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.
Service Precautions
Observe these precautions when working on SRS:
- When working around steering column and before any repairs are performed, disable SRS. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
- Before straightening damaged metal or arc-welding, disable SRS and disconnect front sensors, front air bag modules, seat belt tensioners (if equipped) and side air bag modules connectors. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
- After disabling SRS, wait at least 5 minutes before servicing vehicle. SRS control unit maintains SRS voltage for about 5 minutes after system is disabled. Servicing SRS before 5 minutes may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
- Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling a deployed air bag module. Air bag module may contain sodium hydroxide deposits, which irritates skin.
- Handle sensors carefully. Never strike or jar sensors. All sensors and mounting bracket bolts must be tightened to specification to ensure proper sensor operation.
- Never use any SRS component that has been dropped from a height of 2 feet or higher.
- DO NOT repair any SRS component or wiring harness; replace only. Wiring harnesses and connectors are Orange for immediate identification.
- To avoid air bag deployment, DO NOT use self-powered electrical test equipment on driver's or passenger's air bag modules. This equipment includes battery powered circuit testers, voltmeters and ohmmeters.
- Always handle air bag module with trim cover away from body. Always place air bag module on workbench with trim cover up, away from loose objects. DO NOT leave air bag modules unattended.
- Never expose SRS components to temperatures greater than 167°F (75°C).
- Front air bag modules, belt tensioners and side air bag modules (if equipped) can only be checked while installed in vehicle and using a BMW Service Tester/DIS. Only attempt SRS inspections using specified procedures and checking devices.
- Never expose any SRS system components to cleaning agents such as solvents, gasoline, lye, etc.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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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