How Heated Seat Kits Work

A heated seat is a thin heating pad under the cover, a switch and some wiring. Here is how the parts work and what an install involves.

The pads

Heated seat kits use thin pads of carbon fiber or wire that warm up when current flows. They are fitted to the cushion and the backrest, under the cover, so you feel the heat but not the pad.

Switches and heat levels

A switch gives high and low settings, and some kits have a dial. We mount the switch on the console or the dash, where it looks as if it belongs.

Safety

Quality kits have a thermostat and are wired through a fuse and a relay, so the seat cannot overheat or drain the battery. We follow the maker’s instructions.

What an install involves

We remove the seats, lift the covers, fit the pads, route the wires and refit the covers. Pairing it with new leather means the seats only come apart once.