Necessary preliminary work

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

Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD
Remove REAR PANEL

Starting situation:

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

A triggered head restraint can be recognized by the padded section which has moved upwards.

Fig 1: Removing Head Restraint

G00524410

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unclip PLUG CONNECTIONS (1) for crash-active headrest from holder.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Fig 2: Removing Plug Connection

G06204261

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lever out protective cap (1).

Fig 3: Identifying Protective Cap

G06204262

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Detach omega clip (1).

Fig 4: Removing Omega Clip

G06204263

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press latch mechanism (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

Fig 5: Pressing Latch Mechanism

G05779475

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.