XSeries-forum

I want to add heated seats but am struggling to find any cream ones in decent condition and as mine are battered was thinking of having them recovered. Is it possible for me to add the element into my own seats while having them recovered and then just add the switches?

No - not without MAJOR expense.

Earlier models used a heating element that 'floats' on the seat foam, being anchored by glue in just two places. The element is like a thick ribbon,but strong and flexible. Connections are made at the squab/backrest joint. Later cars have the elements built into the seat cover, which is what makes these expensive. I don't believe there is any difference in operation, so if you can obtain the elements, from say e39 or E38 series seats plus seat harnesses from an E53, this might be a way forward.

Just a word of caution with seats- the seat builders don't always seem to bother too much about what goes into seats as long as the desired spec is present. For example my E38 has the drivers seat cover with heating element built in, the passenger side is separate. Again, passenger side has wiring for active seats, the drivers didn't. Another pair of non heated seats still had just one squab element present. In other words try to be sure exactly what you are getting with regards to second hand seats...

More still - you can't just add heated seat switches to your existing switch panel - won't work there are additional electrionic components in the switch panel needed as well. You will have to find a panel that has the same switches as your existing plus the 2 heated seat switches. The switches may be in new places, but will still work.  Upgrading seats is hard work.....

You can get a generic after market heated seat kit.
(Waeco type that is commonly used in Landys etc)
However it wont be OEM, and you will need to do some wiring mods.

You could potentially get them to work with the oem switches etc, but would take a little fettling.

I fitted a set to my rear seats and they seem to work OK.
the ones i got had a round switch with 2 heat settings.
Am awaiting a set of OEM switches so i can get it to look original, but with a bit of home brew electronics behind..