FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Head Airbag (Curtain Airbag)

Head Airbag (Curtain Airbag)


On the (E83) X3 SAV, a new head protection system, the curtain airbag, is introduced as standard equipment for the first time. It differs from the head protection system used on the E46 (3 series)/E53 as follows:
^ Continuous head airbag extending all the way from the A-pillar to the C-pillar
The curtain airbag extends all the way from the A-pillar to the C-pillar, covering the entire side window area. The curtain airbag inflates between the vehicle occupants and the side windows and pillar trims. In conjunction with the side airbags in the front and rear doors, it provides optimum protection for all passengers in the event of a side on impact.
The curtain airbag reduces the risk of occupants heads or other extremities protruding through the windows in a sideways collision. This leads to less severe neck backlash forces and less severe head injuries.
Advantages of the system:
^ Extended covered area for side windows front and rear.
^ Protection against glass splinters and penetrating objects.
^ Optimized protective area offering protection for occupants of differing sizes.
The curtain airbag is positioned along the line of roof side member, folded up. It consists of a gas generator, the two gas lances and the curtain.
In the event of a side-on collision, the generator is detonated and the gas flows through the two gas lances into the curtain. Simultaneous inflation of the curtain at the front and back achieves more even deployment.
The attachment of the curtain airbag to the A-pillar and the C-pillar pulls it into position. The curtain airbag inflates between the vehicle occupants and the side windows and pillar trims.
Being a sealed system, the curtain airbag retains its shape and strength for several seconds.





Curtain Airbag