52 17 392 Removing and installing/replacing front left or right crash-active headrest

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 50 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, and 2016 BMW 535i xDrive. 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 . See 61 20 900 DISCONNECTING AND CONNECTING BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD or 61 20 900 DISCONNECTING AND CONNECTING BATTERY EARTH LEAD
Remove rear panel . See 52 14 198 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING REAR PANEL ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT BACKREST , 52 16 198 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR PANEL ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT BACKREST (SPORT, ELECTRICAL) or 52 17 202 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LOWER REAR PANEL ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT BACKREST (COMFORT)

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: Identifying Activated Head Restraint

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock PLUG CONNECTION (1) and disconnect.

For easier access to the retaining clips (next operation):

Move head restraints downwards or
detach backrest cover (2) in the upper area.

Fig 2: Detaching Backrest Cover In Upper Area
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lever out retaining clips (1)

Installation note:

Make sure the retaining clips are correctly seated.

Fig 3: Locating Retaining Clips

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lift out head restraint.

Fig 4: Lifting Head Restraint

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.