72 12... Unlocking/locking airbag plug connections

WARNING: Read and comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical belt tensioners.

Attention!

An airbag plug connection must be replaced if it is damaged.

Sourcing reference for airbag repair instructions (with plug connection).

Following versions of plug connections on airbag module/gas generator are possible:

Airbag plug connection on gas generator/airbag module is offset by 90°
Airbag plug connection on gas generator/airbag module is straight (3 versions)

Airbag plug connection on gas generator/airbag module offset by 90°:

There are two ways of unlocking this airbag plug connection on the gas generator/airbag module:

Method 1:

Simultaneously pull cover (1) upwards at lugs on left and right (2).

Fig 1: Pulling Air Bag Plug Connection Cover Upwards

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Method 2:

Insert a narrow screwdriver into recess (1) in housing (2).

Carefully pry cover (3) off (4).

Fig 2: Removing Air Bag Plug Connection Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Cover (1) is not positioned higher than housing (2).

The airbag plug connection is unlocked and can now be detached from the gas generator/airbag module.

Fig 3: Identifying Air Bag Plug Connection Cover And Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

After attaching airbag plug connection to gas generator/airbag module, press cover (1) downwards until it rests flat on housing.

Check that it catches properly.

Fig 4: Pressing Cover On Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Airbag plug connection on gas generator/airbag module is straight (2 versions)

Version 1:

Press locking/unlocking plate (1) at edge (4).

Locking/unlocking plate (1) snaps upwards at opposite edge (3) and releases detent lug (2).

Fig 5: Pressing Locking/Unlocking Plate

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The airbag plug connection is unlocked and can now be detached from the gas generator/airbag module.

Fig 6: Identifying Airbag Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

After attaching airbag plug connection to gas generator/airbag module, check whether detent lug (2) is visible in opening of locking/unlocking plate (1).

Only if the detent lug (2) is visible will the airbag plug connection gas generator/airbag module be correctly engaged.

Fig 7: Identifying Locking/Unlocking Plate And Detent Lug

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version 2:

Press locking/unlocking plate (1) on edge (3) and pull plug (2) out of plug housing (4).

Installation note:

Only if the detent lug is visible in opening (5) will the gas generator/airbag module plug connection be correctly engaged.

Fig 8: Pressing Locking/Unlocking Plate On Edge

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version 3:

Press the lock (1) and pull out the connector (2) up to initial engagement position.

Detach connector (2) from firing pellet.

Installation note:

Insert plug connection in initial engagement position in gas generator/airbag module and engage in final engagement position.

Fig 9: Identifying Connector And Lock

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Illustration of version 3 with gas generator:

Initial engagement position
Final engagement position

Lock
Gas generator

Fig 10: Identifying Gas Generator And Lock Initial And Final Engagement Position

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version 4 - crash-active headrest:

Press locking clip at edge and disconnect plug (1).

Installation note:

Check for correct engagement.

Fig 11: Pressing Locking Clip At Edge

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.