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Home >> BMW >> 2006 >> 330xi Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Restraints >> Restraints Control Systems >> Multiple Restraint Systems >> E90 Multiple Restraint System 5 >> System Components >> Pyrotechnic Devices >> Seat Belt Pre-Tensioners
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Seat Belt Pre-Tensioners

Inertia reel three point seat belts are installed on the front and rear seats. The inertia reels are of the ALR (Automatic Locking Retractor) type. The MRS control unit deploys the pyrotechnic seat belt pre-tensioners at a slightly lower threshold level than the front airbags.

The two pre-tensioners are side specific, but otherwise identical. Each pre-tensioner has a tube containing propellant and a piston. The piston is attached to a steel cable, the opposite end of which is attached to the seat belt buckle. An igniter (squib) in the base of the tube provides an ignition source when triggered by a fire signal from the MRS control unit.

A "pigtail lead" with a 2-pin connector links the igniter to the vehicle's MRS wiring and is located on a bracket underneath the seat frame.

Fig 1: Identifying Seat Belt Pre-Tensioners
G03393809Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Fig 2: Identifying Rear Seat Belt Tensioners
G03393810Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.