Heated Seat Element

Heated Seat Element - Typical:

The heated seat element is the component which produces the heat felt in the front seats. The heated seat system includes four seat heating elements. Two elements are located in each front seat, one for the seat cushion and the other for the seat back. These individual heating elements are electrically connected in series with the Memory Heated Seat/ Mirror Module. With the elements electrically connected in this way, if a break anywhere in the heating element circuit occurs, neither the seat cushion or seat back heating element will function. The heating elements are made of carbon fiber, which provides a strong and dependable design.

A heated seat sensor is integral to the individual heated seat cushion elements. The heated seat sensor cannot be replaced separately. If a problem is found with the sensor the complete heated seat element must be replaced. On some models, this can also include the leather trim cover. Refer to Heated Seat Sensor for more information.

Some LH models have the heating elements stuck to the seat cushion foam, while others have the element permanently sewn into the seat cushion/back leather trim covers. The heated seat elements and temperature sensor cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the heated seat element must be replaced.

The heated seat elements resist the flow of electrical current. When battery current is passed through the elements, the energy lost by the resistance of the elements is released in the form of heat. The heated seat temperature sensor is a NTC thermistor. When the temperature of the seat cushion cover rises, the resistance of the sensor decreases. The Memory Heated Seat/Mirror Module supplies five volts to one side of each sensor, and monitors the voltage drop through the sensor on a signal/return circuit. The Memory Heated Seat/Mirror Module uses this temperature sensor input to monitor the temperature of the seat, and regulates the current flow to the heated seat elements accordingly.