52 14 198 Removing and installing or replacing rear panel on left or right front seat backrest

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 work

With rear passenger compartment entertainment option only:

Remove REAR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT MONITOR COVER

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

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

Fig 1: Pulling Rear Panel Up Out Of Lower Guides
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With ambient light option only:

Unlock plug connection (1) for ambient light and disconnect.

Fig 2: Identifying Ambient Light Plug Connection

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Installation note:

Rear panel and clamps must not be damaged.

Upper clamps
Lower clamps

Fig 3: Identifying Rear Panel Upper And Lower Clamps
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement only:

Remove AMBIENT LIGHT .