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

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.

Adjust front seat as far forward and upward as possible.

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

Unfasten seatbelt screw.

Tightening torque, 31 N.m.

Fig 1: Unfastening Seatbelt Screw

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

Fig 2: Pulling Retainer

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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.

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

Fig 3: Adjusting Front Seat
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Disconnect connector (1) and remove (2).

Fig 4: Disconnecting Connector

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Unfasten screws.

Move front seat as far back as possible.

Installation

Replace screws (microencapsulation) or install old screws with Loctite 270 (BMW Part).

Fig 5: Unfastening Screws

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Up to 1995 model:

Unclip front finisher and pull forwards to remove.

Unfasten screws and lift out front seat.

Installation

Replace screws (microencapsulation) or install old screws with Loctite 270 (Sourcing Reference: BMW Parts).

Fig 6: Unfastening Screws And Lifting Out Front Seat

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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 - 540i .

Tighten down front inside and outside screws
Adjust front seat to front detent setting
Tighten down inner and outer screws at back