How do I fix heated seats?

[H2mudder]

How do i fix the heated seats? I have a 2003 I just bought and the interior is new, but the seat heater is not working..

Any idea how to fix it?

Also, the headlights will not turn off in the off position....anyone have a fix??

Thanks for your help

[H2mudder]

Anyone??

:dancingbanana:

[HUMTECH]

I know how to fix them, problem is there can be anything from a broken wire to a failed module, switch, seat element, thermistor, fuse. No easy fix without actully looking at it

[H2mudder]

I know how to fix them, problem is there can be anything from a broken wire to a failed module, switch, seat element, thermistor, fuse. No easy fix without actully looking at it

The light goes on in the door - driver and pass side. It just lights up for a second and goes dead. Fuse? That could be I'll check on the fuses.

Anyway you know of trouble shooting this? other than checking the fuses?

[HUMTECH]

If the light goes on then goes out that means its getting powered up, seeing a fault then shutting down. Wont be a fuse. I would guess thermistor or seat element. Spend a little money and have someone qualified check it out. Too tough to diagnose without the truck in my garage sorry

[Rob P]

I have the same problem. Let me know if you figure it out. I am looking into it as well.

[HUMTECH]

Heated Seat Inoperative
Step
Action
Yes
No
Schematic Reference: Driver Seat Schematics (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=126597&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) and Passenger Seat Schematics (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=126598&refDoc=1503555&from=sm)
Connector End View Reference: Power Seat Connector End Views (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57054&refDoc=1503555&from=sm)
1
Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?
Go to Step 2 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S02)
Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=72794&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Vehicle DTC Information
2
Operate the Heated Seat System.
Does the system operate normally?
Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=62112&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Wiring Systems
Go to Step 3 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S03)
3

<LI type=1>Install a scan tool. <LI type=1>Start the engine. <LI type=1>Display the Heated Seat Status and Zone parameters in the driver seat module (DSM) Input/Output data list.
Operate the heated seat switch in all modes.Does the scan tool display the correct Heated Seat parameters in relation to heated seat switch operation?
Go to Step 8 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S08)
Go to Step 4 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S04)
4

<LI type=1>Display the Heated Seat Switch parameters in the door module Inputs data list.
Press the head seat switches while observing the scan tool parameters.Does the scan tool display the heated seat switches as active while the switches are pressed?
Go to Step 5 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S05)
Go to Step 6 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S06)
5
Do the heated seat switch indicators operate normally?
Go to Step 13 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S13)
Go to Step 12 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S12)
6

<LI type=1>Disconnect the heated seat switch harness connector to the door module.
Test the resistance through the heated seat switch from the voltage supply circuit terminal to the back only select switch signal circuit terminal while operating the heat level switch.Does the back only select switch have continuity only when pressed?
Go to Step 7 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S07)
Go to Step 10 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S10)
7
Test the resistance through the heated seat switch from the voltage supply circuit terminal to the back/cushion select switch signal circuit terminal while operating the back/cushion select switch.
Does the back/cushion select switch have continuity only when pressed?
Go to Step 12 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S12)
Go to Step 10 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S10)
8

<LI type=1>Disconnect the inoperative seat heater element connector. <LI type=1>Connect a test lamp from the voltage supply circuit terminal to the control circuit terminal in the harness connector.
Operate the seat back and cushion switch to the high mode.Does the test lamp illuminate?
Go to Step 11 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S11)
Go to Step 9 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S09)
9
Test the seat heater element voltage supply and ground circuits in the seat harness for an open or short to ground. Refer to Circuit Testing (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=62194&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) and to Wiring Repairs (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=61965&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
Go to Step 13 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S13)
10
Inspect for poor connections at the heated seat switch harness connector to the door module. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=62112&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) and to Connector Repairs (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=61973&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
Go to Step 14 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S14)
11
Inspect for poor connections at the heated seat element connector. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=62112&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) and to Connector Repairs (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=61973&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
Go to Step 15 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S15)
12
Inspect for poor connections at the door module. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=62112&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) and to Connector Repairs (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=61973&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
Go to Step 16 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S16)
13
Inspect for poor connections at the DSM. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=62112&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) and to Connector Repairs (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=61973&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
Go to Step 17 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S17)

[HUMTECH]

Replace the heated seat switch. Refer to Front Seat Heater Switch Replacement (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57239&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) .
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
15
Replace the inoperative heated seat element. Refer to Driver Seat and Passenger Seat Back Cushion Heater Replacement (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57014&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) or to Driver Seat and Passenger Seat Cushion Heater Replacement (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57015&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) .
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
16
Replace the door module. Refer to Control Module References (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=72864&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
17
Replace the DSM. Refer to Control Module References (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=72864&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
18
Operate the system in order to verify the repair.
Did you correct the condition?
System OK
Go to Step 3 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S03)

