52 17 202 Removing and installing/replacing rear panel on front seat backrest (luxury seat with rear-compartment-oriented equipment)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 BMW 540i, 2002 BMW 540i, 2001 BMW 540i, 2000 BMW 540i, and 1999 BMW 540i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: This document is not applicable to L7 driver's seat with video system in rear compartment.
Version of L7 driver's seat with video system in rear compartment, refer to 52 17 202 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING BOTTOM REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT BACKREST (LUXURY SEAT) .

Adjust headrest forwards to maximum setting.

Unhook spring at bottom on inside:

Pull inside edge of rear panel inwards / backwards (1) and knock firmly inwards (2) (spring disconnected at bottom inside edge).

Repeat procedure for disconnecting upper spring from top.

Fig 1: Pulling Inside Edge Of Rear Panel Inward/Backwards

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press inside of rear panel inwards (3) and pull outwards and backwards (4) (springs disconnected at top and bottom outside edge).

Lift rear panel backwards to remove.

Fig 2: Pressing Inside Of Rear Panel Inwards (3) And Pulling Outwards And Backwards (4)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation

The springs must be correctly located in the rear panel supports and must not be bent.
If necessary, replace defective clips.
Start by clipping in at bottom.

Fig 3: Identifying Rear Panel Support Spring Location

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.