Seats - Repair - e90 BMW M3 E90

52 14... Performing function check with adapter cable (for seat repairs)

Note. The function check on a repaired driver's or front passenger seat can be performed outside the vehicle by using adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) .

Scheme 137

Use

Adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) is connected to vehicle wiring harness (1) and removed seat (2).

Scheme 138

52 13 021 Removing and installing/replacing flexmat on left or right front seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove padding for front seat . See «REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover)

Cut all cable ties and disengage wiring harnesses from flexmat.

Scheme 139

Disengage flexmat (1) at front.

Scheme 140

Swing flexmat (1) down and disengage from seat frame.

Scheme 141

52 13 041 Removing and installing/replacing inner cover on left or right front seat backrest (normal/manual)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)

Release screw (1).

Remove trim (2) from inside of seat.

Scheme 142

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

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing)
3. E90/E91 only from build date 09/08 and F25: Remove «CRASH-ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Installation note

1. Powerlok screws must be replaced and must not be reused
2. Powerlok screws are mechanical screw locks with trilobular threads

Move seat to upper back position.

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Scheme 143

Move seat forwards and position flush with seat runners.

Unclip release tab (2) for belt end fitting trim (1) with plastic wedge.

Scheme 144

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 72 11 2AZ .

Remove end fitting (2).

Installation note

Make sure end fitting (2) is correctly seated on seat mechanism pin.

Scheme 145

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Scheme 146

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Lift out front seat.

Scheme 147

Installation note

1. Carpet must not get between seat rails and floor panel in area of attachment points (squeaking noises)
2. Replace microencapsulated screws
3. Insert all screws loose to avoid twisting
4. Tighten down all screws to specified torque Tightening torque «52 10 1AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .

52 13 390 Removing and installing or replacing front left or right head restraint

Press catch (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

Scheme 148

52 13 198 Removing and installing or replacing rear panel on left or right front seat backrest

Release clips (1) with diagonal cutting pliers.

Remove rear panel (2) downwards with a turning action.

Note. Remove remnants of clips.

Scheme 149

Installation

Retaining hooks (1) and bore holes (2) on rear panel (3) must not be damaged.

Replace faulty clips.

Scheme 150

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

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat backrest

Unclip cable (2).

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

Cut through cable ties.

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

Scheme 151

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).

Scheme 152

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unclip cable.

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

Unfasten plug connection (2) and disconnect.

Scheme 153

E81, E82, E88, E92 only

Unhook seat covers on left and right.

Unclip ball socket (1) from ball head on left and right.

Installation

Ball socket (1) must snap audibly into place.

Ball socket (1) must be able to move freely on ball head.

Scheme 154

Actuate rear catch and remove guide for Bowden cable (2) towards rear with a turning motion.

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.

Scheme 155

Replacement

1. Remove backrest cover . See «REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-405-replacing-backrest-cover) ; «REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (NORMAL/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-405-replacing-backrest-cover) or «REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover) with padding.

52 14 392 Removing and installing/replacing front left or right crash-active headrest (from 09/08)

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

A triggered head restraint can be recognized by the padded section which has moved upwards.

Scheme 156

Unclip PLUG CONNECTION (1) for crash-active headrest from holder.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Scheme 157

Lever out protective cap (1).

Scheme 158

Detach omega clip (1).

Scheme 159

Press latch mechanism (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

Scheme 160

52 13 025 Removing and installing/replacing left or right seat mechanism (normal/manual)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove seat cover . See «REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover) for front seat
2. Remove «BACKREST FRAME»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-030-removing-and-installingreplacing) on front seat
3. Remove «SEAT BELT TENSIONER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/airbag/#restraints-repair-e90__72-11-041-removing-and-installing)
4. Remove control unit for seat heating

Disconnect all cable ties.

Unlock plug housing (1) from flexmat and disconnect.

Release seat wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Scheme 161

Replacement only

The seat mechanism is supplied complete with corresponding drive units.

52 13 040 Removing and installing/replacing outer cover on left or right front seat backrest (normal/manual)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)

Note. Picture shows installed seat by way of example.

Raise lock (3) and lever out handle

1. for backrest angle adjustment and
2. for seat height adjustment with special tool 00 9 317 .

Scheme 162

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 52 10 06AZ .

Note. Trim (2) is engaged in marked area.

Press lock (3) and pull trim (2) off seat mechanism.

If necessary, lever out carefully with special tool 00 9 317 .

Scheme 163

If necessary, unlock plug connection (1) for backrest width adjustment and disconnect.

If necessary, unlock plug connection (2) for lumbar support and disconnect.

Scheme 164

Replacement

If necessary, remove backrest width adjustment switch and lumbar support switch.

Installation

Make sure backrest width adjustment and lumbar support switches are correctly engaged.

52 13 405 Replacing backrest cover for left or right front seat (normal/manual)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-replacing-guide-sleeves-for)

Version with seat heating only

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

Release wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Scheme 165

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Scheme 166

Note. For the following tasks, be sure without fail to

1. Remove and install side airbag

Detach mounting strip (4) from flexmat.

Carefully pull airbag module (3) with threaded pins out of backrest frame and feed out between padding (1) and inner bag (2).

Set down airbag module (3) to one side.

Scheme 167

Installation

Pull inner bag (1) fully over airbag module and threaded pins.

Feed in mounting strip (2) of inner bag (1) through backrest frame.

Insert threaded pins into backrest frame and secure with new nuts.

No inner bag material is permitted to project through the hole in the inner frame.

Scheme 168

Install nuts and tighten down.

Tightening torques 72 12 02AZ .

Installation

Inner bag must be between airbag module and backrest frame!

Engage mounting strip (1) of inner bag in flexmat.

Position inner bag (2) smoothly over backrest frame.

Engage backrest cover (3) in backrest frame.

Scheme 169

Pull off backrest cover (1) with padding sideways and towards top from backrest frame.

Scheme 170

Release all retainers in marked area.

Remove backrest cover from padding.

Note. Remove all remnants of retainers from backrest cover and padding.

Scheme 171

Installation

Bend new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim thread in padding
4. Trim wire in backrest cover
5. Back-rest cover

Scheme 172

Replacement of backrest cover

Pull trim threads out of backrest cover.

Cut new backrest cover to size and insert trim threads.

Scheme 173

52 14 385 Replacing gas cartridge (firing unit) for crash-active headrest on front seat

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

Note. Firing unit can only be removed in the triggered state. The complete crash-active head restraint must be replaced if the event of a head restraint fault signal and an untriggered firer.

Lever out cover welt in marked area.

Remove cover with padding from head restraint.

Scheme 174

Unclip service flap.

Move firing unit (1) forwards and remove towards front.

Scheme 175

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Replace firing unit.

Installation note

Plug connection (1) must audibly snap into place.

Check firm engagement of plug

connection (1) by gently pulling on connector.

Lay cable in side guide.

Scheme 176

Press locking spring (1) on left and right through opening and secure with cylindrical pins (or similar).

Head restraint is unlocked.

Scheme 177

Pull head restraint (1) at an angle downwards until it is completely in lowest position and rests on linkage.

Hold head restraint (1) in this position for the following tasks.

Scheme 178

Clip firing unit (1) onto linkage (2).

Installation note

Check that firing unit (1) is firmly seated on linkage.

Press firing unit (1) forwards and clip into place.

Scheme 179

Installation note

Visually check that firing unit is correctly seated.

Attach label for identification after replacement.

Clip service flap into place.

Scheme 180

52 13... Replacing guide sleeves for front left or right head restraint

Necessary preliminary work

1. Remove front head restraint . See «REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing) or «REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT CRASH-ACTIVE HEADREST (FROM 09/08)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Note. Guide sleeves cannot be removed without being damaged. Guide sleeves with pushbuttons have two retaining lugs.

Insert special tool 52 0 070 RELEASE HOOK into guide hole of sleeve (2) up to upper area of retaining lug.

Feed release tongue of special tool into gap on retaining lug (1).

Turn special tool to release sleeve (2) and pull out towards top.

If necessary, on guide sleeves with pushbuttons, unlock the second retaining lug with a screwdriver.

Scheme 181

Installation note

Replace guide sleeves and install as follows

1. Guide sleeve with pushbutton (3) and two retaining lugs, left
2. Guide sleeve without pushbutton and one retaining lug, right

Scheme 182

52 13 415 Replacing left or right support for front seat (normal/manual)

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing seat cover on left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) .

52 13 420 Replacing left or right support for front seat backrest (normal/manual)

Operation is described in

Replacing BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT .

65 77 604 Replacing sensor mat (OC3 mat) for passenger seat occupancy detector

Operation for replacing the OC3 mat in conjunction with padding and seat cover is described in

1. Remove padding for front seat . See «REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover)

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

52 14... Additional work in event of faulty drive/gearing for longitudinal adjustment

Release screws (1) of rockers for seat height adjustment.

Installation

Carefully bend side section back and feed rocker out of top rail.

Tilt front seat back.

Scheme 183

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unclip central connector (2) from seat mechanism.

Unclip control units (1).

Scheme 184

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Scheme 185

Bend metal tab (1) open.

Scheme 186

Lift drive (1) and flex shaft (2) out of guide (4) in direction of arrow.

Detach drive (1) from rubber mounts (3).

Detach flex shaft (3) from drive (1).

Scheme 187

Release screws (1) at front.

