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, verify that the resistance values are within the specified range. Refer to the table shown.
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 existing factory heat element and the seat trim cover.
1st Design Front Seat Cushion Trim Cover-Inside Out (1st Design Rear, 2nd and 3rd Design Front/Rear Similar)
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. Remove the wiring harness from ONLY the non-functioning factory heat element. Use a pair of diagonal side cutters to cut the harness wires as close to the factory heat element material as possible.
^ If installing a center heat element, go to Step 4.
^ If installing an inner or outer heat element, go to Step 6.
Important:
DO NOT start the cut with a jab or poke.
4. If installing a center heat element, create an opening between the non-functioning factory heat element (1) and the seat trim cover as close to the seam (2) as possible. Use a razor blade or an equivalent sharp tool and carefully slice through the factory heat element until a hole is created.
^ Insert your finger(s) through the hole and lift the center heat element material (1) away from the trim cover material.
^ Use scissors and/or a razor blade to cut the center heat element material along the entire length of the seam (2) from corner to corner.
5. Insert the service heat element (5), with the backing paper side up, between the trim cover material and the factory heat element material (6).
^ Ensure the service heat element is laying flat, is tucked into each corner and extends to each side.
^ Carefully remove the backing paper from the service heat element.
6. If installing an inner or outer heat element, create an opening (4) in the middle of the factory heat element (3). Use a razor blade or an equivalent sharp tool and carefully slice through the factory heat element until a hole is created.
^ Insert your finger(s) through the hole and lift the inner/outer heat element material (3) away from the trim cover material.
^ Use scissors and/or a razor blade to create a 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 inch) opening (4) in the middle of the factory heat element.
7. Insert the inner or outer heat element (8), with the backing paper side up, between the trim cover material and the factory heat element material (7).
^ Ensure the service heat element is laying flat, is tucked into each corner and extends to each side.
^ Carefully remove the backing paper from the service heat element.
8. Use 3M(R) Highland Cloth Duct Tape, P/N 06969, or equivalent, to cover the opening.
9. On trim covers with three heat elements, connect the inner and outer heat element 2-way white connectors to the center heat element harness.
10. Install the seat trim cover. Refer to the appropriate seat trim cover installation procedure in the Seats sub-section of the Service Manual.
11. Assemble the seat assembly.
12. Place the seat assembly inside the vehicle. DO NOT install at this time.
13. Verify the seat heat function is operational.
14. Complete the seat assembly installation. Refer to the appropriate seat replacement procedure in the Seats sub-section of the Service Manual.