52 17 886 Replacing gas cartridge for crash-active headrest on left or right

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: Read and comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical belt tensioners.

Incorrect handling may result in triggering of the crash-active headrest and thereby cause injury.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary tasks

Adjust head restraint towards top to maximum extent
Disconnect BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE .
M5 only:
Remove CRASH-ACTIVE HEADREST .

IMPORTANT: Renewal of pyrotechnics may be carried out up to 5 times.

Triggering frequency is denoted on the sticker on the head restraint carrier.

Labels are available as spare parts.

Starting situation:

Head restraint is in the crash position after activation.

NOTE: Firing unit can only be removed in the triggered state.

The complete head restraint must be replaced in the event of a crash-active headrest fault message and non-activated igniter.

Fig 1: Removing Head Restraint Firing Unit

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removing cover:

Insert flat plastic wedge in marked area.

Unlock cover towards bottom and simultaneously press towards rear.

Repeat procedure on other side.

Fig 2: Removing Head Restraint Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press cover towards top to unlock latch mechanism in marked area.

Simultaneously pull cover towards rear.

Fig 3: Unlocking Latch Mechanism

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Put down cover towards rear.

Fig 4: Putting Down Headrest Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removing pyrotechnics:

Press together mounting (1) for pyrotechnics at tabs.

Feed out pyrotechnics.

Fig 5: Pressing Bracket Tabs For Pyrotechnical Device

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removing pyroactivator:

Pull pyroactivator (2) out of mount (1) for pyrotechnics.

Unlock PLUG CONNECTION (3) and disconnect.

IMPORTANT: Dispose of plastic element and pyroactivator.

Fig 6: Identifying Mounting, Pyroactivator And Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Procedure for installing pyrotechnics:

Bringing head restraint together (multifunction seat):

Pull apart spring catches and push together head restraint.

Maintain position.

Fig 7: Pushing Head Restraint

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Locking release plate:

Hold pushed-together head restraint in position and push release plate (1) upwards up to limit position.

Release plate (1) must audibly snap into place.

Fig 8: Pushing Release Plate

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 9: Locating Head Restraint Lock Release Plate And Spring

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Checking head restraint lock:

Check end position of release plate (1).

All four springs (2) must be engaged.

Replacing pyrotechnics:

Connect connector (1) to new pyroactivator (2) and LOCK .

Clip pyroactivator (2) into new mount (3).

Fig 10: Identifying Connector, Clip Pyroactivator And Mounting

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installing pyrotechnics:

Press together mounting for pyrotechnics at tabs.

Insert mounting for pyrotechnics into release plate and tilt in upward direction.

Mounting for pyrotechnics must audibly snap into place.

NOTE: Check seating of retaining lugs in mounting.

Fig 11: Installing Pyrotechnical Device

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Laying wiring harness:

Secure wiring harness in support section with strain relief.

Fig 12: Securing Wiring Harness In Carrier Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mounting cover:

Clip cover onto support section.

Cover must audibly snap into place.

Fig 13: Installing Clip Cover Onto Carrier Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.