VW Sharan Seat Heater Failure: Fix Guide and Costs

Having dealt with a similar seat heater failure in my 2002 VW Passat diesel, I can share my experience. The symptoms were identical, no heat from the seat cushion despite the controls being activated. After taking it to a workshop, they diagnosed a defective heating mat in the seat. The thermal sensor was functioning correctly, but the heating element within the seat cushion had failed. This is apparently a common issue in VW models from that era. The repair involved replacing the complete heating mat assembly. Total cost was 390€ including labor. The temperature control now works perfectly, and the seat heats up within minutes of activation. To provide more specific guidance for your case, could you share: Whether both front seats are affected or just one? If the heater control light illuminates when activated? Have you noticed any burning smell from the seat? Did the heater stop working suddenly or gradually? This information would help determine if your issue matches the common failure pattern seen in these models.

Latest service was at 95500km. Thanks for the detailed reply. The seat heating issue affects only the drivers side, and yes, the control light still comes on when activated. No burning smell noticed. The temperature control gradually became less effective over about 2 weeks before stopping completely. For those interested, my OBD scanner shows error code P0652 (sensor reference voltage circuit low). The seat warmer control unit seems to be getting power, but the automotive repair shop I called wants 180€ just for diagnostics before even discussing repair costs. Would it make sense to first check the wiring connections under the seat cushion before committing to that diagnostic fee?

Based on your description and the error code P0652, this sounds very similar to what I encountered with my Passat. The gradual loss of heating function combined with the control light still working points strongly toward a failing heating element rather than a complete electrical fault. Before paying the 180€ diagnostic fee, checking the wiring connections is definitely worth trying. In my case, although the final issue was the heating mat, the workshop first inspected the connections under the seat since access is relatively straightforward. Look for: Loose or corroded connectors, Damaged wire insulation, Signs of moisture damage However, if the wiring looks intact, the error code suggests a more complex issue with the seat heating system. The reference voltage error, combined with the gradual performance decline, typically indicates deterioration of the heating element or its associated thermal sensor circuit. From my repair experience, if basic troubleshooting doesnt resolve it, you might want to prepare for a heating mat replacement. While the 180€ diagnostic fee seems high, total repair costs including parts usually range between 350-450€ for these VW seat warmer systems. Would you be able to test if the seat maintains any warmth at all on the highest setting? This could help determine if the heating element is partially functional or completely failed.

Thanks for all the input. I checked under the seat cushion today and found all wiring connectors are firmly attached and clean. No visible damage to any cables. When running the seat warmer on maximum for 15 minutes, I can detect just a very slight warmth in one small area, but the rest stays completely cold. Given this and the error code, I suspect you are right about the heating element being the culprit. The gradual failure pattern matches exactly what you described. While I am not thrilled about the diagnostic fee, it seems this automotive repair job requires proper workshop equipment and expertise. I will book it in next week and have them check the thermal sensor and heating mat. The total repair cost you mentioned of 350-450€ helps set my expectations. Will update once I know the exact issue and repair costs in case others encounter similar heater failure symptoms. Thank you for helping me understand the likely cause and typical repair process for this seat warmer problem. Much appreciated.