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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 745i, 2004 BMW 745i, 2003 BMW 745i, and 2002 BMW 745i. 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, refer to 52 17 390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD RESTRAINT (COMFORT)
Remove rear panel on front seat backrest, refer to 52 17 205 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING BOTH REAR PANELS ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT BACKREST (COMFORT)

Disconnect plug connection on gas cartridge.

Detach retaining points (1).

Fig 1: Locating Retaining Points

G03290556

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slide active head restraint carrier downwards.

Release springs (1) and (2).

Fig 2: Releasing Springs

G03290557

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove gas cartridge complete with holder (2).

Fig 3: Removing Gas Cartridge

G03290558

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on left and right.

Fig 4: Removing Gas Cartridge From Holder

G03290559

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Insert screws (1) with Loctite.

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

Remove gas cartridge (4).

Installation:

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

Fig 5: Installing Gas Cartridge

G03290560

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.