Hey Fellow MINI owners.
I've got a 2002 R53 with 205,000 mi on it and I'd like to know if I can swap the front driver's and passenger's seats? The driver's is getting pretty worn (leather) and the passenger is like new. Let me know your thoughts.

 

Wouldn't there be an issue with the seat integrated side air bags?

 

I don't know. That's why I'm asking. How difficult is it to remove the seat COVER only?

 

Swapping seat covers will not work as they are mirror images of each other. You can probably pick up a seat pretty cheap for a 2002 from many different junk yards. Call around to some that handle parts locating to check out prices and availability. Also, try visiting an auto upholstery place and asking them how much it would cost. You cannot swap left and right seats or seat covers.

 

Yep, the seat light would come on, as stated above you can find a seat here on NAM, eBay, or the other 2 MINI sites (MA and MU) there a several MINI salvage yards as well but those run high on prices.