For some time, the plastic trim on the sides of the driver and passenger seats (the seat control surround piece) has rubbed and "squeaked" on the seats when the drivers or passengers weight shifted from side to side or getting in and out. Being the detail freak that I am, I figured out a way to cure it. Obviously, some wouldn't even bother.....BUT,

Take 100 Grit sandpaper and slide it in between the seat and plastic, rough side away from the leather and slide it all along the length of the piece to score the vertical edge of the plastic trim. This roughs up the contacting surface just enough to eliminate the squeak. Also, since it is on the vertical edge, you can't even see that it was done.

Voila! NO MORE SQUEAKY SEATS

Brilliant - if that works then it is indeed a Eureka moment.

How long ago did you do this, and how many miles have you now driven "squeak" free

Not many, since I only did it yesterday but having driven it a couple of times, there is no question. It is absolutely quiet. I actually removed the trim before sanding, but I don't think you have to, since the sandpaper will fit between the seat and plastic.

As a man for detail combined with proven long term test results I really look forward to your 1,000ml "rolling lab" field report. In the meantime may I say: "excellent work that man" & "keep us all posted on developments"

3 Days now and no squeaks... I'm starting to feel pretty good about it!

i stuck velcro strips (the soft side) to the leather where it comes against the plastic part so the seat doesn't stick to the plastic.
Been on for about 1 year now and no problems.

222 www.222photography.co.uk

1 week later.. no squeaks.

Now more than 1 month and several hundred miles. Still very quiet!

Looks like you two have found two different and excellent solutions - well done.

Q: how does the seat's black plastic side surround come off
Q: any tips on safe removal - I don't want to break anything doing this fix

There are two screws, one Phillips and one torx. One is just above the outboard seat track, on the front side of the seat and an the torx head is in roughly the same position behind the seat.

To access the front screw, just pull the plastic cover that is in the center of the seat (between your legs as you would sit in it). It takes a little pressure. Once you do, you can see the phillips head screw. To access the rear screw it helps to move the seat full forward. It is a little harder to see.


Again, I don't think it is necessary to remove the trim panels. If you push the seat cushion away from the trim, a piece of sandpaper will fit easily. Then, all you have to do is slide it back and forth from front to back, rough side against the plastic. If I were to start over, I wouldn't remove them.

Good luck!

Silicone lubricant (used for PVC Guttering) will also do the trick.

222 wrote:

i stuck velcro strips (the soft side) to the leather where it comes against the plastic part so the seat doesn't stick to the plastic.
Been on for about 1 year now and no problems.

222

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