2006 BMW X3 AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Active Knee Protection

The Active Knee Protection consists of a knee airbag located on the front driver and passenger sides of the vehicle. The knee airbag prevent the driver from sliding under the seat belt during an impact. This effect is known as "submarining". This effect is counteracted by the knee airbag and initiates a controlled forward shift of the upper body.

This increases the effect of the seatbelt and the airbag.

The knee airbag is available on the E65, E85 and E63/64.

E65 Driver's Side Knee AirbagΒ 

Fig 1: Identifying E65 Driver Side Knee Airbag System
G04750463Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

E65 Passenger Side Knee AirbagΒ 

Fig 2: Identifying E65 Passenger Side Knee Airbag System
G04750464Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Factory Service Tools

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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:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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