Heated Seat Failed. Ideas?

philmeister · #1 (**permalink**) 12-13-2003, 05:01 PM

My driver's side heated seat has stopped working. (2000/GTI/VR6/GLX) Fuse is OK and so is passenger side seat heater. Before I start looking for the issue, can anyone tell me if there's a common problem I should be looking into first to save me time??

TIA

db · #2 (**permalink**) 12-13-2003, 05:07 PM

That's strange, first real complaint I heard here that the heated seats not working. Check all the wiring below the seat to ensure nothing got pinched or disconnected. Try even replacing the fuse even it's not blown. Also pop out the dial control and make sure the connections are good.

tf242 · #3 (**permalink**) 12-13-2003, 05:07 PM

Unfortunately your seat heater element has failed, that is usually accompanied by a slight burning smell. To replace it:

The dealer will try to sell you a new seat, or replace it under warranty, or go and do it on your own by simply tearing up the seat and replacing the core. Mine failed 1 year ago and I think Jon's (Bora2021) did recently as well.

Good Luck.

Also:

[ December 13, 2003: Message edited by: TF242 ]

JFryauff · #4 (**permalink**) 12-13-2003, 05:17 PM

Welcome!....and I agree, it sounds on par with a element failure.

shedpress · #5 (**permalink**) 12-15-2003, 11:07 AM

I hope mine doesnt go dead. I have the same car as you philmeister. I would look around for used heated seats (check the vortex classifieds). I dont know how much they are new, but it would be something to check into. hope this helps. and WELCOME!!!

philmeister · #6 (**permalink**) 12-18-2003, 01:08 AM

Thanks for the help!! I think I will live without the heated seat...it was nice while it lasted. Typical VW electrical reliability...too bad...such a great car otherwise but VW has to step it up on reliability or their appeal will start to wear off with consumers. Imagine if Toyota/Honda/Nissan developed a car with VW ride quality but their current Japanese build quality?? It would be the beginning of the end...Looks like Subaru may get to it first actually...

Robert_Pass · #7 (**permalink**) 08-15-2008, 12:45 PM

i have the same exact car and the same exact problem, my wife doesnt mind because the passenger seat heater works.... BTW there is a wire comming from the seat belt on the driver side, its yellow and leads to under the seat. mine is cut, is this the problem?its a yellow and brown wire, i was thinking it was just the seatbelt sensor..