Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Active Head Restraint System (AKS)
In a rear end collision, the risk for cervical vertebrae injuries (whiplash) is high. To prevent this, the objective would be to position the head as close as possible to the headrest. This prevents excessive rearward motion.
On the E65/E66 and E60, the basic seat option only allows for a fixed position between the backrest and head and eliminates the need for the AKS. However, on vehicles equipped with the multi-function seat option, the adjustability of the headrest and backrest allows for the possibility of a large gap between the headrest and the occupants head.
For this reason AKS was developed. The AKS is located in the backrest of the multifunction seat. It is deployed by a pyrotechnic device, similar to an airbag.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.