52 17 034 Removing and installing/replacing shaft for head restraint adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove FRONT SEAT
Remove BOTH REAR PANELS
Remove INNER COVER
Remove ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINT SUPPORT

Bend shaft (1) in direction of arrow.

Pull shaft (1) out of gear (2) and remove.

Fig 1: Pulling Shaft Out Of Gear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.