# Seat back release cables, replace.

Pull knobs off release handles by inserting a small screw driver between the knob and the plastic base. Long handle knob on outside of seat shown. Shorter knob on inside edge of passenger seat is removed with the same method. Some force is required. |
Remove handle trim by prying on lower end. Lower end is secured by a push pin, upper end is secured by a hook, you must pull the lower end away from seat, then pull the trim downwards to release. |
Passenger seat: Remove screw from inner lever and remove. |
Release back rest and lay forward. Remove screw from each lower corner of backrest cover |
Pull seat back cover away from base of seat back and up to release from clips at top of seat back. Pull inboard side away from seat back and remove over handle on outboard side of seat by turning seatback cover as you remove it.

Determine which cable is broken. If outboard cable is broken, it can be replaced without removing seat. Inboard cable requires seat be removed.
Unscrew plastic nut securing trim to hinge. |
There is a pin securing the trim (blue arrow), approximately 50mm above the pin for the plastic screw (green arrow). |
Insert a long screwdriver behind the trim in this area and pry outwards to release. |
Gently pry tab back on white plastic cable guide and remove guide from each hinge. |
Pry tab back on cable end far enough to clear end of pin and remove cable on each hinge assembly. |
Pry plastic grommet out of metal frame. |
Remove upper end of seat back release cable. Cable is held into handle with a "dog leg". Push the cable rod towards the seat padding until the "dog leg" comes through the hole in the handle. |
This photograph shows a view of the release mechanism as though looking through the cover and padding. Seat cover and padding have been removed to show the otherwise obscured side of the handle mechanism for seat back release. |
Thread old cable out of seat. |

### Installation:

Check that cable goes behind tab on hinge, to prevent fouling. |
Fit rear edge of side cover first. |
Ensure hinge section is in large cut out of sliding cover and cable is in small cutout. |
Hooks on back rest cover must engage frame. |
Screws for back rest cover must have load spreading washers fitted. |
Lever for inboard side of passenger seat must be inserted into slot in mechanism before installing screw. |

E30 M3 Repair Manual V2.7. Copyright ©1999-2001 Koala Motorsport & Brett Anderson