Airbags - Deactivation
Group 72
Safety Restraint Systems
Bulletin Number
72 08 97
Woodcliff Lake, NJ
October 2000
Service Engineering
This Service Information bulletin supersedes S.I. 72 08 97 dated October 1998.
SUBJECT
Deactivation of Airbags
MODEL
E31, E32, E34, E36, Z3, E38, E39, E46, E52, E53
SITUATION
On November 18th 1997, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a regulation which allows the installation of an
airbag on-off switch on all vehicles equipped with FRONT airbags as of January 19, 1998 as long as the owner/operator or passenger falls into one
of four risk groups. The risk group definition and owner responsibilities are in Attachment 2 (not shown).
On-Off switches
Customers are often misinformed when making a decision whether to install, or not to install, an airbag on/off switch.
In order for your customer to make a better informed decision, BMW recommends the customer reads "Need an Airbag On/Off Switch? Probably
Not", published by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
It is recommended that these leaflets be placed in the customer areas of your BMW center.
The leaflets may be obtained free of charge from:
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
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1005 N. Glebe Rd.
Arlington, VA 22201
(703)247-1500
e-mail www.highwaysafety.org
The installation or retrofit of airbag on/off switches is not a mandatory requirement. BMW offers a front passenger airbag on/off switch for Z3
roadsters, M roadsters, Z3 coupes, and M coupes manufactured up to April of 1999. Appropriate parts are being released on individual bases by
BMWNA Service Engineering, upon receiving a complete documentation from the BMW center.
Temporary deactivation of FRONT airbags
For vehicles where the manufacturer does not provide an on-off switch, NHTSA may authorize the temporary deactivation of FRONT airbags based
on the justifications listed in Attachment 1 (Not shown). Owner responsibilities are also listed in that attachment. If a vehicle owner/operator
presents an NHTSA letter authorizing deactivation of a FRONT airbag, a BMW center may perform this service. If a temporary deactivation of any
airbag is performed, customers should be advised to reconsider their decision on a regular basis and evaluate if circumstances have changed,
allowing a reactivation.
Temporary deactivation of side airbags
No NHTSA authorization is required for the deactivation of side (door mounted) airbags, as these airbags are not mandatory equipment. Upon owner
request, a BMW center may deactivate side airbags, however there is no mandatory requirement to perform this service. If a temporary deactivation
of any side airbag is performed, customers should be advised to reconsider their decision on a regular basis and evaluate if circumstances have
changed allowing a reactivation.
BMW Policy Concerning Deactivation
The BMW policy and information regarding airbags is contained in "Child Airbag Letter, Warning Label, and Safety Tips Reference Card" S.I. 72
07 96, dated December 1996.
IN GENERAL, BMW BELIEVES THAT LIFE SAVING AND INJURY PREVENTING BENEFITS OF AIRBAGS IN CONJUNCTION WITH
USAGE OF SAFETY BELTS OUTWEIGH THE POSSIBLE RISKS OF INJURY CAUSED BY AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AS LONG AS
GUIDELINES CONCERNING KEEPING A SAFE DISTANCE TO AIRBAGS ARE FOLLOWED. THIS MEANS USAGE OF SAFETY BELTS
WHENEVER SEATED THE VEHICLE, PROPER, UPRIGHT SEATING POSITION AT ALL TIMES WHILE ENSURING A DISTANCE OF
AT LEAST 10 INCHES BETWEEN THE CHEST AND FRONT AIRBAG AND PROHIBITING THE USE OF REAR FACING CHILD SEATS
ON THE FRONT SEAT OF ANY VEHICLE. CHILDREN SHOULD ALWAYS RIDE IN THE REAR SEAT AND SHOULD ALWAYS BE
PROPERLY RESTRAINED WHENEVER IN THE VEHICLE.
With DIS/MODiC CD version 23.0 or later, a BMW center can perform the deactivation of any airbag (with the exception of E46 front door side
airbags) on E31, E32, E34, E36, E38, E39, E46, E52, E53 vehicles, model year 1994 and later.
NOTE:
On E38, E39, E52, E53, and Z3 (from 3/99 production) vehicles, the side airbags can be deactivated individually (left/right), and separately from
the Head Protection System airbags (HPS) if so equipped. Deactivation of drivers' and passenger airbags on E46 convertible and E52 (Z8)
vehicles is available since the introduction of DIS/MODiC CD 23.0.
The deactivation process requires:
-- Coding of the airbag control module using a special code supplied by BMW, valid only for a specific VIN, for a specific authorized BMW
center on a specific date.
-- Depending on model and production date, replacement of safety belts.
