Pleather Sests

I took my car seat out and was disappointed to see that the seat is now misshapen where the car seat fasteners went in. The outline of the bottom of the seat is also visible. Does anyone else have this problem?

We have two car seats and in my 335 (leather) they both left an impression on the base of the seat but not by the LATCH anchor. With the leather seats, I am able to get the impressions out with leather conditioner after letting the fabric warm (leave it in the sun or use a hair dryer). Our X3 (leatherette) is only a few weeks old and we've been using a towel underneath the seats so no problems yet. I bet you will be able to reshape the cushion but the leatherette seems less malleable. You may be able to pop it back out with your finger. Folding the seats down may provide better access.

Thanks. I was pretty frustrated as the dealer claims it's not a manufacturing issue though I've had that car seat in an Audi, Lexus, and Volvo without this happening. I was so frustrated I wanted to trade out for a model with leather but the SA says it happens in those as well. I don't see why BMW doesn't use better foam? I really love the way this car drives but these little details kill me.

Originally Posted by Jafeinst

Thanks. I was pretty frustrated as the dealer claims it's not a manufacturing issue though I've had that car seat in an Audi, Lexus, and Volvo without this happening. I was so frustrated I wanted to trade out for a model with leather but the SA says it happens in those as well. I don't see why BMW doesn't use better foam? I really love the way this car drives but these little details kill me.

I had a 2003 BMW 530 with leather seats that had permanent indentions from a car seat. My current 2011 X3 with leather has the indentions in the rear seat cushions from putting the seats back down. It just happens. No one other than you will ever notice the indentions.

Doug-
I hear what you're saying and admit that I'm the type who would be bothered by a small scratch no one else would notice. My point is that I have white latches exposed against black leatherette because a child seat warped my seat back cushion- just seems a little cheap as it wasn't a problem in 3 other comparable brands or even my wife's base company Ford Fusion.

Here's what the LATCH areas look like on my 2009 E90 335 (one cover is flipped up to show how it opens). I guess the plastic surround provides a little more protection but for those that will never use a car seat, it doesn't look as good as when they are hidden like in the F25.