Amarok Seat Heaters Failed, Common Sensor Issue Fix

Having worked on a few car electronics issues before, I faced a similar seat heating problem with my 2019 Tiguan. The symptoms were identical, complete failure of both front seat heaters and an error message on the display. The thermal sensor and heating mat in both front seats had failed. A workshop inspection revealed that the temperature control module was receiving signals, but the seat heating mats were damaged. This is actually a somewhat common issue in these models. The repair involved replacing both seat heating mats and recalibrating the temperature control system. Total cost was 390€ including parts and labor. The fix took about 3 hours since they needed to remove the seat covers carefully to access the heating elements. To better assist with your specific case, could you share: Which error code is showing up? Did the seat heating stop working suddenly or gradually? Are both seats affected simultaneously? Have you noticed any unusual moisture or liquid spills on the seats recently? This would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if it might be something different.

My car has 108675km and recently had its annual service. After running some basic diagnostics, both front seat heaters failed simultaneously showing error code E-456. I checked the fuses which all appear intact, and no water damage is visible on either seat cushion. The heater failure happened suddenly during a cold morning start. I did notice the temperature control wasn't as effective in the weeks leading up to the complete failure though. The heating elements in both seats seem to receive power but remain completely cold. Wondering if this additional information helps narrow down the potential causes of the seat warmer malfunction.

Thanks for providing those details. This sounds exactly like what happened with my Tiguan. The gradual decline in temperature control performance before complete heater failure matches my experience perfectly. The error code E-456 typically indicates a heating element malfunction, which aligns with the symptoms you described. In my case, the service technician found that the heating mats had developed internal breaks, causing inconsistent operation before complete failure. Since both seats failed simultaneously and you mentioned they still receive power, this strongly suggests a common underlying issue with the heating elements rather than a thermal sensor problem. The timing after your service is interesting, sometimes the movement of seat cushions during routine maintenance can aggravate already weakened heating elements. Based on my repair experience, you should prepare for: Replacement of both seat heating mats, Possible thermal sensor replacement, System recalibration The repair cost might be similar to what I paid (390€), though prices vary by region and specific parts needed. The simultaneous failure pattern and error code match my situation exactly, suggesting youll likely need the same fix I had. Would recommend getting this checked soon, as continuing to use faulty heating elements can potentially cause further electrical issues.

Given your thorough assessment and the error code specifics, this information has been really valuable. Based on the details about the heating elements needing replacement and the typical repair costs, I think I'll schedule a service appointment next week. The matching symptoms between my Amarok and your Tiguan, particularly the gradual temperature control decline before total seat heater failure, definitely point toward worn heating mats. The simultaneous failure of both seat warmers and the error code E-456 seem too similar to be coincidental. Good to know about the potential link to the recent service work possibly affecting already weakened elements. I appreciate the breakdown of expected repairs and approximate costs, as it helps me plan for the 390€ expense. Before booking the service, I'll document the exact timing of when the seat heating stopped working and the previous temperature control issues. This should help the technicians diagnose the problem more efficiently. Would it be worth having them check the entire heating system while they're replacing the heating mats, just to rule out any related issues?