Installation

Install new drive for longitudinal seat adjustment.

Move front seat forwards.

Release screws (1) at rear.

Lift out front seat and assemble.

Installation

1. Make sure flex shaft is correctly fitted on drive
2. Carpet must not get between seat rails and floor panel in area of attachment points (squeaking noises)
3. Powerlok screws must be replaced and must not be reused
4. Powerlok screws are mechanical screw locks with trilobular threads
5. Insert all screws loose to avoid twisting
6. Tighten down all screws to specified torque Tightening torque «52 10 1AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .

Note. The function check on a repaired driver's or front passenger seat can be performed outside the vehicle by using adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) .

Use

Adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) is connected to vehicle wiring harness (1) and removed seat (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove padding for front seat . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover) .

Cut all cable ties and disengage wiring harnesses from flexmat.

Disengage flexmat (1) at front.

Swing flexmat (1) down and disengage from seat frame.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)

Release screw (1).

Remove trim (2) from inside of seat.

52 14... Removing and installing carrier for outer cover on left or right front seat (electric)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «OUTER COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-040-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Detach cable strap (1).

Unlock and disconnect plug connections (2) on servodrive.

Unscrew bolt (3).

Tightening torque 52 10 04AZ .

Unclip carrier in marked area and remove.

Installation

Replace cable strap.

Scheme 188

Make sure carrier is correctly seated on seat mechanism.

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing)
3. E90/E91 only from build date 09/08 and F25: Remove «CRASH-ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Installation note

1. Powerlok screws must be replaced and must not be reused
2. Powerlok screws are mechanical screw locks with trilobular threads

Move seat to upper back position.

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Move seat forwards and position flush with seat runners.

Unclip release tab (2) for belt end fitting trim (1) with plastic wedge.

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 72 11 2AZ .

Remove end fitting (2).

Installation note

Make sure end fitting (2) is correctly seated on seat mechanism pin.

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Lift out front seat.

Installation note

1. Carpet must not get between seat rails and floor panel in area of attachment points (squeaking noises)

1. Replace microencapsulated screws
2. Insert all screws loose to avoid twisting
3. Tighten down all screws to specified torque Tightening torque «52 10 1AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .

Press catch (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

52 14 050 Removing and installing or replacing lumbar cushion on front seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Scheme 189

Unlock quick connector and detach air hoses (1 and 2) from valve housing (3).

Note. Connections are coded against incorrect assembly.

Scheme 190

Detach lumbar cushion (1) from spring wire (2).

Installation

Attach lumbar cushion (1) to third and fifth wires from below.

Unclip air hoses (3) and (4) from holder.

Scheme 191

Press back support (1) a little.

Pull out lumbar cushion (2) towards top.

Feed air hoses out of backrest frame and spring wire.

Scheme 192

Installation

Check lumbar cushion at top (1) and bottom (2) for damage.

Air hoses (3) must not be kinked.

Scheme 193

Installation

Carry out FUNCTION CHECK .

Release clips (1) with diagonal cutting pliers.

Remove rear panel (2) downwards with a turning action.

Note. Remove remnants of clips.

Installation

Retaining hooks (1) and bore holes (2) on rear panel (3) must not be damaged.

Replace faulty clips.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat backrest

Unclip cable (2).

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

Cut through cable ties.

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

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).

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unclip cable.

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

Unfasten plug connection (2) and disconnect.

E81, E82, E88, E92 only

Unhook seat covers on left and right.

Unclip ball socket (1) from ball head on left and right.

Installation

Ball socket (1) must snap audibly into place.

Ball socket (1) must be able to move freely on ball head.

Actuate rear catch and remove guide for Bowden cable (2) towards rear with a turning motion.

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.

Replacement

1. Remove backrest cover . See «5215405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-405-replacing-backrest-cover) ; «5213405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (NORMAL/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-405-replacing-backrest-cover) or «5216405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover) with padding.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

A triggered head restraint can be recognized by the padded section which has moved upwards.

Unclip PLUG CONNECTION (1) for crash-active headrest from holder.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Lever out protective cap (1).

Detach omega clip (1).

Press latch mechanism (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove seat cover . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover) for front seat
2. Remove «BACKREST FRAME»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-030-removing-and-installingreplacing) on front seat
3. Remove «SEAT BELT TENSIONER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/airbag/#restraints-repair-e90__72-11-041-removing-and-installing)
4. Remove control unit for seat heating

Disconnect all cable ties.

Unlock plug housing (1) from flexmat and disconnect.

Release seat wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Replacement only

The seat mechanism is supplied complete with corresponding drive units.

52 14 040 Removing and installing/replacing outer cover on front left or right seat (normal/electric)

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove FRONT SEAT .

Note. Picture shows installed seat by way of example.

Move backrest to full rearward position.

Unclip release tab (2) for belt anchor fitting trim (1) with plastic wedge.

Release screw or catch (3).

Lever lugs (1) out of holders (2).

Scheme 194

Carefully pull cover (1) with carrier section (2) in front area off seat mechanism.

Press unlocking lug (3) with screwdriver and detach cover from carrier section.

Scheme 195

Raise lug (1) and unlock.

Reach between seat padding and cover (2) and pull cover off carrier section.

Scheme 196

Unlock and disconnect plug connections

1. Switch combination
2. Lumbar support
3. Backrest width adjustment

Scheme 197

Installation

Retaining clips and lugs of cover must not be damaged.

Scheme 198

Replacement only

Unlock catches of switch housing and remove switch from cover.

Scheme 199

52 16 058 Removing and installing/replacing valve housing for lumbar support (M3 sport seat)

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT BACKREST

Valve housing

1. for backrest width adjustment
2. for lumbar cushion

Color coding for left valve housing (1)

Connection assignment, bottom: Yellow air hose = air supply, left air cushion for backrest width adjustment.

Connection assignment, top: Brown air hose = air supply, right air cushion for backrest width adjustment.

Scheme 200

Color coding for right valve housing (2)

Connection assignment, bottom: Green air hose = air supply for upper lumbar cushion.

Connection assignment, top: Red air hose = air supply for lower lumbar cushion.

Unclip blue air hose for air supply from holder.

Unclip distributor (1) for air supply from backrest frame.

Scheme 201

Note. Picture shows removal of valve housing on left side. Removal on the right side is the same as on the left side.

Unclip valve housing (1) on left and remove towards right.

Scheme 202

Disconnect plug connection.

Disconnect quick connector (1).

Blue air hose = air supply from pump.

Note. If necessary, gently heat air hose when firmly seated.

Disconnect air hoses (2) and (3) from valve housing.

Observe color coding, depending on valve housing

Scheme 203

2 Brown or red air hose

3 Yellow or green air hose

Cut open cable tie (1).

Installation

Replace faulty cable ties.

Unfasten plug connection (3) and disconnect.

Feed lumbar support pump (2) out of backrest frame.

Scheme 204

52 16 050 Removing or installing/replacing lumbar cushion on front seat (M3 sport seat)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT BACKREST»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover in marked area.

Scheme 205

Unlock and detach quick connectors from red and green air hoses (1) and (2).

Installation

Connections are coded against incorrect installation.

Replacement only

Wrap air hose (green) in contact area with spring wire in fabric adhesive tape (risk of damage).

Scheme 206

Lift fleece tabs of lumbar support cushion carrier from plastic clips (1).

Installation

Hook lumbar support cushion over second and fourth wire.

Disengage springs (2) from spring wire.

Scheme 207

Feed out lumbar cushion carrier with lumbar cushion between backrest frame and spring wire.

Scheme 208

Installation

Check lumbar cushion at top (1) and bottom (2) for damage.

Check quick connectors (3) for damage.

Install air hoses without kinks.

Scheme 209

Installation

Carry out FUNCTION TEST .

52 16 055 Replacing an air cushion for backrest width adjustment (M3 sport pack) on left or right

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)
2. Partially remove «BACKREST COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover)

Color coding for air cushion, backrest width adjustment

1. Yellow air hose = air supply, left air cushion for backrest width adjustment
2. Brown air hose = air supply, right air cushion for backrest width adjustment

Unlock and detach quick connector from yellow or brown air hose (1) or (2).

Scheme 210

Unclip carrier for backrest width adjustment from backrest frame.

Feed carrier with air hose out of backrest frame.

Installation

Make sure the carrier for backrest width adjustment is fitted correctly on the backrest frame.

Install air hoses without kinks.

Scheme 211

Note. Carry out FUNCTION TEST .

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-replacing-guide-sleeves-for)

Version with seat heating only

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

Release wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Note. For the following tasks, be sure without fail to

1. Remove and install side airbag

Detach mounting strip (4) from flexmat.

Carefully pull airbag module (3) with threaded pins out of backrest frame and feed out between padding (1) and inner bag (2).

Set down airbag module (3) to one side.

Installation

Pull inner bag (1) fully over airbag module and threaded pins.

Feed in mounting strip (2) of inner bag (1) through backrest frame.

Insert threaded pins into backrest frame and secure with new nuts.

No inner bag material is permitted to project through the hole in the inner frame.

Install nuts and tighten down.

Tightening torques 72 12 02AZ .

Installation

Inner bag must be between airbag module and backrest frame!

Engage mounting strip (1) of inner bag in flexmat.

Position inner bag (2) smoothly over backrest frame.

Engage backrest cover (3) in backrest frame.

