This article briefly explains how to remove and install the bucket seats on the BMW e30 3 series.

Tools Required:
17mm socket, socket wrench, extension.
Hammer

Time:  40 minutes total.

Level: 2/10

On the driver's seat, you'll begin by disconnecting the seat belt warning sensor from underneath and in the center of the seat, and then sliding the seat all the way to the front position, and pressing down on the "raise and lower" lever on the side of the seat to raise it to the maximum height to expose the rear bolts.

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Remove both of these bolts with the 17mm socket.  Break them loose with a few solid whacks of the hammer.

Then you'll slide the seat all the way to the back position to expose the front bolts.

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You'll have to remove the plastic covers from them as a form of protection.  Use the 17mm socket once again on the one closest to you, and then use the extender on the bolt closest to the center of the car.  Remove the nut and washer.

The seat now comes out.

If you're replacing these seats with OEM factory seats, do the following.

From the old seat, you will see this bolt, which is directly opposit of the seat belt latch.

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Remove this bolt, and the bolt from the seat belt latch, and they will go on the new seat. ( if the new seat does not come with the seat belt latch or these bolts )

You'll want to look under the seat now here:

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You'll want to remove the connecting rod from underneath here - it connects the sliders so that they work together.

Remove the "L" shaped section first, that is inserted into a piece of plastic, which holds it in place - and do not break the plastic piece, it's fragile.  Then take the rod out from the opposite side, and install the same way on the new seat FIRST.

Once this is done, double check the bolts for the seat belt latch, and then put the new seat in, and then start with the front bolts first to bolt them down, then go to the rear.

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