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-- Fulfilling customer information and vehicle labeling requirements
Reactivation is possible and requires reversing the above steps as applicable.
PARTS INFORMATION
A pre-printed order form is available for your convenience.
For safety belt component part numbers, are listed in Attachment 3 (Not Shown).
Note:
Due to the critical nature of this modification, please use the order form as shown for your parts needs. Fax the order form to 1 (800) 428-8806.
The purchase order number must be the last seven digits of the VIN of the modified vehicle car.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
No charges associated with the airbag deactivation or reactivation process are covered under the terms of the BMW New Car Warranty.
1. Logistical Information (1 Thru 1.9)
For Driver Front, and Passenger Front deactivations, before the process can begin, the customer must have the necessary:
-- NHTSA letter of authorization
-- NHTSA information brochure
-- NHTSA labels
1.1 Information for Side Airbags only
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Provide the customer with the form "Information Concerning Side Airbag Deactivation".
1.2 Authorization from the Customer
Obtain the necessary authorization from the customer for airbag deactivation by completing form "Authorization to Deactivate an Air Bag".
1.3 Order Necessary Components
Refer to Parts Information section of this bulletin.
Notes:
Dates specified in Parts Information are approximate. If in doubt, confirm actual equipment level by vehicle examination.
Replacement safety belts are necessary on some vehicles, as later model vehicles have load-limiting safety belts, which are designed to be used in
conjunction with an active airbag. In a severe impact, load-limiting belts allow slightly more stretch, to minimize the force on the occupant's
body. When deactivating the respective airbag, these load limiting belts must be replaced by non load-limiting belts.
IMPORTANT!:
IF THE AIRBAG IS REACTIVATED, LOAD LIMITING SAFETY BELTS MUST BE REINSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE.
E36 from March 97 must have the pyrotechnic pre-tensioner replaced with a mechanical pre-tensioner when the airbag is deactivated.
1.4 Get Labels
For Driver Front, and Passenger Front airbag deactivations, confirm the availability of the label provided to the customer by NHTSA. If not
available, this label can be obtained from BMW. Refer to Parts Information in this SI. Other required labels are available in the parts packages
described in Parts Information.
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1.5 Customer Appointment
Once the above components are in dealer stock, contact the customer and arrange an appointment.
Be aware that a code has to be obtained from BMWNA in order to Deactivate /Reactivate an airbag. This code is specific to the date of
programming, the VIN, and the dealer number programmed in the DIS/MoDiC tester. Deactivation/Reactivation will not proceed unless all
these criteria are met.
1.6 Obtain Code
Complete "Deactivation/Reactivation Request" form (Part 1), and fax to BMWNA 201 930-8401 together with:
a) The customer's NHTSA letter of authorization (Only required for front airbag deactivation)
b) Form "Authorization to Deactivate an Air Bag" (see paragraph 1.2 above)
1.7 Code Notification
A deactivation/reactivation "Code" will be faxed back to the dealer within 24 hours.
Note:
The "Code" is specific to the dealer number programmed in the DIS/MODiC tester, and the date on which the deactivation/reactivation is to be
carried out, and the VIN. Deactivation will not proceed unless all these criteria are met.
1.8 Deactivation/Reactivation Process
On receipt of the "Code", and on the predetermined day for Deactivation /Reactivation, proceed with the Technical procedure detailed in
paragraph 2.
1.9 Documentation
It is important that all documentation be completed and copies provided as follows:
a) Customer: "Authorization to Deactivate an Air Bag" White copy
b) Retailer file: NHTSA letter of authorization "Authorization to Deactivate an Air Bag" Yellow copy
Airbag Deactivation/Reactivation Request (Part 2 must be completed)
c) BMWNA: "Authorization to Deactivate an Air Bag" Pink copy Airbag Deactivation/Reactivation Request (Part 2 must be completed)
Forms must be faxed to BMW NA:
at: (201) 930-8401
or
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mailed to BMW NA:
at: BMW NA, BMW Plaza,
Montvale, NJ 07645
Attn: Quality and Service Engineering
2. Technical Information (2 thru 2.9)
Caution!:
Comply with airbag safety precautions! Incorrect handling can activate airbag and result in injury.
2.1. Disconnect battery and cover negative pole or terminal.
2.2. Driver front airbag deactivation/reactivation only.
2.2.1-- Disconnect (reconnect) the main connector to the driver front airbag and secure the wires with cable ties. (Illustration shows E36
installation).
2.2.2-- On vehicles with 2-stage driver airbag, and one 6-pin connector (E38, E39 from 3/99 up to 06/00; E46 sedan from 9/99 up to 06/00; E53
since introduction up to 06/00), the pins for the ignition circuits have to be removed (and insulated) from the airbag connector:
-- Disassemble the yellow 6-pin connector X01093, by sliding the black housing (5) to the side (direction indicated by the arrow on the
housing).
