BMW i3 driver's heated seat intermittently turns off after activation on BMW i3

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some BMW i3 owners report experiencing issues with their heated seats intermittently turning off after activation. This problem may be due to a shorted heating element, which can cause the seat heater to shut off shortly after being turned on. Additionally, some owners have noted that a malfunctioning seat thermostat can lead to the seat staying heated for only a few minutes before shutting off. Other reports suggest that pressure points on the seat, such as from a knee or elbow, can damage the heating element, resulting in intermittent operation. Furthermore, the issue may not solely lie with the seat heater itself, as some owners have found that wiring connections to the seat controller could have intermittent open circuits. It is advisable for owners experiencing these issues to inspect the heating element, thermostat, and wiring connections to identify and resolve the underlying causes.

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