Replace The A-Pillar On The Outside Left In The Area Of The Windscreen (M4 Coupe)

Read contents of BODY, GENERAL .

For stripping and rigging operations, refer to texts on KSD CD (job number 41 32 031).

Remove or cover those vehicle components in the repair area which are susceptible to heat or dust.

Use only approved SPOT-WELDING APPARATUS for repairs.

IMPORTANT: Operations on pyrotechnical devices may only be carried out by authorized experts.

Improper, unauthorized operations may result in serious dangers.

Unauthorized persons are strictly prohibited from performing any operations on this system.

WARNING: Read and comply with safety instructions for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical belt tensioners.

Incorrect handling can activate airbag and cause injury.

A damaged head airbag must be replaced.

A damaged head airbag exhibits an impaired protective function and in extreme cases loses its protective function altogether.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect negative battery cable.

Remove TRIM PANEL FOR ROOF PILLAR .

Following new body parts are required (see applicable BMW Parts Catalog):

(1) A-pillar, outer

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Removing the A-pillar in the area of the windscreen

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Version 1:

Unclip wiring harness in areas (1).

Release rivet connection (2).

Loosen airbag at attachment point (3).

IMPORTANT: For the exact procedure, see repair INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOVING AND INSTALLING HEAD AIRBAG .

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!

Airbag must not be kinked or bent!

Version 2:

Unclip wiring harness in areas (1).

Loosen airbag at attachment point (2).

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IMPORTANT: For the exact procedure, see repair INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOVING AND INSTALLING HEAD AIRBAG .

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!

Airbag must not be kinked or bent!

NOTE: Use protective sleeve (1) to protect the airbag.

Check protective sleeve for damage prior to use.

A damaged protective sleeve must not be used!

(2) Velcro fastener
(3) Loop

Order number, protective sleeve: 81 47 2 159 578

Sourcing reference:

BMW Workshop Equipment Catalogue

Push the protective sleeve (1) onto the airbag up to just below the roofliner so that the airbag is completely covered.

Fasten protective sleeve with Velcro fastener (2).

Secure protective sleeve with airbag against kinking.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mark severance cuts in accordance with specified dimensions and cut.

IMPORTANT: Cut outer panel only for following severance cuts.

Dimensions a = approx. 150 mm from roof edge.

Dimension b = approx. 350 mm below severance cut a.

Open welded connections in areas (1).

Release and remove partial section of A-pillar from cavity sealing (2).

New part preparation

Mark severance cuts on new parts in accordance with vehicle and cut.

Prepare REINFORCEMENT PLATES at severance cuts.

Installing the A-pillar in the area of the windscreen

Apply sealing compound to CAVITY ACOUSTIC BAFFLE .

Install and weld new parts and reinforcement plates.

After completing welding work:

Check airbag in area of protective sleeve for damage, Replace if necessary; See REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD AIRBAG .