i just recently noticed that the back rest of my driver heated seat isnt working but the lower portion still functions. is there anything i could do to find the cause of this problem like checking fuses or wiring somewhere on the seat

 

Check the settings in the I-Drive and make sure you have it set to heat both the bottom cushion and the back rest. It may be set to only heat the bottom.

 

+1, but you could also have a blown mat. I had one in my old M3 and they have been known to short out and catch fire! When mine was removed, there were clearly some burn spots in it.

 

thanks i checked the idrive setting and it was distributed evenly any idea how much a mat replacement would cost if thats the problem

 

For the five, I have no idea but you could look in realoem.com and put your vin in, I am sure there you will find it. I know someone who works for Lear seating and he installed it for me, it was the the bottom heater in my case. I would think if one is mechanically incline, they could do it. I personally would not, I think it's just a little above my level of confidence.

 

mine is currently sitting at the dealership due to the reason. i will keep you post see how they rape me.

 

OMG, you are correct about being raped! If you can't do it yourself or know someone who can, I would just buy the mat and then remove the seat and take it to an upholstery shop. Most of those guys could change it blindfolded. It's probably not that hard, but I hate to disconnect all of those cables and trim because it just never seems to go back the way it came off when i do it.

 

Just took my 2006 530i to the dealer to have the problem with the drivers seat back heater diagnosed. Diagnosis is that the heater element is gone and the heater plus the leather for the seat back has to be replaced (I've heard this before on other forums - apparently they are one unit). The parts cost is $1200 and with labour the total will be $1940 . These are Canadian prices by the way. And just to make me feel better the service guy tells me that price includes the programing to ensure the electronics will accept the replacement part so it will work properly.
Anybody out there have any luck installing aftermarket replacement elements?

 

OUCH! I am sure you can find a similar seat with searching on OEM and take the heating element only. Some of these are sewn in but I am sure a good upholstery shop can help you.