General Information on Servicing the Multiple Restraint System

R50, R52, R53
General Information On Servicing The Multiple Restraint System
The following general information about the multiple restraint system (MRS) is given for service staff:
- Disconnecting the battery terminals
- Checking the components of the multiple restraint system
- Only fit approved seat covers.

Disconnecting The Battery Terminals
Important: After disconnecting the battery terminals, wait 1 minute before starting repair work on the multiple restraint system.
After the battery terminals have been disconnected, you must wait 1 minute before starting repair work on the multiple restraint system (MRS).
This delay ensures that the capacitors containing the energy reserve for the MRS have been fully discharged. Accidental triggering of the airbags or belt tensioners can thus be prevented.

Checking The Components Of The Multiple Restraint System
Important: Do not test the components of the multiple restraint system with a multimeter or other universal test equipment.
If you make checks using a multimeter or other universal test tool, you could accidentally trigger the restraint systems and cause injuries. Only use the BMW diagnosis system for system diagnosis.

Important: Do not connect electrical test equipment to the wiring harness on the multiple restraint system.
Do not connect electrical test equipment to the wiring harness on the multiple restraint system (MRS) if the wiring harness is connected to a component in the MRS. This could accidentally trigger the restraint systems and cause injuries.
Only use the BMW diagnosis system for system diagnosis.

Important: The safety battery terminal must be replaced if it has been triggered.
If the safety battery terminal has been triggered the battery cable must be replaced. (only diesel vehicles and R53.)

Important: Test the multiple restraint system after damage is repaired.
If damage is repaired after an accident, the MRS must be tested using the BMW diagnosis system (even if the restraint system was not triggered in the accident).

Fitting Seat Covers
Important: Only fit approved seat covers.
Do not fit protective covers, seat cushions or other objects to the front seats, unless the items concerned have been specially approved for seats with integrated side airbags. Do not hang any items of clothing, e.g. jackets, over the front-seat backrests.
The airbag function could be severely impaired or even disabled.