72 12 000 Removing and installing/replacing airbag module on passenger side

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 BMW 330xi, 2006 BMW 330i, 2006 BMW 325xi, 2006 BMW 325i, and 2006 BMW 323i. 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 tensioners.
Incorrect handling can activate airbag and cause injury.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect battery negative lead
Remove glovebox

Car and airbag module up to 03/2006:

Unlock plug connection (1) and disconnect.

NOTE: Secure airbag module on passenger side (3) against falling out.

Unscrew nuts (2).

Tightening torque 72 12 01AZ. See RESTRAINT SYSTEM - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Remove airbag module on passenger side (3) towards bottom.

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connection, Airbag Module On Passenger Side And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Car + airbag module from 03/2006:

Unlock plug connections (1) and disconnect.

NOTE: Secure airbag module against falling out.

Unscrew nuts (2).

Tightening torque 72 12 01AZ. See RESTRAINT SYSTEM - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Remove airbag module in downwards direction.

Fig 2: Identifying Plug Connection And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement in car up to 03/2006 only, with airbag module from 03/2006:

NOTE: Before installing the airbag module on the passenger side (2), it is necessary to fit the accompanying firing cable (4) and secure it with the accompanying foam sticker pads (5).

Fig 3: Identifying Plug Connection, Sticker Pad And Cable Plug

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Insert plug connections (1) and (3) (pay attention to colour coding).

Attach accompanying foam sticker pads (5) as follows:

One foam sticker pad (5) each to both outer edges (A) and (B) of airbag module on passenger side (2)
One foam sticker pad (5) in the middle so as to leave a free length L = 190 ± 10 mm up to cable entry into the firing cable plug (4)

Clip firing cable plug (4) into installation position in car.

NOTE: Subsequent installation is the same as for the car and airbag module from 03/2006 version.