Pull off backrest cover (1) with padding sideways and towards top from backrest frame.

Release all retainers in marked area.

Remove backrest cover from padding.

Note. Remove all remnants of retainers from backrest cover and padding.

Installation

Bend new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim thread in padding
4. Trim wire in backrest cover
5. Back-rest cover

Replacement of backrest cover

Pull trim threads out of backrest cover.

Cut new backrest cover to size and insert trim threads.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

Note. Firing unit can only be removed in the triggered state. The complete crash-active head restraint must be replaced if the event of a head restraint fault signal and an untriggered firer.

Lever out cover welt in marked area.

Remove cover with padding from head restraint.

Unclip service flap.

Move firing unit (1) forwards and remove towards front.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Replace firing unit.

Installation note

Plug connection (1) must audibly snap into place.

Check firm engagement of plug

connection (1) by gently pulling on connector.

Lay cable in side guide.

Press locking spring (1) on left and right through opening and secure with cylindrical pins (or similar).

Head restraint is unlocked.

Clip firing unit (1) onto linkage (2).

Installation note

Check that firing unit (1) is firmly seated on linkage.

Press firing unit (1) forwards and clip into place.

Installation note

Visually check that firing unit is correctly seated.

Attach label for identification after replacement.

Clip service flap into place.

Necessary preliminary work

1. Remove front head restraint . See «5213390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing) or «5214392 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT CRASH-ACTIVE HEADREST (FROM 09/08)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Note. Guide sleeves cannot be removed without being damaged. Guide sleeves with pushbuttons have two retaining lugs.

Insert special tool 52 0 070 RELEASE HOOK into guide hole of sleeve (2) up to upper area of retaining lug.

Feed release tongue of special tool into gap on retaining lug (1).

Turn special tool to release sleeve (2) and pull out towards top.

If necessary, on guide sleeves with pushbuttons, unlock the second retaining lug with a screwdriver.

Installation note

Replace guide sleeves and install as follows

1. Guide sleeve with pushbutton (3) and two retaining lugs, left
2. Guide sleeve without pushbutton and one retaining lug, right

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing seat cover on left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) .

Operation is described in

Replacing BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT .

Operation for replacing the OC3 mat in conjunction with padding and seat cover is described in

1. Remove padding for front seat . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover)

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

Note. The function check on a repaired driver's or front passenger seat can be performed outside the vehicle by using adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) .

Scheme 212

Use

Adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) is connected to vehicle wiring harness (1) and removed seat (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «PADDING FOR FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover)

Cut all cable ties and disengage wiring harnesses from flexmat.

Disengage flexmat (1) at front.

Swing flexmat (1) down and disengage from seat frame.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)

Release screw (1).

Remove trim (2) from inside of seat.

52 15 057 Removing and installing/replacing valve housing for lumbar support/backrest width adjustment

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Remove valve housing in direction of arrow from backrest frame.

1. Valve housing for backrest width adjustment
2. Valve housing for lumbar support

Installation

Check valve housing for correct seating in backrest frame.

Scheme 213

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unlock quick connector and detach air hoses (3) and (4 and 5) from valve housing (2).

Valve unit for lumbar support

1. (3) Hose (black), lumbar drive
2. (4) Hose (blue), top lumbar cushion
3. (5) Hose (red), bottom lumbar cushion

Valve unit for backrest width adjustment

Scheme 214

1. (3) Hose (clear), lumbar drive
2. (4) Hose (clear), left lumbar cushion
3. (5) Hose (clear), right lumbar cushion

Note. Connections are coded against incorrect assembly.

Note. Carry out FUNCTION CHECK .

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing)
3. E90/E91 only from build date 09/08 and F25: Remove «CRASH-ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Installation note

1. Powerlok screws must be replaced and must not be reused
2. Powerlok screws are mechanical screw locks with trilobular threads

Move seat to upper back position.

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Move seat forwards and position flush with seat runners.

Unclip release tab (2) for belt end fitting trim (1) with plastic wedge.

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 72 11 2AZ .

Remove end fitting (2).

Installation note

Make sure end fitting (2) is correctly seated on seat mechanism pin.

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Lift out front seat.

Installation note

1. Carpet must not get between seat rails and floor panel in area of attachment points (squeaking noises)
2. Replace microencapsulated screws
3. Insert all screws loose to avoid twisting
4. Tighten down all screws to specified torque Tightening torque «52 10 1AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .

Press catch (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

52 15 055 Removing and installing or replacing lumbar cushion on front seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Unlock quick connector and detach air hoses (1 and 2) from valve housing (3).

Note. Connections are coded against incorrect assembly.

Detach lumbar cushion (1) from spring wire (2).

Installation

Attach lumbar cushion (1) to third and fifth wires from below.

Unclip air hoses (3) and (4) from holder.

Press back support (1) a little.

Pull out lumbar cushion (2) towards top.

Feed air hoses out of backrest frame and spring wire.

Installation

Check lumbar cushion at top (1) and bottom (2) for damage.

Air hoses (3) must not be kinked.

Installation

Carry out FUNCTION CHECK .

Release clips (1) with diagonal cutting pliers.

Remove rear panel (2) downwards with a turning action.

Note. Remove remnants of clips.

Installation

Retaining hooks (1) and bore holes (2) on rear panel (3) must not be damaged.

Replace faulty clips.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat backrest

Unclip cable (2).

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

Cut through cable ties.

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

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).

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unclip cable.

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

Unfasten plug connection (2) and disconnect.

E81, E82, E88, E92 only

Unhook seat covers on left and right.

Unclip ball socket (1) from ball head on left and right.

Installation

Ball socket (1) must snap audibly into place.

Ball socket (1) must be able to move freely on ball head.

Actuate rear catch and remove guide for Bowden cable (2) towards rear with a turning motion.

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.

Replacement

1. Remove backrest cover . See «5215405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-405-replacing-backrest-cover) ; «5213405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (NORMAL/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-405-replacing-backrest-cover) or «5216405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover) with padding.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

A triggered head restraint can be recognized by the padded section which has moved upwards.

Unclip PLUG CONNECTION (1) for crash-active headrest from holder.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Lever out protective cap (1).

Detach omega clip (1).

Press latch mechanism (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove seat cover . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover) for front seat
2. Remove «BACKREST FRAME»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-030-removing-and-installingreplacing) on front seat
3. Remove «SEAT BELT TENSIONER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/airbag/#restraints-repair-e90__72-11-041-removing-and-installing)
4. Remove control unit for seat heating

Disconnect all cable ties.

Unlock plug housing (1) from flexmat and disconnect.

Release seat wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Replacement only

The seat mechanism is supplied complete with corresponding drive units.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)

Note. Picture shows installed seat by way of example.

Raise lock (3) and lever out handle

1. for backrest angle adjustment and
2. for seat height adjustment with special tool 00 9 317 .

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 52 10 06AZ .

Note. Trim (2) is engaged in marked area.

Press lock (3) and pull trim (2) off seat mechanism.

If necessary, lever out carefully with special tool 00 9 317 .

If necessary, unlock plug connection (1) for backrest width adjustment and disconnect.

If necessary, unlock plug connection (2) for lumbar support and disconnect.

Replacement

If necessary, remove backrest width adjustment switch and lumbar support switch.

Installation

Make sure backrest width adjustment and lumbar support switches are correctly engaged.

52 15 403 Removing and installing/replacing thigh support cover on front seat (sport/manual)

Release thigh support (1) and move forward.

Lever welt of seat cover (2) out of thigh support.

Scheme 215

Lever out cover welt in marked area (1).

Disengage trim thread in marked area (2) from thigh support.

Remove cover with padding.

Scheme 216

Pull cover (1) off padding (2).

Scheme 217

52 15 060 Replacing an air cushion for left or right backrest width adjustment

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Note. Removal of the cushion on the left side is depicted; proceed in the same way for the right side. Air cushion must be completely drained.

Disconnect spring (1).

Lever out clips with plastic wedge.

Feed out air cushion (2) between spring wire and backrest frame.

Installation

Insert air cushion without kinks.

Check air cushion for damage.

Scheme 218

Unlock quick connector and detach air hoses (1 and 2) from valve housing (3).

If necessary, remove VALVE HOUSING .

Installation

Connections are coded against incorrect assembly.

Air hoses must not be kinked.

Scheme 219

Note. Carry out OPERATIONAL CHECK .

52 16 405 Replacing backrest cover for left or right front seat (M3 sport seat)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-replacing-guide-sleeves-for)
3. E90 only: Remove cover for release mechanism

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Disconnect cable tie (2) for seat heating.

Disengage wiring harness for seat heating from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Scheme 220

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

E90 only

Detach backrest cover in marked area.

Scheme 221

Padding is reinforced at corner points (1) and is guided under Bowden cable clip (2).

Installation

Engage reinforcement (1) in Bowden cable clip (2).

Scheme 222

Pull off backrest cover (1) with padding sideways and towards top from backrest frame (2).

Scheme 223

Loosen retainers (1).

Fold back welt (2) with backrest cover (3).

Scheme 224

Release all retainers in marked area.

Remove backrest cover (1) from padding.

Note. Remove all remnants of retainers from backrest cover and padding.

Scheme 225

Installation

Bend new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim wire in padding
4. Trim wire in backrest cover
5. Backrest cover

Replacement of backrest cover

Pull trim wires (1) out of backrest cover.

