FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Passenger Seat Element

The following procedure will check the heated seat elements as well as the related seat wire harness and connectors. This way, if there is a fault with the seat wire harness leading to the heated seat element or connector(s) it can also be detected. Without checking the heated seat element in this way, a fault with the seat wire harness or connector(s) would not be detected.

The heated seat elements in the seat cushion and seat back are connected in series with each other and the controlling module. With the system wired this way, if a open or fault occurs the entire seat may not heat, even though the open may only be in the seat cushion element.

Over time, the heated seat element may degrade and require replacement. The memory heated seat/ mirror module should detect a fault before the element completely fails. Always use the appropriate scan tool (DRB III(R)) to check the module for any stored fault codes prior to any testing of the individual heated seat components.

NOTE: When checking heated seat elements for continuity, be certain to move the heating element being checked. Moving the element, such as sitting in the seat will eliminate the possibility of an intermittent open in the element which would only be evident if the element was in a certain position. Failure to check the element in various positions could result in an incomplete test.

1. Remove the driver front seat retaining fasteners. Do not disconnect the seat electrical connectors, simply lay the seat back, so you can access the underside of the seat cushion pan.
2. Remove the screws holding the Memory Heated Seat/Mirror Module to the seat cushion pan. Undip the module wire harness to access the module electrical connectors.
3. Backprobe the module electrical connector, Do not disconnect. Check for continuity between cavity #6 of the module C3 wire harness connector and the ground connection under the carpet, near the center of the seat. If less than 7 ohms, go to Step 4, If NOT, replace the faulty heated seat element or repair the wire harness as required.
4. Check the continuity between cavity #6 and the seat cushion frame. Continuity should NOT be present, If OK, passenger seat element is OK at this time, If NOT OK, trace the element/wire harness until the short is found.

CAUTION: Be certain to properly re-attach the Memory Heated Seat/Mirror Module and wire harness under the seat cushion pan. Failure to do so could result in the wire harness coming in contact with the moving components under the seat, and future problems.