Removing rear head restraints on a ŠKODA Octavia A7: instructions with nuances

Why remove rear head restraints and when is it necessary?

Rear head restraints in ŠKODA Octavia A7 (2013–2020) are an integral part of the passive safety system, but sometimes they have to be removed. Most often this is required when interior cleaning, replacing upholstery, repairing fasteners or installing child seats with the system ISOFIX. In some cases, head restraints are removed to transportation of oversized cargowhen you need to fold the rear seat as flat as possible.

The design of the head restraints Octavia A7 differs from previous generations: they use metal pins with plastic clips, rather than classic threaded connections. This simplifies dismantling, but requires knowledge of the nuances - for example, on models with heated seats, the headrest power connectors may be hidden under the upholstery. If you act “blindly”, it is easy to damage the wiring or latches.

In this article we will analyze three withdrawal methods (depending on the vehicle configuration), we will list the necessary tools and warn you about common mistakes. We’ll also answer the question why head restraints sometimes “jam” and how to avoid it.

What tools will you need: minimal and extended set

For basic removal of head restraints on Octavia A7 enough one screwdriver, but in some cases additional equipment will be required. Here's what might come in handy:

• 🔧 Flat head screwdriver (preferably with a thin tip) - for prying off plastic plugs.
• 🔨 10 mm socket wrench — if the head restraints are bolted (rare, but found in restyled versions 2017+).
• 🧲 Magnetic holder — so as not to lose small parts (fasteners, washers).
• 🔦 Flashlight or head light — lighting of the fastenings under the seat is often insufficient.
• 🧴 Silicone grease - if the headrest pins are “stuck” to the guides.

B 90% of cases A flat screwdriver will suffice, but if your Octavia A7 included Style or RS, you may need a socket wrench - these versions sometimes have reinforced fasteners. Also prepare soft clothto avoid scratching the plastic when removing the plugs.

Step-by-step instructions: removing headrests without damage

The dismantling process takes 5–15 minutes, if you know the sequence of actions. Let's consider a universal algorithm for Octavia A7 (including facelift 2017):

1. Lower the head restraint all the way. It should rest against the back of the seat - this will free access to the lower lock.
2. Find the plastic plug at the base of the headrest (it hides the release button). Use a screwdriver to pry it off from the side and remove it.
3. Press the release button (usually red or black) and at the same time pull the headrest up. If it does not give in, do not apply force, but check whether the button is fully pressed.
4. Repeat for the second pin. The headrest should come out of the guides without resistance.

If the headrest is stuck, do not yank it as this may break the plastic retainer. Instead:

• 🔄 Rock the headrest left and right to free the pins from possible corrosion.
• 💧 Apply silicone grease on the pins and wait 5-10 minutes.
• 🔧 If the lock button cannot be pressed, check to see if it is clogged with dirt (clean it with a toothpick).

⚠️ Attention: On models with electrically heated seats headrests can be wired. Before dismantling, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to avoid a short circuit!

Features of dismantling in different versions of Octavia A7

The design of head restraints varies depending on year of manufacture and configuration car. The table below shows the key differences:

Equipment/year	Mounting type	Features	Tools
Ambition (2013–2016)	Pins with plastic clips	Plugs without latches, easy to remove	Flat head screwdriver
Style (2017–2020)	Pins + additional bolt	The bolt is hidden under the backrest upholstery	10 mm socket wrench
RS (all years)	Reinforced pins with metal clasps	Requires more effort to remove	Screwdriver + silicone grease
Scout (2015–2020)	Pins + rubber dampers	Dampers may stick to guides	Flathead screwdriver + alcohol for cleaning

On Octavia A7 Scout and RS Often there is a problem of pins “sticking” due to moisture (for example, after washing the interior). In this case it will help penetrating lubricant WD-40, but you need to apply it carefully so as not to stain the upholstery. If the head restraints are equipped active safety system (found in top versions), be sure to turn off the power to the car before dismantling!

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing head restraints. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

• 🔧 Strength instead of technology. If the headrest does not come off, do not pull it with force - this can break the latch or bend the pins. Instead, check to see if the unlock button is pressed all the way down.
• 🔌 Ignoring wiring. In versions with heated or active head restraints (for example, Octavia A7 RS 2019+) there may be hidden connectors. Their breakage will lead to non-functioning electronics.
• 🧹 Loss of details. Small plugs and clips are easily lost. Use a magnetic tray or container for mounting.
• 🔄 Incorrect installation back. If you mix up the left and right headrests (on some models they are asymmetrical), they will dangle or not lock.