Cut new backrest cover to size and insert trim wires (1).

Scheme 226

52 15 405 Replacing backrest cover for left or right front seat (sport/manual)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «SIDE AIRBAG»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/airbag/#restraints-repair-e90__72-12-055-removing-and-installing) in front seat
3. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-replacing-guide-sleeves-for)

Version with seat heating only

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

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

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Pull backrest cover (1) off Velcro-type fastener on backrest frame.

Scheme 227

Pull off backrest cover (1) with padding sideways and towards top from backrest frame.

Scheme 228

Release all retainers in marked area.

Remove backrest cover from padding.

Note. Remove all remnants of retainers from backrest cover and padding.

Scheme 229

Installation

Bend new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim thread in support
4. Trim wire in backrest cover
5. Back-rest cover

Replacement of backrest cover

Pull trim threads out of backrest cover.

Cut new backrest cover to size and insert trim threads.

Scheme 230

52 15 451 Replacing backrest heating element for left or right sports seat

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing heating elements for left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-replacing-heating-element-for)

52 15 450 Replacing cushion heating element for left or right front seat

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing heating elements for left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-replacing-heating-element-for)

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

Note. Firing unit can only be removed in the triggered state. The complete crash-active head restraint must be replaced if the event of a head restraint fault signal and an untriggered firer.

Lever out cover welt in marked area.

Remove cover with padding from head restraint.

Unclip service flap.

Move firing unit (1) forwards and remove towards front.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Replace firing unit.

Installation note

Plug connection (1) must audibly snap into place.

Check firm engagement of plug connection (1) by gently pulling on connector.

Lay cable in side guide.

Press locking spring (1) on left and right through opening and secure with cylindrical pins (or similar).

Head restraint is unlocked.

Clip firing unit (1) onto linkage (2).

Installation note

Check that firing unit (1) is firmly seated on linkage.

Press firing unit (1) forwards and clip into place.

Installation note

Visually check that firing unit is correctly seated.

Attach label for identification after replacement.

Clip service flap into place.

Necessary preliminary work

1. Remove front head restraint . See «5213390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing) or «5214392 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT CRASH-ACTIVE HEADREST (FROM 09/08)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Note. Guide sleeves cannot be removed without being damaged. Guide sleeves with pushbuttons have two retaining lugs.

Insert special tool 52 0 070 RELEASE HOOK into guide hole of sleeve (2) up to upper area of retaining lug.

Feed release tongue of special tool into gap on retaining lug (1).

Turn special tool to release sleeve (2) and pull out towards top.

If necessary, on guide sleeves with pushbuttons, unlock the second retaining lug with a screwdriver.

Installation note

Replace guide sleeves and install as follows

1. Guide sleeve with pushbutton (3) and two retaining lugs, left
2. Guide sleeve without pushbutton and one retaining lug, right

52 15 452 Replacing heating element for left or right front seat (thigh support)

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing heating elements for left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-replacing-heating-element-for)

52 15 415 Replacing padding for left or right front seat (sport/manual)

Operation is described in

Replacing seat cover on left or right front seat . See 5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT) or 5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL) .

52 15 420 Replacing padding for left or right front seat backrest (sport/manual)

Operation is described in

Replacing backrest cover for left or right front seat . See 5215405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL) or 5216405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT) .

52 15 417 Replacing padding for left or right thigh support (sport/manual)

This operation is described in section on

Replacing THIGH SUPPORT COVER ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT .

52 16 400 Replacing seat cover for left or right front seat (M3 sport seat)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat
3. Remove «OUTER COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-040-removing-and-installingreplacing)
4. Remove «THIGH SUPPORT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-048-removing-and-installing)

When replacing seat cover

If seat cover is defective, seat cover and padding with OC3 mat must be replaced together.

New seat cover is supplied with padding, OC3 mat and if necessary seat heating.

When replacing padding or OC3 mat

If OC3 mat or padding is defective, both parts must be replaced together.

These must be fitted with the seat cover from the car.

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

Only when replacing OC3 mat with padding

OC3 mat (1) is secured on the left and right sides in the marked area with a longitudinal trim wire for transportation.

Carefully remove adhesive tape (2).

Scheme 231

Removing transportation lock

Carefully release retainers in marked area on left and right from longitudinal trim wires (1).

Scheme 232

Unlock retaining lugs (1).

Remove seat trim (2) downwards.

Installation

Seat trim (2) must not be damaged.

Scheme 233

Unlock plug connection (1) for seat heating and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

Release wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Scheme 234

Release screw (1).

Lever clip (2) out of seat cover on left and right.

Installation

If necessary, replace faulty clip.

Remove trim (3) from inside of seat.

Scheme 235

Detach seat cover (1) from seat frame.

Scheme 236

Lever welt (1) out of seat frame completely.

Remove seat cover with padding towards front/top.

Scheme 237

Version with seat heater and/or with seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

Release the corresponding plug connections depending on the version and disconnect.

Pull seat cover (1) with padding forward a little and feed wiring harness (2) out.

Remove seat cover (1) towards front/top.

Scheme 238

Note. The operation Replacing seat cover with OC3 mat ends here.

Release all retainers in marked area.

Scheme 239

Detach all retainers in side area from longitudinal wires (1).

Pull side trim wires (1) forward out of seat cover.

Carefully fold back seat cover and release retainers from cross-wire (2).

Remove seat cover from padding.

Scheme 240

Replacement only

Pull trim wires (1) out of seat cover.

Cut new seat cover to size and insert trim wires.

Scheme 241

Installation

Bend new retainers (2) closed with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim wire in padding
4. Trim wire in cover
5. Seat cover

Scheme 242

52 15 400 Replacing seat cover for left or right front seat (sport/manual)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat
3. Remove «OUTER COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-040-removing-and-installingreplacing)
4. Remove thigh support

US/CDN front passenger seat (with OC3 mat) only

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

Only when replacing OC3 mat with padding

OC3 mat (1) is secured on the left and right sides in the marked area with a longitudinal trim wire for transportation.

Carefully remove adhesive tape (2).

Removing transportation lock

Carefully release retainers in marked area on left and right from longitudinal trim wires (1).

Lever out clips (1).

Remove seat trim (2) downwards.

Installation

Replace faulty clips (1).

Seat trim (2) must not be damaged.

Scheme 243

Version with seat heating and/or with seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat) only

Unlock plug connection (1) for seat heating and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

Release wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Release screw (1).

Remove trim (2) from inside of seat.

Lever clip (1) out of seat cover on left and right.

Installation

If necessary, replace faulty clip.

Scheme 244

Detach seat cover (1) from seat frame.

Pull out cover welt (1) completely from seat frame (2).

Scheme 245

Remove seat cover (1) with padding towards front/top.

Scheme 246

Version with seat heating and/or with seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

Release the corresponding plug connections depending on the version and disconnect.

Pull seat cover (1) with padding forward a little and feed wiring harness (2) out.

Remove seat cover (1) with padding towards front/top.

Release all retainers in marked area.

Detach all retainers in side area from longitudinal wires.

Pull trim wires forward out of seat cover.

Carefully fold back seat cover and release retainers from cross-wires.

Remove seat cover from padding.

Scheme 247

Replacement only

Pull trim wires out of seat cover.

Cut new seat cover to size and insert trim wires.

Scheme 248

Installation

Bend new retainers (2) closed with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim wire in padding
4. Trim wire in cover
5. Seat cover

Release screws (1) of rockers for seat height adjustment.

Installation

Carefully bend side section back and feed rocker out of top rail.

Tilt front seat back.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unclip central connector (2) from seat mechanism.

Unclip control units (1).

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Bend metal tab (1) open.

Lift drive (1) and flex shaft (2) out of guide (4) in direction of arrow.

Detach drive (1) from rubber mounts (3).

Detach flex shaft (3) from drive (1).

Release screws (1) at front.

Installation

Install new drive for longitudinal seat adjustment.

Move front seat forwards.

Release screws (1) at rear.

Installation

1. Make sure flex shaft is correctly fitted on drive
2. Carpet must not get between seat rails and floor panel in area of attachment points (squeaking noises)
3. Powerlok screws must be replaced and must not be reused
4. Powerlok screws are mechanical screw locks with trilobular threads
5. Insert all screws loose to avoid twisting
6. Tighten down all screws to specified torque Tightening torque «52 10 1AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .

Note. The function check on a repaired driver's or front passenger seat can be performed outside the vehicle by using adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) .

Use

Adapter cable 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT) is connected to vehicle wiring harness (1) and removed seat (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove padding for front seat . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover)

Cut all cable ties and disengage wiring harnesses from flexmat.

Disengage flexmat (1) at front.

Swing flexmat (1) down and disengage from seat frame.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)

Release screw (1).

Remove trim (2) from inside of seat.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Remove valve housing in direction of arrow from backrest frame.

1. Valve housing for backrest width adjustment
2. Valve housing for lumbar support

Installation

Check valve housing for correct seating in backrest frame.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unlock quick connector and detach air hoses (3) and (4 and 5) from valve housing (2).

Valve unit for lumbar support

1. (3) Hose (black), lumbar drive
2. (4) Hose (blue), top lumbar cushion
3. (5) Hose (red), bottom lumbar cushion

Valve unit for backrest width adjustment

1. (3) Hose (clear), lumbar drive
2. (4) Hose (clear), left lumbar cushion
3. (5) Hose (clear), right lumbar cushion

Note. Connections are coded against incorrect assembly.

