MB-JIM

Does anyone know if the non-retractable W204 headrests could be replaced by those from the W203? Even though the W203 type wouldn't have a remote release, they could be manually turned down.
If this is possible, it would overcome one of my objections to the W204 design.

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cawimmer430

Hi Jim,

Not sure about your question, but why would you want to replace the rear headrests of the W204 with those from a W203?

MB-JIM

Yes, I would want to replace the W204 headrests with ones from a W203. The problem with the W204 headrests is that they can't be folded down when you don't need them. I don't like anything blocking my view to the rear. One reason I never seriously considered a BMW was because their rear headrests wouldn't fold down.

cawimmer430

I see. I can't help you with your problem, but I can tell you that the EU has rules about passenger safety and the reason for the headrests not being able to be folded down is possibly due to protecting rear passengers in the event of a crash (otherwise they'd snap their neck if the headrests were not there).

Perhaps US-spec models will get foldable rear headrests?

Merc1

I seriously doubt this could be done since the new car doesn't even have an option for the headrest to fold. Something like that would have to be wired at the factory. I'm surprised Mercedes made such a move. The rear folding headrests was a much a part of Mercedes' character as anything else on a Mercedes. Been that way for years, but I guess the bean counters got their way on that one.

M

MB-JIM

The W203 headrests can be manually turned down by pushing the button on the side. I'm not looking for the remote feature. If the W203 headrest will fit, I can manually put them up any time I need them just as now. The only difference would be that I wouldn't be able to drop them electrically. The question remains as to whether both cars have the same spacing and hole size for the headrests.

etlomotey

Hi MB-JIM,
I'm sure you will be able to find this out from your local dealer when the W204is launched in the U.S.

Pay them a visit and take the measurements, like Christian said there will be safety implications.
Good luck.

cawimmer430

Or the EU.

skyhi

if you get one with the through-loading feature (287), you can easily remove the headrests and stow them away when you do not have passengers in the rear

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