52 17 385 Replacing gas cartridge for active head restraint on left or right front seat (comfort)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 530i, 2005 BMW 525i, 2004 BMW 530i, and 2004 BMW 525i. 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.
Improper handling can lead to triggering of the pyrotechnical seat belt tensioner or side airbag, resulting in injuries.

Switch off ignition!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove head restraint. See 52 14 390 Removing And Installing Or Replacing Front Left Or Right Head Restraints (Normal/Electric) .
Remove rear panel on front seat backrest. See 52 14 198 Removing And Installing/Replacing Rear Panel On Left Or Right Front Seat Backrest (Normal/Electric) .

Disconnect plug connection on gas cartridge.

Detach retaining points (1).

Slide active head restraint carrier downwards.

Fig 1: Detaching Retaining Points

G03261959

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release springs (1) and (2).

Fig 2: Releasing Springs

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove gas cartridge complete with holder (2).

Fig 3: Removing Gas Cartridge Complete With Holder

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on left and right.

Installation:

Insert screws (1) with Loctite.

Slide top rail (3) off bottom rail (2).

Remove gas cartridge (4).

Fig 4: Removing Gas Cartridge

G03261962

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Gas cartridge (1) is secured in holder by guide lug (2).

Fig 5: Identifying Gas Cartridge And Guide Lug

G03261963

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Procedure after triggered active head restraint:

Push head restraint back into original position.
Insert new gas cartridge.

NOTE: The gas cartridge may be replaced up to 5 times.