52 13 030 Removing and installing/replacing backrest frame on left or right front seat

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW Z4, 2012 BMW Z4, 2011 BMW Z4, 2010 BMW Z4, and 2009 BMW Z4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove FRONT SEAT
Remove REAR PANEL on front seat backrest

Release airbag wiring harness (2) from cable holders on flexmat.

Disconnect cable tie from clips.

Raise release clip (3) and pull plug (4) out of plug housing (1).

Fig 1: Pulling Plug Out Of Plug Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Always feed in cable tie (1) at narrow end of plug housing in direction of arrow.

Cables must be secured with insulation under cable tie.

Firmly tighten cable tie (1) to relieve strain. It must not be possible to move the cable.

Make sure plug (2) is correctly locked in plug housing (3).

Fig 2: Installing Cable Tie At Narrow End Of Plug Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect. Unclip cable.

Release wiring harness (3) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Unfasten plug connection (2) and disconnect.

IMPORTANT: Feed all wiring harnesses carefully through the seat and backrest mechanism as the edges of the frame can be sharp.

Fig 3: Identifying Plug Connection And Wiring Harness

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unhook backrest cover (1) on left and right.

Release screws (2) on left and right.

Tightening torque 52 10 02AZ .

Remove backrest frame (3) completely towards top.

Fig 4: Removing Backrest Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Remove backrest cover with padding.
Remove SIDE AIRBAG .
Remove lumbar support See 5215059 Removing and installing/replacing lumbar support pump with valve housing for lumbar support/backrest width adjustment ; 5213059 Removing and installing/replacing lumbar support pump with valve housing for lumbar support ; 5213055 Removing and installing/replacing lumbar support on front seat or 5215061 Replacing both air cushions for backrest width adjustment on left or right front seat .