Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Driver Airbag
A 2-stage driver "SMART" airbag, (which has been available since 3/99) is used on the E65.
The airbag has a volume of approx. 62 liters. There is only one design for all trim levels.
Depending on the crash severity detected, the two ignition stages are ignited. The faster the two ignitions succeed one another, the faster the airbag is filled. To eliminate hazards during rescue operations or disposal, both priming caps are always triggered.
New for the E65 is the color matching of the airbag unit to the interior color trim. Airbag units are offered in the following colors: black, beige, grey or blue.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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