Thread: 2nd Row Seat Removal - 110 5 Seater

Originally Posted by Jock McD

G'day all.
Had the Defender 18 months now and looking to maximize storage space for upcoming desert trips.
Currently looking to remove the 2nd row seats to add a false floor to accommodate a water bladder underneath and storage/fridge on top.
I've searched this forum and various FB groups but have not been able to find anything on the subject.
Has anyone researched/done this or is able to provide the relevant Topix instructions please.
Many thanks, Jock.

It is pretty easy as I have done it on my 110. I am away right now but from memory the instructions were in the workshop manual which can be found online. Seat bases first, then the backs which have large (20mm) hinge pins which need to be freed.

This type of question came up from time to time on the D3/4 area. I don't know if the rules have changed, but I recall that there were issues with this type of modification as it affects the number of passengers the car can accommodate. This affects the road worthiness specification, then registration, insurance etc etc.. Suggest you make enquiries. (Or perhaps someone here can provide their experience.)

Originally Posted by Fred Nerk

This type of question came up from time to time on the D3/4 area. I don't know if the rules have changed, but I recall that there were issues with this type of modification as it affects the number of passengers the car can accommodate. This affects the road worthiness specification, then registration, insurance etc etc.. Suggest you make enquiries. (Or perhaps someone here can provide their experience.)

Check your states registration requirements!

To my knowledge the "legalities" of removing seats varies state by state and if the vehicle is not compliant in the state of registration then it is not compliant in any state. The reverse could also apply. While a random and strict check for compliance by authorities or even the registration inspection person would be rare, insurance companies might be able to get out of payment obligations if the vehicle was not regarded as roadworthy.

Thanks for the responses. I’ll have a play/look at it this weekend and see how I go.

Kris Eric has just done this.

Australian All New Defender Owners Group.

Originally Posted by one_iota

Check your states registration requirements!

To my knowledge the "legalities" of removing seats varies state by state and if the vehicle is not compliant in the state of registration then it is not compliant in any state. The reverse could also apply. While a random and strict check for compliance by authorities or even the registration inspection person would be rare, insurance companies might be able to get out of payment obligations if the vehicle was not regarded as roadworthy.

Temporary removal is fine in Vic and doesn’t require notifying

Originally Posted by jwb

Temporary removal is fine in Vic and doesn’t require notifying

Are you sure about this?Are you sure about this? A friend of mine spoke to VicRoads and they said that is illegal.

I have had rear seats temporarily removed in my Disco 1 for 6 years now, no issues, I removed the 3rd row rear seats from the Disco 4 and put in a false floor and also remove the second row when touring, all in the name of weight removal and set up for touring. Never had a issue or questioned about it, insurance can only refuse a claim if the car is unroadworthy and the fault contributed to the claim