52 17 385 Replace gas cartridge for active head restraint on left or right front seat (up to 09/2007)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5, 2012 BMW X5, and 2011 BMW X5. 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 pretensioners.
Improper handling can lead to triggering of the pyrotechnical seat belt tensioner or side airbag, resulting in injuries.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD
Remove HEAD RESTRAINT
Remove REAR PANEL on front seat backrest

Disconnect plug connection on gas cartridge.

Release attachment points (1).

Slide active head restraint carrier towards bottom.

Fig 1: Identifying Seat Attachment Points

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Release spring clamps (1) and (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Seat Spring Clamps

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Release screws (1).

Remove complete gas cartridge with holder (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Gas Cartridge Holder Screws

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Release screws (1) on left and right.

Installation note:

Insert screws (1) with Loctite.

Tightening torque 52 10 3AZ .

Move top rail (3) from bottom rail (2).

Remove gas cartridge (4).

Fig 4: Identifying Top Rail, Bottom Rail & Gas Cartridge

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Installation note:

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

Fig 5: Identifying Gas Cartridge And Guide Lug

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Procedure after activated active head restraint:

Slide back head restraint into original position.
Insert new gas cartridge with spring clamps.

NOTE: The gas cartridge may be replaced up to 5 times.

After this the backrest must be replaced.

Number of activations is stored in control unit.