2024 BMW X7 Third Row Seat Actuator Design Change

BMW has released Service Information Bulletin SIB 52 10 25 concerning a design change for the electric actuator used in the third-row seats of the 2024 BMW X7 (G07 Sports Activity Vehicle). This bulletin addresses the necessary steps to ensure correct functionality after the new actuator design is installed.

The electric actuator for the third-row (3SR) seat has undergone a design and part number change, affecting vehicles produced as of March 28, 2025. Each third-row seat row contains two such actuators, one for the left seating position and one for the right.

Why This Matters

The new actuator's spindle driver "turns in the opposite direction from the previous design." This fundamental change requires a corresponding software update or change in the vehicle's programming. Without the correct software, the new actuator will not function as intended.

This design improvement aims to enhance safety by ensuring that seat back latches and headrests will release reliably, even under low voltage conditions. The improved actuator parts are compatible with all applicable vehicle model production dates, provided the installation is coupled with the correct software through a conversion procedure if required.

Affected Components and Part Numbers

The design change introduces new part numbers for the third-row seat electric actuator. It's crucial to use the correct part based on the vehicle's production date:

• Part Number 52 20 9 473 697: This actuator is for vehicles built prior to March 28, 2025. This part number will be discontinued once existing stock is depleted.
• Part Number 52 20 5 B6C 6A1: This is the new actuator for vehicles built after March 28, 2025. This part can also be retrofitted into vehicles built prior to March 28, 2025, but only in pairs and with the required ISTA/P conversion.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure for the 2024 BMW X7 third row seat actuator varies depending on the vehicle's production date relative to the design change date of March 28, 2025.

For vehicles built prior to March 28, 2025, when installing the new actuator (52 20 5 B6C 6A1), technicians must replace the headrest actuators in both the driver's and passenger's third-row seats simultaneously. Additionally, an ISTA/P conversion titled "Replace 3rd row actuator" must be performed. This conversion adds the code +AA3S into the Vehicle Order, which reverses the spindle drive direction to match the new actuator's operation.

For vehicles built after March 28, 2025, if an actuator needs replacement, only the defective side needs to be addressed. The part number 52 20 5 B6C 6A1 will be the only available part for these vehicles.

Detailed instructions for diagnosing third-row seats can be found in Service Information (SI) B52 09 20. Information on networked seats is described in Service Bulletin B52 23 19. The removal and installation of the drivetrain for backrest release are covered in Repair Procedure (REP) 67 31 645.

The ISTA/P conversion process is supported by specific test plan modules for the rear seat modules, including ABL-DIT_AT5220_GFAHANSV for the Driver Rear Seat Module and ABL-DIT_AT5220_GBFHANSV for the Passenger Rear Seat Module, applicable for ISTA version 4.52.1x and vehicles produced prior to April 2025.

Important Warnings

Owners should be aware that the new actuator's spindle driver "turns in the opposite direction from the previous design." Therefore, simply replacing the physical part without the necessary software update will not resolve the issue and could lead to incorrect operation of the third-row seat actuator. Ensure that any replacement includes the required ISTA/P conversion.

Warranty Information

This Service Information Bulletin provides technical and repair-related information. Repairs for a verified defect in materials or workmanship are generally covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. The BMW software update or conversion procedure, when required, is also covered under warranty or the BMW Certified Pre-Owned Program in conjunction with the primary repair.

---

Source: NHTSA ID 11022109