What is the method for extending the rear seats of a BMW X1?
3 Answers
Reach under the seat cushion and forcefully lift the front part upward until the front buckle is released. This action needs to be performed once on both the left and right front sections. After lifting the front part, insert your left hand under the side, push the seat cushion toward the backrest with your right hand, and lift the rear part with your left hand to remove the seat cushion. Once the seat cushion is removed, you will see four fixing points on the floor. The front two are recessed and hidden, while the rear two are protruding hook structures. Simply replace it with a larger seat cushion.
Last time I modified the rear seat extension for my BMW X1 myself, and the result was quite good. The method was to first search online for a professional seat extension kit, and the brand recommended by the BMW modification forum was a good choice. Before purchasing, make sure it fits the 2020 model or your car's year. When removing the original seat, use a screwdriver to slowly unscrew the bolts—don’t force it to avoid damaging the interior. Then align and install the new rails or extension pads properly. After installing the pads, test-sit a few times to ensure they are stable and don’t wobble. During the modification, check that the seatbelt buckles still work and ensure the vents aren’t blocked. The whole process took me two afternoons. For beginners, I recommend watching YouTube tutorials or getting help to save time and avoid mistakes. DIY modifications save labor costs, but safety is the top priority—loose screws can easily lead to accidents.
As a mechanic who frequently works on BMWs, I've seen quite a few X1 rear seat extension modification cases. There are mainly two methods: directly replacing the seat unit or adding professional extension blocks. I recommend going to an authorized BMW dealership for this job—they use genuine parts, ensuring compatibility and safety. DIY modifications carry significant risks; improperly installed rails can lead to looseness or electrical failures, and may even affect airbag functionality. Professional installation costs range from 2,000 to 5,000 RMB, depending on the type of parts used. Always check the vehicle manual before making modifications to avoid illegal alterations. Purchase parts through official channels; aftermarket parts may be cheaper but are less durable. In short, leave this kind of work to the experts—it's faster and safer, and owners shouldn't risk safety to save a little money.
