GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

The front seat back recliner mechanism mounts to the inboard side of the seat. The outboard hinge bolts to the seat back and the seat bottom.

  1. Remove the front seat from the vehicle. Refer to Bench Seat Replacement .
  2. Release the seat cushion cover in order to access the bolts retaining the hinge or the recliner mechanism to the seat cushion frame. Refer to Seat Cushion Trim Cover and Pad Replacement .
  3. Release the seat back cover and lift enough to access the bolts retaining the hinge or the recliner mechanism to the seat cushion frame. Refer to Bench Seat Replacement .
  4. Remove the bolts retaining the hinge/recliner mechanism to the seat back frame.
  5. Remove the bolts retaining the hinge/recliner mechanism to the seat cushion frame.
  6. Remove the hinge/recliner mechanism from the seat assembly.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the hinge/recliner mechanism to the seat assembly.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the bolts to retain the hinge/recliner mechanism to the seat back frame.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to retain the hinge/recliner mechanism to the front seat back frame to 35 N·m (26 lb  ft).

  5. Install the bolts to retain the hinge/recliner mechanism to the seat cushion frame.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to retain the hinge/recliner mechanism to the seat cushion frame to 35 N·m (26 lb ft).

  7. Install the front seat back cover. Refer to Front Seat Back Cushion Cover and Cushion Pad Replacement .
  8. Install the front seat cushion cover. Refer to Seat Cushion Trim Cover and Pad Replacement .
  9. Install the front seat to the vehicle. Refer to Bench Seat Replacement .