Removing the headrest Škoda Kodiaq may be needed in a variety of situations: from banal cleaning of the interior to replacing covers or repairing a seat. Despite the apparent simplicity of the task, many owners encounter difficulties - jammed latches, hidden latches or fear of damaging the mechanism. In this article we will look at step-by-step dismantling algorithm, we’ll tell you about common mistakes and give practical advice that will save your time and nerves.

It is important to understand that the design of head restraints is Kodiaq (as on other models Volkswagen Group) has its own characteristics. For example, depending on the year of manufacture and equipment of the car, the fastenings may differ - in some places they are classic pins with buttons, and in others they are a system with automatic locking. We took into account all the nuances so that the instructions are suitable for all modifications first and second generation Kodiaq (2017–2026).

Preparing to Remove the Head Restraint: Tools and Precautions

Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have everything you need. In most cases no special tools required, but some devices can greatly facilitate the process:

  • 🔧 Flat head screwdriver (preferably with a thin tip) - for prying up decorative plugs or unlocking latches.
  • 🧴 Silicone grease (for example, WD-40 Specialist) - if the clamps have soured or are difficult to move.
  • 📸 Smartphone — to photograph the original position of the headrest (useful when reinstalling).
  • 🧤 Fabric gloves — will protect your hands from sharp edges and prevent slipping.

Pay special attention seat position. Before starting work:

  1. Move the seat as far back as possible to gain easy access to the anchors.
  2. Tilt the backrest forward (if the mechanism allows it) - this makes it easier to reach the lower clamps.
  3. Make sure the car is on a level surface and the handbrake is on.
⚠️ Attention! Do not use excessive force when removing the head restraint as this may damage the pillar guides or the plastic parts of the seat back. If something does not work, check whether the mechanism is blocked by accidentally pressing the adjustment button.
📊 Have you removed headrests in a car before?
  • Yes, repeatedly
  • Yes, but only on a different machine
  • No, this is my first experience
  • Tried it, but it didn't work

Headrest design Škoda Kodiaq: what's inside?

To understand how to properly remove the headrest, you need to understand its structure. On Kodiaq Two types of fastenings are used:

  1. Pin mount - the classic version, where the headrest is fixed by two metal rods inserted into the sockets of the seat back. There may be buttons on the top or side to unlock.
  2. System ISOFIX-compatible head restraints — found in models with the option Child Seat Preparation. Here the mounting is integrated with the child seat guides and removal requires special care.

Inside the seat back there are spring clipsthat hold the headrest pins. When you press a button (or lever), the latches open, allowing you to remove the headrest. However, over time, the mechanism can become dirty or corroded, making the process more difficult.

Mounting type Years of manufacture Features
Pin with button on top 2017–2020 The button is located on the top of the stand and requires pressing firmly.
Pin with side lever 2021–2026 The lever is located on the side of the stand, more convenient to use.
ISOFIX-compatible 2019–2026 (optional) Requires first disabling the child seat latches.

If your Kodiaq equipped electrically adjustable seats, before removing the headrest, be sure to turn off the power (remove the key from the ignition and close the doors). This will prevent the adjustment motors from accidentally operating, which could jam the mechanism.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the headrest on the front seat

Now let's move on to practice. Follow the algorithm below and you will finish it in 5-10 minutes:

  1. Locate the unlock button (or lever). It is located either on the top of the headrest pillar or on the side (depending on the year of manufacture). On 2021+ models, the button may be hidden under a decorative trim - carefully pry it off with a screwdriver.
  2. Press and hold the button, at the same time pull the headrest up. The movement should be smooth, without jerking. If the headrest does not budge, do not pull harder - check that the button is fully pressed.
  3. If the button is missing, try to pull the headrest up with force (sometimes the latches unlock automatically when resistance is overcome). On models with ISOFIX first disengage the child seat latches (the lever is usually located between the backrest and the seat cushion).
  4. After removal Inspect the pins for corrosion or contamination. If necessary, clean them with a soft cloth dampened in WD-40.

Move the seat back|Tilt the backrest forward|Check the position of the unlock button|Prepare tools (screwdriver, lubricant)|Take a photo of the starting position-->

On some Kodiaq (especially in top trim levels) head restraints are equipped heating or ventilation. In this case, when dismantling, pay attention to electrical connectors, which can be hidden under the casing. Don't pull on the wires - disconnect the connectors first!

⚠️ Attention! If, after removing the headrest, you notice that one of the pins is bent or has burrs, do not install it back without repair. This could damage the seatback rails and require costly repairs.
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If the unlock button does not press, try slightly rocking the headrest left and right - sometimes this helps to move the soured latches.

