Heated car seats are a luxurious feature that many drivers enjoy, especially during the colder months. However, like any electrical component in a vehicle, heated seats can sometimes malfunction. If your heated seats are not working, don’t despair – in many cases, you can diagnose and fix the issue yourself without having to take your car to a mechanic.
Diagnosing the Problem
The first step in fixing your heated seats is to determine the cause of the problem. There are several common issues that can lead to malfunctioning heated seats:
A faulty fuse
A problem with the heating element
A defective thermistor
A faulty memory seat control module
To diagnose the issue, you’ll need to inspect the fuse box, check the heating element for any damage, ensure the thermistor is properly positioned, and test the memory seat control module.
Fixing a Blown Fuse
One of the most common causes of malfunctioning heated seats is a blown fuse. Fortunately, this is also one of the easiest problems to fix. To check the fuse, locate your car’s fuse box – it may be under the dashboard, in the engine compartment, or in another location specified in your owner’s manual. Carefully remove the fuse and inspect it for any damage. If the fuse is blown, simply replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating.
However, it’s important to note that a blown fuse is often indicative of a larger issue, such as a short circuit or overloaded circuit. If you replace the fuse and it immediately blows again, there may be a more serious problem that needs to be addressed.
Repairing the Heating Element
The heating element is the component that actually generates the heat in your heated seats. If this element is damaged, it can cause the seats to stop working. To check the heating element, you’ll need to remove the seat cover and carefully inspect the wiring. Look for any signs of damage, such as breaks or fraying in the wires. If you find any damage, you may need to replace the entire heating element.
Keep in mind that replacing the heating element can be a complex and time-consuming task, as it often requires disassembling the seat. If you’re not comfortable with this level of repair, it may be best to take your car to a professional mechanic.
Checking the Thermistor
The thermistor is a temperature sensor that helps regulate the heat in your heated seats. If the thermistor is not properly positioned or is malfunctioning, it can cause the seats to overheat or not heat up at all. To check the thermistor, carefully remove the seat cover and look for any signs of damage or displacement. If the thermistor is not in its proper position, you may need to reposition it or replace it entirely.
Testing the Memory Seat Control Module
The memory seat control module is a computer that controls the various functions of your power seats, including the heated seat feature. If this module is malfunctioning, it can cause the heated seats to stop working. To test the memory seat control module, you’ll need to use a diagnostic tool to check for any error codes or issues. If the module is faulty, you may need to replace it.
Keep in mind that replacing the memory seat control module is a complex task that often requires programming and calibration. If you’re not comfortable with this level of repair, it’s best to take your car to a professional mechanic.
In conclusion, while malfunctioning heated seats can be frustrating, in many cases, you can diagnose and fix the problem yourself. By checking the fuse, inspecting the heating element, ensuring the thermistor is properly positioned, and testing the memory seat control module, you can often get your heated seats back up and running in no time. However, if you’re not comfortable with these repairs or if the issue persists, it’s always best to take your car to a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair.