BMW Garage BMW Meets Register Search Today's Posts Mark Forums Read
M2 Technical Topics > Navigation, iDrive, Audio, Video, Bluetooth, Phone, Cameras, Electronics > Airbag Light after M3/4 seat installed

Post Reply
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread
      08-26-2018, 11:47 AM   #1
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

Hi guys,

I really need your help here. I just installed a pair of M4 seats but keep getting air bag light.

The install is a direct fit and I did use the new plug from the new M4. Other than airbag light, all the functionalities seem to work fine.

The installer suggested to add a resistor to clear the code. But I think it can compromise the airbag functionality.

Appreciate anyone with useful info!

Here is a picture if it means anything.

Thanks

Sean
Attached Images
 
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-27-2018, 09:08 AM   #2
Rick4345
Lieutenant Colonel
Rick4345's Avatar
470
Rep
1,656
Posts

Drives: 2022 WRX World Rally Blue
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Somewhere

iTrader: (13)

Garage List
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Hi guys,

I really need your help here. I just installed a pair of M3 seats but keep getting air bag light.

The install is a direct fit and I did use the new plug from the new m3. Other than airbag light, all the functionalities seem to work fine.

The installer suggested to add a resistor to clear the code. But I think it can compromise the airbag functionality.

Appreciate anyone with useful info!

Here is a picture if it means anything.

Thanks

Sean
Did you transfer the gray module under the seat from your M2 to your M4 seats?
__________________
Rick
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-27-2018, 09:12 AM   #3
omasou
Colonel
omasou's Avatar
United_States
2080
Rep
2,999
Posts

Drives: BMWs
Join Date: Apr 2016
Location: US

iTrader: (4)

Garage List
2023 BMW S1000RR  [0.50]
2022 BMW F900XR  [3.00]
2022 BMW X6 40i  [0.50]
2020 BMW M2C  [9.50]
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Hi guys,

I really need your help here. I just installed a pair of M3 seats but keep getting air bag light.

The install is a direct fit and I did use the new plug from the new m3. Other than airbag light, all the functionalities seem to work fine.

The installer suggested to add a resistor to clear the code. But I think it can compromise the airbag functionality.

Appreciate anyone with useful info!

Here is a picture if it means anything.

Thanks

Sean
Did you unplug the battery before the install? I "think" that if you change anything that is relatedness to the airbags, eg steering wheel without first disconnecting power and unplug that item it will throw a code that the dealer needs to clear.
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-27-2018, 09:14 AM   #4
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rick4345 View Post
Did you transfer the gray module under the seat from your M2 to your M4 seats?
No. As I mentioned I just used everything from M3 seat. Actually, I'm thinking about giving M2 old module a try.

Would using M2 module make the M3 seat a plug and play? Anything else should I do?

Thanks for replying!

Sean
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-27-2018, 09:17 AM   #5
Rick4345
Lieutenant Colonel
Rick4345's Avatar
470
Rep
1,656
Posts

Drives: 2022 WRX World Rally Blue
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Somewhere

iTrader: (13)

Garage List
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rick4345 View Post
Did you transfer the gray module under the seat from your M2 to your M4 seats?
No. As I mentioned I just used everything from M3 seat. Actually, I'm thinking about giving M2 old module a try.

Would using M2 module make the M3 seat a plug and play? Anything else should I do?

Thanks for replying!

Sean
Yes. The module from the M2 stores all the parameters for that specific vehicle.

The plugs are the same. You just need to switch to the original module.
__________________
Rick
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-27-2018, 09:39 AM   #6
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by omasou View Post
Did you unplug the battery before the install? I "think" that if you change anything that is relatedness to the airbags, eg steering wheel without first disconnecting power and unplug that item it will throw a code that the dealer needs to clear.
No...I was so clueless. I thought it should work normally as every other thing...

What do you suggest as my course of actions? First swap the old module and then go to dealer (only dealer can do it?) to clear the code?

Thank you!
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-27-2018, 10:10 AM   #7
Rick4345
Lieutenant Colonel
Rick4345's Avatar
470
Rep
1,656
Posts

Drives: 2022 WRX World Rally Blue
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Somewhere

iTrader: (13)

Garage List
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by omasou View Post
Did you unplug the battery before the install? I "think" that if you change anything that is relatedness to the airbags, eg steering wheel without first disconnecting power and unplug that item it will throw a code that the dealer needs to clear.
No...I was so clueless. I thought it should work normally as every other thing...

What do you suggest as my course of actions? First swap the old module and then go to dealer (only dealer can do it?) to clear the code?

Thank you!
Try unplugging the battery. At worst you won't have a power glitch. Switch the modules and reconnect the battery. See what happens.

I usually wait about thirty minutes to make sure the power is off. Make sure you leave the trunk open!!
__________________
Rick
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-27-2018, 10:58 AM   #8
omasou
Colonel
omasou's Avatar
United_States
2080
Rep
2,999
Posts

Drives: BMWs
Join Date: Apr 2016
Location: US

iTrader: (4)

Garage List
2023 BMW S1000RR  [0.50]
2022 BMW F900XR  [3.00]
2022 BMW X6 40i  [0.50]
2020 BMW M2C  [9.50]
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rick4345 View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by omasou View Post
Did you unplug the battery before the install? I "think" that if you change anything that is relatedness to the airbags, eg steering wheel without first disconnecting power and unplug that item it will throw a code that the dealer needs to clear.
No...I was so clueless. I thought it should work normally as every other thing...

What do you suggest as my course of actions? First swap the old module and then go to dealer (only dealer can do it?) to clear the code?

Thank you!
Try unplugging the battery. At worst you won't have a power glitch. Switch the modules and reconnect the battery. See what happens.

I usually wait about thirty minutes to make sure the power is off. Make sure you leave the trunk open!!
I would try this ^^^^^^ first... but it may not work...

https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=552877


https://www.youcanic.com/bmw/airbag-light-on

See time mentioned in Step 2. Guessing time is waiting for capacitors to discharge.

https://www.youcanic.com/bmw/airbag-...el-replacement

Last edited by omasou; 08-27-2018 at 11:09 AM..
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-27-2018, 04:53 PM   #9
cecaa850
Captain
United_States
259
Rep
699
Posts

Drives: 2018 M2
Join Date: May 2018
Location: South East TX.

iTrader: (0)

Some modules have inertia switches in them. NEVER UNBOLT OR MOVE AN AIR BAG MODULE WITHOUT DISCONNECTING THE BATTERY AND LETTING THE SYSTEM DISCHARGE. You'll have an expensive repair on your hands and could be seriously injured or killed. Do not add any additional resistors to the system either.
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-28-2018, 06:17 AM   #10
Who?
Colonel
Who?'s Avatar
Australia
485
Rep
2,197
Posts

Drives: F87 LCI
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Brisbane

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
No...I was so clueless. I thought it should work normally as every other thing...

What do you suggest as my course of actions? First swap the old module and then go to dealer (only dealer can do it?) to clear the code?

Thank you!
Bimmerlink (iPhone app) can delete the code

There could be 2 reasons for the restraint error, one is the airbag in the seat (behind the seat trim, and the other is the seat belt holder itself. If the donor car has had a minor collision, the seat belt holder is probably shot

Both of these can be swapped out from the m2 seats, but start with the seatbelt holder since it’s the easier of the two to switch out

And yes, the grey box usually also has to be swapped out
__________________
So far: 200cell downpipe, custom exhaust, lifhtweight splitter, m4 comp seats
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-29-2018, 02:14 AM   #11
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

I have a good installer of mine disconnect battery and install the grey module of m2 seat. But problem remains, the error is resistor is greater than should.

Some say some kind of wiring job is required. Can anyone shed some light?

Also the m2 stock diagram will be very useful.

Thanks!

Sean
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-29-2018, 05:51 AM   #12
Who?
Colonel
Who?'s Avatar
Australia
485
Rep
2,197
Posts

Drives: F87 LCI
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Brisbane

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
I have a good installer of mine disconnect battery and install the grey module of m2 seat. But problem remains, the error is resistor is greater than should.

Some say some kind of wiring job is required. Can anyone shed some light?