Note. Carry out FUNCTION CHECK .

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «OUTER COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-040-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Detach cable strap (1).

Unlock and disconnect plug connections (2) on servodrive.

Unscrew bolt (3).

Tightening torque 52 10 04AZ .

Unclip carrier in marked area and remove.

Installation

Replace cable strap.

Make sure carrier is correctly seated on seat mechanism.

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing)
3. E90/E91 only from build date 09/08 and F25: Remove «CRASH-ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Installation note

1. Powerlok screws must be replaced and must not be reused
2. Powerlok screws are mechanical screw locks with trilobular threads

Move seat to upper back position.

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Move seat forwards and position flush with seat runners.

Unclip release tab (2) for belt end fitting trim (1) with plastic wedge.

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 72 11 2AZ .

Remove end fitting (2).

Installation note

Make sure end fitting (2) is correctly seated on seat mechanism pin.

Release and dispose of screws (1).

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Lift out front seat.

Installation note

1. Carpet must not get between seat rails and floor panel in area of attachment points (squeaking noises)
2. Replace microencapsulated screws
3. Insert all screws loose to avoid twisting
4. Tighten down all screws to specified torque Tightening torque «52 10 1AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .

Press catch (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Unlock quick connector and detach air hoses (1 and 2) from valve housing (3).

Note. Connections are coded against incorrect assembly.

Detach lumbar cushion (1) from spring wire (2).

Installation

Attach lumbar cushion (1) to third and fifth wires from below.

Unclip air hoses (3) and (4) from holder.

Press back support (1) a little.

Pull out lumbar cushion (2) towards top.

Feed air hoses out of backrest frame and spring wire.

Installation

Check lumbar cushion at top (1) and bottom (2) for damage.

Air hoses (3) must not be kinked.

Installation

Carry out FUNCTION CHECK .

Release clips (1) with diagonal cutting pliers.

Remove rear panel (2) downwards with a turning action.

Note. Remove remnants of clips.

Installation

Retaining hooks (1) and bore holes (2) on rear panel (3) must not be damaged.

Replace faulty clips.

52 16 048 Removing and installing thigh support on left or right front seat (sport/electric)

Release thigh support (1) and move forward.

Lever welt (3) of seat cover (2) out of thigh support (1).

Scheme 249

Do not extend thigh support to its full extent.

Keep actuator (1) pressed in order to unlock centering element (2).

Carefully raise end stop (3) for thigh support with a screwdriver and at same time pull thigh support forwards out of guide rails.

View of thigh support mechanism

Scheme 250

1. End stop for thigh support
2. Locking mechanism for thigh support View of seat frame mechanism
3. Guide rail on seat with depth arrester
4. Guide rail on seat with end stop

Scheme 251

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Note. Check guide rails (2) and adjustment mechanism (3) for damage.

Scheme 252

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat backrest

Unclip cable (2).

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

Cut through cable ties.

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

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).

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unclip cable.

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

Unfasten plug connection (2) and disconnect.

E81, E82, E88, E92 only

Unhook seat covers on left and right.

Unclip ball socket (1) from ball head on left and right.

Installation

Ball socket (1) must snap audibly into place.

Ball socket (1) must be able to move freely on ball head.

Actuate rear catch and remove guide for Bowden cable (2) towards rear with a turning motion.

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.

Replacement

1. Remove backrest cover . See «5215405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-405-replacing-backrest-cover) ; «5213405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (NORMAL/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-405-replacing-backrest-cover) or «5216405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover) with padding.

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

A triggered head restraint can be recognized by the padded section which has moved upwards.

Unclip PLUG CONNECTION (1) for crash-active headrest from holder.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Lever out protective cap (1).

Detach omega clip (1).

Press latch mechanism (1) and lift out head restraint (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove seat cover . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover) for front seat
2. Remove «BACKREST FRAME»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-030-removing-and-installingreplacing) on front seat
3. Remove «SEAT BELT TENSIONER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/airbag/#restraints-repair-e90__72-11-041-removing-and-installing)
4. Remove control unit for seat heating

Disconnect all cable ties.

Unlock plug housing (1) from flexmat and disconnect.

Release seat wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Replacement only

The seat mechanism is supplied complete with corresponding drive units.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove FRONT SEAT .

Note. Picture shows installed seat by way of example.

Move backrest to full rearward position.

Unclip release tab (2) for belt anchor fitting trim (1) with plastic wedge.

Release screw or catch (3).

Lever lugs (1) out of holders (2).

Carefully pull cover (1) with carrier section (2) in front area off seat mechanism.

Press unlocking lug (3) with screwdriver and detach cover from carrier section.

Raise lug (1) and unlock.

Reach between seat padding and cover (2) and pull cover off carrier section.

Unlock and disconnect plug connections

1. Switch combination
2. Lumbar support
3. Backrest width adjustment

Installation

Retaining clips and lugs of cover must not be damaged.

Replacement only

Unlock catches of switch housing and remove switch from cover.

Release thigh support (1) and move forward.

Lever welt of seat cover (2) out of thigh support.

Lever out cover welt in marked area (1).

Disengage trim thread in marked area (2) from thigh support.

Remove cover with padding.

Pull cover (1) off padding (2).

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT BACKREST

Valve housing

1. for backrest width adjustment
2. for lumbar cushion

Color coding for left valve housing (1)

Connection assignment, bottom: Yellow air hose = air supply, left air cushion for backrest width adjustment.

Connection assignment, top: Brown air hose = air supply, right air cushion for backrest width adjustment.

Color coding for right valve housing (2)

Connection assignment, bottom: Green air hose = air supply for upper lumbar cushion.

Connection assignment, top: Red air hose = air supply for lower lumbar cushion.

Unclip blue air hose for air supply from holder.

Unclip distributor (1) for air supply from backrest frame.

Note. Picture shows removal of valve housing on left side. Removal on the right side is the same as on the left side.

Unclip valve housing (1) on left and remove towards right.

Disconnect plug connection.

Disconnect quick connector (1).

Blue air hose = air supply from pump.

Note. If necessary, gently heat air hose when firmly seated.

Disconnect air hoses (2) and (3) from valve housing.

Observe color coding, depending on valve housing

2 Brown or red air hose

3 Yellow or green air hose

Cut open cable tie (1).

Installation

Replace faulty cable ties.

Unfasten plug connection (3) and disconnect.

Feed lumbar support pump (2) out of backrest frame.

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT BACKREST»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)

Detach backrest cover in marked area.

Unlock and detach quick connectors from red and green air hoses (1) and (2).

Installation

Connections are coded against incorrect installation.

Replacement only

Wrap air hose (green) in contact area with spring wire in fabric adhesive tape (risk of damage).

Lift fleece tabs of lumbar support cushion carrier from plastic clips (1).

Installation

Hook lumbar support cushion over second and fourth wire.

Disengage springs (2) from spring wire.

Feed out lumbar cushion carrier with lumbar cushion between backrest frame and spring wire.

Installation

Check lumbar cushion at top (1) and bottom (2) for damage.

Check quick connectors (3) for damage.

Install air hoses without kinks.

Installation

Carry out FUNCTION TEST .

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR PANEL ON FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing)
2. Partially remove «BACKREST COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover)

Color coding for air cushion, backrest width adjustment

1. Yellow air hose = air supply, left air cushion for backrest width adjustment
2. Brown air hose = air supply, right air cushion for backrest width adjustment

Unlock and detach quick connector from yellow or brown air hose (1) or (2).

Unclip carrier for backrest width adjustment from backrest frame.

Feed carrier with air hose out of backrest frame.

Installation

Make sure the carrier for backrest width adjustment is fitted correctly on the backrest frame.

Install air hoses without kinks.

Note. Carry out FUNCTION TEST .

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-replacing-guide-sleeves-for)
3. E90 only: Remove cover for release mechanism

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Disconnect cable tie (2) for seat heating.

Disengage wiring harness for seat heating from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

E90 only

Detach backrest cover in marked area.

Padding is reinforced at corner points (1) and is guided under Bowden cable clip (2).

Installation

Engage reinforcement (1) in Bowden cable clip (2).

Pull off backrest cover (1) with padding sideways and towards top from backrest frame (2).

Loosen retainers (1).

Fold back welt (2) with backrest cover (3).

Release all retainers in marked area.

Remove backrest cover (1) from padding.

Note. Remove all remnants of retainers from backrest cover and padding.

Installation

Bend new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim wire in padding
4. Trim wire in backrest cover
5. Backrest cover

Replacement of backrest cover

Pull trim wires (1) out of backrest cover.

Cut new backrest cover to size and insert trim wires (1).

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «SIDE AIRBAG»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/airbag/#restraints-repair-e90__72-12-055-removing-and-installing) in front seat
3. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-replacing-guide-sleeves-for)

Version with seat heating only

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

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

Detach backrest cover (1) from backrest frame.

Pull backrest cover (1) off Velcro-type fastener on backrest frame.

Pull off backrest cover (1) with padding sideways and towards top from backrest frame.

Release all retainers in marked area.

Remove backrest cover from padding.

Note. Remove all remnants of retainers from backrest cover and padding.

Installation

Bend new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim thread in support
4. Trim wire in backrest cover
5. Back-rest cover

Replacement of backrest cover

Pull trim threads out of backrest cover.

