52 24... Checks on rear seat (basic)

The rear seats must be checked for damage following an accident. This measure is applicable above all in the event of structural damage (engine carriers, luggage compartment floor side members) but also if large pieces of luggage were stowed in the luggage compartment. The most important checks are set out below. 

Fig 1: Identifying Rear Seat, Backrest, Center Armrest And Head Restraints

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1. Rear seat frame: 

   Check complete frame for damage (cracking, breakage, etc.), paying particular attention to the marked areas.

   Fig 2: Identifying Rear Seat Frame

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2. Rear seat backrest: 
   1. Check backrest head for parallelism to rear parcel shelf.

      Check whether there is deformation at backrest head and backrest molding.

   2. Check mount of backrest lock for damage (breakage, cracking, bending, etc.).
   3. Check backrest frame for deformation.
   4. Check screw-down points for damage (cracking, breakage, bending etc.).

   If damage is identified at the backrest supporting points, the mounting points on the body must also be checked.

   Fig 3: Identifying Backrest Frame

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3. Center armrest: 

Carry out function check (easy folding and snapping into place).

1. Check armrest mounting for damage (cracking, breakage, bending, etc.).

   Check screw-down points on backrest.

2. Check center armrest vertically and diagonally for deformation.
3. If necessary, check folding cover for exact operation.
4. Check armrest buckle for damage (cracking, breakage, bending etc.).

If the backrest structure is damaged, the center armrest must also be replaced.

Fig 4: Identifying Center Armrest

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

1. 7. Head restraints: 
   1. Check head restraint cushion for distortion. If the cushion is loose in relation to the tubes, replace head restraint.
   2. Check tubes for damage and parallelism to each other. Check

      guides on backrest.

      Carry out function check on new rear seat or reference vehicle.

      Fig 5: Checking Head Restraints

      Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.