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Best option for Heated Seats??

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by White-Wagon, Feb 22, 2011.

  1. White-Wagon

    White-Wagon New Member

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    Hi everyone, thanks again for the help on the best option for leather seat covers. Right now, I am wondering what my best option is for heated seats. I am looking because I want to improve fuel economy. I am in my prius all day, every day and I am at times in it on the side of the road waiting for a client to get home. On the road and while sitting still, it gets coooold. So, I turn it on and turn up the heat. Everytime the heat needs the engine to warm for the heating system to work, I use excess gas. My avg mpg is down to 44 now. I was at 48 - 51. I want heated seats so I will need to use the heating system less and improve my mileage. What is the best route to go for heated seats?? I have the 2010 Prius package 3 with cloth seats. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!!
     
  2. White-Wagon

    White-Wagon New Member

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    Wow.... Over 50 views and no response! That's okay. I found some on my own. $100 per seat for the parts. My next question is, is there a thread that shows how to disassemble the seats... Install the heated seats and wiring and reassemble the seats??

    If I buy the clazzio leather interior, can I just put the heated seat kits under the clazzio seat covers(without disassembling the cloth seats?)?? If that's the case, I might put heated seats in the front and the back seats of my prius! Someone please let me know your feedback and thoughts... Thanks!!
     
  3. danvee

    danvee Blizzard Brigadier

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    Sorry WW,
    I saw the post but lacked the resources at the time to respond.
    This kit has been used by a number of people with good effect:
    Carbon Fiber 1 Seat Heated Pads Heater Kit (LED Switch) - eBay (item 390289852177 end time Feb-23-11 09:55:18 PST)

    In order to install in your existing seats you'll need basic upholstery tools (hogring pliers etc.) in order to remove and reinstall the fabric. I'm not sure that I'd be too facile at this method.
    If you get the Clazzios you can put the mats on the seat surface and cover with the Clazzios. My only small concern would be the 3/8 or so padding that Clazzio claims they use. It might somewhat lower the effectiveness of the heaters.
    Nice idea to do the back seats....you might be able to mount the switches on the back of the center console.
    You'd also need to "chafe proof" the wiring to the rear seat backs, as they ar movable...

    Good luck!
     
  4. gd540

    gd540 New Member

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    Wondering if White-Wagon (or anyone) proceeded with this project. I'm getting ready to order the Clazzio leather seat covers and the idea of adding seat heaters without having to remove and reinstall the factory cloth upholstery is appealing. Looking for thoughts, suggestions, and experience before I dive in.