52 13 000 Removing and installing left or right front seat (normal/manual)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW 530i, 2002 BMW 530i, and 2001 BMW 530i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Adjust front seat as far forward and upward as possible.

IMPORTANT: Note safety regulations on handling airbag modules and pyrotechnical seatbelt tensioners, refer to appropriate RESTRAINTS article.

Improper handling can lead to triggering of the pyrotechnical seat belt tensioner or side airbag, resulting in injuries.

Switch off ignition.

Unfasten seatbelt screw.

Fig 1: Removing Seatbelt Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque - 31 N.m.

Pull retainer (1) backwards to unlock and pull inwards to remove. Lift Bowden cable (2) forwards to remove for seat belt adjustment.

Fig 2: Removing Seat Belt Adjustment Retainer

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Failure to comply with this disassembly sequence causes the web (4) to break, thus destroying the finisher.

Adjust front seat to maximum forward position.

Fig 3: Removing Finisher

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Raise finisher slightly on detent head,
Unfasten and raise inner clip lugs,
Pull finisher backwards to remove.

Disconnect connector (1) and remove (2).

Fig 4: Disconnecting Harness Connector

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unfasten screws.

Fig 5: Removing Rear Mounting Screws For Front Seat

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Move front seat as far back as possible.

Installation:

Replace screws (micro-encapsulation) or install old screws with Loctite 270.

Unfasten screws and lift out front seat.

Fig 6: Removing Front Mounting Screws For Front Seat

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Replace screws (micro-encapsulation) or install old screws with Loctite 270 (Sourcing Reference: BMW Parts Service).

Installation:

Floor carpet must not enter area between seat rails and floor panel beside screw points (grating noises).

Installation Sequence:

Rear Seat Rails Flush On Underside
Lift Front Seat Into Vehicle
Unlock Longitudinal Adjustment On Lever (Seat Rails Clip In At Back)
Install Screws Loosely In Back
Slide Front Seat Completely Back (Can Also Be Set At An Angle)
Align Front Seat
Install Front Screws Loosely

Tightening Sequence:

Tightening torque, refer to 52 10 1AZ in SEATS - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Tighten Down Front Inside And Outside Screws
Adjust Front Seat To Front Detent Setting