Necessary preliminary work

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 328xi. 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

G06204260

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Fig 2: Disconnecting 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 For Removing Head Restraint

G05779475

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.