[H2mudder]

Replace the heated seat switch. Refer to Front Seat Heater Switch Replacement (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57239&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) .
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
15
Replace the inoperative heated seat element. Refer to Driver Seat and Passenger Seat Back Cushion Heater Replacement (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57014&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) or to Driver Seat and Passenger Seat Cushion Heater Replacement (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57015&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) .
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
16
Replace the door module. Refer to Control Module References (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=72864&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
17
Replace the DSM. Refer to Control Module References (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=72864&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 18 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S18)
--
18
Operate the system in order to verify the repair.
Did you correct the condition?
System OK
Go to Step 3 (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/showDoc.do?docSyskey=1503555&cellId=56980&pubObjSyskey=1503555&from=sm&pubCellSyskey=56980&deliveryEffectiveDate=Oct+1%2C+2010#S03)

The guy I bought the H2 from had the seats all reupholstered...
Maybe he removed the heating element. It has suede inserts in the middle of the seat....I'm guessing that is where the heating element is?

[johndjmix1]

Im having the same issue. But only when the truck is cold. If i hit the switch it goes on for a few seconds then off. I press again and the same....but as the car warms up each press seems to stay on a little longer till it just stays on like it should.

It has the Same behavior for driver or passanger seat...

Anyone find the solution?

--John

[HUMTECH]

Sounds like one of the heater elements in the seat may have a partial open. As it warms up with your body heat the connection is made

[ahgoo]

Heated Seat Inoperative

Schematic Reference: Driver Seat Schematics (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=126597&refDoc=1503555&from=sm) and Passenger Seat Schematics (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=126598&refDoc=1503555&from=sm)
Connector End View Reference: Power Seat Connector End Views (http://gsi.xw.gm.com/si/cellHandler.do?cellId=57054&refDoc=1503555&from=sm)


I have the same problem with a recently acquired '03 H2. Both Driver and passenger seat heater lights flash on momentarily and then off when you press either buttons on either side. I hear a little relay switch 'tick' when they are pressed, it sounds like it's coming from the seat heater box below the drivers seat. Your post will help me fix it I'm sure but I can't access any of the links from the tech site, it just says you don't have access. Is there anyway you can post those links/schematics? I don't want to buy any unnecessary parts and I don't want to pay somebody if I can figure it which parts may need replacing.

Thanks

[Hummdinger03]

Just purchased an '03. Same seat problem as you guys above. Push the front heated seats button and the light flashes once. Can hear the relay below. Rear seats work fine.

If you guys have found any fixes, I would greatly appreciate your update.

Cheers, J

[Hummdinger03]

Update: Have taken the H2 into the shop. Turns out the problem is the actual heating element under the seat. All other systems/relays work.

New problem: GM parts department has informed me that the heated seats element for the H2 has been discontinued, and there are none available.

Any advice on hunting down a replacement element aftermarket? Haven't seen any on the internet. Does anyone know if I can use the element from a different vehicle?

Thank you,

J

[draconianruler]

Not sure but maybe the heating element for a Escalade (Tahoe, Yukon) will work. I was amazed at how many shared parts the Escalade has with the Hummer.

[Hummdinger03]

The Result:

Wanted to post a follow-up in case anyone came across the same issue.

Had a mechanic look at the seats, followed the electrical trail, problem was the seat heating element. Due to use/wear, the elements had fried. With one seat not working, it prevents both front seats from working.

Stupid GM design: the heating element is integral to the leather seat. Can't buy a replacement element alone. A new leather seat cover is $600 from GM, and that's if you can find one (no longer produced).

I was able to find a scrap hummer with matching leather. Swapped the seat leathers = warm bum!

Cheers, J.

[MAC]

Hi, what do you mean seat leather? the whole seat ? or just the leather covers?

I have the exact same problem, 2 front seat, lights come on and goes off insatntly or after few seconds. Dealer said costs $7,000 to replace, I finally agreed but dealer later said no more parts available. Same story as above, one is broken, caused both to stopped working, back seats ok. I had the same original 2003 H2 since Oct 2002. Seat warmers worked fine for few years. All else work perfectly for almost 10 years 140,000 miles.

[Hummdinger03]

Seat leather= the leather that wraps the foam on the seat.

As I mentioned in my previous post, the heating element is integral (part of) the leather.

Good luck.

[[__--MUD--__]]

There is nothing magical about a heating element. I'm sure its sewen/glued/taped into the seat. I'd google aftermarket heated seat element. You just need the wire. May have to modify/eliminate the factory plug for what ever comes in the element.

http://www.heatedseatkits.com/heatedseatkits/index.html

Thread claims Napa carries a compatible aftermarket element-

http://www.chevytalk.org/fusionbb/showtopic.php?tid/182894/tp/2/cto_session_id/bdcc7e54eb4577cd605105a73dccd9a7/