-- Remove four female pins 1, 2 (blue wires, ignition circuit stage 1), and 3, 4 (brown wires, ignition circuit stage 2) from the connector
X01093.
-- Using a small screwdriver, carefully press on pin's locking tab, while at the same time gently pulling out a wire from the connector.
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Attention:
The Siemens connector housing has two locking steps, for that reason the pin's locking tab must be depressed twice.
-- Insulate removed pins with the electrical tape, and secure wires with cable ties.
2.2.3-- Then the airbag connector (X01093 - without the pins for the firing circuit) has to be plugged back into the slip ring connection, to provide
horn operation.
2.2.4-- On vehicles with 2-stage driver airbag, and two separate ignition circuit connectors (all vehicles from 06/00 production), disconnect
(reconnect) each connector (1, and 2) to the driver front airbag and secure the wires with cable ties.
2.3 Passenger front airbag deactivation/reactivation only
2.3.1-- Disconnect (reconnect) the main connector to the passenger front airbag and secure the wires with cable ties.
Note:
Access to the plug connector may require removal of the glove box. (Illustration shows E39 installation).
2.4 Side airbag Deactivation/reactivation only
2.4.1.--Disconnect (reconnect) the main connector to the side airbag and secure the wires with cable ties.
2.5 Fit safety belt components (see paragraph 1.3)
IMPORTANT!:
IF THE AIRBAG IS REACTIVATED, THE ORIGINAL SAFETY BELT COMPONENTS MUST BE REINSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE.
2.6 Coding: After the airbag has been disconnected (reconnected if activating) and the specified safety belt components have been installed, the
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airbag module must be recoded using the 5 digit Airbag Code obtained from BMWNA - see paragraphs 1.7-1.8
NOTE:
Airbag Code is not necessary for deactivation/reactivation of the rear side airbags on vehicles so equipped, and manufactured after 6/99. For the
detailed procedure, refer to Service Information Bulletin 72 03 99 (July 2000) - "Rear Airbag Activation/Deactivation Procedure".
-- Connect DIS/MoDiC to the vehicle and turn the ignition ON
-- Select "Encoding ZCS" (Version C 23.0 or higher.)
-- Identify vehicle.
-- Select "4 Conversions."
-- Select "2 Airbag."
-- Select "1 Airbag components"
-- Select action to be performed:
-- "1 Activation", or
-- "2 Deactivation"
-- Within a selection, choose the component:
-- "Passenger's airbag" "Driver's airbag" "Side airbag, front left" "Side airbag, front right"
-- "Head airbag, front left (ITS)
-- "Head airbag, front right (ITS)
-- "Side airbag, rear left"
-- "Side airbag, rear right"
-- "Head airbag, rear left (HPS)"
-- "Head airbag, rear right (HPS)"
-- Enter the "Airbag Code."
-- Select "Yes" to start automatic coding.
If coding is completed successfully, the message "Coding is completed" is displayed Note: The Central Coding Key will be changed.
When deactivating side airbags (front or rear), the coding process has to be performed separately for the left and right side airbag.
2.7 After coding has been completed turn the ignition OFF for at least 10 seconds. Then select "Diagnosis" and cleared the fault codes stored in
the SRS module memory.
2.8 Affix Warning Labels
Important!:
The warning labels must be removed if the airbag is being reactivated. Any damage caused during label removal is the responsibility of the
customer.
2.8.1 Driver Front and Passenger Front Airbag Only
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Affix the warning label, as supplied by NHTSA, to the sun visor above the deactivated airbag.
2.8.2 Driver Front Airbag Only
Yellow warning label, "Warning, The driver front airbag of this vehicle has been deactivated" Complete retailer details, date label, and affix
on driver door jamb.
2.8.3 Passenger Front Airbag only
Yellow warning label, "Warning, The passenger front airbag of this vehicle has been deactivated" Complete retailer details, date label, and
affix on passenger door jamb.
2.8.4 Side Airbags Front Only
Side Airbag Front Only
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Yellow warning label "Warning: Side Airbag Deactivated" Affix to end of dashboard on both sides of vehicle.
2.8.5 Side Airbags Rear only
Side Airbags rear only
Yellow warning label "Warning: side Airbag Deactivated" affix to C-Pillar.
2.8.6 Owner's Handbook Label
Yellow warning label "Supplement to Owner's Manual, Warning: Airbag(s) in this vehicle have been deactivated. Affix in Owner's
Handbook on inside cover.