Also the m2 stock diagram will be very useful.

Thanks!

Sean
The code wont clear itself, ull have to clear it after youve addressed the hardware

The m4 seats are compatible to the m2 module, so there shouldnt be any splicing or messing around
__________________
So far: 200cell downpipe, custom exhaust, lifhtweight splitter, m4 comp seats
Appreciate 0
      08-29-2018, 06:53 AM   #13
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
I have a good installer of mine disconnect battery and install the grey module of m2 seat. But problem remains, the error is resistor is greater than should.

Some say some kind of wiring job is required. Can anyone shed some light?

Also the m2 stock diagram will be very useful.

Thanks!

Sean
The code wont clear itself, ull have to clear it after youve addressed the hardware

The m4 seats are compatible to the m2 module, so there shouldnt be any splicing or messing around
It's the m3 seat, I assume the same?

I'm running out of solution, really...
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-29-2018, 06:56 AM   #14
Who?
Colonel
Who?'s Avatar
Australia
485
Rep
2,197
Posts

Drives: F87 LCI
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Brisbane

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
I have a good installer of mine disconnect battery and install the grey module of m2 seat. But problem remains, the error is resistor is greater than should.

Some say some kind of wiring job is required. Can anyone shed some light?

Also the m2 stock diagram will be very useful.

Thanks!

Sean
The code wont clear itself, ull have to clear it after youve addressed the hardware

The m4 seats are compatible to the m2 module, so there shouldnt be any splicing or messing around
It's a m3 seat, I assume the same?

I'm running out of solution, really...
Im assuming youve changed out the seat belt holder as well as the airbag?

david51 might be able to help, he has m3 seats on his f22
__________________
So far: 200cell downpipe, custom exhaust, lifhtweight splitter, m4 comp seats
Appreciate 0
      08-29-2018, 07:00 AM   #15
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
I have a good installer of mine disconnect battery and install the grey module of m2 seat. But problem remains, the error is resistor is greater than should.

Some say some kind of wiring job is required. Can anyone shed some light?

Also the m2 stock diagram will be very useful.

Thanks!

Sean
The code wont clear itself, ull have to clear it after youve addressed the hardware

The m4 seats are compatible to the m2 module, so there shouldnt be any splicing or messing around
It's a m3 seat, I assume the same?

I'm running out of solution, really...
Im assuming youve changed out the seat belt holder as well as the airbag?

david51 might be able to help, he has m3 seats on his f22
No we didn't touch the seat belt holder because we don't have new holders, just a pair of m3 seats. The codes all pointed to "too great resistor of airbag", no seat belt codes.
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-29-2018, 07:05 AM   #16
Who?
Colonel
Who?'s Avatar
Australia
485
Rep
2,197
Posts

Drives: F87 LCI
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Brisbane

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
I have a good installer of mine disconnect battery and install the grey module of m2 seat. But problem remains, the error is resistor is greater than should.

Some say some kind of wiring job is required. Can anyone shed some light?

Also the m2 stock diagram will be very useful.

Thanks!

Sean
The code wont clear itself, ull have to clear it after youve addressed the hardware

The m4 seats are compatible to the m2 module, so there shouldnt be any splicing or messing around
It's a m3 seat, I assume the same?

I'm running out of solution, really...
Im assuming youve changed out the seat belt holder as well as the airbag?

david51 might be able to help, he has m3 seats on his f22
No we didn't touch the seat belt holder because we don't have new holders, just a pair of m3 seats. The codes all pointed to "too great resistor of airbag", no seat belt codes.
I had the same error, but swapping out the seatbelt from my original seat did the trick for me

Worth a shot since it takes 2 mins to swap out

Sorry when i say seat belt holder, i meant buckle

[IMG]https://www.autopartsapi.com/eEuropa...ad9ef2ed29.jpg[/IMG]
__________________
So far: 200cell downpipe, custom exhaust, lifhtweight splitter, m4 comp seats
Appreciate 1
SeanWRT3179.00
      08-29-2018, 07:25 AM   #17
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
I had the same error, but swapping out the seatbelt from my original seat did the trick for me

