Are Your Heated Seats Not Working? This Could Be Why

Winter driving can be quite troublesome. Aside from wading through snow-filled streets, the cabin can also get too cold for comfort. A lot of drivers are left to deal with this dilemma, while some are fortunate enough to stay warm because they have heated seats.

A Thing or Two About Heated Seats

Having heated seats is definitely a great feat when you’re driving in the cold. With electric heating elements warming up the seat cushion and back, winter driving becomes more bearable.

In most cases, the heating element in these seats can warm up to 100℉ or close to the normal body temperature. If the seats come with a variable temperature setting, the temperature can go as high as 110℉.

Heated seats have a variable resistor that changes along with the temperature. A heated seat control module uses the input from this variable resistor to regulate the current that goes into the heating element.

Benefits of Heated Seats

Having heated seats can be treated as a luxury. Aside from staying comfortable in your car while the outside world is freezing, having heated seats can also increase your vehicle’s resale value.

Depending on the model, you can also control the temperature on each seat separately.

Why Are My Heated Seats Not Working?

There are a number of reasons why the heated seats could stop working, but in most cases, there’s probably an electrical fault somewhere.

Faulty Memory Seat Control Module

The faulty memory seat control module is basically a computer that controls the heating function of your seats. If this part fails, it could affect everything that’s connected to the heated seats.

Defective Heating Element

The heating element is another common part that can fail and affect the heated seats’ operation. It’s known to have delicate wiring that can break easily.

Faulty Heated Seat Fuse and Thermistor

A blown fuse is a common issue that you’ll also encounter with heated seats. Fortunately, this problem is relatively easy to fix because you’ll only need to replace the fuse with a new one.

Also, keep in mind that a blown fuse is indicative of a different issue. Fuses are rated for the maximum current a circuit can handle. If they exceed that current, they’ll blow due to high resistance.

If a blown fuse has been identified, make sure to disconnect the connectors and controllers, and check for burnt areas or discoloration.

Burnt areas on the seat or carpet usually indicate that the thermistor has shifted from its original position, preventing it from sensing the correct temperature.

Fuses are rated for the maximum current a circuit can handle. If they exceed that current, they’ll blow due to high resistance.

–Anthony Harlin, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

How to Fix Heated Seats

Not everyone can take on the job of fixing heated seats, especially those who don’t have a lot of experience in automotive repair. Replacing damaged parts in the seat heater can be quite tricky because you’ll need to disassemble and remove the seat to get to the heating element.

If you’re someone who’s new to fixing car issues, it might be best to leave the job to a professional. Following the wrong procedure or having the wrong set of tools can only make the issue worse, which can ultimately lead to an expensive repair bill.

But if you think you can handle the job on your own, here are some tips you might want to keep in mind.

Reset the Memory Seat Control Module

You can try resetting the memory seat control module to get the heated seat function up and running.

Keep in mind, however, that a persistent issue with the heated seats can indicate the need for a new memory seat control module. This also means that you’ll need your local dealership to program the new control module.

Make sure to perform the troubleshooting procedure before shotgunning a control module or have a professional conduct a thorough diagnosis.

To reset the control module, you’ll need to locate the black box under the driver’s seat. Then, disconnect the seat’s electrical connector.

To do this, move the seat forward and use a trim tool to remove the electrical connector from the carpet. After that, you can disconnect the connector for five minutes. This will reset the module.

Once you reinstall the connector by reversing the previous steps, you can restart your vehicle and see if the heated seats are working.

Test the Heating Element

To test the heating element’s function, you must first make sure the heated seat switch is in the “on” position. Also, verify that the seat is below normal body temperature.

Then, use your service manual to check for power and ground at the memory seat control module and heating element. If the heating element is defective, most manufacturers recommend replacing the entire part.

How Much Will It Cost to Replace Seat Heaters?

A seat heater replacement is usually priced between $660 and $695, including labor fees, which can range anywhere between $130 and $170. Parts are typically priced around $520.

Note: Some models might require extra steps when removing the heating element, especially those with seat-mounted airbags and SRS seatbelt pretensioners attached to the seats.

Reinstalling the seat might also require you to reset the supplemental restraint system (SRS).

Expert Tips for Dealing With Seat Heater Issues

The control center of seat heaters isn’t exactly visible to the driver, making it difficult to gauge how hot the seats are getting.

There hasn’t been any news about heated seats having a visible control center yet, so experts recommend paying attention to the seat temperature. In some cases, the seats can get too hot, which can result in burns and injuries.

What About Cars Without Heated Seats?

Car owners who don’t have seat heaters built into their vehicles have the option to get them installed.

There are a bunch of aftermarket seat heaters that you can buy online or at a trusted shop. Installing these seat heaters can cost anywhere between $300 and $500 per seat, including professional installation.

DIYers also have the option to buy a seat installation kit and do the work themselves. Keep in mind, however, that this task can be tricky for those who don’t have enough experience in auto repair.

So if you’re not well-versed in installing upgrades, it’s best to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for the installation.