2.9 Troubleshooting: If coding cannot be completed and the message "Entered code defective, coding cannot be carried out," appears, the
following causes are possible:
-- Dealer number stored in DIS does not match the dealer number submitted on the Airbag Code request form.
-- The current date in the DIS does not match the date submitted on the Airbag Code request form, or the conversion is not being performed
on the date submitted on the Airbag Code request form.
-- The vehicle identification number does not match the vehicle identification number submitted on the Airbag Code request form.
Airbag Deactivation
Airbag Deactivation (addressed in this bulletin)
For vehicles where an on-off switch is not available, NHTSA will authorize deactivation based on the following justification:
-- A rear-facing infant restraint must be placed in the front seat
-- A child 12 or under must ride in the front seat because of the medical condition that requires frequent monitoring.
-- Drivers who are extremely short-statured (i.e., 4"6' or less).
-- The driver or passenger has a medical condition that, in combination with an airbag, poses a special risk, and that risk outweighs the increased
risk of injury if the airbag is turned off.
An owner who wants deactivation, should submit a written request to NHTSA, containing the following:
-- Read NHTSA information brochure and request form. Both can be obtained from NHTSA. NHTSA also sent letters (with brochures and forms)
to 24,000 Retailers and new car dealer associations in December 1997.
-- Name and address of owner.
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-- Justification for request (see above).
-- Description of the facts creating the need for deactivation.
-- Each request based on certain medical conditions, or on a child whose medical conditions needs to be monitored, must be accompanied by a
physician's statement.
NHTSA will respond in writing, enclosing a copy of the information brochure, labels for the vehicle interior and a form to be filled out and mailed
back to NHTSA regarding the deactivation.
Customer takes NHTSA letter to retailer or repair business to have
deactivation performed.
Installation of Airbag on-Off Switch*
The rule enables owners to obtain NHTSA's approval for the installation of an airbag on-off switch (driver or passenger side or both) if they certify
that they fall into one of four risk groups.
-- People who must transport infants in a rearfacing child seat in the front seat. People who must transport children up to 12 in front seat. (e.g.
Soccer Mom)
-- Driver who cannot keep 10 inches between the center of the steering wheel airbag cover and chest (center of breastbone).
-- People with medical condition that places them at specific risk, based on a physician's advice.
Procedure for customer to obtain on-off switch:
-- Read NHTSA information brochure and request form. Both can be obtained from NHTSA. NHTSA also sent letters (with brochures and forms)
to 24,000 Retailers and new car dealer associations in December 1997. Fill out request form and forward to NHTSA. Starting Dec. 18, 1997
NHTSA will process requests.
-- NHTSA will send approval letter to customer.
Customer takes letter to retailer or repair business to have switch installed.
-- Starting Jan. 19, 1998, retailer or repair business is allowed to install switches.
-- Retailer or repair business must provide customer with insert for owner's manual describing purpose and risk associated with switch. Retailer or
repair business must send installation confirmation to NHTSA.
* BMW offers a front passenger airbag on-off switch for: Z3 roadsters, M roadsters, Z3 coupes, and M coups manufactured up to April of 1999.
* Dates specified are approximate. If in doubt, confirm actual equipment level by vehicle examination.
Information Concerning Side Airbag Deactivation
Questions and Answers Prepared by BMW of North America
September 2000
Q1: Are side airbags available on BMWs?
A: Front door side airbags were introduced as standard equipment in the 5 and 7 Series (optional in 1997 3 Series 4-door sedans as of January
1997) in model year 1997 and they are standard equipment on all BMWs since 1998 model year.
Rear door side airbags are available as optional equipment on 5 and 7 series, beginning with model year 1998, on 4-door 3 Series models
beginning with model year 1999, and on X5 vehicles since introduction.
BMW's Front Head Protection System is standard equipment on 5 and 7 series, beginning with model year 1998, on 4-door 3 series models
beginning with model year 1999, on 2-door 3 series models beginning with model year 2000, and on X5 vehicles since introduction.
Starting with the model year 2000 7 Series, and model year 2001 5 series, Rear HPS (Head Protection System) is installed in conjunction with
the rear door side airbags.
Q2: Are there any precautions that should be taken when seated next to a side airbag?
A: For vehicles equipped with side airbags, all occupants should be properly restrained (children in appropriate child restraint systems; larger
children and adults using the safety belts) and sitting upright. Never let an occupant's head rest on, or near any side airbag. If this warning is
not heeded, the inflating side airbag could cause a serious or fatal injury.
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Q3: I have small children and I know they should sit in the rear seat. Should I order the optional rear door side airbags?
