Heated seats can be a luxurious and convenient feature in a vehicle, providing warmth and comfort on cold days. However, if the heated seat element stops working, it can be frustrating and unsafe if you rely on the heat to keep warm while driving.

If you suspect that your heated seat element may be malfunctioning, there are a few steps you can take to test it and determine the cause of the problem. Here’s how to test a heated seat element:

Table of Contents

Gather the necessary tools

Before you begin testing the heated seat element, gather the following tools and materials:

Multimeter: A multimeter is a device that measures electrical current, voltage, and resistance. It’s an essential tool for testing the heated seat element. It will allow you to measure the electrical current flowing through the component.
Seat cover or towel: To protect the seat and make it easier to access the element, you’ll need to remove the seat cover. It’s a good idea to have a seat cover or towel handy to protect the seat while working on it.
Wiring diagram: A wiring diagram is a diagram that shows the electrical connections in a vehicle. It’s essential to have a wiring diagram for your specific vehicle, as it will help you locate the correct wires and connections for testing the heated seat element.

Locate the heated seat element

The first step in testing the heated seat element is to locate it. This will typically involve removing the seat cover to expose the element. Consult your vehicle’s wiring diagram to find the exact location of the element in your specific model.

Test the element with a multimeter

Once you’ve located the heated seat element, you can use a multimeter to test it. Here’s how to do it:

Set the multimeter to measure resistance (Ω).
Connect one lead of the multimeter to one terminal of the element.
Connect the other lead of the multimeter to the other terminal of the element.
The multimeter should display a reading of approximately 10-20 Ω if the element is functioning properly. If the reading is much higher or lower, the element may be damaged and need to be replaced.

Test the element with a power source

In addition to testing the element with a multimeter, you can try it with a power source to see if it’s heating up properly. Here’s how to do it:

Disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle’s battery to ensure that you don’t accidentally cause a short circuit while testing the element.
Connect one lead of the multimeter to one terminal of the component.
Connect the other lead of the multimeter to a power source, such as a battery or power supply.
Turn on the power source and observe the element. It should become warm to the touch if it’s heating up properly. If it’s not heating up, the element may be damaged and need replacement.

Check the wiring and connections

Suppose the element appears to be functioning properly, but the seat isn’t heating up. In that case, the problem may be with the wiring or connections. To check these, you’ll need to:

Consult the wiring diagram to locate the wiring and connections for the heated seat element.
Check the wiring for any visible damage, such as fraying or cuts.
Check the connections to ensure that they are secure and not corroded.
If you find any issues with the wiring or connections, repair or replace them as necessary.

Replace the element if necessary

If you’ve determined that the heated seat element is damaged, it will need to be replaced. To do this, you’ll need to:

Disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle’s battery to ensure that you don’t accidentally cause a short circuit while replacing the element.
Remove the seat cover to expose the element.
Disconnect the wiring from the element.
Remove the element from the seat.
Install the new element in the exact location, ensuring it’s properly secured.
Reconnect the wiring to the new element.
Replace the seat cover.

Troubleshoot any remaining issues

Suppose you’ve completed all the above steps, and the heated seat element is still not functioning properly. In that case, there may be another issue causing the problem. It’s a good idea to consult a mechanic or the vehicle’s manual for further troubleshooting and potential solutions.

FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers about testing heated seat elements:

Can I test the heated seat element without a multimeter?

While a multimeter is the most accurate and reliable way to test a heated seat element, you can test it without one by simply applying a power source and observing whether it heats up. However, this method may provide less information about the element’s condition than a multimeter.

Is it safe to test the heated seat element on my own?

Testing the heated seat element is generally safe if you follow proper safety precautions and use caution when handling electrical components. However, suppose you’re not comfortable working with electrical systems or need clarification on any aspect of the process. In that case, it’s best to seek a mechanic’s or professional’s assistance.

What should I do if the heated seat element is damaged?

If you’ve determined that the heated seat element is damaged, it will need to be replaced. Using a replacement element compatible with your specific vehicle is essential to ensure proper function and safety. You can install the new element yourself, or you may need to seek the assistance of a mechanic.

Can other issues cause the heated seat element to stop working?

A few other issues can cause a heated seat element to stop working, including faulty wiring or connections, a malfunctioning control module, or a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system. Suppose you’ve tested the element and ruled out these other issues. In that case, the element itself may be damaged and need to be replaced.