Worth a shot since it takes 2 mins to swap out

Sorry when i say seat belt holder, i meant buckle

[IMG]https://www.autopartsapi.com/eEuropa...ad9ef2ed29.jpg[/IMG]
Thank you! I will give it a try!
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-29-2018, 02:23 PM   #18
cecaa850
Captain
United_States
259
Rep
699
Posts

Drives: 2018 M2
Join Date: May 2018
Location: South East TX.

iTrader: (0)

Every component in the supplemental restraint system has a specific resistance. The module looks for the exact resistance in each circuit to determine if everything is functioning properly. If it sees a resistance other than what it is programmed to see it will set the light. The light can not be reset until the module is happy with all it's readings.

EDIT: You could always compare old components to new ones to check for compatibility with an Ohm meter. If both old and new components show the same resistance you should be able to swap them with no light.
Appreciate 0
      08-30-2018, 01:01 PM   #19
SeanWRT
Colonel
SeanWRT's Avatar
3179
Rep
2,577
Posts

Drives: E90 M3 & F87 M2
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: Shanghai

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
I had the same error, but swapping out the seatbelt from my original seat did the trick for me

Worth a shot since it takes 2 mins to swap out

Sorry when i say seat belt holder, i meant buckle

[IMG]https://www.autopartsapi.com/eEuropa...ad9ef2ed29.jpg[/IMG]
I've made an appointment with a BMW repair specialist shop on Sunday to fix all my problems. Hope work out!

BTW, I found my seat adjustment button works in a reverse way (up and down). Press up and it goes down and down it up... Did you experience the same?
__________________
Lemania 2320
Appreciate 0
      08-30-2018, 01:48 PM   #20
R0ME0
"The Midas Touch"
R0ME0's Avatar
519
Rep
1,055
Posts

Drives: F87 LBB ///M2
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Seattle, WA

iTrader: (14)

Garage List
2017 M2  [10.00]
2008 Z4M - SOLD  [0.00]
Quote:
Originally Posted by SeanWRT View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Who? View Post
I had the same error, but swapping out the seatbelt from my original seat did the trick for me

Worth a shot since it takes 2 mins to swap out

Sorry when i say seat belt holder, i meant buckle

[IMG]https://www.autopartsapi.com/eEuropa...ad9ef2ed29.jpg[/IMG]
I've made an appointment with a BMW repair specialist shop on Sunday to fix all my problems. Hope work out!

BTW, I found my seat adjustment button works in a reverse way (up and down). Press up and it goes down and down it up... Did you experience the same?
Once you swap the seat module boxes it should no longer be reservse. I had the same issue with my swap. But the install should be plug and play aside the from the seat module box swaps on both seats. Message me if you should have anymore questions Sean!
Appreciate 0
      08-30-2018, 09:42 PM   #21
Who?
Colonel
Who?'s Avatar
Australia
485
Rep
2,197
Posts

Drives: F87 LCI
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Brisbane

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by R0ME0 View Post
Once you swap the seat module boxes it should no longer be reservse. I had the same issue with my swap. But the install should be plug and play aside the from the seat module box swaps on both seats. Message me if you should have anymore questions Sean!
This
Can confirm it was reversed on mine too before i swapped out the grey box with the one that came on my m2
Appreciate 0
      08-31-2018, 09:53 PM   #22
AndrewC1989
Brigadier General
AndrewC1989's Avatar
United_States
10904
Rep
4,537
Posts

Drives: 2015 328d xDrive
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: NoVA

iTrader: (5)

Garage List
M3 seats (unlike M4 seats) don't have those buttons and pull flap to slide and fold the seats back for people to get in the back seat though, right? How will you be getting people/bags/etc. in the back seat? Seems like it would be a pain in the ass to use the electric seat controls every time.
Appreciate 1
Post Reply

Bookmarks

Thread Tools Search this Thread
Search this Thread:

Advanced Search

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 05:53 AM.




m2
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
1Addicts.com, BIMMERPOST.com, E90Post.com, F30Post.com, M3Post.com, ZPost.com, 5Post.com, 6Post.com, 7Post.com, XBimmers.com logo and trademark are properties of BIMMERPOST