65 77 016 Removing and installing airbag control unit

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 BMW 540i, 2002 BMW 540i, 2001 BMW 540i, 2000 BMW 540i, and 1999 BMW 540i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Note airbag safety instructions!
Incorrect handling can activate airbag and cause injury.
Disconnect battery negative lead and cover.

Press ventilation grill (1) upwards slightly, lift out cup holder (2) to side and remove.

Fig 1: Removing Cup Holder

G03154893

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slide ventilation grill downwards and remove.

Fig 2: Sliding Ventilation Grill

G03154894

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version with bore hole (2):

Release screws (1) and (3); in version with eject box, release screws (1) only.

Raise complete center armrest.

Version without bore hole (2):

Remove center console.

Fig 3: Releasing Screws

G03154895

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nuts and raise airbag control unit.

Installation:

Before installing airbag control unit, make sure grounding cable is resting on stud bolt (1).

Tightening torque, see 65 77 1AZ in AUDIO, NAVIGATION AND ANTI-THEFT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 540i .

Fig 4: Locating Stud Bolt

G03154896

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unfasten plug connection and disconnect.

Lift out airbag control unit.

Fig 5: Removing Airbag Control Unit

G03154897

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.