52 14 385 Replacing gas cartridge (firing unit) for crash-active headrest on front seat

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW M3, 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: Read and comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical belt tensioners.
Incorrect handling may result in activation of the crash-active head restraint and thereby cause injury.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD

IMPORTANT: The firing unit may be replaced up to 4 times.
Triggering frequency is denoted on the label on the head restraint carrier.

Labels are available as spare parts.

Starting situation:

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

NOTE: Firing unit can only be removed in the triggered state.
The complete crash-active head restraint must be replaced if the event of a head restraint fault signal and an untriggered firer.

Lever out cover welt in marked area.

Remove cover with padding from head restraint.

Fig 1: Identifying Cover Belt Removing Areas

G06202956

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unclip service flap.

Move firing unit (1) forwards and remove towards front.

Fig 2: Moving Firing Unit

G06202957

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Replace firing unit.

Installation note:

Plug connection (1) must audibly snap into place.

Check firm engagement of plug connection (1) by gently pulling on connector.

Lay cable in side guide.

Fig 3: Identifying Plug Connection

G06202958

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press locking spring (1) on left and right through opening and secure with cylindrical pins (or similar).

Head restraint is unlocked.

Fig 4: Pressing Locking Spring

G06202959

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: This work requires a great exertion of effort!

Pull head restraint (1) at an angle downwards until it is completely in lowest position and rests on linkage.

Hold head restraint (1) in this position for the following tasks.

Fig 5: Pulling Head Restraint

G06202960

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Clip firing unit (1) onto linkage (2).

Installation note:

Check that firing unit (1) is firmly seated on linkage.

Press firing unit (1) forwards and clip into place.

IMPORTANT: Firing unit (1) must audibly snap into place.

Fig 6: Installing Firing Unit

G06202961

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Visually check that firing unit is correctly seated.

Attach label for identification after replacement.

Clip service flap into place.

Fig 7: Identifying Firing Unit Checking Area

G06202962

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.