2017-2020 Maserati Levante Rear Headrest: A Guide to Matching Rosso, Nero & Other Interior Trims

Symptoms of a Damaged or Failing Headrest

Unlike mechanical parts, a rear headrest does not 'fail' electronically or mechanically. Instead, failure is related to physical and cosmetic damage. Replacement is typically needed due to wear and tear, accidental damage, or if the headrests were misplaced after being removed.

• Torn, Cracked, or Scuffed Leather: The most common issue is damage to the leather upholstery. This can be caused by sharp objects, child seats, pets, or sun exposure over time.
• Stains and Discoloration: Spills or prolonged exposure to UV light can cause permanent stains or fading, which is especially noticeable on lighter-colored leathers like Cuoio or on vibrant colors like Rosso.
• Collapsed or Deformed Foam: The internal foam cushion can break down or become permanently compressed, making the headrest hard, uncomfortable, and less effective as a safety device.
• Peeling Material: On some Maserati models, the adhesive used to bond the leather to the underlying structure can fail in high-heat environments, causing the material to bubble or peel. While more common on dashboards and door panels, this can also affect headrests.
• Broken Mounting Posts or Guides: The plastic or metal posts that slide into the seatback can crack or break if the headrest is removed or installed with excessive force, preventing it from locking securely in place.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of mid-2026, there are no specific safety recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the rear seat outer headrests on the 2017-2020 Maserati Levante.

It is worth noting that a recall was issued for some 2017 Levante models (NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V078000) related to the front seat wiring harness. This recall addresses the potential for the harness to rub and cause an electrical short when the front seat is adjusted. While this does not affect the rear headrests, it highlights the importance of checking all seat-related components on early-production models.

Buying a Used 2017-2020 Levante Rear Headrest

Purchasing a used OEM headrest is an excellent way to restore your Levante's interior, often at a fraction of the cost of a new part. However, due to the highly specific nature of Maserati interiors, careful verification is essential.

The #1 Challenge: Identifying Your Exact Interior

Maserati offered a wide array of interior customization options for the Levante. A headrest that looks 'close' will stand out and detract from the vehicle's value. You must confirm three things:

• Leather Type: Was your vehicle equipped with standard leather, upgraded perforated leather, or the top-of-the-line Pieno Fiore natural leather? They have different textures and sheens.
• Color: Common colors include Nero (black), Rosso (red), Cuoio (tan/brown), and two-tone combinations like Nero/Rosso. You must get 🎬 Watch: Take a close look at the Levante's interior options an exact color match.
• Stitching and Emblem: Verify the color of the stitching and whether the headrest should have the embroidered Trident emblem, which is common on GranSport and other high-level trims.

Physical Inspection Checklist

Before purchasing, carefully inspect the used headrest, paying close attention to photos in an online listing:

• Check all sides for hidden tears, scuffs, or deep scratches in the leather.
• Squeeze the headrest to ensure the foam is firm and not collapsed.
• Inspect the mounting posts for cracks, stress marks, or damage to the locking notches.
• Verify the Trident embroidery is clean, intact, and not fraying.
• Confirm the part number with the seller. Known OEM part numbers include 673007284 and 673008860, but many others exist for different colors and materials.

Rear Headrest Replacement Guide

Replacing the rear headrest on a Levante is a simple DIY task. However, based on owner experiences with similar Maserati models, there appear to be two possible removal mechanisms.

Installation Difficulty: 1-2 out of 5 (Very Easy to Easy)
Estimated Time: 5 minutes

Method 1: Standard Release Button

This is the most common method for headrest removal on modern vehicles.

1. Locate the small plastic release button on the collar where one of the metal posts enters the seatback.
2. Press and hold the release button firmly.
3. While holding the button, pull the headrest straight up and out of the seatback.
🎬 Watch: A quick tutorial on standard headrest removal

Method 2: Hidden Release Clip (If Method 1 Fails)

Some Maserati models use a hidden metal clip instead of an external button. This may require a small tool.

1. Raise the headrest to its highest position.
2. Look for a small opening or seam on the plastic trim piece at the base of the posts.
3. Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the opening to depress an internal metal retaining clip. A forum post for a Ghibli suggests this clip looks like a paper clip.
🎬 Watch: See how the internal headrest clips work inside a Maserati seat
4. While depressing the clip, pull the headrest upwards to remove it. On some models, simply pulling very hard with the headrest in the lowest position may also release it.

To install the new headrest, simply align the posts with the guides in the seatback and push it down until it clicks into place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)