TorqFix

Removing and installing Bowden cable for backrest release mechanism — AUDI

Removing and installing Bowden cable for backrest release mechanism on Audi: 17 steps. What to remove, in what order, and what to check after.

Workshop procedure for AUDI — the exact step sequence and torque figures, straight from real workshop data.

17 steps

🧭 Before you start

Fits: Audi A1 (8X, 2010–2018)

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  • It is not necessary to remove the spring mat or lumbar support when removing and installing the Bowden cables.
  • Use a water-proof felt-tip pen to make mark (arrow B) on outer backrest frame (1) directly at front edge (arrow A) of fitting (5).
  • Make sure electrical connectors are fitted correctly (as far as stop) and engage audibly.
  • If the airbag warning lamp K75 indicates a fault following installation, you must interrogate, erase and then re-interrogate the event memory .

📋 Procedure

  1. ⚠ Observe safety regulations for pyrotechnic components .Before handling pyrotechnic components (e.g. unplugging the electrical connector) the mechanic must discharge any static electricity. This can be done by briefly touching the door striker plate, or similar. — With ignition switched off, disconnect battery earth wire Electrical system27Battery; Disconnecting and connecting battery.
  2. Remove front seat .
  3. Attach front seat to seat repair standVAS 6136.
  4. Move backrest cover clear in vicinity of Bowden cables . [Note: It is not necessary to remove the spring mat or lumbar support when removing and installing the Bowden cables.]
  5. Mark angular position of backrest fittings (left and right) on front seat as follows:
AUDI? Steps differ between engine variants — check this job against your exact car before you commit to it. Check my car — free →
  1. Use a water-proof felt-tip pen to make mark (arrow B) on outer backrest frame (1) directly at front edge (arrow A) of fitting (5).
  2. Using a screwdriver, prise off clamping washer (3) and corrugated washer behind it on shaft (4).
  3. Detach adapter (2) for backrest adjuster knob from shaft.
  4. Pull shaft (4) as far as possible out of outer backrest frame.
  5. Release retaining tabs (1 and 2) with a screwdriver and unclip support bracket (3) for Bowden cable on both sides of outer backrest frame.
  6. Disengage Bowden cable (5) from backrest fitting on both sides.
  7. Unclip support bracket (2) from outer backrest frame.
  8. Disengage Bowden cable hook (3) at lever (1).
  9. Disengage Bowden cable at spring mat or lumbar support (arrow) and remove from outer backrest frame. [Note: Make sure electrical connectors are fitted correctly (as far as stop) and engage audibly.]
  10. ⚠ Observe safety regulations for pyrotechnic components .Before handling pyrotechnic components (e.g. plugging in the electrical connector) the mechanic must discharge any static electricity. This can be done by briefly touching the door striker plate, or similar. — Engage Bowden cable at spring mat/lumbar support and secure with cable tie.
  11. Check locking function of Bowden cable for backrest release mechanism.
  12. ⚠ The battery must be connected with the ignition switched on. If pyrotechnic components (e.g. airbag or belt tensioner) are inexpertly repaired, this may result in unwanted triggering after connecting the battery. There must not be anyone in the vehicle while you are connecting the battery. — With ignition switched on, connect battery earth wire Electrical system27Battery; Disconnecting and connecting battery. [Note: If the airbag warning lamp K75 indicates a fault following installation, you must interrogate, erase and then re-interrogate the event memory .]

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TorqFix was built by a mechanic — after a 2,700 km drive with five roadside repairs that no diagnostic tool could explain.

The figures on this page come from manufacturer workshop documentation and are shown as they are. The page is assembled automatically from that data — it is not written by an AI. The AI works in the chat, where it answers for your specific car. It writes nothing here.

Variants of the same model differ. Cross-check torque against the factory manual for your engine before final tightening.

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Workshop data on this page last updated 20 Sep 2026.