2017-2018 Porsche Macan GTS Headrest: Verifying the Crest, Color, and Fit

GTS-Specific Design and Compatibility

The headrests specified for the 2017-2018 Porsche Macan GTS are not standard-issue parts. They are a unique trim component tied to the GTS model or vehicles ordered with the optional GTS interior package. Understanding these specific details is critical to ensure you purchase the correct part for your vehicle.

Key Identifiers:

• Embossed 'GTS' Logo: The most obvious feature is the 'GTS' letters pressed into the front surface of the headrest. Some other Macan headrests may feature an embossed Porsche crest, while base models may have no embossing at all.
• Color and Material: This guide focuses on the 'Saddle Brown' leather variant, but the GTS package was available with other colors like Black or Garnet Red with contrasting stitching. It is essential to match the color code of your interior. Light-colored leathers are also known to be susceptible to dye transfer from clothing.

Critical Safety Recall: Passenger Seat Occupancy Sensor

While there are no recalls for the headrest itself, a significant safety recall impacts the front passenger seat assembly on 2017-2018 Macan models, including the GTS.

NHTSA Recall No. 17V-133 (Porsche Campaign AH02) and a subsequent recall (AMA2) address a defect in the front passenger seat occupancy sensor mat. This sensor can degrade and fail to detect a passenger, which deactivates the front passenger airbag. In a crash, the airbag will not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.

The remedy involves dealers replacing the sensor mat and the entire seat cushion free of charge. Before purchasing a used seat or diagnosing airbag faults, check if this critical recall work has been performed on the vehicle.

Symptoms of a Failing or Damaged Headrest

Failure in a headrest is typically physical or cosmetic rather than mechanical. Here’s what to look for:

• Cosmetic Wear: The most common issue is wear and tear on the leather. Look for cracking, scuffs, discoloration, or flattening of the grain, especially on the driver's side. The embossed 'GTS' logo can also become worn or damaged.
• Rattling Noises: Some owners have reported rattling from the headrest area, which can be traced to the plastic adjustment clips or internal components becoming loose. This can be a minor annoyance while driving.
• Adjustment Failure: The mechanism that allows the headrest to move up and down can fail. If the headrest will not lock into position or slides down on its own, the internal locking mechanism or the release button may be broken.
• Collapsed Foam: In rare cases of extreme wear or damage, the internal foam can collapse, leading to a deformed appearance and reduced comfort and safety.

Buying a Used 2017-2018 Macan GTS Headrest

Buying a used OEM headrest is a cost-effective way to replace a damaged one, especially given the high price of a new part. However, careful inspection is key.

Inspection Checklist:

1. Verify the Part Number: Check if the seller can provide the OEM part number. Known numbers for the GTS headrest include 95B881901B and 95B881901G, though other variants exist for different colors.
2. Inspect the Leather Surface: Ask for high-resolution photos of all sides. Look closely for cracks, deep scratches, or stains. Pay special attention to the condition of the embossed 'GTS' logo to ensure it is crisp and undamaged.
3. Check the Color Match: 'Saddle Brown' can look different under various lighting conditions. If possible, compare the part to your existing interior. The best way to ensure a match is to know your vehicle's interior color code from the factory build sticker.
4. Examine the Support Posts: The two metal posts should be perfectly straight and free of rust or pitting. Bent posts indicate the headrest may have been in a vehicle that suffered significant damage.
5. Confirm Functionality: If possible, ask the seller to confirm that the height adjustment release button works and that the mechanism locks firmly.

Replacement Guide

Replacing the front headrest on a 2017-2018 Macan is a simple DIY task but requires a small tool. Unlike many vehicles where you simply press a button and pull, the Macan has a hidden release.

Difficulty: 2 out of 5 (Easy, but requires a tool)

Tools Needed: Small flathead screwdriver

Steps:

1. Move the seat into a position that gives you easy access to the top of the seatback.
2. Look at the base of the two metal headrest posts where they enter the seat. Each post has a round plastic trim piece (escutcheon).
3. On one of the plastic trim pieces, there is a small, hidden release tab. It is often described as being almost flush with the trim.
4. Use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully depress this hidden tab.
5. While holding the tab down, pull up on that side of the headrest. It should release partially.
6. You may need to repeat the process on the other post, depressing a similar tab, to fully release and remove the headrest. Be careful not to let the first post click back into place.
7. To install the new headrest, simply align the posts with the holes and push it down until it clicks into your desired height position.

Cost Comparison

Prices for a single front headrest can vary significantly based on condition and source.

Part Number Reference

These part numbers are specific to the front headrests in the 2017-2018 Porsche Macan. The final letter(s) in the part number often denote color and specific options. Always verify fitment with the seller using your vehicle's VIN.

• 95B881901B
• 95B881901G
• 95B881901AH

This list is not exhaustive. Many variations exist for different colors and crest options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)