and right.

Installation:

Insert screws (1) with Loctite.

Tightening torque, refer to 52 12 18AZ in SEATS - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 545I (4.4L) E60/N62 .

Slide top rail (3) off bottom rail (2).

Remove gas cartridge (4).

Fig 4: Sliding Top Rail Off Bottom Rail

G03271316

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Gas cartridge (1) is secured in holder by guide lug (2).

Fig 5: Identifying Gas Cartridge Secured In Holder By Guide Lug

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Procedure after triggered active head restraint:

Push head restraint back into original position.
Insert new gas cartridge.
NOTE: The gas cartridge may be replaced up to 5 times.