Cut new backrest cover to size and insert trim threads.

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing heating elements for left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-replacing-heating-element-for)

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing heating elements for left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-replacing-heating-element-for)

Switch off the ignition!

Necessary preliminary work

1. Disconnect «BATTERY EARTH LEAD»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/door-locks-anti-theft-systems/#general-electrical-system-repair-e90__61-20-900-disconnecting-and-connecting)

Starting situation

Head restraint is in the crash position after being triggered.

Note. Firing unit can only be removed in the triggered state.

The complete crash-active head restraint must be replaced if the event of a head restraint fault signal and an untriggered firer.

Lever out cover welt in marked area.

Remove cover with padding from head restraint.

Unclip service flap.

Move firing unit (1) forwards and remove towards front.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Replace firing unit.

Installation note

Plug connection (1) must audibly snap into place.

Check firm engagement of plug connection (1) by gently pulling on connector.

Lay cable in side guide.

Press locking spring (1) on left and right through opening and secure with cylindrical pins (or similar).

Head restraint is unlocked.

Clip firing unit (1) onto linkage (2).

Installation note

Check that firing unit (1) is firmly seated on linkage.

Press firing unit (1) forwards and clip into place.

Installation note

Visually check that firing unit is correctly seated.

Attach label for identification after replacement.

Clip service flap into place.

Necessary preliminary work

1. Remove front head restraint . See «5213390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-390-removing-and-installing) or «5214392 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT CRASH-ACTIVE HEADREST (FROM 09/08)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-392-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Note. Guide sleeves cannot be removed without being damaged. Guide sleeves with pushbuttons have two retaining lugs.

Insert special tool 52 0 070 RELEASE HOOK into guide hole of sleeve (2) up to upper area of retaining lug.

Feed release tongue of special tool into gap on retaining lug (1).

Turn special tool to release sleeve (2) and pull out towards top.

If necessary, on guide sleeves with pushbuttons, unlock the second retaining lug with a screwdriver.

Installation note

Replace guide sleeves and install as follows

1. Guide sleeve with pushbutton (3) and two retaining lugs, left
2. Guide sleeve without pushbutton and one retaining lug, right

52 16... Replacing heating element for left or right front seat (M3 sport seat)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «SEAT FABRIC»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover)
2. Remove «BACKREST COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover)

Note. Side heating elements (side sections) are bonded with a foam section and cannot be separated from each other without causing damage. Foam section and heating elements must be replaced.

Check new foam section

1. No obvious damage or material defects
2. All trim wires present in foam
3. No bubbles in foam section
4. No dirt/contamination on foam or residual foam
5. Pay attention to foam section on left and right

Check new heating elements

1. No obvious damage or material defects
2. All tear-off film pieces presents
3. Note variant by examining label on cable

Stick on bead parts at top (1) and bottom (2)

1. Detach adhesive film from left or right bead parts in succession and stick on heating elements along bead part edges.
2. Press down evenly in outwards direction

Scheme 253

Stick on bead parts (1)

1. Detach adhesive film from left or right bead part (1) and stick on heating element along bead part edges.
2. Press down evenly in outwards direction

Scheme 254

Check laying of heating elements

1. Heating elements laid without folds
2. Heating elements correctly positioned
3. All bonding surfaces stuck on

Operation is described in

1. «Replacing heating elements for left or right front seat»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-replacing-heating-element-for)

Operation is described in

Replacing seat cover on left or right front seat . See 5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT) or 5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL) .

Operation is described in

Replacing backrest cover for left or right front seat . See 5215405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL) or 5216405 REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT) .

This operation is described in section on

Replacing THIGH SUPPORT COVER ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT .

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat
3. Remove «OUTER COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-14-040-removing-and-installingreplacing)
4. Remove «THIGH SUPPORT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-048-removing-and-installing)

When replacing seat cover

If seat cover is defective, seat cover and padding with OC3 mat must be replaced together.

New seat cover is supplied with padding, OC3 mat and if necessary seat heating.

When replacing padding or OC3 mat

If OC3 mat or padding is defective, both parts must be replaced together.

These must be fitted with the seat cover from the car.

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

Only when replacing OC3 mat with padding

OC3 mat (1) is secured on the left and right sides in the marked area with a longitudinal trim wire for transportation.

Carefully remove adhesive tape (2).

Removing transportation lock

Carefully release retainers in marked area on left and right from longitudinal trim wires (1).

Unlock retaining lugs (1).

Remove seat trim (2) downwards.

Installation

Seat trim (2) must not be damaged.

Unlock plug connection (1) for seat heating and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

Release wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Release screw (1).

Lever clip (2) out of seat cover on left and right.

Installation

If necessary, replace faulty clip.

Remove trim (3) from inside of seat.

Detach seat cover (1) from seat frame.

Lever welt (1) out of seat frame completely.

Remove seat cover with padding towards front/top.

Version with seat heater and/or with seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

Release the corresponding plug

connections depending on the version and disconnect.

Pull seat cover (1) with padding forward a little and feed wiring harness (2) out.

Remove seat cover (1) towards front/top.

Note. The operation Replacing seat cover with OC3 mat ends here.

Release all retainers in marked area.

Detach all retainers in side area from longitudinal wires (1).

Pull side trim wires (1) forward out of seat cover.

Carefully fold back seat cover and release retainers from cross-wire (2).

Remove seat cover from padding.

Replacement only

Pull trim wires (1) out of seat cover.

Cut new seat cover to size and insert trim wires.

Installation

Bend new retainers (2) closed with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim wire in padding
4. Trim wire in cover
5. Seat cover

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «FRONT SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-000-removing-and-installing)
2. Remove «REAR PANEL»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-198-removing-and-installing) on front seat
3. Remove «OUTER COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-13-040-removing-and-installingreplacing)
4. Remove thigh support

US/CDN front passenger seat (with OC3 mat) only

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

Removing transportation lock

Carefully release retainers in marked area on left and right from longitudinal trim wires (1).

Lever out clips (1).

Remove seat trim (2) downwards.

Installation

Replace faulty clips (1).

Seat trim (2) must not be damaged.

Version with seat heating and/or with seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat) only

Unlock plug connection (1) for seat heating and disconnect.

Disconnect cable straps.

Release wiring harness (2) from cable holders on seat mechanism.

Release screw (1).

Remove trim (2) from inside of seat.

Lever clip (1) out of seat cover on left and right.

Installation

If necessary, replace faulty clip.

Detach seat cover (1) from seat frame.

Pull out cover welt (1) completely from seat frame (2).

Remove seat cover (1) with padding towards front/top.

Version with seat heating and/or with seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

Release the corresponding plug connections depending on the version and disconnect.

Pull seat cover (1) with padding forward a little and feed wiring harness (2) out.

Remove seat cover (1) with padding towards front/top.

Release all retainers in marked area.

Detach all retainers in side area from longitudinal wires.

Pull trim wires forward out of seat cover.

Carefully fold back seat cover and release retainers from cross-wires.

Remove seat cover from padding.

Replacement only

Pull trim wires out of seat cover.

Cut new seat cover to size and insert trim wires.

Installation

Bend new retainers (2) closed with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim wire in padding
4. Trim wire in cover
5. Seat cover

Operation for replacing the OC3 mat in conjunction with padding and seat cover is described in

1. Remove padding for front seat . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover)

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

Release screws (1) of rockers for seat height adjustment.

Installation

Carefully bend side section back and feed rocker out of top rail.

Tilt front seat back.

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Unclip central connector (2) from seat mechanism.

Unclip control units (1).

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Bend metal tab (1) open.

Lift drive (1) and flex shaft (2) out of guide (4) in direction of arrow.

Detach drive (1) from rubber mounts (3).

Detach flex shaft (3) from drive (1).

Release screws (1) at front.

Installation

Install new drive for longitudinal seat adjustment.

Move front seat forwards.

Release screws (1) at rear.

Installation

1. Make sure flex shaft is correctly fitted on drive
2. Carpet must not get between seat rails and floor panel in area of attachment points (squeaking noises)
3. Powerlok screws must be replaced and must not be reused
4. Powerlok screws are mechanical screw locks with trilobular threads
5. Insert all screws loose to avoid twisting
6. Tighten down all screws to specified torque Tightening torque «52 10 1AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «SEAT FABRIC»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover)
2. Remove «BACKREST COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-405-replacing-backrest-cover)

Note. Side heating elements (side sections) are bonded with a foam section and cannot be separated from each other without causing damage. Foam section and heating elements must be replaced.

Check new foam section

1. No obvious damage or material defects
2. All trim wires present in foam
3. No bubbles in foam section
4. No dirt/contamination on foam or residual foam
5. Pay attention to foam section on left and right

Check new heating elements

1. No obvious damage or material defects
2. All tear-off film pieces presents
3. Note variant by examining label on cable

Stick on bead parts at top (1) and bottom (2)

1. Detach adhesive film from left or right bead parts in succession and stick on heating elements along bead part edges.
2. Press down evenly in outwards direction

Stick on bead parts (1)

1. Detach adhesive film from left or right bead part (1) and stick on heating element along bead part edges.
2. Press down evenly in outwards direction

Check laying of heating elements

1. Heating elements laid without folds
2. Heating elements correctly positioned
3. All bonding surfaces stuck on

Operation for replacing the OC3 mat in conjunction with padding and seat cover is described in

1. Remove padding for front seat . See «5216400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-16-400-replacing-seat-cover) or «5215400 REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-15-400-replacing-seat-cover)

Enabling seat occupancy detector (OC3 mat)

1. Connect BMW scan tool to program/encode.
2. Code airbag control unit
3. Clear fault memory if necessary

52 24... Emergency actuator for rear seat backrest

1. Release hook of backrest lock
2. Backrest

Scheme 255

Insert screwdriver for levering in snap-in hole of rear seat lock.

