2023-2024 BMW X7 Second Row Seat Flex Cable Issue

BMW has released Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 52 19 23, a revision to an earlier bulletin, to address a specific issue affecting the second row seats in certain 2023-2024 BMW X7 Sports Activity Vehicles. This bulletin provides updated procedures and information for technicians to diagnose and repair the problem, ensuring the proper function of the seat's movement.

This SIB 52 19 23 is particularly relevant for 7-passenger BMW X7 models equipped with the second row 60% / 40% split seat configuration.

Symptoms

Owners of affected vehicles may notice that their second row 60% / 40% split seat is unable to move forwards or backwards. This occurs because the flex cable assembly, which is crucial for the seat's travel, has become dislodged from its mechanism. The specific symptom reported is that "This stops the forwards and backwards travel of the seat."

Cause

The root cause of this issue is typically a mechanical obstruction that jams the seat movement. When the seat's path is blocked, the flex cable can pop loose from the seat rail mechanism. This mechanical interference then prevents the seat from adjusting its position.

Important Warnings

BMW explicitly states that damage or issues caused by external influences or foreign objects are not covered under the standard BMW limited warranties. It is important to note that if the seat is removed from the vehicle during the repair process, the seat mounting bolts must be replaced and torqued according to the specifications outlined in Service Bulletin B52 23 19.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the BMW X7 second row seat flex cable issue involves several steps, as detailed in SIB 52 19 23. Technicians are advised that the repair can often be performed with the seat still in the vehicle, though this may limit access. For better access and visibility, the seat coverings or even the entire seat may need to be removed. The bulletin references specific videos, BV52 06 24 Flex Cable Pops Out and BV52 07 24 Flex Cable Install, to guide technicians through the process.

First, technicians must locate and remove any foreign objects that might be jamming the seat. Next, the misalignment of the seat rails needs to be measured and corrected. The damaged flex cable assembly, not the entire seat rail, is then replaced. This involves carefully removing the inboard flex cable and its cover tube from the motor carrier tray. The motor for forward/backward adjustment (SLV motor) may need to be disengaged by releasing its spring clips, though for replacing a long flex cable, the motor can often be pivoted without full removal. If replacing a short flex cable, the motor may need to be removed.

After removing the motor retainer/cover, the new inboard flex cable and cover tube are reinstalled into the motor carrier clips. The flex cable is then inserted into the motor, and the motor is loosely reseated into its tray. The flex cable must be properly seated into the rail gearbox by moving it in the inboard direction. Finally, the outboard flex cable is connected to the motor, and the flex shaft is fully inserted and secured into its plastic clips. The motor is then resecured with its plastic cover piece, ensuring all spring clips are engaged. The repair concludes with multiple tests of the seat's operation, moving it fully forwards and backwards to confirm correct installation and engagement of the flex cables in the rail gearboxes.

Required Parts

The following parts may be required for this repair, depending on the specific seat configuration:

• 52 20 5 A9C 054: Kit flexible shafts (40% seat passenger rear) - 1 if needed
• 52 20 5 A9C 055: Kit flexible shafts (60% seat driver's rear) - 1 if needed
• 07 14 7424979: (Seat mounting) Hexagon screw with flange - 4 if needed

Owner Action

If you own a 2023-2024 BMW X7 and are experiencing issues with your second row seat not moving, it is recommended to contact your authorized BMW dealer. They can diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs as outlined in SIB 52 19 23. Since this is a service bulletin, the repair is typically covered under warranty if the issue is not caused by external damage or foreign objects.

NHTSA ID: 11012090