Heated seats make it easier to stay warm and toasty in a car. Once a feature reserved for premium vehicles, this equipment is increasingly available in cars at all price points. And thanks to a robust aftermarket, car owners looking to warm up on a wintery commute can add heated seats to automobiles that never left the factory so equipped.

The good news is that installing heated seats doesn’t have to be a task reserved for professional mechanics. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, this upgrade can become a rewarding project for even a novice DIYer. Such an effort adds a touch of luxury and makes winter more bearable.

This guide will walk you through the essentials of installing heated seats in just about any car. You’ll learn what tools and materials to use, followed by a step-by-step installation process. Critical safety tips are also reviewed.

Know your limits. Don’t work on anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, and don’t hesitate to get professional help if you think you’ve gotten in over your head.

Let’s dive into the project!

Tools and Materials Needed for Installing Heated Seats

Preparation is the key to success with any DIY project. You’ll want all the necessary tools and supplies for installing heated seats ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tools:

• Screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips head)
• Wire strippers and crimpers
• Multimeter
• Pliers (needle-nose and regular)
• Utility knife
• Heat gun or hairdryer
• Socket set and ratchet
• Trim removal tools
• Soldering iron and solder (optional but recommended for more secure connections)

Materials:

• Heated seat kit (including heating pads, wiring, and control switch)
• Additional wiring or wiring harness (if needed)
• Fuse tape or add-a-circuit adapter
• Appropriate fuses for fuse box
• Crimp connectors
• Heat shrink tubing
• Electrical tape
• Adhesive strips or spray adhesive
• Electrical grease
• Zip ties

Sourcing High-Quality Heated Seat Kits

While buying the cheapest heated seat kit on eBay or Amazon can be tempting, quality matters. You don’t want to put in all the effort to install the equipment only to have a component fail soon after. Premium parts will deliver better performance, greater longevity, and increased safety.

• Research Reputable Brands: Look for well-known manufacturers with positive reviews from other car enthusiasts.
• Check Compatibility: Ensure the components match your car’s make and model. Some kits are universal, while others are designed for particular vehicles.
• Consider the Heating Elements: Look for carbon fiber heating elements, which tend to be more durable and provide more even heat distribution.
• Explore Temperature Control Options: Some kits offer multiple heat settings, which can be a nice feature for adjusting the comfort level.
• Examine the Warranty and Customer Support: Choose a kit with a warranty and good customer support if you encounter any issues during or after installation.
• Read Reviews and Forums: Check car enthusiast forums and product reviews for real-world feedback on heated seat kits, particularly ones matched for your car.
• Consider Professional Recommendations: If unsure, consult a professional car accessory installer for recommendations on reliable brands and models.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Heated Seats

With the tools and supplies accounted for, it’s time for the work to begin.

Step 1: Preparing the Car

Getting your car ready for heated seats is crucial. This fundamental work ensures you’re working safely and with minimal risk of causing damage.

1. Park the car in a well-lit area. Depending on the weather and time of year, you may want the vehicle protected from the elements.
2. Disconnect the negative terminal of your car’s battery. This prevents any risk of short circuits while you’re working on the electrical system.
3. Remove the seat you’ll be working on. This usually involves removing bolts at the front and rear of the seat and unplugging any electrical connectors for power seats or airbag sensors. Consult the vehicle’s manual for specific instructions, as the process can vary between models.
4. Place the unattached seat on a clean, flat, and stable surface suitable as a work area.

PRO TIP: Installing a heated seat kit without removing the seats may seem like a shortcut. However, working in the cramped confines of a vehicle interior can often slow the process, making access more challenging. Removing the seats may appear daunting, but it isn’t overwhelming for most vehicles.

Step 2: Installing the Heating Pads

With the seat removed, the actual installation process can begin. It’s crucial to have a gentle touch to avoid damaging the upholstery.

