
Steps to remove the headrest of the Envision: 1. Push the headrest to its highest position. It's best to recline the seat back slightly to prevent the headrest from being blocked by the roof; 2. Twist the small plastic tab at the bottom of the headrest (counterclockwise) and push it upward; 3. Press the surrounding seat leather downward until you can see the small metal hook on the headrest leg; 4. Use a tool to pry the hook outward while lifting the corresponding leg slightly to release it from the latch; 5. Repeat the same steps for the other headrest, then pull it out. The Envision is General Motors' global next-generation strategic model, featuring a front MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension.

















I remember struggling the first time I removed the Envision's headrest too. First, you need to keep the seatback completely upright, then forcefully raise the headrest to its highest position. Next, use both hands to simultaneously press the two small plastic buttons on the inner bottom of the headrest posts—you'll need to press firmly all the way down. At this point, don't let go; immediately brace your legs against the seatback for leverage, grab both sides of the headrest with your hands, and pull straight up sharply until you hear two distinct clicks—that's when it's successfully unlocked. I've tried pressing just one side—it simply doesn't work; you must apply equal force to both sides simultaneously. The rear headrest removal process is basically the same, though the tighter space requires more attention to your pulling posture. Reinstalling is much easier: just align the posts and push down until they click into place. It's recommended to do this outside the vehicle for better leverage.

The key to removing the Envision headrest lies in simultaneously pressing two hidden release buttons. First, adjust the seatback to a completely upright position and push the headrest to its highest point. Feel the base of the headrest posts with both hands - there's a square plastic button on each side. You must press both buttons down firmly with your thumbs and index fingers simultaneously (don't release) while pulling straight upward vertically. The crucial point is applying steady, perfectly vertical force - any tilting may cause jamming. Last time when I spilled coffee and needed to remove the headrest cover for cleaning, it got stuck because I didn't press both sides simultaneously. Later I discovered that older models have stiffer buttons - wrapping a key with cloth can help apply pressure. For rear seat removal, reclining the seat makes the operation easier.

My experience is to adjust the Envision headrest in three steps: First, straighten the seatback and raise the headrest to the top; second, use both hands to locate the recessed area at the inner base of the rods, then press firmly with both fingers simultaneously; third, immediately pull vertically upwards without hesitation. Using your legs to brace against the seatback for leverage can make it easier. The hardest part is finding the button position—it's inside the plastic sleeve where the rods meet the seat, requiring careful finger exploration. I've tried pressing only one side of the button, but the headrest would only lift a few centimeters before getting stuck. If you really can't press it, using a plastic card to assist is also an option. Note that when reinstalling, you should hear the sound of both spring clips resetting to ensure proper placement.

To remove the Envision headrest, locate the two locking tabs. First, adjust the seatback to a 90-degree position and raise the headrest to its highest point. Then, lean forward and look down to find the protruding release buttons on the inner sides of both headrest posts near the seat upholstery. Press these buttons firmly toward the seat with your thumbs until they click. While maintaining pressure, use a quick, forceful motion to pull the headrest straight upward. The key is synchronizing the thumb pressure and pulling action with sufficient force. Previous failures to remove it were due to inadequate pressure or releasing too soon. The same method applies to rear headrests, though limited space may require assistance to stabilize the headrest. Note: Newer Envision models have slightly lower button positions than older versions.

For those who frequently need to remove headrests for cleaning, here’s a recommended technique: First, power on the vehicle (no need to start the engine) and adjust the seat to its most upright position. When raising the headrest, listen for the motor sound to stop at the highest point. Then, wrap both hands around the headrest from the front, insert your index fingers into the gaps behind the headrest rods, and feel for two small tabs. Push both tabs forward simultaneously all the way and immediately lift upward. The key is to apply more force than you would normally use to press a plastic button—this is why many people fail. In summer, the plastic parts soften, making the operation easier. In winter, if it’s too cold, use a heat gun to warm the button area before trying. When removing rear headrests, opening the trunk can provide more working space.


