72 12... Deactivating front passenger airbags with key switch

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 BMW Z4, 2015 BMW Z4, and 2014 BMW Z4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: The responsibility for deactivation/activation rests with the customer.
Depending on the assignment of the front passenger seat, the front passenger and side airbags must be de-activated in accordance with the Owner's Handbook.

The front passenger airbag can only be deactivated in accordance with the following instructions if the vehicle is equipped with a suitable key switch!

The key switch can be retrofitted if it is missing and has been ordered as an optional equipment.

Key switch:

Optional equipment 470

The airbags can only be deactivated/reactivated while the vehicle is stationary and with the door open.

IMPORTANT: The head airbag remains active.

Fig 1: Identifying Key Switch

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Deactivation:

Turn key switch with ignition key to "OFF" position.
Deactivatable airbags on front passenger side out of operation.

Head airbag on front passenger side remains active.

All airbags on driver's side remain active.

Activation:
Turn key switch with ignition key to "ON" position.
All the airbags in the vehicle are activated and are triggered in appropriate situations.

Fig 2: Turning Key Switch To ON And OFF Position

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Indicator light:

When the ignition key is turned in the ignition lock, the function of the airbag system is checked and the indicator light in the center console lights up for several seconds.

The indicator light is permanently ON when the front passenger airbags are deactivated
The indicator light goes out after a few seconds when the front passenger airbags are activated

Fig 3: Identifying Indicator Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.