1. Carefully remove or loosen the seat cover. This may involve dealing with hog rings, unzipping covers, loosening fasteners, or removing trim pieces around the perimeter of the seat.
2. Clean the surface where the heating pads will be placed, ensuring the area is free of dust and debris.
3. Position the heating pads according to the kit’s instructions. Typically, one pad goes on the seat bottom and another on the seat back or backrest.
4. Secure the pads using the adhesive provided in the kit or a spray adhesive. Ensure each pad is smooth, properly aligned, and wrinkle-free.
5. Carefully replace the seat cover, ensuring it’s smooth and properly aligned. Reattach any loose trim.

PRO TIP: Before removing any upholstery or trim pieces, take photos as a handy reference for reinstallation.

Step 3: Running the Wiring

Putting the connections in place for your new heated seats requires correct routing to ensure safety and trouble-free use.

1. Identify a suitable power source, such as a cigarette lighter circuit, or another switched 12-volt source (a circuit that shuts off with the ignition).
2. Locate a suitable location for the control switch, usually on the dashboard or center console.
3. Plan the wiring path. The wires must run from the seat to the power source while connecting to the control switch.
4. Use a wire fish tool or coat hanger to help guide wires through tight spaces under the carpet and behind trim panels.
5. Secure the wires along the routing path using zip ties or adhesive clips. Ensure there’s no interference with moving parts or contact with sharp edges.

PRO TIP: Before cutting the wiring to length or securing anything, test the wiring placement to allow the seats to move in all fore and aft positions.

Step 4: Connecting the Power

Correct electrical connections will ensure your heated seats will function without incident.

1. Connect the positive wire from the heating pads to the power source you identified earlier. Use a fuse tap or add-a-circuit adapter to make this connection safely.
2. Ground the negative wire to a suitable grounding point on the chassis.
3. Connect the wires for the control switch according to the kit’s instructions.
4. Use crimp connectors or solder and heat shrink tubing to ensure all connections are secure and insulated.
5. Verify that all the connections are tight and protected.

Step 5: Testing the System

Before starting the reassembly process, test the heated seats to ensure everything works correctly.

1. Reconnect the car’s battery.
2. Turn on the ignition (don’t start the engine) and test the heated seat system.
3. Check that the seat bottom and backrest heat up. If applicable, test each of the multiple heat settings.
4. Use a multimeter to check for any unusual voltage or amp drops or current draws.
5. Turn off the ignition and disconnect the battery before reassembling (if everything works correctly).

Step 6: Completing the Installation

You’re almost ready to start enjoying a toasty ride. Assuming the heated seats are working correctly, the reassembly process can begin.

1. Reattach any trim pieces that were removed for the installation.
2. Ensure the seats are correctly positioned and reattach any electrical connectors or sensors.
3. Securely fasten all seat bolts.

Safety Tips for a Smooth and Safe Installation

Safety is paramount when installing aftermarket heated seats. Here are basic safety tips that should be followed throughout the project.

Importance of Disconnecting the Battery

1. Before any electrical work starts, the negative terminal of the car’s battery must be disconnected. This simple step prevents short circuits, electrical shocks, and damage to other sensitive electrical components.
2. Wait at least 15 minutes after disconnecting the battery before working on any electrical components. This waiting time allows any residual charge to dissipate.
3. Keep the negative battery terminal and the battery cable connector properly separated to prevent accidental contact.

Avoiding Damage to Seat Upholstery and Electrical Components

1. Use proper trim removal tools to prevent damaging interior panels and upholstery.
2. Be gentle when removing the seat cover to avoid tearing the leather seats or stretching the fabric.
3. Ensure the heating pads are completely flat to prevent hot spots or uneven heating.
4. Avoid placing wires near moving parts of the seat mechanism or sharp edges that could cause wear over time.
5. Use rubber or plastic grommets when passing wires through metal panels to prevent chafing and short circuits.

