GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 1998 🢒 Grand Am 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Seats 🢒 Rear Split Folding Seat Back Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Important: The outer pivot supports of the folding rear seatback cushion and the rear seatback locks are important components of the split back panels. Do NOT attempt to service any components of the rear seatback lock. If the lock does not function properly, replace the entire split back panel.

  1. Remove the rear seat cushion. Refer to Rear Seat Cushion Replacement .
  2. Remove the seatback. Refer to Rear Seat Back Replacement .
  3. Place the rear seatback on a clean, dry and nonabrasive surface.
  4. Unzip the seatback cover at the bottom of the 1/3 or 2/3 split back panel in order to expose the retaining screws.
  5. Remove the screws and separate the panel from the folding rear seatback cushion frame.
  6. Remove the staples that secure the corners of the cover.
  7. Remove the seatback trim retainer.
  8. Remove the panel from the cover.
  9. Remove the rear seat strap.
  10. Separate the hook and the loop fasteners.
  11. Remove the folding seatback pad from the cover.

Installation Procedure
  1. Install the pad into the cover.
  2. Engage the hook and the loop fasteners by running your hand across the top of the cover.
  3. Install the rear seat strap.
  4. Position the panel into the cover. Pull the strap through the slip in the top of the outer corner of the cover.
  5. Install the trim retainer.
  6. If you are replacing the panel, transfer the seatback lock bumper to the upper hole in the lock of the new panel. The lock bumper is located just above the retainer.
  7. Securely staple the lower corners of the cover to the panel. Align the holes in the cover with the holes in the panel.
  8. Position the panel to the center pivot support of the seatback cushion while engaging the pivot pin of the outer pivot support to the frame.
  9. Install the screws. Tighten the screws securely.
  10. Zip the shut cover and tuck the zipper ends in behind the cover.
  11. Properly align the lock striker to the lock of the serviced panel. Refer to Seat Back Latch Striker Alignment - Rear Folding . Adjust as necessary.
  12. Install the rear seatback. Refer to Rear Seat Back Replacement .
  13. Install the rear seat cushion. Refer to Rear Seat Cushion Replacement .