52 17 886 Replacing gas cartridge for crash-active headrest on left or right (from 09/2007 to 06/2010)

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.
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

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 crash-active head restraint must be replaced in the event of a head restraint fault message and an untriggered firer.

Fig 1: Removing Crash-Active Head Restraint

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Removing cover:

Raise cover (1) and pull rearwards.

Fig 2: Removing Head Restraint Cover

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Removing pyrotechnics:

Press together mounting (1) for pyrotechnics at tabs.

Feed out pyrotechnics.

Fig 3: Pressing Head Restraint Pyrotechnics

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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 4: Identifying Pyroactivator, Plug Connection And Mount

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Procedure for installing pyrotechnics:

Bringing head restraint together (multifunction seat):

Pull apart spring catches and push together head restraint.

Maintain position.

Fig 5: Pulling Head Restraint Spring Catches

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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 6: Pushing Head Restraint Release Plate

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Fig 7: Locating Head Restraint Lock

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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 8: Identifying Pyroactivator, Connector And Mount

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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 9: Installing Pyrotechnical Device

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Laying wiring harness:

Secure wiring harness in support section with strain relief.

Fig 10: Identifying Head Restraint Wiring Harness

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Mounting cover:

Clip cover onto support section.

Cover must audibly snap into place.

Fig 11: Clipping Cover Onto Carrier Section

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