XSeries-forum

I recall very well swapping the steering wheel on my E71 for an M Sport which of course meant removing the airbag. Having also done this on an E53 and E63 i knew the procedure well enough. The two connections on the bag itself had little tabs that lifted up with a pick tool or screwdriver to release the plug/s. This was the same on all three vehicles.

I was a bit flummoxed when doing the same work recently on the E70 which like many has had its airbags replaced. I encountered a different pair of plugs so went the longer route and disconnected everything from the steering wheel, so the airbag and loom were one item. Not difficult, but what was a pita was refitting it. The tiny torx head earth strap screw is fiddly to say the least and with one hand holding the airbag in mid-air, i only had one hand to work with.

More out of curiosity, as i dont imagine, I'll be disturbing an airbag again soon, the revised mini loom connections defeated me, i have no idea how to release these revised plugs from the airbag. The original type were easy, anyone know how these newer types are disconnected?

Looking at the picture, It looks as if both plugs have a fold-over cover which needs carefully lifting from the left hand end (could be a latch that engages under that end) and the connector may be under there. I would strongly recommend wearing an anti-static strap whilst having a look.

Looking at the only manual I have, it looks as if the connections are completely different!
I wonder if the connector change indicates a post Takata airbag change under recall.

I'm inclined to agree with your thoughts having studied this piccy more closely. I wish I'd been more patient and investigated further at the time, but obviously, i didnt want to break anything. I won't be disturbing it again anytime soon though, that's for sure.

You could well be right regarding the fitment change being a post Takata 'upgrade' and a visual identifier that it has been replaced. Maybe the simple press and lock original connection has also changed underneath, if this is indeed a folding cover of some sort. It means as part of the recall, the mini loom inside the steering wheel was also changed.

I often wonder about all the airbags for sale on eBay. Technically, those listings are offering dangerous merchandise to an unknowing public.

I agree. Used car airbags is one part I would never consider buying. OEM replaced ones will have been recovered and disposed of properly. Those on eBay (or any other auction site) I would treat as non-functional.