72 12 ... Deactivating front passenger airbags with key-operated switch

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW M3, 2009 BMW M3, and 2008 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: The responsibility for deactivation/activation rests with the customer.
Depending on the occupation of the front passenger seat, the front passenger and side airbags must be (de-) activated in accordance with the Owner's Handbook.

The passenger airbag can only be deactivated in accordance with the following instructions if the vehicle is equipped with a suitable key-operated switch!

The key-operated switch can be retrofitted if it is missing and has been ordered as an optional extra.

Key-operated switch:

Optional extra SA 5DA for MINI
Optional extra SA 470 for BMW

The airbags can only be deactivated/reactivated while the vehicle is stationary and with the door open.

IMPORTANT: The head airbag remains active.

Fig 1: Identifying Key-Operated Switch

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Deactivation

Turn key-operated switch with ignition key to "OFF" position.
Deactivatable airbags on passenger side out of operation.

Head airbag on passenger side remains active.

All airbags on driver side remain active.

Activation

2 Turn key-operated switch with ignition key to "ON" position.
All the airbags in the vehicle are activated and are triggered in appropriate situations.

Fig 2: Turning Key-Operated Switch With Ignition Key

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Warning lamp

When the ignition key is turned in the ignition lock, the function of the airbag system is checked and the warning lamp in the center console lights up for several seconds.

The warning lamp is permanently lit when the passenger airbags are deactivated
The warning lamp goes out after a few seconds when the passenger airbags are activated

Fig 3: Identifying Warning Lamp (Activated And Deactivated) Position

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.