Climate Controlled Seat System

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: When installing a new climate control seat module (CCSM), it is necessary to carry out programmable module installation (PMI). For additional information, refer to MODULE CONFIGURATION .

Both the driver and front passenger seat has an independent climate controlled seat system installed. A climate controlled seat module mounted to the bottom of the seat cushion electronically controls the climate controlled seat system (CCSM). The climate controlled seat system receives power from both the battery power and vehicle run circuits. The vehicle must have ignition ON and the dual automatic temperature control unit (DATC) module switch set to HEAT or COOL 1, 2, 3 or AUTO for the climate controlled seat system to activate.

AUTO mode is achieved by pressing the HEAT and COOL settings simultaneously. The center LED will be illuminated when the CCSM is in AUTO mode.

Cabin air is drawn through the seat fan motor and distributed to each of the thermo-electric device (TED) modules located in the seat cushion and backrest. The TEDs then heat or cool the air. The air is then directed into the foam pad B-surface. Channels in the A-surface of the foam pad are used to distribute the air along the surface of the seat.

Once the system is activated, the climate controlled seat module uses a set of flexible algorithms to control the heating/cooling modes, and the fan motor speed based on the climate controlled seat switch settings. These algorithms are designed to protect the user from potentially harmful prolonged exposure to climate extremes.

The TED uses a "Peltier" circuit of P-type and N-type semiconductors connected in series using copper electrical conductors. The semiconductors are sandwiched between 2 insulating ceramic plates. When current is applied to the TED, one side releases energy as heat, while the opposite side absorbs energy and gets cold. By reversing the current flow, the hot and cold sides reverse.

The temperature differences between the individual HEAT and COOL settings is minimal. For example, it is difficult to distinguish between LOW COOL and MEDIUM COOL settings. Monitoring the seat temperature at different HEAT or COOL settings should not be done as it is ineffective in confirming climate controlled seat system operation.