A: Passengers are safer with rear-seat side impact airbags than without them.
However, children must be properly positioned and restrained to ensure their safety and avoid possible injury from an airbag deployment. (See
your owners manual and the in-vehicle safety tips card to ensure proper positioning and restraint.)
For vehicles equipped with side airbags, all occupants should be properly restrained (children in appropriate child restraint systems; larger
children and adults using the safety belts) and sitting upright. Never let an occupant's head rest on, or near any side airbag. If this warning is
not heeded, the inflating side airbag could cause a serious or fatal injury.
If you are unable to ensure that children are always properly positioned (e.g., an unrestrained, belted child may fall asleep against the door),
BMW recommends:
1. do not order the rear side airbag option
2. or, if your BMW is already equipped with them, have the rear side airbags deactivated free of charge.
Q4: What is the BMW Head Protection System?
A: BMW's Head Protection Systems, or HPS, are inflatable restraints intended to help provide the driver and outboard front and rear passengers
with head protection in a severe side impact. HPS works together with the door- mounted side airbags; which help protect the torso, and other
features such as BMW's interlocking door anchoring system, to help provide the optimum in side impact protection.
The front HPS consists of an Inflatable Tubular Structure (ITS) concealed above each front door, within the windshield-pillar and roof rail
trim material. In a severe side impact, the system deploys and forms a tubular structure approximately 5 feet long and 5 inches in diameter,
anchored at the forward end to the lower A-pillar, and at the rear, to the roof rail above the rear door. The ITS is now positioned where an
occupant's head could contact the side of the car (window, windshield - or center - pillar, roof rail) or an intruding object. The sloping position
of ITS enables it to help provide protection for occupants of different sizes and seating positions.
The ITS is designed to remain inflated for several seconds, to help provide protection beyond the initial impact, as well as help keep the
occupant inside the vehicle, for example, during a rollover after a severe side impact.
The rear HPS consists of an airbag concealed above each rear door, within the roof rail trim material. In a severe side impact, the system
deploys and forms an inflated structure with a volume of approximately 6 liters. The rear HPS is now positioned where an occupant's head
could contact the side of the car or an intruding object.
Q5: Can the front HPS be ordered without the front side airbag?
A: No. HPS and the front door side airbags are designed to work together as a side impact protection system for front seat occupants. However, in
the event of a front door side airbag deactivation, the HPS system remains active to help provide additional head protection in a side impact.
(Front side airbag deactivation is not available on 1999 and later 3 series 4-door, and on 2000 and later 3 series 2-door models).
Q6: Can the rear HPS be ordered without a rear side airbag? (Rear HPS is currently available on model year 2000 and later 7 Series, and model
year 2001 and later 5 series only)
A: No. HPS and rear door side airbags are designed to work together as a side impact protection system for rear seat occupants. However, in the
event of a rear side airbag deactivation, the HPS system remains active to help provide additional head protection in a side impact. The model
year 2000 and later 7 series, and model year 2001 and later 5 series are the only BMW automobiles currently equipped with the rear HPS.
Q7: Can the front door airbag be deactivated without having to deactivate the front HPS?
A: Yes. Your BMW Center can shut off the front door side airbags without shutting off the front HPS.
Q8: Can the rear door airbag be deactivated without having to deactivate the rear HPS?
A: Yes. Your BMW Center can shut off the rear door side airbags without shutting off the rear HPS.
Q9: Can the rear HPS be shut off and the rear side door airbag remain active?
A: Yes. Your BMW Center can shut off the rear HPS without shutting off the rear door side airbag, although this procedure is not recommended
by BMW
Q10: Does HPS present a risk to out-of-position occupants?
A: This situation is not critical for HPS. The system is tailored to help protect the head of an adult occupant, while the side airbag system helps
protect the torso. Therefore, HPS is relatively small and deploys with minimal energy. Further, since the system deploys downward (in
contrast to a front airbag which deploys toward an occupant) from the A-pillar (front) and roof rail (rear HPS) and places itself between the
occupant's head and the vehicle interior, it does not present an "aggressive" environment to the vehicle occupants.
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Another benefit of HPS is its deployed location, which is essentially "out of reach" to small-size occupants and children, secured in child seats
and infant carriers, even those that are out-of-position.
However, it should always be remembered that the NHTSA recommends placing all children 12 years old and younger in the rear seat. That is
the safest place. For many years, BMW has recommended that children ride in the rear seat, regardless of whether the vehicle has a passenger
airbag.
This recommendation is based on the fact that the rear is the safest place for every passenger and not just on the potential risk associated with
a passenger airbag and an unrestrained, or improperly restrained or positioned occupant.
