BMW i4 Seat Heater Failure: Common Problem & Solutions

Hey there! I have some experience working on EVs. Actually, I had a very similar issue with my 2021 BMW iX3 (love these BMWs, also considered the i4 at the time). Had exactly the same symptoms, seat heater would either not work or cut out seconds after turning it on. Drove me crazy during cold weather! Took it to my regular workshop and they diagnosed a defective heating mat in the seat. Total repair cost was 390 Euro, which included labor and the new mat. The fix wasn't too complicated but definitely needed professional handling since they had to partially disassemble the seat. Works perfectly now for the past few months. Before I can share more specific details, could you tell me if you're getting any specific error codes? Also, is it happening on both front seats or just one side? This would help determine if you're dealing with the same issue I had. Hope this helps! Let me know if you need any other info.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I'm having this issue only with the driver's seat, and yes, getting error code 0x429B77. My i4 just hit 104195 KM and had its latest service two weeks ago, but this problem started right after. Tried resetting the system through the iDrive menu but no luck. Good to know about the heating mat, that's exactly what I suspected. Guess I'll need to book it in for repair. Did your warranty cover the heating mat replacement?

Hey again! Sorry to hear you're still having trouble with your i4. Yes, that's exactly the same error code I got with my iX3! The fact that it started right after the service is interesting, my issue actually began after a routine maintenance too. In my case, the warranty did cover the heating mat replacement since my car was only 18 months old at the time. You might want to check your warranty status, especially since this started right after a service, could be related. Quick tip from my experience, while you're waiting for the repair, try not to keep attempting to turn on the heating repeatedly, as this can potentially cause more issues with the system (learned this the hard way!). Also, make sure to mention to your service advisor that the problem started after the recent service. If there's any chance they accidentally damaged something during the maintenance, they should take responsibility for it. Let me know how it goes with the repair. These BMWs are fantastic cars overall, just occasionally have these little quirks that need sorting out!

Really appreciate all the detailed info! That's super helpful about not repeatedly trying the heating system, I've definitely been doing that, trying to get it to work. I just checked my warranty docs and I should be covered since I'm still within the 3-year period. Called the service center and they can fit me in next week. You're right about mentioning the timing, I'll definitely bring up that this started right after the service. They seemed pretty concerned about that detail when I mentioned it on the phone. You're absolutely right about these BMWs, despite this problem, I'm still really happy with my i4. The performance and tech features are just incredible. Thanks again for all your help and sharing your experience. It's really reassuring to know someone else dealt with the same issue and got it sorted successfully!