How to remove the seatback panels?

[Angib]

I want to see about altering the lumbar support but am stuck at removing the seatback panel (2nd Generation, ordinary seats). The backrest release handle hides some fixings and, with those off, there's a clip holding the inner top corner of the panel. No amount of jiggling, or tugging gently seems to undo this clip and I don't want to break it if there's a trick to it.

I can see from the RealOEM.com diagram that the bottom fixings are two claws that will release when the panel is moved upwards, but that top inner fixing prevents that.

Any clues?

Andrew

[rkw]

Most interior trim pieces cannot be removed by "tugging gently". You probably have to pull harder.

The official BMW instructions are attached.

[Angib]

Thanks for your help. I tried the 'jerking action' and just damaged that panel! But I've now succeeded so here is my guide:

1. Remove the screw holding the seatback release paddle.


2. Remove the two screws holding the release mechanism.


3. Pull the top edge of the panel backwards while pushing forwards where the top inner clip is.


If you just try to tug the panel off, this is the damage you'll do!


The top inner clip looks like this, so you want to rotate the panel backwards to release it.


continued below.....

[Angib]

4. The back panel will now fold/lift out on the two claws at the bottom.


Removing the backrest "spring mat" and replacing it with a lumbar support version looks easy, so I'll report back when I've done that.

And please note my top tip for easy working: get a convertible and do this job on a sunny day - no need for those awkward contortions inside a metal box....

Andrew

[rkw]

Sorry that the instructions I posted caused damage to your car

Very good pics. This may be a useful retrofit. Are you going to cut a hole in the seat cover for the lumbar knob?

[Angib]

Quote: Originally Posted by rkw (original)

Sorry that the instructions I posted caused damage to your car

Hey, no sweat - it was BMW's fault!

Quote: Originally Posted by rkw (original)

Are you going to cut a hole in the seat cover for the lumbar knob?

Yes. The foam of the seatback is exactly the same part with and without lumbar support and it already has the hole for the adjuster in it, so it's only the fabric that needs the hole. Cutting that is going to be a test of my confidence, but I think I may use my trusty tool - a six-inch nail held in a mole wrench and heated with a blowlamp.......

Andrew