BMW X5: Notes On Scrapping BMW Vehicles With Gas Generators (Central Airbag Control Unit, Airbag System)

The gas generator is a pyrotechnic component of:

• Airbag module
  • Driver's/passenger airbag
  • Side airbags
  • Head airbag
  • Knee airbag
• Belt pretensioner
• Belt buckle tensioner
• Safety battery terminal

1 Series: E81, E87
3 Series: E46, E90, E91, E92, E93
5 Series: E60, E61 from build date 09/2005
6 Series: E63, E64 from build date 09/2005
X3: E83
X5: E53, E70
Z4: E85, E86

Gas generators that have not fired constitute a hazard (also to the environment)!

In accordance with accident prevention regulations and specific national regulations, gas generators must be rendered unusable before they are scrapped. This is necessary because pyrotechnical objects can cause injury if improperly activated (e.g. scrapping with flame cutters).

With above-mentioned vehicles which are scheduled for scrapping, it is always essential prior to draining and further stripping work to ensure that all the gas generators in the vehicle are fired. The fired gas generators can then be scrapped together with the vehicle.

Triggering failure

If correct triggering is not possible, the relevant components must (while observing the safety regulations for handling airbag system components) be removed and disposed of by special disposal companies! If a triggering operation has failed:

• Disconnect the triggering device from the battery and
• only approach the vehicle after a few minutes have elapsed

The components of an airbag system must always be disposed of. Such components must not be sold on as used parts.

Triggering

Triggering of the gas generators may only be carried out by expert personnel and under the supervision of a responsible person. Other standard accident prevention regulations (safety goggles, ear defenders etc.) must also be observed.

The gas generators must be fired from the outside in the vehicle scheduled for scrapping with the doors closed but with the tailgate, door windows and sunroof open. To fire the gas generators, use the BMW-developed triggering device with the corresponding cables.

WARNING: Once gas generators have been fired, observe a ventilation period of 10 minutes with the doors opened. Only then is it permitted to continue work inside the vehicle.

Wear protective goggles and protective gloves when handling a fired gas generator! The burning of solid fuel will heat up airbag unit - danger of burning hands! Wash skin with water after contact with fired gas generators!

1. Vehicles with central airbag control unit (all airbags, seat belt pretensioners, safety battery terminal)

1. Expose airbag control unit.
2. Connect "Airbagmaster". For subsequent procedure, refer to SEDA operating instructions.

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