Weird problem, help please.

Aileron

New member
I have a weird problem. My 4runner's drivers seat moves several inches left and right when you push on it while holding onto the headrest. The base is secure. I took it into the dealer and they confirmed I had a popped rivet in the seat and said that this is unusual. I'm 6'2" and 220 so not really that big of a guy. OK, no big deal right? The bad news is Toyota no longer sells the fix and you're forced to buy an entire new seat. The cost of the seat plus installation was a little over $900!

I was content to just live with. it However, my brother does legal work with Nissan, Honda and Subaru. He told me about instances where seats have collapsed when you're hit from the rear. He said not to chance it with a compromised seat. There are people who've been in these type of accidents, even slow speed, and are now quadriplegics due to their seats collapsing. With texting and all of the other driving distractions I decided I don't want to take the chance. So, I'm going to replace the seat. Problem is I don't want to spend that much money on my 4runner when it's not worth a lot to begin with. Does anyone have any ideas where to take something like this to get fixed? Or where I can find a matching seat in good condition?
 
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I also would hate to spend $900 on an uncomfortable seat just to get it back how it used to be. Have you thought about after market seats. There are companies that do make offroad/race inspired seats that still recline and have ajsustments for around $300+ and they would probably be more comfortable.
 
Just because Toyota does not sell the "fix kit" does not mean it connect be fixed. It's hard to believe that a rivet it used to secure a seat that is designed to withstand several times the force of gravity in the result of a crash.

I would pull the four bolts that hold the seat in and take a closer look yourself. If it's a rivet, it can probably be re-riveted, or upgraded with a bolt and nut.
 
I agree with the above post. If you pull the seat off and give it a look I bet you would get it fixed and probably make it more secure than it was before using some backyard ingenuity. But, if getting a new seat be it aftermarket or OEM provides peace of mind, do that. I'd also check with another respected/trusted shop and see what they say. They could have a cheaper but most of all safe solution.
 
I agree with the above post. If you pull the seat off and give it a look I bet you would get it fixed and probably make it more secure than it was before using some backyard ingenuity. But, if getting a new seat be it aftermarket or OEM provides peace of mind, do that. I'd also check with another respected/trusted shop and see what they say. They could have a cheaper but most of all safe solution.

Well said and nice avatar.
 

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