52 17 205 Removing and Installing/Replacing Both Rear Panels On Left Or Right Front Seat Backrest

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW X5, 2009 BMW X5, 2008 BMW X5, and 2007 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Operation is shown on the left seat. When removing from the right seat, transpose the pull and striking sides accordingly.

Rear panel upper section:

Grip between rear panel and backrest cover on door side until clip can be felt (do not pull).
At same time, firmly punch towards middle of seat on inner side (tunnel side) at top.
Upper retainers spring out of seat guide.
Pull upper rear panel up out of lower guides.

Fig 1: Pulling Upper Rear Panel Up Out Of Lower Guides
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE:

Retainer
Guide
Upper rear panel

Fig 2: Identifying Retainer And Guide
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Rear panel trim lower section:

Grip between rear panel and backrest cover on door side until clip can be felt (do not pull).
At same time, firmly punch towards middle of seat on inner side (tunnel side) at top.
Upper retainers spring out of seat guide.
Pull lower rear panel up out of lower guides

Fig 3: Pulling Lower Rear Panel Up Out Of Lower Guides
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unclip springs (1) on left and right.

Remove lower rear panel (3) upwards out of guide (2).

Fig 4: Identifying Lower Rear Panel And Springs

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.