Safe Electrical Connections and Testing

1. Always use the correct gauge and wire type for any automotive electric project to prevent voltage fluctuations or overheating.
2. Don’t use a lower amperage fuse than required for the project.
3. Ensure all electrical connections are snug and properly insulated. Loose connections can affect functionality or create a fire hazard.
4. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and proper voltage before powering up the system.
5. When testing installed aftermarket heated seats, start with the lowest heat setting and gradually increase the intensity. Check for any unusual smells or excessive heat.

Additional Safety Considerations

• If your car has side airbags in the seats, skip the DIY approach to installing heated seats and use a professional. These safety systems can be a hazard to the novice.
• As a precaution, keep a fire extinguisher nearby when working on electrical systems.
• If you’re unsure about any step in the process, don’t hesitate to consult a professional or seek advice from someone more experienced.
• Always follow the instructions provided with the heated seat kit. Installation steps can vary between brands and models.

How Heated Seats Enhance Winter Comfort

With your seat heaters installed and ready to go, let’s explore how this equipment can enhance your driving experience.

Improved Driver and Passenger Comfort

• Quick Warmth: While a car can take several minutes to warm up, heated seats provide almost instant warmth.
• Targeted Heat: Unlike ambient cabin heating, seat heaters deliver direct warmth to the body. It’s a comforting touch when dealing with cold-stiffened muscles and joints.
• Customizable Comfort: Many heated seat systems have multiple temperature settings, enabling the driver’s side and passenger side to select individual preferences.
• Reduced Need for Bulky Clothing: Thanks to heated seats, getting behind the wheel in the cold doesn’t require bulky and restrictive winter clothing.

Benefits for Long Commutes and Road Trips

• Reduced Fatigue: Heated seats can lessen the muscle tension and fatigue that often accompanies stressful committees and long drives.
• Improved Circulation: Seat heaters also promote better blood circulation, potentially preventing the stiffness and discomfort that are part of extended journeys.
• Consistent Comfort: Many car climate control systems, particularly single-zone units, create hot and cold spots throughout the cabin. Meanwhile, heated seats provide consistent and manageable warmth.

Tips for Maximizing the Use of Heated Seats

Here’s how to make the most of your newly installed seat heaters:

• Preheat Before Driving: If your car has a remote start and you’ve set up the wiring accordingly, turn on the heated seats a few minutes before setting out on a winter journey.
• Adjust Settings as Needed: Start on a higher setting for more immediate results, then reduce the seat temperature as the cabin warms up.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep the heated seats in peak condition by regularly checking the connections and testing the heating elements.
• Use Appropriately: Understand that overuse of heated seats can cause skin irritation and dehydration. Limit use accordingly.

How Endurance Auto Protection Can Help with Mechanical Upgrades

Enhancing your car with equipment like heated driver and passenger seats is one approach to maximize the ownership experience. Another way to protect your vehicle against breakdowns and surprise repair bills is with an extended car warranty. An auto protection plan (also called a vehicle service contract) from Endurance offers numerous coverage options.

The most affordable plan covers essential systems like the engine, transmission, and drive axles. There are programs that expand protections into the electrical system, climate control, steering suspension, electronics, and more. Car owners can also opt for the Supreme plan, which is similar to a new car bumper-to-bumper warranty.

All Endurance plans include numerous perks:

• 24/7 roadside assistance with towing, lock-out assistance, and other services
• Trip interruption protection
• Rental car support
• Freedom to choose any licensed repair facility for covered repairs
• Convenient payment options
• 30-day free-look period (receive a refund if the plan doesn’t meet your needs)

Endurance customers are also eligible for a year of Elite Benefits. A small activation fee opens the door to valuable services worth up to $2,000:*

• Tire repairs or replacements
• Key fob replacement
• Total loss protection
• Collision repair discounts

Protect Your Vehicle in Cold Weather and Beyond

Discover how Endurance Warranty offers year-round protection. Check out our online store for instant price and plan information, or request a FREE online quote. Endurance plan advisors are also available by calling (800) 253-8203.

Find more insightful articles about vehicle maintenance, DIY tips, and extended warranty advice on the Endurance blog.