I purchased a new passenger side seat cover trim for the wife's 2019 CX5. It requires the removal of the plastic side panel. Is anyone familiar with the process if removing the adjustment levers beforehand? I was looking at a Mazda service diagram that's less than clear and I'd rather not guess and break something by forcing one off and breaking the lever or the switch itself. Below is the document I'm referencing. TIA.

https://www.mcx5.org/front_seat_side_cover_removal_installation-765.html

 

Removing the passenger side seat panel on a 2019 Mazda CX-5 requires careful handling of the adjustment levers to avoid damage. Start by identifying whether the levers are secured with screws or clips, as these are the two most common methods. If screws are present, they’ll usually be hidden behind small caps that can be gently pried off with a trim removal tool or a flathead screwdriver wrapped in tape to prevent scratches. For clip-secured levers, use a trim tool to apply even pressure around the base, avoiding twisting motions that could break the plastic. Once the levers are removed, detach the side panel by locating and removing any visible screws and gently prying loose the hidden clips along the edges. If the panel houses seat adjustment switches, disconnect the wiring harness before fully removing it. Referring to a Mazda service diagram can help pinpoint the fastener locations, even if the details seem unclear at first glance.

 

Personally, I would get a price on having a dealer do it before attempting.
The seat hardware is very expensive and easily damaged.
DIY means you probably don't have the funds to replace any parts that you might break.

 

Back in the day when I could still work on my cars, some of the reason was I enjoyed it, but a lot was that, even though I could afford to have it done, I'm a cheap bastard.

 

You nailed it.
That's why I also learned to work on motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles and also learned welding, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, computer repair.
However, I did know enough to draw the line on certain things that would've cost me more if I screwed it up