How to Remove the Rear Seats of an Old Mercedes S500?
3 Answers
To recline the rear seats, first install the headrest and seat back covers, following the same method as the front seats. There are two white clips at the bottom of the rear seats. Reach in with your hand and try to pull them. If you find that the seat cannot be removed after lifting it, you will need to use a 10mm socket wrench. Remove the two backrests on the sides of the rear seats. Then, proceed to detach the seat.
I've disassembled quite a few old Mercedes-Benz S500 rear seats, and as an experienced mechanic, I find it pretty straightforward. Start with the seat backrest – usually there are small hooks or clips at the top. Press or pull downward to release the backrest so it can tilt forward. Then check the base area; there are several screws hidden beneath the carpet, positioned near the door frame and center console edge. Use a 10mm socket wrench to loosen them slowly. For older cars, the screws might be rusted in place, so spraying some WD-40 rust remover before turning helps. Wires connect to seat heating or ventilation functions, so gently disconnect the connectors to avoid damaging the wiring. Don’t forget to disconnect the car battery for 10 minutes beforehand to prevent airbag system malfunctions. The whole process takes about 20 minutes—handle with care to avoid cracking plastic parts by forcing them. After removal, clean any floor dirt and store the seats in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture and corrosion.
Last time I removed the rear seats from my 1990s S500 to replace the upholstery. The steps were straightforward: First, locate the seatback release lever or button (usually on the side) and gently pull to fold the backrest forward. Then lift the seat cushion, which is typically secured by four screws on the floor—these can be removed with a small screwdriver or a Torx wrench. There's usually a small electrical connector; disconnect it carefully without yanking. I recommend wearing gloves throughout to avoid cuts or dust allergies. Taking photos during the process helps with reassembly. There are plenty of DIY videos for classic Mercedes on YouTube worth checking. After removing the seats, it's a good opportunity to clean those hard-to-reach corners where dust accumulates and can trigger allergies. Take your time—the whole process should take about half an hour.
