72 12... Notes on scrapping vehicles with gas generators (airbag system)

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.

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

Airbag module
- Driver's/passenger airbag
- Side airbag
- Head airbag
- Knee airbag
Automatic electric reel
Belt end fitting tensioner
Belt buckle tensioner
Safety battery terminal
Active head restraint

In accordance with accident prevention regulations 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).

With vehicles which are scheduled for scrapping, it is always essential prior to draining and further stripping work to ensure that all the gas generators in the vehicle are fired. 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)!

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