Bonnet hinge/strut/actuator

Bonnet hinges aren’t a mechanical issue in late-model BMWs—but they do need to replaced in many cases when the pedestrian protection is deployed.

As for the pyrotechnic actuators—we’re unaware of any common problems.

We frequently sell both hinges and pyrotechnic actuators for use in collision repairs.

Most modern BMWs are now fitted with pedestrian protection systems called ‘Active Hood’ or ‘Active Bonnet’.

These systems use sensors to preemptively detect a collision with a pedestrian, triggering pyrotechnic actuators located on the bonnet hinges (and sometimes bonnet locks) to raise the bonnet before impact. This creates a cushioning effect, and increases the distance between the hood and hard components in the engine bay, potentially reducing the severity of injuries to the pedestrian.

Once the pyrotechnic actuators are triggered they cannot be reused—and in certain models the deployment of these actuators will damage the hinges, meaning both the actuators and hinges will need to be replaced.

Most model generations will typically have only one variant of bonnet hinge & pyrotechnic actuator system, but occasionally BMW introduces a different system mid-generation.

The best way to confirm fitment compatibility of these components is to match the BMW part numbers from the catalogue. This can be done by decoding your vehicle’s VIN in a BMW EPC (electronic part catalogue.)

If you don’t have access to an EPC, provide our team with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN—and we’ll check our stock for a compatible match.

There is some interchangeability of the pyrotechnic actuators between vehicle’s that share a common platform.

The hinges are typically unique to their model generation, or only interchangeable between sister models.