Newbie - Seat Problem

[nelliext3]

Hi everyone!

I bought my lovely 53 xt3 a couple of weeks ago, unfortunately, due to my back problems I find the driving seat intolerable for the following reasons:

- The seat base is too short (by about 3 inches) for correct thigh support

- Lumbar support is nonexistent

- With the seat back in the corret position for shoulder support, the head restraint catches the back of the head. This can be alleviated by turning the head restraint around, but this obviously compromises its proper function in the event of an accident.

My questions are:

- Does anyone else have a problem with this?

- Has anyone fitted a Recaro to this model?

I enquired at the dealership where I bought the car, but they (with much headshaking and mutterings about airbags) were unable/unwilling to give me any advice.

I would greatly appreciate any thoughts/advice you have. I love every other aspect of the car, but if this can't be resolved, I may have to re think my choices.

Thanks, folks!

[Uncle Bob]

I feel your biggest problem is no dealer or independent garage will want to get involved with removing Airbags, as its seen as a big safety issue.

Changing seats on younger cars is getting into the area disabled drivers, you could ask advice from a conversion company, find out whats happens in you disconnect one airbag from a car, its possible the dash light will come on and show as a "Airbag fault ", see if the company below can advise you.....

http://www.autochair.co.uk/

[nelliext3]

Thanks Bob, that's pretty much the impression I got from the dealership. Mobility adaptation is an avenue I'm looking into. adaptacar

I know Recaro make a seat with an airbag option, but the question is in the compatability of the electrics.

If the only problem is a warning light being on all the time - I'll live with it better than I can live with that seat!

I'll do some more research and keep you posted.