72 12... Deactivating front passenger airbags with key switch

The passenger airbag can only be deactivated in accordance with the following instructions if the vehicle is equipped with a suitable key-operated switch!

The key switch can be retrofitted if it is missing and has been ordered as an optional extra.

Key-operated switch:

• Optional extra SA 5DA for MINI
• Optional extra SA 470 for BMW

E83 up to 09/2004 only: 

see DEACTIVATION OF AIRBAGS 

E83 from 09/2004 only: 

Deactivation via key-operated switch, see following work steps

R50/R53 up to 04/2004 only: 

see DEACTIVATION OF AIRBAGS 

R50/R53 from 04/2004 only: 

Deactivation via key-operated switch, see following work steps

The following airbags are deactivated simultaneously with the key-operated switch (1):

• Passenger airbag
• Side airbag (passenger side)
• If necessary, knee airbag in US models (passenger side)

The airbags can only be deactivated/reactivated while the vehicle is stationary and with the door open.

Deactivation 

1. Turn key-operated switch with ignition key to "OFF" position.

   Deactivate airbags on passenger side out of operation.

   Head airbag on passenger side remains active.

   All airbags on driver side remain active.

   Activation 

2. Turn key-operated switch with ignition key to "ON" position.

   All the airbags in the vehicle are activated and are triggered in appropriate situations.

   Fig 2: Turning Key-Operated Switch

   Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Indicator light 

When the ignition key is turned in the ignition lock, the function of the airbag system is checked and the warning lamp in the center console lights up for several seconds.

1. The indicator light is permanently ON when the front passenger airbags are deactivated 
2. The indicator light goes out after a few seconds when the front passenger airbags are activated 
   Fig 3: Identifying Passenger Airbag Warning Lamp

   Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.