Mini Cabrio Seat Heating Not Working

Seat heater issues are the worst, especially this time of year! I actually had a similar problem with my Mini Cabrio. Does the error memory specifically mention anything about the thermal sensor or temperature control? When mine went, it was a pain to diagnose. Was the heating repair straightforward?

The error message was pretty generic, just said 'seat heating defective'. You mentioned your thermal sensor - how did you figure out that was the problem and did you have to replace the entire seat cushion or just the heating element?

Yeah, 'seat heating defective' is about as helpful as a chocolate teapot. I spent ages fiddling with mine. In the end, it was the heating element itself gone kaput, not the sensor, my bad. I'd say get a proper diagnostic from a workshop. They will probably confirm the heating element is the issue. It's a pain to replace yourself as it's integrated into the seat cushion. 390€ sounds about right for a workshop job, parts and labor included.

Just wanted to let you know I took your advice and brought my Mini to the local workshop. Turns out you were spot on - the heating element in the seat cushion was indeed defective. They replaced it, and now my backside is toasty warm again! Cost me about 390€ all in. Thanks a bunch for your help!