Headrest Replacement

justwaiting · #1 12-22-2010, 07:42 PM

Okay...been a while since I posted on this forum...but here I go:

I purchased a 2011 X5 35d. I picked up a few aftermarket headrests...and installed them. I now get a warning as they have those active headrests which in my opinion are ugly anyway. Everything is fine except for the restraint system warning on my dashboard. Is there a way to trick the system and ignore the head restraint? I just want to ensure the remaining safety components are active. I'm sure there is a way and I'm sure this is the place to find the answer. I searched but couldn't find an answer or method to remove the dash error.

Thanks!!!

justwaiting · #2 12-28-2010, 02:02 AM

Wow...no replies! I remember when I had my E53...this was the site to find out all the potential upgrades and hacks

I upgraded all my hardware in my E53 to 2005 Equipment when my X5 was a 2002. I'm simply curious if anyone has replaced their headrests with something else beyond OEM. Any information would be greatly appreciated!!! I have the OEM headrests sitting in the garage but the new active headrests are very difficult to modify without looking horrible. I read online about a Squib Simulator(To bypass the restraint warning) but no BMW parts counter knows what that is (I tried 3 different BMW shops).

justwaiting · #3 01-08-2011, 09:09 PM

Ok. Just thought I'd share a response since no one posted any responses

I cleared the airbag light and I have both my headrests replaced. The headrest repair kit can be purchased (around $100/each) which has the charge unit for each seat to clear any error codes. The repair kit is the "Squib Simulators" and they are a little expensive at $120+ each but if you are like me and the world won't end if you don't have active headrests then these are your best options. To return the vehicle to stock you simply reinstall the original active headrests and everything is back to OEM. I made the mistake of not disconnecting the battery so I set off the airbag light which required a visit to the dealer to clear the code.

S4YFR · #4 01-09-2011, 11:33 AM

theres loads of resistor tricks that can be done to bypass this error and its cheap you only need a few resistors.. type in google.com "bmw airbag resistor trick".