Yes, the seat cover must be removed. If you're comfortable doing upholstery work it's actually a pretty simple job. Also, there isn't actually a switch. The Automatic Child Seat Recognition (ACSR) sensor uses antennae and evaluation electronics to read the transponder, located in approved MB infant/child seats. It uses pressure sensors to determine if the seat is occupied or not. Why don't you go to your dealer's parts department and take a look at one? You'll probably know right away whether or not you want to try it yourself. If you decide to give it shot, buy a couple of the white plastic clips that hold the seating surface to the frame. A few of them almost always break during dis-assembly. Good luck