Back Index Up Next

Seat back release cables, replace.

Pull knobs off release handles by inserting a small screw driver between the knob and the plastic base.  Long handle knob on outside of seat shown.   Shorter knob on inside edge of passenger seat is removed with the same method.   Some force is required. 520010.jpg (45819 bytes)
Remove handle trim by prying on lower end.  Lower end is secured by a push pin, upper end is secured by a hook, you must pull the lower end away from seat, then pull the trim downwards to release. 520037.jpg (51691 bytes)
Passenger seat: Remove screw from inner lever and remove. 520038.jpg (58843 bytes)
Release back rest and lay forward.

Remove screw from each lower corner of backrest cover

520009.jpg (57157 bytes)
Pull seat back cover away from base of seat back and up to release from clips at top of seat back. Pull inboard side away from seat back and remove over handle on outboard side of seat by turning seatback cover as you remove it.
Determine which cable is broken.  If outboard cable is broken, it can be replaced without removing seat.  Inboard cable requires seat be removed.
Unscrew plastic nut securing trim to hinge. 520039.jpg (57805 bytes)
There is a pin securing the trim (blue arrow), approximately 50mm above the pin for the plastic screw (green arrow). 520040.jpg (57691 bytes)
Insert a long screwdriver behind the trim in this area and pry outwards to release. 520041.jpg (59645 bytes)
Gently pry tab back on white plastic cable guide and remove guide from each hinge. 520042.jpg (58837 bytes)
Pry tab back on cable end far enough to clear end of pin and remove cable on each hinge assembly. 520043.jpg (58341 bytes)
Pry plastic grommet out of metal frame. 520016.jpg (53787 bytes)
Remove upper end of seat back release cable.

Cable is held into handle with a "dog leg". Push the cable rod towards the seat padding until the "dog leg" comes through the hole in the handle.

520014.jpg (15620 bytes)
This photograph shows a view of the release mechanism as though looking through the cover and padding.  Seat cover and padding have been removed to show the otherwise obscured side of the handle mechanism for seat back release. 520024.jpg (14708 bytes)
Thread old cable out of seat.

Installation:

Check that cable goes behind tab on hinge, to prevent fouling.
Fit rear edge of side cover first. 520048.jpg (58582 bytes)
Ensure hinge section is in large cut out of sliding cover and cable is in small cutout. 520049.jpg (58491 bytes)
Hooks on back rest cover must engage frame. 520045.jpg (55804 bytes)
Screws for back rest cover must have load spreading washers fitted. 520047.jpg (60704 bytes)
Lever for inboard side of passenger seat must be inserted into slot in mechanism before installing screw. 520046.jpg (54907 bytes)
 

Back Index Up Next
E30 M3 Repair Manual V2.7.  Copyright ©1999-2001 Koala Motorsport & Brett Anderson