Typical problems and their solutions

Even if the instructions are followed, owners Škoda Kodiaq encounter difficulties. Let's look at the most common ones:

  • 🔒 The button is not pressed - The cause may be dirt or corrosion. Lubricate the mechanism WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes. If that doesn't help, try gently tapping the button with the wooden handle of a screwdriver.
  • 🔄 The headrest is stuck in an intermediate position - this happens if the latches are not fully unlocked. Pull the headrest up until it stops, then press the button again and try again.
  • ⚡ Heating/ventilation functions do not work after removal — check if the wires have come off the connectors. If the contacts are oxidized, clean them with an eraser or a special electronics fluid.
  • 🔧 Pins won't go back in - make sure you align them with the guides correctly (usually there are marks or protrusions on the pins). Don't force it - it's better to check the position again.

If the headrest still won't come off, the problem may be deformed guides inside the back. In this case, it is better to contact the service - independent repairs may worsen the situation.

What to do if the unlock button is broken?

If a button breaks off or sinks into the stand, don't panic. In most cases, the headrest can be removed by carefully prying the post with a thin screwdriver at the place where the clamp is attached (usually this can be seen by a small gap). The main thing is not to damage the plastic housing of the stand. After dismantling, replace the button (part number for Kodiaq — 5Q0 881 101 for the left headrest, 5Q0 881 102 for the right one).

Installing the headrest back: nuances and verification

Putting the headrest back in place seems easier than removing it, but there are pitfalls here too. Follow these guidelines:

  1. Align the pins with the guides - they should enter without effort. If you feel resistance, check to see if the posts are warped.
  2. Click until it clicks — the latches should click into place with a characteristic sound. If there is no click, pull the headrest up to make sure it is locked.
  3. Check the button operation — it should be pressed smoothly, without jamming. If the button is tight, lubricate the mechanism.
  4. For heated headrests — connect the connectors before installation so you don’t have to remove everything again.

After installation test the headrest:

  • Try adjusting it in height (if provided for by the design).
  • Check to see if there is any play in the guides.
  • If there is heating, turn it on and make sure that the heating is even.
⚠️ Attention! If, after installation, the headrest lowers spontaneously or does not lock in the desired position, this is a sign of wear on the spring clips. In this case, it is necessary to replace the fastening mechanism (part number for Kodiaq — 5Q0 881 201A).

When does a headrest need to be replaced: signs and references

Removing the headrest may not be an end in itself, but a necessary measure to replace it. Signs that it's time to update a part:

  • 💥 Cracks or chips on a plastic body - this is not only an aesthetic drawback, but also a potential danger in an accident.
  • 🔊 Creaks or knocks when moving - indicate wear and tear on internal mechanisms.
  • 🔥 Heating/ventilation does not work — if the problem is not in the wires, the headrest itself is to blame.
  • 🚗 Deformation after an accident - even if everything is intact on the outside, the internal structure could be damaged.

For Škoda Kodiaq (2017–2026) original headrests have the following part numbers:

Model Article (left/right) Notes
Standard (no heating) 5Q0 881 001B / 5Q0 881 002B Suitable for basic configurations.
Heated 5Q0 881 001C / 5Q0 881 002C Includes connectors for connection.
With ventilation 5Q0 881 001D / 5Q0 881 002D Requires checking for compatibility with the climate control system.

When purchasing non-original head restraints, pay attention to certification ECE R17 is a guarantee that the part meets safety standards. Average price of an original headrest for Kodiaq — from 8,000 to 15,000 rubles (depending on the configuration).

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If you are replacing the headrest due to a heating fault, check the fuse first F37 (10A) per block SCB - often the problem lies in it, and not in the part itself.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to remove the headrest without the release button?

Yes, but it requires caution. If the button is missing or broken, try:

  1. Pull the headrest up with force (sometimes the clamps are triggered by the load).
  2. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently press the internal retainer through the slot in the post.
  3. Contact the service if independent attempts are unsuccessful.

Do not use brute force as this may damage the seatback guides.

Why doesn't the headrest lock after installation?

There are several reasons:

  • The pins are not fully seated in the guides (check alignment).
  • Retainers are dirty or corroded (needs cleaning and lubrication).
  • The clamp springs are worn out (the mechanism needs to be replaced).

If the problem persists, inspect the guides for distortion.

Can the headrest be washed in a washing machine?

Absolutely not! This will lead to:

  • Deformation of the filler (usually polyurethane foam).
  • Damage to the plastic frame.
  • Short circuit if the headrest is heated.

Clean the case manually with a soft brush and soapy water, and the body with a damp cloth.

How to remove a headrest if it is stuck?

If the headrest cannot be removed due to corrosion or old grease:

  1. Treat the joints with penetrating lubricant (WD-40, Liqui Moly MoS2).
  2. Wait 15–20 minutes, then gently rock the headrest left and right.
  3. Try lightly tapping the posts with a wooden mallet.
  4. If this does not help, contact service - forced removal may damage the seat.
Do I need to remove the headrest to replace the covers?

Not always. Most cases for Kodiaq provide cut for headrest posts, so they can be put on without dismantling. However, if the covers are solid (for example, made of heated eco-leather), removing the headrest is necessary.

Tip: before purchasing covers, check with the seller whether the headrests need to be removed to install them.