41 32 031 Replace the A-pillar on the outside left in the area of the windscreen

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2015 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2014 MINI Cooper Paceman, and 2013 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Follow procedure for REPAIR STAGE 3 .

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 pyrotechnical 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 INSTRUCTIONS for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical 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:

Clamp off BATTERY EARTH LEAD .

Remove TRIM PANEL FOR ROOF PILLAR .

(1) Side frame, outer

Fig 1: Identifying Outer Side Frame

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Removing the A-pillar in the area of the windscreen

Release wiring harness (1) from A-pillar.

Release screw (2) for airbag.

Tightening torque 72 12 8AZ .

Release airbag at attachment point (3).

IMPORTANT: For the exact procedure, see repair instructions for REMOVING AND INSTALLING HEAD AIRBAG !

Fig 2: Identifying A-Pillar Wiring Harness, Airbag Screw, And Airbag Attachment Point

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

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 And Loop

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Order number, protective sleeve: 81 47 2 159 578

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.

Graphic representation similar.

Fig 4: Identifying Protective Sleeve And Velcro Fastener

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Mark severance cuts in accordance with specified dimensions and cut.

IMPORTANT: Cut outer panel only for following severance cuts.

Dimension a = approx. 95 mm from center point of 8 mm diameter hole.

Measurement b = approx. 345 mm below severance cut a.

Open welded connections in areas (1).

Fig 5: Identifying Welded Connections Areas And Severance Cut Areas

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New part preparation

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

Prepare REINFORCEMENT PLATES at severance cuts.

Fit in new part.

Installing the A-pillar in the area of the windscreen

Install and weld new parts and reinforcement plates.

After completing welding work:

Check airbag in area of protective sleeve for damage, REPLACE if necessary.