Interior - Seat Back Creaking/Lumbar Support Inoperative
72 08 03Oct. 2, 2008
2016593
Vehicle Information
Condition
Seat Backrest, Creaking Noises / Lumbar Support Adjustment Inoperative
One or more of the following symptoms may occur with front seating:
1. Backrest creaks when stationary or with load change when driving.
2. Lumbar support does not work.
3. Noises (seat foam crackling/creaking) with load changes from head restraint mountings.
Technical Background
Figure 1:
Inspect or repair seat areas for conditions listed above.
1. Lumbar support -1- cross wire carrier mounting becomes detached from lumbar support.
2. Noises caused by relative movement with load change between backrest frame and seat foam.
Production Solution
Tip:
GTI vehicles do not required modification to head restraint system and therefore no production solution for crackling/creaking type noises.
Service
1. Inspect lumbar carrier and repair as necessary, If unable to repair lumber carrier, replace it.
2. Lubricate head restraint mountings with 3M(TM) Silicone Lubricant (dry type) Part No. 08997 (obtained locally).
Inspection
^ Duplicate crackling/creaking noises by pressing lightly on seat lumbar support area.
^ Ensure lumbar support operates properly.
Figure 2:
If lumbar support makes noise or does not operate properly:
^ Remove front backrest cover and backrest cushion, see Repair Manual Group 72 Seat Frames in ElsaWeb.
^ Inspect lumbar carrier (2) to see if it has moved on cross wire (1). If possible, reposition it to its correct position (dotted line).
Figure 3:
^ Inspect lumbar carrier to see if it has become detached from lumbar support mounting points (arrows), If possible, reposition and reattach.
NOTE:
Replace lumbar carrier if damaged, see Repair Manual Group 72 Seat Frames in ElsaWeb.
^ Install front backrest cushion and backrest cover, see Repair Manual Group 72 Seat Frames in ElsaWeb.
Figure 4:
^ Press down on upper backrest cushion(s) and lubricate mounting supports of all head rest brackets see figure 4, arrows) with 3M(TM) Silicone Lubricant (dry type) Part No. 08897 (obtained locally).
NOTE:
Do not use sprays containing silicone on or near engines with a Mass Air Flow sensor or oxygen sensors.
Sealants or liquid gaskets containing silicone should be cured prior to starting and running the vehicle's engine.
Always read the ingredients of the material you are using.
^ Ensure effectiveness of repairs for both conditions.
Part 1:
Part 2:
Warranty
Required Parts and Tools
No special tools required.
Additional Information
All part and service references provided in this Technical Bulletin are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Dept. and Repair Manuals for the latest information.