How to Remove the Seats of Buick GL8?
4 Answers
Steps to remove the seats of Buick GL8: 1. There are handles on both sides of the rear seats, near the windows; 2. Pull the handles, and the backrest of the rear seats can be folded forward; 3. Simply push the seat cushion towards the rear of the car and lift it up to remove it. The Buick GL8 is an MPV model under SAIC-GM Buick, with exterior dimensions of 5219mm in length, 1878mm in width, and 1799mm in height, and a wheelbase of 3088mm. This vehicle is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 174 kW and a maximum torque of 350 Nm, with a top speed of 195 km/h. It features a MacPherson independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
I've helped friends remove GL8 seats several times. The front power-adjustable ones are the trickiest - first unscrew the four large bolts under the feet using a 13mm socket with a breaker bar for leverage (don't pry the decorative covers or they'll crack). Most crucially: DISCONNECT POWER! Remove the battery negative terminal and wait 10 minutes, otherwise unplugging connectors live may fry modules - the seat wiring resembles a spider's nest. When unplugging connectors, locate the release tabs correctly (the purple one's for airbags - never yank it). For middle row tracks: push seats fully forward, remove plastic end caps to expose metal clips, then depress spring tabs with flathead screwdriver until hearing a click before lifting. Third row's easiest - lift trunk mat to access release handles on both sides. When reinstalling, loosely fit track bolts first, wiggle seats into position, then tighten for smoother alignment.
Last month, I disassembled the second-row captain seats in my GL8 by myself. First step: don't rush to remove screws. Push the seat all the way forward, and you can pry open the small square covers at both ends of the rails with your fingernails - there's hidden complexity inside. The rail latch mechanism is ingeniously designed, with a spring-loaded metal plate at the end. You'll need to insert a thin screwdriver at an angle and press downward until you hear a faint 'click' before sliding the seat backward off the rails. It takes two people to lift it - this thing is ridiculously heavy. Remember to disconnect the blue plug for the wiring harness underneath. Extra caution needed if you've installed wooden flooring, as the plastic clips are prone to breaking. When reinstalling, align the four positioning posts front and back, then press down until you hear the 'snap' indicating proper engagement. Finally, don't forget to securely reconnect the seat heating plug, or your backside will suffer in winter.
Third Row Removal Tips: Pry open the left side panel in the trunk, and you'll find a yellow strap hidden deep inside. Give it a firm pull, and the seat back will pop open with a 'bang'. Lift the seat cushion to reveal four screws, and use a 10mm socket to remove them. The plastic covers on the tracks have arrow markings—push them to the right to open. Remember to wear gloves when handling the seats, as the metal edges are particularly sharp. Before reassembly, make sure to clean out any sand or debris from the track grooves to prevent sticking during sliding.
