Service Heat Element Installation Procedure

If a sublet trim repair facility is used, please provide a copy of this bulletin to the repair shop.

Important:
Before installing the service heat element to the seat trim cover, verify that the seat assembly heat function operates properly with the service heat element connected.

Important:
DO NOT attempt to remove the factory heat elements from the seat trim cover. The service heat element is to be installed between the factory heat element and the seat trim cover.

1. Remove the trim cover with the non-functioning heat element. Refer to the appropriate seat trim cover removal procedure in the Seats sub-section of the Service Manual.

2. Place the seat trim cover on a clean flat surface with the inside facing out.





3. Use a marker to draw in the cut-lines (3) on the non-functioning factory heat element. Refer to the appropriate illustration.

4. Remove the wiring harness from the non-functioning factory heat element.

4.1. At locations (4) or (5) pull back the tape covering the harness wires.

4.2. Use a pair of diagonal side cutters to cut the harness wires as close to the factory heat element material as possible.





Important:
DO NOT start the cut with a jab or poke.

5. At the trim cover edge (2), using a razor blade or an equivalent sharp tool, slice through the factory heat element material along the cut-line until a hole is created.

6. Insert your finger(s) through the hole and lift the factory heat element material (1) away from the trim cover material.

Important:
DO NOT cut through seams.

7. Using scissors and/or a razor blade, continue cutting the factory heat element material along the cut-lines.





8. Fold back the centers (1) of the factory heat element material. Insert the service heat element (2), with the backing paper side up, between the trim cover material and the factory heat element material.

9. Carefully remove the backing paper from the service heat element. Ensure the service heat element is laying flat.

10. Unfold the centers (1) of the factory heat element material.





11. Match the edges of the factory heat element material and cover the cut-lines with 3M(R) Highland(TM) Cloth Duct Tape, P/N 6969, or equivalent. Ensure the service and factory heat elements are laying flat.

12. On DHS & DTS seat cushion installations: Connect the two thigh heat element electrical connectors to the center heat element.

13. Install the seat trim cover. Refer to the appropriate seat trim cover installation procedure in the Seats sub-section of the Service Manual.

14. On front seat assembly installations: Install the fasteners that retain the seat cushion to the seat adjuster.

Tighten

Tighten the fasteners to 9 N.m (80 lb in).

15. Place the seat assembly inside the vehicle. DO NOT install at this time.

16. Verify the seat heat function is operational.

17. Complete the seat assembly installation. Refer to the appropriate seat replacement procedure in the Seats sub-section of the Service Manual.