04 M45 Seat Track Replacement

[julesva5]

So - sounds like a common problem based on searching the forums - but my drivers seat track kind of twists as it moves up and down. Once side moving faster than the other. I believe this is only solved by a new seat track.

Question:

Is that true - do I have to replace the entire track assembly?
Has anyone here done that and have advice on that one or how hard/how long it takes?

I'm fairly handy at that stuff so likely will do it myself, unless there's something seriously difficult about it.

Thanks all!!

Mark
04 M45

[Larz]

The trouble most posted here is when the driver seat breaks from the track and actually leans towards the console. That was fixed by re-welding the piece that broke from the rail and avoided buying a new one. Your situation seems different. Your seat is still attached to the rails but the rail itself is bent. A new seat rail will cost about $1,400 from infinitipartsonline .com. The dealer will sell you the same part but for much much more. If that seems outrageous, a complete seat will run you about $5,000.
Perhaps you can remove the seat and figure a way to heat and straighten the rail? Another idea would be to find a used seat or assembly at a junk yard, or even buy a used seat on places like Ebay and take the parts you need.
Perhaps other members have tackled this and will chime in.

[ProverbPsalms]

Something like this happened to my 06 M35x, I have a great cheap mechanic, he welded it and fixed it.

If your in the Toronto Area I can put you in touch with him

So - sounds like a common problem based on searching the forums - but my drivers seat track kind of twists as it moves up and down. Once side moving faster than the other. I believe this is only solved by a new seat track.

Question:

Is that true - do I have to replace the entire track assembly?
Has anyone here done that and have advice on that one or how hard/how long it takes?

I'm fairly handy at that stuff so likely will do it myself, unless there's something seriously difficult about it.

Thanks all!!

Mark
04 M45

[2004M45Tampa]

I have a new to me '04 M45 with the exact same issue - feels like a slow roller coaster ride once I get back far enough and then come forward again. I just got the car 2 weeks ago, great condition other than this seat. Hope it's not $1400 or so for a seat track...

[julesva5]

I ended up replacing the seat track - not an easy job, but very doable if you have patience and about 4 hours to spare.