BMW 7 Series: Removing And Installing/Replacing Airbag Unit

WARNING: Observe the following instructions to avoid any risk of injury by the airbag unit.

• Comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling components with gas generators.
• Do not exert any force on the airbag unit.
• Use only specified tools for releasing the airbag unit.

NOTE: Incorrect handling may result in triggering of the airbag unit and thereby cause serious injury.

IMPORTANT: Steering wheel must be replaced if airbag unit has been triggered!

Necessary preliminary tasks

• Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD

Insert Torx screwdriver T30 (1) straight into concealed opening on reverse side of steering wheel until a spring resistance is felt (approx. 2 cm).

Increase pressure at spring leg with Torx screwdriver T30 (1) until airbag unit is unlocked.

For purposes of clarity: airbag unit removed.

Installation note: Make sure electrical leads are correctly positioned.

Fig. 104: Identifying Torx Screwdriver T30 (32 34 020)

Snap airbag unit with uniform pressing force plane-parallel in direction of steering column shaft into steering wheel.

WARNING: Danger of injury! Airbag unit may only be set down with the airbag itself facing upwards.

Tilt airbag unit towards rear.

Disconnect plug connection (1) and earthing cable (2) and remove airbag unit.

Fig. 105: Identifying Airbag Unit Plug Connection And Earthing Cable (32 34 020)

REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING AIRBAG UNIT (SPORT STEERING WHEEL)

NOTE: Incorrect handling may result in triggering of the airbag unit and thereby cause serious injury.

IMPORTANT: Steering wheel must be replaced if airbag unit has been triggered!

Necessary preliminary tasks

• Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD

Insert Torx screwdriver T30 (1) straight into concealed opening on reverse side of steering wheel until a spring resistance is felt (approx. 2 cm).

Increase pressure on spring leg using Torx screwdriver T30 (1) until airbag unit is released.

For purposes of clarity: airbag unit removed! Installation note: Make sure electrical leads are correctly positioned.

Fig. 106: Identifying Torx Screwdriver T30 (32 34 030)

Snap airbag unit with uniform pressing force plane-parallel in direction of steering column shaft into steering wheel.

WARNING: Danger of injury! Airbag unit may only be set down with the airbag itself facing upwards.

Tilt airbag unit towards rear.

Disconnect plug connections (1) and grounding cable (2) and remove airbag unit.

Fig. 107: Identifying Airbag Unit Plug Connection And Earthing Cable (32 34 030)

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