XSeries-forum

I have read on a Facebook x5 group that 'apparently ' all X5's have the heated seats built in from the factory and that the retro fit bmw kit consists of just the switch panel???? Is this correct as my 2004 x5 sport hasn't got heated seat option but have been offered the switch panel...

Unfortunately not true.
The wiring harness is there but no heater element or switch. You would have to buy the switch and replace the seats too.
There is a retrofit aftermarket kit, but don't know what's involved in fitting it. The E70 doesn't come with even the wiring so even more of a problem.
You may be able to source a used set of seats  is a breakers or EBay if you have a common colour of leather.

As above.  Not true.  Same as the story about E53s having swirl flaps.  They never had them fitted.

I recall someone doing a heated seat addition to an old Range Rover P38 some years ago - (these were the vehicles that X5s, particularly the E53 were modelled on and BMW bought LR /RR specifically to get the 4WD technology for their intended BMW SUV) . It was quite a major operation unless you are a skilled upholsterer as the heating element has no way in other than to undo the leather upholstery and reupholster /restitch.

It is quite an omission on an X5 though, could never work out why it was an “option” as it should just have been standard.  Saw an incredibly high spec X5 once whose original owner forgot to tick the heated seat box.........oops.

I would look out for seats from a breakers or on ebay along with the switches. The loom has the wiring already.

Mine has heated seats. Front and rear. Jolly handy in this weather..

[quote="M30rmf"]
I have read on a Facebook x5 group that 'apparently ' all X5's have the heated seats built in from the factory and that the retro fit bmw kit consists of just the switch panel???? Is this correct as my 2004 x5 sport hasn't got heated seat option but have been offered the switch panel...
[/quote]

Never believe Facebook .......

[quote="Smeeagain"]
[quote="M30rmf"]
I have read on a Facebook x5 group that 'apparently ' all X5's have the heated seats built in from the factory and that the retro fit bmw kit consists of just the switch panel???? Is this correct as my 2004 x5 sport hasn't got heated seat option but have been offered the switch panel...
[/quote]

Never believe Facebook .......
[/quote]


Hence why I said 'apparently' and asked on here!

Good man. This is the place to come. I've been on here seven and half years