52 17 205 Removing and installing/replacing both rear panels on left or right front seat backrest

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

Rear panel upper section: 

1. Grip between rear panel and backrest cover on tunnel side until clip can be felt (do not pull).
2. At same time, firmly punch towards middle of seat on inner side (tunnel side) at top.
   Fig 1: Pulling Rear Panel From Lower Guides

   Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

   Upper retainers spring out of seat guide.

3. Pull upper rear panel up out of lower guides.

Fig 2: Identifying Retainer, Guide And Upper Rear Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Rear panel trim lower section: 

1. Grip between rear panel and backrest cover on tunnel side until clip can be felt (do not pull).
2. At same time, firmly punch towards middle of seat on inner side (tunnel side) at top.

   Upper retainers spring out of seat guide.

   Fig 3: Pulling Lower Rear Panel Up Out Of Lower Guides

   Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
3. Pull lower rear panel up out of lower guides

Unclip springs (1) on left and right.

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

Fig 4: Identifying Springs, Lower Rear Panel And Guide

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.