How to Fold Down the Rear Seats of a Santana?
3 Answers
The rear seats of the Santana cannot be folded down. The rear seats of this model are fixed with screws and can only be removed, not folded. Below is relevant knowledge about foldable rear seats: 1. Split-folding: Split-folding rear seats refer to seat backs that can be folded down in specific proportions. 2. Flexibility: Compared to folding the entire rear seat, split-folding offers greater flexibility, allowing only half of the seat back to be folded down for larger items while the remaining portion can still accommodate passengers. 3. Folding ratios: Common rear seat folding ratios include: 1/3, 2/3, and 1/2. 4. Full-row folding: Full-row folding refers to the rear seat back being a single unit. When transporting large items requiring more space, the entire rear seat back can be folded down to provide additional room.
Having driven a Santana for over a decade, folding down the rear seats is my old trick. At the top ends of the rear seatbacks, you'll usually spot a small pull loop or plastic handle—sometimes tucked in a corner. When pulling it, gently push the seatback forward with your other hand, and it obediently folds down. Both older and newer Santana models are pretty similar in this regard, with reliable mechanical design. I always do this when transporting bulky items like bicycles or moving boxes—instantly creates so much more space. Just remember to clear any items like cushions or tools from the seats beforehand to avoid scratching the interior upholstery. If it doesn't budge, don't force it; something might be stuck, so adjust with slightly more pressure. The whole process takes less than a minute—safe, convenient, and saves fuel by reducing extra trips.
As someone who enjoys DIY car repairs, I always like to study the mechanism when folding down the rear seats of my Santana. There's usually a metal lever or button on the side of the seat or under the backrest—just pull it to release. The internal mechanism is simple, using springs and latches for easy control. If it's an older Santana model, I recommend checking for any seat looseness first and applying gentle force to avoid damaging parts. After folding, you can add a cloth pad to prevent wear, and if left folded long-term, check the screws for tightness. This not only makes transporting items easier, like taking pets on trips, but also hones your maintenance skills. The key is to operate quickly, accurately, and steadily—no hesitation needed. It’s very satisfying for everyday use.
