C5 2008 Exclusive front seat dismantling

[dutchfred]

I am trying to to get the rear panel off my front seat in my 2008 C5 executive to have a look at the massager motors which do not seem to be working. I have got the top bit off, but can't manage to find the side attachment clips and how to loosen them.
Do I need special tools?
Hope someone can help ?

[GiveMeABreak]

It's a big operation as the seat has to come out and multiple trim fixings need removing from the sides and underneath before you can get to the back. Expect to have to replace trim as they will likely snap on removal.

[dutchfred]

Thank you Marc,
Do you have any diagrams or instructions I can follow?
Otherwise I'll probably leave it alone.

[GiveMeABreak]

I would leave it personally as you are likely to cause peripheral damage. The complete lumbar component alone costs £1,049, if it is the motor, plus any replacement trim that gets broken trying to remove it.

Either that or try and find a complete identical replacement seat that works. Be wary of seat airbags and wiring, so disconnecting the battery following the BSI Reset / Battery Disconnect / Reconnect Procedure before any attempt is essential and leaving the vehicle for 10 minutes after disconnection.

[dutchfred]

I'll take your advice and leave it alone, but am disappointed that what should be a dead easy procedure has been made so complicated by Citroen!

[GiveMeABreak]

Yes, these seats are full of bits and owners with failed heated seat cushions also had this issue. They don't provide replacement heat pads in parts, and the leather seats are bonded in some places making it harder still.