52 16 405 Replacing backrest cover for left or right front seat (sport, electrical)

Special tools required: 

• 52 0 050

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove INNER COVER ON FRONT SEAT 
• Remove OUTER COVER ON FRONT SEAT 
• Remove REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT BACKREST 
• Remove SIDE AIRBAG 

Unlock plug connection (1) for seat heating and disconnect.

Feed out cable from seat mechanism.

Fig 1: Identifying Seat Heating Plug Connection

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Unclip cable clip (1) from backrest frame.

Fig 2: Identifying Backrest Frame Cable Clip

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For climate control optional equipment only: 

Detach cable strap (1) a wiring harness for fan.

Disconnect plug connections (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Backrest Cover Cable Strap And Plug Connection

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Only with rear monitor optional equipment: 

Remove REAR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT MONITOR .

Release screws (1).

Remove cover (2).

Installation note: 

Cover (2) is encoded to prevent incorrect assembly.

Fig 4: Identifying Front Seat Cover And Screws

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Detach welt from bracing cloth.

Release the backrest cover (2) on the left and right.

Carefully slide bracing cloth with foam through backrest gap and seat structure.

Installation note: 

Make sure foam and bracing cloth are correctly fitted (free of kinks or folds).

Fig 5: Releasing Backrest Cover

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Detach backrest cover (1) from the metal tabs in the upper area.

Detach welt (2) from the backrest cover in the marked area.

Detach backrest cover with padding upwards from backrest frame.

Fig 6: Detaching Backrest Cover From Metal Tabs

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Release all clamps in marked area of trim wires.

Remove backrest cover from padding.

Fig 7: Identifying Backrest Cover Clamps Marked Area

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Installation note: 

Insert new clamp (2) with special tool 52 0 050 and bend closed.

1. Upholstery
2. Clamp
3. Trim wire in upholstery
4. Welt in seat cover
5. Backrest cover
   Fig 8: Inserting Backrest Cover Clamp Using Special Tool (52 0 050)

   Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.