How to turn on Ford Fusion heated seats?
To turn on heated seats in a Ford Fusion, press the dedicated heated-seat control on the center console’s climate panel (driver and passenger may have separate controls) or use the on-screen Climate settings on newer models. The seat heater typically cycles through low, medium, and high levels and can be turned off by pressing again or closing the on-screen option.
Where the controls are usually located
In most Fusion models, the driver’s heated-seat button sits on the climate control panel in the center stack. The passenger seat control is nearby if its seat is equipped with heat. On newer trims, the climate controls may be integrated into a touchscreen, which also offers a heated-seat option.
The following steps cover the standard hardware controls most Fusion models use, and also note the touchscreen method used on newer trims.
- Start the car or turn the ignition to the ON position so the climate system can operate.
- Locate the heated-seat button for the driver (and, if equipped, the passenger) on the center console or climate control panel. The icon typically shows a seat with wavy lines.
- Press the heated-seat button to turn it on; indicator lights will illuminate to show the selected level.
- Cycle through heat levels by pressing the button again (Low → Medium → High) until you reach Off, then press once more to turn off if desired.
- On models with a touchscreen climate control, tap Climate or Comfort settings on the display, then select “Heated Seats” and choose the desired level for the driver and/or passenger.
These steps apply to the majority of Fusion models. If your model uses a touchscreen-only setup, rely on the on-screen controls rather than the physical buttons.
Model-year and trim variations
Heated-seat controls can vary by generation and trim level. Here’s a quick guide to where you’re likely to find them across common Fusion configurations.
The following overview summarizes where to expect heated-seat controls across common Fusion generations and trims.
- 2006–2012: Heated front seats were available as an option on certain trims; control was typically on the center stack near the climate controls or integrated into the climate panel.
- 2013–2016: Heated-seat controls generally lived on the climate-control panel, with separate driver and passenger controls on higher trims or dual-zone setups.
- 2017–2020: Heated seats were common on mid- to higher trims; controls were usually dedicated buttons on the center stack, and some models also offered on-screen control through the touchscreen climate settings.
Knowing your model year and trim helps you locate the right controls quickly. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or check Ford’s online resources for your specific VIN and build date.
Troubleshooting: heated seats won’t turn on
If the heated seats don’t activate, try these checks before seeking service.
- Ensure the ignition is on and the climate system is powered up.
- Check the heated-seat indicator light(s) on the button(s); if they don’t illuminate, try cycling through the levels again.
- Inspect fuses related to seat heaters or the climate system in the vehicle’s fuse box; if a fuse is blown, replace it with the same rating.
- If the seat heater is intermittent or completely nonfunctional, it may indicate a faulty seat element or wiring issue that requires a professional diagnostic.
If problems persist after these checks, contact a Ford dealer or qualified automotive technician to diagnose electrical or seat-element faults.
Summary
Ford Fusion heated-seat operation is straightforward: use the dedicated button on the center-stack climate controls for older models, or the on-screen Climate settings on newer trims, to turn the seat heater on and select a level. The exact location and method vary by year and trim, with driver and passenger controls sometimes separately activated. When in doubt, your owner’s manual or a dealer can confirm the precise layout for your vehicle.