Press screwdriver to center of vehicle and in so doing press supporting point (1) of Bowden cable outwards.

Scheme 256

52 24 010 Removing and installing/replacing backrest

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-005-removing-and-installing)
2. Release «LOCK»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-emergency-actuator-for-rear) on backrest (emergency actuation)

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 52 24 01AZ .

Tilt backrest forwards and lift backrest with guides (2) out of partition wall.

Installation

Make sure guides (2) on left and right are correctly seated in partition wall.

Scheme 257

Remove head restraints . See 5224388 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE HEAD RESTRAINT or 5224390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT REAR HEAD RESTRAINT .

Cover door sill with protective cover (risk of damage).

Lift out backrest and feed out of seat belts.

52 24 030 Removing and installing complete center armrest for rear seat backrest

Open center armrest (1).

Note. Protect backrest cover to prevent it from getting dirty.

Release screw.

Remove center armrest (1).

Scheme 258

52 24 390 Removing and installing or replacing left or right rear head restraint

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «BACKREST»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-010-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Move head restraint (1) upwards to maximum extent.

Press lock (2) and pull out head restraint.

Scheme 259

52 26 390 Removing and installing or replacing left or right rear head restraint

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Unlock backrest and tilt forward

Move head restraint (1) upwards to maximum extent.

Press lock (2) and pull out head restraint.

52 24 005 Removing and installing or replacing rear seat

Unclip rear seat on left and right towards top.

Installation

Feed seat belt buckles (1) into openings in rear seat.

Lift out rear seat.

Scheme 260

52 24... Removing and installing/replacing all guide sleeves for rear head restraints

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove head restraint . See «5224388 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-388-removing-and-installingreplacing) or «5224390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT REAR HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-390-removing-and-installing) from rear seat

Note. Guide sleeves cannot be removed without being damaged. Guide sleeves with locks have two retaining lugs.

Insert special tool 52 0 070 RELEASE HOOK into guide hole of sleeve (2) up to upper area of retaining lug.

Feed release tongue of special tool into rear gap on retaining lug (1).

Turn tool to release sleeve (2) and pull out towards top.

On guide sleeves with locks, unlock the second retaining lug with a screwdriver.

52 24... Removing and installing/replacing cup holder in armrest for rear seat backrest

Open armrest.

Open cup holder.

Release screws (1) on left and right.

Remove complete cup holder towards front.

Scheme 261

52 24 311 Removing and installing/replacing lock for left or right rear seat backrest

Note. Perform EMERGENCY ACTUATION for rear seat backrest (1).

Unfasten screws (2).

Tightening torque 52 24 02AZ .

Scheme 262

REMOVE backrest and set down forwards.

Remove lock (1) completely from installation opening.

Scheme 263

Display bridge (1) can be pressed out of lock during emergency actuation.

Remove display bridge (1) from lock.

Display bridge (1) does not have to be reinstalled.

Scheme 264

Installation

Slide guide lug (1) of lock into opening (2).

Scheme 265

Adjusting lock

1. Slacken screws
2. Firmly push engaged backrest back
3. Tighten down screws

52 24 388 Removing and installing/replacing rear middle head restraint

Fold back head restraint (1) and move upwards to max. extent.

Press lock (2) and pull out head restraint.

Note. Middle head restraint partially very difficult to move. Cover upholstery and moisten guides with Teflon spray. Pull out head restraint in stages by movements on left/right

52 24 199 Removing and installing/replacing rear panel on left rear seat backrest

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «BACKREST FOR REAR SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-010-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Rear panel (1) on backrest.

Scheme 266

Detach rear panel (2) with flat scraper (1) from rear seat backrest.

Installation

Comply with instructions issued by manufacturer of universal spray adhesive.

Apply universal spray adhesive to rear panel and rear seat backrest.

Fit and align rear panel within the air drying time (see manufacturer's instructions).

Observe and adhere to curing time to prevent rear panels from slipping.

Scheme 267

52 24 408 Replacing backrest cover for rear seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «BACKREST»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-010-removing-and-installingreplacing)
2. If necessary, remove «CENTRE ARMREST»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-030-removing-and-installing)
3. Remove all «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-removing-and-installingreplacing-all)

Specification with center armrest

Unclip cover (1) towards front.

Installation

If necessary, replace faulty clips (2).

Scheme 268

Detach backrest cover (1) in marked area from backrest frame.

Scheme 269

Detach welt (1) from backrest cover in marked area from backrest frame.

Release all retainers in area of left and right guides.

Installation

Insert new clamp (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS and bend closed.

Remove backrest cover with padding from backrest frame.

Scheme 270

Detaching cover from upholstery

1. Release all retainers in marked area.
2. Remove cover from padding
3. Remove remaining retainers from cover and padding.

Scheme 271

Installation

Insert new clamp (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS and bend closed.

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim wire in padding
4. Trim wire in backrest cover
5. Backrest cover

Scheme 272

Replacing cover

1. Remove all trim wires from cover
2. If necessary, cut pockets in new cover for trim wires
3. Push trim wires into pockets

Scheme 273

52 24 450 Replacing padding for rear seat

This operation is described in section on

Replacing SEAT COVER FOR REAR SEAT .

52 24 400 Replacing seat cover for rear seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-005-removing-and-installing)

Unclip Isofix protective caps.

Installation

Make sure Isofix protective caps are correctly engaged.

Scheme 274

Lever out welt in area (1) with plastic wedge.

Unhook seat cover in area (2).

Scheme 275

Detaching cover and padding

1. Release all retainers in marked area.
2. Remove seat cover from padding.
3. Remove remaining retainers from cover and padding

Scheme 276

Installation

Insert new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS and bend closed.

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim thread in padding
4. Trim thread in seat cover
5. Seat cover

Replacing cover

1. Pull all trim wires out of seat cover
2. If necessary, cut in take-up for trim wires of new cover
3. Push trim wires into new seat cover

Scheme 277

1. Release hook of backrest lock
2. Backrest

Insert screwdriver for levering in snap-in hole of rear seat lock.

Press screwdriver to center of vehicle and in so doing press supporting point (1) of Bowden cable outwards.

52 26 030 Removing and installing complete center armrest for rear seat backrest (through-loading)

Unlock right backrest and tilt forwards.

Release screw.

Tightening torque 52 26 03AZ .

Open center armrest (1) and remove.

Scheme 278

Version "without skibag" only

Pull cover trim (1) at top edges in stages and unclip.

Installation

Clips may remain in the backrest frame and must be removed.

Replace faulty clips.

Scheme 279

Note. Forcefully pull top edge of cover trim (3) forwards and unclip upper retaining lug (1). Unclip the four retaining lugs (2) in succession.

Scheme 280

Pull cover trim (1) up and out of lower clips.

Installation

Make sure cover trim (1) is correctly inserted into lower clips.

If necessary, replace faulty clips.

Scheme 281

Note. Twist cover trim (1) out of lower retaining lug during removal. Cover trim (1) must be replaced if retaining lugs are faulty.

Scheme 282

Remove cover strip (1) from backrest frame.

Note. Cover strip (1) must be replaced if retaining lugs are faulty.

Scheme 283

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Unlock backrest and tilt forward

Move head restraint (1) upwards to maximum extent.

Press lock (2) and pull out head restraint.

52 26 303 Removing and installing/replacing actuator for left or right rear seat backrest (through-loading system)

Unclip Bowden cable (1).

Unfasten screws (2).

Unlock catch (3) to center of vehicle and at same time unclip actuator (4) towards bottom.

If necessary, unclip actuator (4) with special tool 00 9 317 .

Scheme 284

Installation

Catches (1) and (2) of actuator (3) must not be damaged.

Bowden cable (4) must be correctly engaged in actuator (3).

Scheme 285

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove head restraint . See «5224388 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-388-removing-and-installingreplacing) or «5224390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT REAR HEAD RESTRAINT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-390-removing-and-installing) from rear seat

Note. Guide sleeves cannot be removed without being damaged. Guide sleeves with locks have two retaining lugs.

Insert special tool 52 0 070 RELEASE HOOK into guide hole of sleeve (2) up to upper area of retaining lug.

Feed release tongue of special tool into rear gap on retaining lug (1).

Turn tool to release sleeve (2) and pull out towards top.

On guide sleeves with locks, unlock the second retaining lug with a screwdriver.

52 26 080 Removing and installing/replacing backrest frame for left rear seat

This operation is described in section on

1. Remove «BACKREST COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-411-replacing-left-backrest)

52 26 085 Removing and installing/replacing backrest frame for right rear seat

Operation is described in

1. Remove «BACKREST COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-412-replacing-right-backrest)

52 26 020 Removing and installing/replacing both backrests for rear seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «ARMREST SIDE SECTION»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-008-removing-and-installingreplacing)
2. Remove «REAR SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-005-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Note. A 2nd person is required to help remove and install the backrest.

