52 14 392 Removing and installing/replacing front left or right crash-active headrest

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling components with gas generators.
Incorrect handling may result in triggering of the crash-active headrest and thereby cause injury.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary tasks

Disconnect BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE
Remove rear panel See 52 14 198 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING REAR PANEL ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT BACKREST or 52 17 200 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING UPPER REAR PANEL ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT BACKREST

NOTE: Removal with manual and electrical height adjustment is described below.

Starting situation:

Head restraint is in the crash position after activation.

A triggered head restraint can be recognized by the padded section which has moved upwards.

Fig 1: Removing Head Restraint

G08486395

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

In versions with manual restraint height adjustment:

Unclip plug connection (1) for crash-active head restraint from holder.

Unlock PLUG CONNECTION (1) and disconnect.

Fig 2: Removing Plug Connection

G06204261

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unclip cover cap (1).

Fig 3: Identifying Cover Cap

G08486397

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press the left and right release buttons and remove the head restraint upward.

Fig 4: Locating Head Restraint Left And Right Release Buttons

G08486398

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

In versions with electrical head restraint height adjustment:

Unlock plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Feed out wiring harness from head restraint height adjustment and foam material.

Fig 5: Locating Head Restraint Wiring Harness

G05478162

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lever out retaining clips (1)

Fig 6: Identifying Retaining Clips

G05478161

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

On vehicles from version 04/2010:

Loosen the retaining screw (1) from the head restraint (2).

Tightening torque 52 10 12AZ .

Fig 7: Identifying Head Restraint And Retaining Screw

G08486401

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lift out head restraint.

IMPORTANT: During head restraint removal the guide sleeves are involuntary disengaged.
The bent linkage of the head restraint causes the guide sleeves also to be pulled out in some cases.
Prior to installation of the head restraint, make sure you check the guide sleeves for whether all retaining lugs are correctly locked.

Fig 8: Lifting Out Head Restraint

G04742774

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.