I have a 2002 S80 that has approximately 95000 miles on it. The car typical has only one person in it. The outside and interior of the car are basically in perfect condition. It has always been well maintained. I plan on keeping the car for several more years. The outside bulster of the seat back on the drivers seat is starting to show some wear. This is the bulster closet to the door. The rest of the seat and seat back are in very good condition. I am considering swapping the drivers seat back with the passenger seat back. This would put the bulster that is showing wear on the console side of the seat back of the passenger's seat. The seats have the power controls. All I am wanting to do is swap the seat backs, not the entire seat.

Has anyone done this procedure or does anyone know if this is possible?

If it's any consolation, my driver's side outer bolster is also wearing...

There are a couple of things to consider before trying this. First your lumbar adjustment "wheels" would be on the outside. And the clothes hanger tab that is now on the console side of the passenger headrest would be on the outside driver's side if you swap.

But if you can live with these quirks then it might be possible. Look carefully at how they are mounted and the power seat back mechanisms/connections first to make sure they can be swapped. LOL.

Beachbum

Thanks Beachbum for the input. I do not have a problem with either of the issues that you noted. In fact, where we keep our seat the lumbar adjustment would probably be easier to operate on the opposite side from where they are now. In its present location the console actually make it difficult to turn the wheels.

I did call the dealer about swapping the seat. They mentioned something about possibly activating the airbag, but I think they were trying to discourage me from doing it myself. They would rather me bring it to the dealership and pay their high labor rate!!!!

Any more information would be greatly appreciated.

Because I haven't done this before myself, the only other advice I can offer is to disconnect the battery before you attempt it. You can also post your question on Brickboard.com...someone there may know.

LOL.

What about the side airbags in the seats, wouldn't swapping the backs mean the airbag would then be on the inside of the car?

You can just replace the leather seat covers, sure, they are expensive, but it would be safer/better option, in my opinion. Go to a local car interior shop instead of Volvo, and you could save some money too.