Left backrest

1. Release screw (1). Tightening torque «52 26 01AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .
2. Lay belt (2) around center armrest
3. Fold backrest forwards slightly (3)
4. Pull backrest forwards and outwards out of center mount (4)

Scheme 286

Right backrest

1. Release screw (1). Tightening torque «52 26 01AZ»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-tightening-torques-e90) .
2. Fold backrest forwards slightly (2)
3. Pull backrest forwards and outwards out of center mount (3)

Scheme 287

52 26... Removing and installing/replacing cup holder in armrest for rear seat backrest

Open armrest.

Open cup holder.

Release screws (1) on left and right.

Remove complete cup holder towards front.

52 26 311 Removing and installing/replacing lock for left or right rear seat backrest (through-loading system)

Unlock rear seat backrest and fold down.

Note. In event of faulty unlocking, perform EMERGENCY OPENING .

Unclip Bowden cable from holders (1).

Unfasten screws (2).

Tightening torque 52 26 08AZ .

Scheme 288

Pull lock (1) out of installation opening slightly and unclip Bowden cable (2).

Remove lock completely from installation opening.

Installation

Catches (2) on lock must not be damaged.

Bowden cable must be correctly anchored in catches (2).

Scheme 289

Installation

Slide guide lug (1) of lock into opening (2).

Adjusting lock

1. Slacken screws
2. Firmly push engaged backrest back
3. Tighten down screws

Fold back head restraint (1) and move upwards to max. extent.

Press lock (2) and pull out head restraint.

Note. Middle head restraint partially very difficult to move.

Cover upholstery and moisten guides with Teflon spray.

Pull out head restraint in stages by movements on left/right

52 26 199 Removing and installing/replacing rear panel on left rear seat back

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR SEAT BACK»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-020-removing-and-installingreplacing)
2. Remove «COVER STRIP»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-030-removing-and-installing) or Remove «SKI BAG»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-removing-and-installingreplacing-ski)

Lever out welt of backrest cover with special tool 00 9 317 on all sides from backrest frame.

Scheme 290

Detach rear panel (2) with flat scraper (1) from rear seat back.

Installation

Comply with instructions issued by manufacturer of universal spray adhesive.

Apply universal spray adhesive to rear panel and rear seat back.

Fit and align rear panel within the air drying time (see manufacturer's instructions).

Observe and adhere to curing time to prevent rear panels from slipping.

52 26 200 Removing and installing/replacing rear panel on right rear seat back

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR SEAT BACK»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-020-removing-and-installingreplacing)

Lever backrest cover welt all round out of backrest frame using special tool 00 9 317 .

Scheme 291

Detach rear panel (2) with flat scraper (1) from rear seat back.

Installation

Comply with instructions issued by manufacturer of universal spray adhesive.

Apply universal spray adhesive to rear panel and rear seat back.

Fit and align rear panel within the air drying time (see manufacturer's instructions).

Observe and adhere to curing time to prevent rear panels from slipping.

52 26 005 Removing and installing/replacing rear seat (through-loading)

Unclip rear seat on left and right towards top.

Installation

Feed seat belt buckles (1) into openings in rear seat.

Release belt lock (1).

Feed middle rear lower belt fitting with belt lock out of rear seat.

Lift out rear seat.

Scheme 292

52 26 008 Removing and installing/replacing rest side section on left or right rear seat backrest

Unlock rear seat backrest and tilt forward.

Pull seat belt to middle and place over head restraint.

Pull top backrest side section forwards (1) and pull out towards top (2).

Scheme 293

If necessary, replace faulty clip (2) from backrest side section

Unlock catches (1) on left and right and detach clip (2) from side section (3).

Scheme 294

If necessary, replace faulty clip (1) from body

Pull clip (1) forwards out of body.

Scheme 295

Installation

Push guide (1) into mounting (2) and guide (3) into mounting (4).

Scheme 296

52 26... Removing and installing/replacing ski bag with casing on rear seat (through-loading system)

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «CENTRE ARMREST»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-030-removing-and-installing) or E82 only
2. filler element

Press ski bag (1) on rear side out of backrest.

Scheme 297

Lift off cover (1).

Unfasten screws (2).

Installation

Make sure cover is correctly installed.

Scheme 298

Unclip single opening trim (1) towards top.

Installation

Plastic clips must not be damaged.

If necessary, replace faulty trim.

Scheme 299

Remove C-module trim (1) in direction of arrow.

Scheme 300

51 23... Removing/installing ball sockets with clip

Disassembly/assembly

1. Push on retainer in direction of groove with screwdriver
2. Lift off ball socket from ball pin
3. Slide retainer back
4. Fit ball socket on ball stud and snap into place with force

Installation

Replace overstretched clips.

Pack grease into two opposite positions in socket. The grease spreads after installation on the ball pin all round in the ball socket.

Scheme 301

52 26 411 Replacing left backrest cover for rear seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove left «BACKREST COVER»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-020-removing-and-installingreplacing)
2. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-removing-and-installingreplacing-all)
3. Remove «SKI BAG WITH CASING»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-removing-and-installingreplacing-ski)

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 52 26 04AZ .

Remove outer mount (2).

Scheme 302

Lever out backrest cover all round with plastic wedge or screwdriver.

Lever cover with trim wires (1) out of metal claws (2) all round from ski bag opening.

Remove backrest cover with padding from carrier section.

Scheme 303

Detaching cover and padding

1. Release all retainers in marked area
2. Remove cover from padding
3. Remove remaining retainers from cover and padding

Installation

Insert new retainers with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

In so doing, enclose wire in padding and trim wire of cover.

Scheme 304

Only when replacing seat cover for E90 with build date up to 03/06

Pull liner off foam strip (1).

Stick on foam strip flush with top edge of padding.

Short protruding foam strip.

Scheme 305

Replacing cover

1. Remove all trim wires from cover
2. If necessary, cut pockets in new cover for trim wires
3. Push trim wires into cover pockets

Scheme 306

This operation is described in section on

Replacing SEAT COVER FOR REAR SEAT .

52 26 412 Replacing right backrest cover for rear seat

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove right «BACKREST»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-26-020-removing-and-installingreplacing)
2. Remove «GUIDE SLEEVES»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-removing-and-installingreplacing-all)

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 52 26 04AZ .

Remove outer mount (2).

Lever out backrest cover all round with special tool 00 9 317 or screwdriver.

Remove backrest cover with padding from carrier section.

Detaching cover and padding

1. Release all retainers in marked area
2. Remove cover from padding
3. Remove remaining retainers from cover and padding

Installation

Insert new retainers with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS .

Scheme 307

In so doing, enclose wire in padding and trim wire of cover.

Only when replacing seat cover for E90 with build date up to 03/06

Pull liner off foam strip (1).

Stick on foam strip flush with top edge of padding.

Short protruding foam strip.

Replacing cover

1. Remove all trim wires from cover
2. If necessary, cut pockets in new cover for trim wires
3. Push trim wires into cover pockets

Scheme 308

Necessary preliminary tasks

1. Remove «REAR SEAT»(/bmw/m3/e90-2007-2013/remont/seats/#seats-repair-e90__52-24-005-removing-and-installing)

Unclip Isofix protective caps.

Installation

Make sure Isofix protective caps are correctly engaged.

Lever out welt in area (1) with plastic wedge.

Unhook seat cover in area (2).

Detaching cover and padding

1. Release all retainers in marked area.
2. Remove seat cover from padding.
3. Remove remaining retainers from cover and padding

Installation

Insert new retainer (2) with special tool 52 0 050 PLIERS and bend closed.

1. Padding
2. Retainer
3. Trim thread in padding
4. Trim thread in seat cover
5. Seat cover

Replacing cover

1. Pull all trim wires out of seat cover
2. If necessary, cut in take-up for trim wires of new cover
3. Push trim wires into new seat cover

See also:
• 61 4 360 ADAPTER CABLE, 19-PIN (ELECTRIC SEAT)
• BATTERY EARTH LEAD
• 72 11 2AZ
• 52 10 1AZ
• SAFETY REGULATIONS
• PLUG CONNECTION
• SEAT BELT TENSIONER
• 52 0 050 PLIERS
• 52 0 070 RELEASE HOOK
• AIRBAG SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• SIDE AIRBAG
• REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)
• REPLACING SEAT COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)
• FRONT SEAT
• HEAD RESTRAINT
• CRASH-ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINT
• REAR PANEL
• REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (SPORT/MANUAL)
• REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (NORMAL/MANUAL)
• REPLACING BACKREST COVER FOR LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT (M3 SPORT SEAT)
• BACKREST FRAME
• GUIDE SLEEVES
• OUTER COVER
• FUNCTION CHECK
• VALVE HOUSING
• Replacing heating elements for left or right front seat
• THIGH SUPPORT COVER ON LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT SEAT
• THIGH SUPPORT
• OUTER COVER
• REAR SEAT
• LOCK
• 5224388 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE HEAD RESTRAINT
• 5224390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT REAR HEAD RESTRAINT
• BACKREST
• CENTRE ARMREST
• GUIDE SLEEVES
• SEAT COVER FOR REAR SEAT
• BACKREST COVER
• BACKREST COVER
• ARMREST SIDE SECTION
• REAR SEAT
• REAR SEAT BACK
• COVER STRIP
• SKI BAG