2011 Limited 4x4 Third Row Left Side Won't Stow

[sincerity]

Hey all, for the past 6 months or so the left seat in the third row will fold but not stow. The right side functions properly. The left side when the button is pressed just knocks but doesn't move. Dealer wants $1500.00 to fix and a local guy I use said he couldn't figure it out.

I did check and nothing is obstructing the seat

Any ideas? Thanks in advance for your insight

 

[peterk9]

The knocking sound could be an indication that the motor is working but that something has slipped out of place. Just a guess.
Are you able to stow it manually? Found the following using the 'Search' feature. Check out post #5. Likely isn't your issue though. http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/index.php?threads/powerfold-3rd-row-seat-wont-stow.440123/

Peter

 

[sincerity]

Thanks Peter...yea I saw that post and didn't sound like what I have.....

Any wisdom on stowing it manually? Just using force or is there a sequence to try or a lever to push?

 

[peterk9]

Thanks Peter...yea I saw that post and didn't sound like what I have.....

Any wisdom on stowing it manually? Just using force or is there a sequence to try or a lever to push?

I've never really tried it myself so I am unable to supply any words of wisdom on that. Perhaps you can try lifting or pulling on that particular one to see if you meet any or much resistance. I don't believe there is a 'release' button/lever. Perhaps someone will come along and be in a better position to assist. I had an issue with that same side with the 2011 I had and found that part of a mechanism under the seat cushion had popped out of place. Can't supply much more info as that was about 6 years ago. I posted on the issue in a thread here.

Peter

 

[RandyH2]

Force is not your friend in this case. Don't ask how much it took to break mine....:-(

Over the years, my problems were from something stuck under or sitting on the seat, or the metal pivoting bracket which connects to the underside of the seat coming loose. When the underside bracket came loose it was usually, but not always, sticking out towards the front from under the seat and is easy to see. I think it may have come loose and remained under the seat as well. Reattaching is pretty easy if you look at it- seems like there were nickel-size "knobs" on either side of the seat and corresponding slots on the bracket. a bit of force to snap it together.

I also found that manually assisting the seat was often the key to getting the thing to complete a cycle. Try pulling/pushing on the part(s) that move immediately after (or even before) you push the button. Lifting the seat cushion or pushing/pulling the seat backrest.