41 32 031 Replace The A-Pillar On The Outside Left In The Area Of The Windscreen (Non-Hybrid)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 50 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, and 2016 BMW 535i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Read contents of BODY, GENERAL .

Remove or cover those vehicle components in the repair area which are susceptible to heat or dust.

Use only approved SPOT-WELDING APPARATUS for repairs.

IMPORTANT: Operations on pyrotechnically devices may only be carried out by authorized experts.
Improper, unauthorized operations may result in serious dangers.
Unauthorized persons are strictly prohibited from performing any operations on this system .

WARNING: Read and comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnically belt tensioners.

Incorrect handling can activate airbag and cause injury.

A damaged head airbag must be replaced.

A damaged head airbag exhibits an impaired protective function and in extreme cases loses its protective function altogether.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD

Remove PANEL FOR ROOF PILLAR

Following new body parts are required (refer to ELECTRONIC PARTS CATALOGUE ):

(1) A-pillar, outer

Fig 1: Identifying A-Pillar, Outer
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removing the A-pillar in the area of the windscreen

Unclip wiring harness in area (1).

Release screws (2) for airbag.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Airbag (3) must not be kinked or bent!

Installation note:

Tightening torque 72 12 2AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Airbag Screws, Wiring Harness Area

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Use protective sleeve (1) to protect the airbag.
Check protective sleeve for damage prior to use.
A damaged protective sleeve must not be used!

(2) Velcro fastener

(3) Loop

Fig 3: Identifying Protective Sleeve, Velcro Fastener, Loop

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Order number, protective sleeve: 81 47 2 159 578
Sourcing reference:

Slide protective sleeve (1) onto airbag under roofliner so that airbag is completely covered.

Fasten protective sleeve with Velcro fastener (2).

Secure protective sleeve with airbag against kinking.

Fig 4: Identifying Protective Sleeve With Velcro Fastener

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 5: Identifying Reinforcement Plate Severance Cutting Dimension

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mark severance cuts in accordance with specified dimensions and cut.

IMPORTANT: Cut outer panel only for following severance cuts.
Dimensions a = approx. 150 mm from roof edge.
Dimension b = approx. 380 mm below severance cut a.
Open welded connections in areas (1).
Release and remove partial section of A-pillar from cavity sealing (2).

New part preparation

Mark severance cuts on new parts in accordance with vehicle and cut.

Prepare REINFORCEMENT PLATES at severance cuts.

Installing the A-pillar in the area of the windscreen

Apply window glass adhesive to CAVITY SEALING .

Install and weld new parts and reinforcement plates.

After completing welding work:

Check airbag in area of protective sleeve for damage, replace . See 72 12 060 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD AIRBAG or 72 12 061 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD AIRBAG (VERSION WITH SLIDE/TILT SUNROOF) if necessary.