Notes on scrapping vehicles with gas generators (airbag system) (M5 2018-2022)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2023 BMW M5, 2022 BMW M5, 2021 BMW M5, 2020 BMW M5, and 2019 BMW M5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The gas generator is a pyrotechnic component and is for the most part permanently mounted on the following components:

Airbag module
- Driver's/front passenger airbag
- Side airbag
- Head airbag
- Knee airbag
Electromotive electrically motorized reel
Belt end lining tensioner
Seat belt tensioner
Safety battery terminal
Active head restraint

In accordance with accident prevention provision and specific national regulations, gas generators must be rendered unusable before they are scrapped. This is necessary because pyrotechnical objects can cause injury if improperly activated (e.g. scrapping with flame cutters).

In vehicles intended for scrapping it is paramount prior to draining and further stripping work to ensure that all gas generators in the vehicle have been activated. The fired gas generators can then be scrapped together with the vehicle.

Gas generators that have not fired constitute a hazard (also to the environment)!

Ignition failure:

If correct ignition is not possible, the relevant components must be removed and disposed of by special waste disposal companies!

Comply with safety regulations for handling airbag system components.

If an ignition has failed:

Disconnect the igniter from the vehicle battery and
Wait a few minutes before approaching the vehicle

The components of an airbag system must always be disposed of. Such components must not be sold on as used parts.

ignition:

Ignition of the gas generators may only be carried out by expert personnel and under the supervision of a responsible person. Other standard accident prevention provisions (safety goggles, hearing protection etc.) must also be observed.

The gas generators must be fired from the outside in this vehicle which has been earmarked for scrapping. In this process

the doors must be closed
the trunk lid must be open
the side windows must be open and
Sliding/tilting sunroof open

Use igniters with the appropriate cables to activate the gas generators.

WARNING: Once gas generators have been fired, observe a ventilation period of 10 minutes with the doors opened.
Only then is it permitted to continue work inside the vehicle.

Wear protective goggles and hand protection when handling a ignited gas generator!

The combustion of solid propellant will heat up the airbag unit - danger of combustion!

Wash skin with water after contact with fired gas generators!