What fuse controls heated seats?
In most cars, heated seats are powered by a dedicated fuse labeled either Seat Heater or Heated Seat in the interior fuse box, typically rated around 15A. The exact fuse and its location vary by make and model.
Heated-seat circuits can differ: some vehicles have separate fuses for left and right seats, some share a common fuse; some use a relay or a seat-control module inside the power distribution system. If heated seats aren’t working, locating the correct fuse is a good first step, but you’ll want the vehicle’s manual or a fuse diagram for precise placement and rating.
Where to look for the heated-seat fuse
These are the most common places where a dedicated fuse or relay for the seat heater is found. The exact arrangement varies by vehicle, so consult your owner’s manual or the fuse box diagram for your model.
- Interior fuse box: usually under the driver’s side dash or knee area; look for a fuse named SEAT, SEAT HEATER, HEAT SEAT, or FUSE SEAT.
- Under-hood fuse/relay box: some models place the seat heater circuit in the engine bay fuse panel, sometimes with a relay rather than a direct fuse.
- Seating control module or power distribution center: in a few modern vehicles, the seat heater feed is managed by a dedicated control module; the fuse may be tied to the module’s power input rather than a separate seat fuse.
Concluding: The exact fuse location depends on the vehicle; starting with the interior fuse box and consulting the diagram is the quickest route.
What the fuse is called and typical amperage
In most cars, the fuse is labeled something like Seat Heater, Heated Seat, or SEAT HEATER, and is commonly 15A. Some vehicles use 20A or 25A fuses, especially if they feed both left and right seats or share power with seat motors.
- Left-seat heater fuse: may be labeled SEAT L, SEAT HEATER L, or similar; rating commonly 15A
- Right-seat heater fuse: may be labeled SEAT R, SEAT HEATER R, or similar; rating commonly 15A
- Shared-seat fuse: a single fuse may feed both seats; rating often 15A–20A
- Relay or PDC protection: in some designs, the seat heater circuit is protected by a relay in the power distribution center rather than a separate seat fuse
Concluding: Always verify the exact name and rating from the vehicle’s fuse diagram, as there is no universal standard across all makes.
What to do if the heated seats still don’t work
If the fuse appears intact or you’re unsure, there are several next steps to consider. Start with a careful check of the fuse and related components before seeking professional help.
- Inspect the fuse labeled Seat Heater/Heated Seat in the interior fuse box; replace if blown with the exact rating and type.
- Look for signs of a blown fuse indicator or melted fuse material; replace with a fuse of the same rating.
- Ensure the ignition is in the correct position, as some circuits are ignition-switched and will not power the seats if the ignition is off.
- Check for a blown relay or a faulty seat-control module if the fuse seems intact but seats still don’t heat.
- If both seats fail, the issue could involve the fuse, relay, BCM/seat module, or wiring harness; consult a dealership or a trained automotive electrician for a thorough diagnosis.
Concluding: If you’re not seeing the expected fuse, refer to the owner’s manual fuse diagram; repeated fuse failures should prompt professional inspection to avoid electrical damage.
Summary
Heated seats are usually protected by a dedicated fuse labeled Seat Heater or Heated Seat, most commonly around 15A, located in the interior fuse box or in some cases the engine bay fuse block. However, configurations vary by vehicle, with some models using separate fuses for each seat or relying on a relay or seat-control module. When issues arise, start by verifying the correct fuse and rating with the owner’s manual or diagram, then inspect related relays and modules if the fuse is intact but seats still don’t heat. If in doubt, seek professional help to avoid electrical damage or fire risk.