Another common problem is release button jamming. This occurs due to dust accumulation or liquid ingress. Solution:

1. Remove the plug and clean the mechanism with a toothpick.
2. Apply a drop silicone grease (not oils!).
3. Press the button several times to distribute the lubricant.

⚠️ Attention: On Octavia A7 with the system Canton (premium audio system) speakers can be built into the rear headrests. Before dismantling, turn off the radio to avoid damage to the acoustics!

How to remove head restraints if they are “stuck” to the guides

If the head restraints do not come off even after pressing the release button, the reason is usually one of three factors:

1. Corrosion — the pins have oxidized due to moisture.
2. Deformation — the guides are bent after an accident or careless dismantling.
3. Pollution — dirt or grains of sand have gotten into the mechanism.

Here step-by-step algorithm for “stuck” headrests:

1. Treat the pins with penetrating lubricant. (for example, WD-40 or Liqui Moly Rostloser). Wait 10–15 minutes.
2. Rock the headrest left and right while simultaneously pulling up. The amplitude of movements is no more than 1–2 cm.
3. If it doesn't help, remove the seat back (by unscrewing 2-4 bolts under the pillow) and get to the guides from below. Sometimes lightly tapping with a hammer through a soft pad helps.

As a last resort, you can use headrest remover (sold in auto stores for 300–500 rubles). It distributes force evenly and reduces the risk of breakage to a minimum. If the headrest still does not budge, do not use brute force - contact a service center where they use special equipment for “hot” dismantling (heating the guides with a hairdryer).

What to do if the latch breaks?

If the plastic retainer is cracked or broken, it can be replaced with a new one (part number for Octavia A7 - 5E0881161/5E0881162). The cost of the part is about 200–400 rubles. Installation takes 5 minutes: just insert the new lock into the groove and click it into place.

Installing head restraints back: nuances and verification

Putting head restraints back in place is easier than removing them, but there are pitfalls here too. Follow this instruction:

1. Align the pins with the guides. Make sure that the headrest is level - misalignment will lead to jamming.
2. Press down until you hear a click. The latch should click into place automatically. If there is no click, check if there is anything in the guides that is in the way.
3. Check the reliability of the fastening. Pull the headrest up - it should not come out of the grooves.
4. Install the plugs. They should fit snugly, without gaps.

After installation, be sure to:

• 🔍 Check symmetry headrests (they must be at the same level).
• 🎵 If your car has rear speakers, turn on some music and make sure the headrest speakers are working.
• 🔥 In heated versions, check the heating of the seats - sometimes the connectors come off during installation.

⚠️ Attention: On Octavia A7 with the system Side Assist (blind spot) sensors may be hidden in the rear head restraints. After installation, be sure to check the system operation through the menu MAXIDOT!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Octavia A7 rear headrests

Is it possible to drive without rear head restraints?

Technically yes, but this violates traffic rules (clause 7.7 “List of faults”), since head restraints are an element of the passive safety system. In addition, in the event of an accident, their absence can aggravate the injuries of passengers. If you remove head restraints to carry cargo, be sure to reinstall them before traveling with passengers.

Why doesn't the headrest lock after installation?

There are several reasons:

• The plastic retainer is worn out (needs replacement).
• Bent pins or guides (need to be straightened or replaced).
• Dirt in the mechanism (clean and lubricate).
• Headrest model mismatch (on Octavia A7 left and right may be different).

Try removing the headrest again and inspect the parts for damage.

How to remove the headrest if the release button is broken?

If the button breaks off, but the pins are not damaged, you can:

1. Pry off the remains of the button with a screwdriver and press on the internal mechanism.
2. Use pliers to squeeze the retainer inside the guide.
3. Remove the seat back and release the pins from below.

After dismantling, replace the retainer (see article number above).

Can headrests be washed in a washing machine?

No! This will lead to:

• Deformation of the filler (the headrest will lose its shape).
• Damage to plastic fastening parts.
• Corrosion of metal pins.

Clean them up manually using a soft brush, soapy water and a vacuum cleaner. Suitable for removing stains Vanish or Upholstery Cleaner.

Where to buy new headrests for Octavia A7?

Original headrests can be ordered:

• From an official dealer (price: 8,000–15,000 rubles per piece).
• On Exist.ru or Emex.ru (analogues from Hella or Valeo are cheaper - 3,000–6,000 rubles).
• On Avito or Drom.ru (used options from RUB 1,500).

Please check when purchasing Vehicle VIN or part number (for example, 5E0881101 for front head restraints).