How to properly remove the headrest on a ŠKODA Kodiaq: instructions with photos and videos

Removing head restraints ŠKODA Kodiaq may be needed in a variety of situations: from banal cleaning of the interior to replacing covers or repairing fasteners. At first glance, the task seems simple, but in practice, owners are often faced with jammed latches, hidden latches, or the risk of damaging the trim. This is especially true for models 2017–2026, where the fastener design differs from previous generations Skoda.

In this article we will look at step-by-step algorithm for removing headrests for front and rear seats, we will list the necessary tools, and also warn about typical errors that can lead to mechanism failure. We will pay special attention to the nuances for versions with electric seats and models in the configuration Style or Sportline, where fastenings may have additional elements.

What tools will you need?

In most cases, to remove head restraints on Kodiaq no specialized tool required. However, if the latches are soured or the seats are equipped with an electric drive, the following may come in handy:

• 🔧 Flat head screwdriver (for prying off decorative plugs on the rear seats).
• 🔨 Rubber mallet or a soft-faced hammer (if the mount is jammed).
• 🧴 WD-40 or equivalent (for processing corroded metal rods).
• 🔦 Flashlight (to inspect the fastening mechanism in dark areas).
• 🧤 Fabric gloves (will protect your hands from the sharp edges of metal rods).

For models with seat ventilation or position memory (optional Memory Package) may be required plastic spatulato carefully disconnect the electrical connectors without damaging them. In 90% of cases, they do without tools, but having them will save time if something doesn’t go according to plan.

Headrest design on the ŠKODA Kodiaq: what do you need to know?

Headrests on Kodiaq attached to the back of the seat using two metal rods, which are inserted into the socket guides. Fixation is carried out due to spring latches inside the back. Depending on the location of the seat (front/rear) and the year of manufacture of the car, the design may have nuances:

• 🚗 Front seats: the rods are thinner (diameter ~8 mm), the latches are activated when you press the button on the bottom of the headrest.
• 🪑 Rear seats: the rods are thicker (diameter ~10 mm), the lock button can be hidden under a plastic plug.
• ⚡ Electric models (optional Ergo Seat): Additionally, there may be heating or ventilation wires that need to be disconnected.

By car 2020 and newer in complete sets Sportline and L&K head restraints may have decorative overlays made of leather or Alcantara, which complicate access to the latches. It is also worth considering that the Kodiaq RS The rods are sometimes coated with an anti-corrosion compound, making them more difficult to remove without pre-treatment.

Model year	Seat type	Mounting features	Difficulty in dismantling
2017–2019	Front	Release button open, rods uncoated	⭐
2020–2022	Front	Decorative overlays on rods, corrosion is possible	⭐⭐
2023–2026	Rear	Plugs on clamps, thick rods	⭐⭐⭐
All years	Electrically driven	Additional connectors, risk of damage to wiring	⭐⭐⭐⭐

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

The algorithm for the front seats is the simplest, but there are pitfalls here too. Follow the instructions to avoid jamming the mechanism:

1. Lower the head restraint all the way down. Press and hold release button (located at the base of one of the rods).

2. Pull the headrest vertically up with a force of ~5–7 kg. If it doesn’t give in, don’t pull it - check whether the button is completely recessed.

3. If the headrest is stuck, treat the rods WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes. Please try again.

4. For models with position memory disconnect the power connector (located under the back trim).

On 2023 vehicles with option Heated & Ventilated Seats The headrest power connector can be hidden under a plastic cover - you need to carefully pry it off with a screwdriver.

⚠️ Attention: If, after removing the headrest, the release button remains in the recessed position, do not try to push it back with your fingers - this may break the spring. Push the headrest into place until the mechanism engages automatically.

Removing rear head restraints: difficulties and solutions

Rear head restraints Kodiaq are more difficult to remove due to thick rods and hidden fasteners. The main problem is plastic plugs, which cover the buttons. They need to be removed to gain access to the mechanism:

1. Pry up the plug with a flat-head screwdriver (it is located in the lower part of the backrest, under the headrest).

2. Press the hidden release button and pull the headrest up. If that doesn't work, try rocking it from side to side.

3. For the third row of seats (if you have one), you may need to first fold the second row down to gain access.

On models 2021 and newer The plugs can be glued - in this case it is easier to pry them off with a plastic spatula so as not to leave scratches. If the headrest still won't come off, check to see if it's blocking it. child seat or seat belt.

What to do if the headrest rod is bent?

If the rod is bent during dismantling, do not try to straighten it yourself - this may damage the integrity of the metal. Contact a service center where they will replace it (article number for front head restraints: 5E0 881 101/102, for the rear: 5E0 881 301/302).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing head restraints, which lead to breakdowns. Here are the most common of them:

• 🔥 Sudden movements: If you pull the headrest with force, you can break the plastic lock inside the backrest. Always pull smoothly!
• 🔧 Using metal tools for prying off the plugs - this leaves scratches. It is better to use a plastic spatula.
• 💦 Ignoring Corrosion: if the rods are rusty, they need to be processed WD-40 10–15 minutes before dismantling.
• ⚡ Forgetting to disconnect the connectors on electrically driven versions, which may result in a short circuit.

Another common problem is incorrect installation of the headrest back. If it is skewed, the latch will not latch and the headrest will dangle. To avoid this, insert the rods simultaneously and exactlyuntil you hear a click.

⚠️ Attention: On vehicles with the system Skoda Connect (optional Care Connect) incorrect removal of the head restraints can disrupt the settings of the shock sensors in the seats. After installation, check the operation of the airbags using a diagnostic scanner.

How do I remove a power or ventilated headrest?

If your Kodiaq equipped with seats heating, ventilation or position memory (options Ergo Seat, Climatronic Seat), the process becomes more complicated due to additional connectors. Here's what to do:

1. Remove the headrest using the standard method (see section above).

2. Carefully pry up the seat back trim at the base of the headrest - there is a hidden power connector (usually white or gray).

3. Disconnect the connector by pressing the latch. Don't pull the wires!

4. If the head restraint is equipped position sensors (for systems Skoda Drive Mode Select), take a photo of their location before disconnecting.

On models 2022–2026 The connectors can be secured with additional latches. To disconnect them, you will need to press the side buttons or move the lock to the side (depending on the wiring manufacturer).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing head restraints on ŠKODA Kodiaq

Is it possible to remove the headrest without tools?

Yes, in 90% of cases no tools are needed. The exception is if the latches are rusty or the headrest is equipped with an electric drive. For rear seats, you may need a screwdriver to remove the covers.

What should I do if the release button does not press?

Most likely, the mechanism is jammed due to dirt or corrosion. Handle the button WD-40, wait 10 minutes and try again. If this does not help, contact service - the locking spring may be broken.

How to remove the head restraint on the third row of seats?

First, fold down the second row of seats to gain access. Next, proceed as with the rear head restraints: remove the plugs, press the hidden button and pull up. On Kodiaq With 7 seats, the third row's latches are often tighter than those on the second.

Can removed headrests be washed in the washing machine?

No! This will damage the filler and metal rods. The best method is manual cleaning using interior foam or a steam generator. For leather headrests, use special conditioners.

Where can I buy spare clamps if the mechanism breaks?

Original clamps can be ordered by article number: 5E0 881 251A (front) and 5E0 881 252 (rear). Analogues from Febi or Meyle cheaper, but check compatibility with your year of manufacture.