52 17 055 Removing and installing/replacing both adjusting units for backrest width adjustment on driver's seat

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove SIDE AIRBAG (front seat)
Remove backrest cover . See 52 17 407 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR DRIVER'S SEAT (COMFORT) , 52 17 408 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR FRONT PASSENGER SEAT (COMFORT) , 52 16 407 REPLACING BACKREST COVER (SPORT) FOR DRIVER'S SEAT or 52 16 408 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR FRONT PASSENGER SEAT (SPORT) for front seat.

Release rivets (1) on left and right and remove trim (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Rivets And Trim

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release cable tie (1).

Installation:

Lay cables (3) without kinks.

Disconnect plug connection (2) on drive.

Fig 2: Identifying Cable Tie, Cables And Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release rivets (1) on left and right and remove adjusting elements (3).

Release rivets (2) for drive.

Remove complete adjusting unit.

NOTE: Adjusting element, cables and drive form a single unit and can only be replaced completely.

Fig 3: Identifying Adjusting Elements And Rivets

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.