Adding Heated Seats

[escholten]

Just picked up a new to us 08 XLS without heated seats. I took apart the plastic below the gear shift and see the white plug for the seat control but I'll guess that the other stuff is not there.

Could someone tell me what I would need to add this option into this car?

For the obvious I would need the elements for both seats but would assume that the wiring is there from the control and fuse panel to the seat. Is there a control module somewhere that I need or am I better off just buying an after market seat kit?

Thanks in advance for your input.

[mikea30]

I am also interested in the answer to this question.

[inov8]

I have an '05 model and factory repair manual, so are making the assumption the '08 is similar or identical.
In the '05, there is also a seat heater control module located under each seat cushion in the front left area. This controller compares the temperature control setting (a variable resistor) to the resistance of thermistors located in the heater assemblies. The heater elements are cycled on and off to maintain the desired temperature. To duplicate the factory setup, you would need the seat heater assemblies (2 for each seat), seat controller(s), and the on/off/temperature set control assembly that mounts in the center console. This assumes all of the wiring is there, which seems likely (otherwise they would need a unique harness for cars without seat herters).

I think you will find it a lot less expensive to install an aftermarket kit.

[JoeyJ]

My apologies but this reply is some time after your initial post.
A set of aftermarket seat heaters cost about $500 installed.
We do them all the time at our dealership in Toronto. Most dealerships are affiliated with a company that does all of this. Perhaps you can ask at your local dealer. Remember as well that the prices are negotiable.