Seat Recliner - 40 Percent, Outboard: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Before beginning any service procedure, refer to SAFETY WARNINGS . Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

WARNING: Use care when the seat back frame is removed and when releasing the recliners from a backrest upright position. The recliners are spring-loaded, which may cause the recliner upper arms to fold with significant speed/force. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

Remove the manual recline handle.
1. Locate the spring clip between the recline cover and handle.
2. Remove the spring clip and slide the manual recline handle off the shaft.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Spring Clip Between Recline Cover And Manual Shaft Recline Handle
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Pull out to release the retainers and remove the outboard recliner outer cover.
1. At installation, route the strap through the recliner cover.
Separate the outboard recliner.
1. Remove 3 outboard recliner inner cover screws.
2. Separate the 2 cable retainers.
3. Separate the 2 cable ends.
4. Remove the 2 recliner-to-backrest frame bolts.
  - To install, tighten to 50 Nm (37 lb-ft).
5. Remove the 2 recliner-to-cushion frame bolts.
  - To install, tighten to 50 Nm (37 lb-ft).
    
    Fig 2: Outboard Recliner Related Replacement Components With Torque Specifications
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the outboard recliner.
1. Remove the rivet.
2. Separate the cable end from the recliner.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Outboard Recliner Rivet And Cable End
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.