Innovation in the automotive industry leads to the inception of technologically advanced user-centric features. Amidst these features, heated car seats have received significant appreciation. Aside from warmth, the heated car seats also offer a multitude of benefits to the driver. Ranging from creating a cosy cabin to reducing muscle fatigue, heated car seats are beneficial for all.
Let’s dive a little deeper and elaborate on the working, pros and cons of the heated car seats.
Heated Car Seats
The evolution of car seats leads to the addition of many comfort features and the heated car seat is one of them. The even and controlled heat distribution provides necessary warmth to the drivers.
Now that you are aware of heated car seats, let’s move towards its working.
How Heated Car Seats Work
The working of heated car seats is similar to that of any other heating appliance like hairdryers and heated blankets. The car seat brackets are equipped with a resistor with long wires covering the whole area. When heating is turned on, current flows from the car battery to the resistor through the wires generating heat.
The car seats have different heating levels that are controlled by a built-in thermostat. The thermostat automatically shuts off the heating when it reaches a certain temperature. Usually, the heated car seats operate at a temperature ranging between 30 to 45℃. However, in the absence of a thermostat, manual turning on and off is required. Here is how to heat or ventilate car seats.
Pros and Cons of Heated Car Seats
Following are the pros and cons of heated car seats.
Pros of Heated Car Seats
Heated car seats benefit occupants in multiple ways, some of which are listed below.
- Offers Additional Comfort: The seats can be heated instantly providing extra comfort and warmth to the driver.
- Relief Muscle Fatigue: Heated seats aid in relieving muscle fatigue and aches caused while driving. Besides heated seats, here is how to find the best driving position to avoid fatigue.
- Maintains Temperature: The temperature of each seat can be controlled separately, ensuring maximum comfort for all the occupants.
- Increased Resale Value: Heated seats are still an optional feature in many cars, which positively affects the vehicle’s resale value.
Cons of Heated Car Seats
Now that you are aware of the pros; let’s have a look at the cons of heated car seats.
- Can Catch Fire: Seats without a thermostat can catch fire if not turned off on time.
- Not Suitable for Sensitive Skin: People with sensitive skin can have rashes or burns from the seat.
- Damage to Upholstery: Excessive heat inside the car can damage leather upholstery leading to upholstery repairs.
- Impacts Maintenance Schedule: Using heated seats often stresses the battery leading to more frequent maintenance. To avoid this issue, you can apply these battery maintenance tips.
Heated Car Seat Malfunctioning
Heated car seats can malfunction due to multiple reasons. Here we have mentioned some of the most common reasons that lead to a faulty heated car seat.
Malfunctioning Thermostat and Seat Fuse
The first reason for a faulty heated seat is a blown seat fuse or thermostat. In such cases, either seat will generate excessive heat or will stop heating completely. The fuse can be easily repaired at home; however, for the car thermostat, professional assistance is required.
Defective Seat Control Module
A seat control module is responsible for controlling the seat’s temperature as per the requirement. When it malfunctions, temperature is not maintained causing discomfort to the occupants. Restarting the seat control module can help in fixing the issue.
Faulty Heating System
As mentioned above, heated car seats have wires and coils spread around the seat. Any damage to these heating elements can lead to a faulty heated seat.
FAQs
When were heated car seats invented?
The heated car seats were invented in 1951 by Robert L. Ballard. 1966 Cadillac Fleetwood was the first vehicle equipped with a heated car seat.
Can heated seat covers catch fire?
Heated seats have a thermostat which controls the temperature reducing potential chance of fire.
Can I buy an aftermarket heated car seat cover?
Yes, you can opt for the aftermarket heated car seat covers; however, taking necessary precautions is recommended.
This was all about heated car seats. The heated car seats were first rolled off in the 1950s. At that time it was limited to luxury car models only. With time, these seats became a necessity and can be found in almost all modern vehicles. Warmth, cosiness and muscle relief offered by the car seats aid in its demand. That said, if you are someone who often faces muscle fatigue while driving in winter, the heated car seat is for you. Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and choose from an array of options with heated car seats.
Besides, here are some exercises that you can do while sitting in a car to avoid tiredness.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on advanced convenience features in vehicles.
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