52 13 451 Replacing backrest heating element for left or right sports seat

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2015 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2014 MINI Cooper Paceman, and 2013 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Detach BACKREST COVER FROM PADDING

NOTE: Heating element is partially bonded to foam section and they can be separated from each other without incurring damaged if handled carefully.

Carefully pull off heating element in marked area from foam section.

Fig 1: Identifying Heating Element

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Check foam section:

No obvious damage or material defects
No bubbles in foam section
No dirt/contamination on foam section or residual foam

Check heating mat:

No obvious damage or material defects
All tear-off film pieces presents
Note version by examining label on cable

Installation:

Guide cable for backrest heating through foam hole.

Stick on heating element:

Pull off adhesive decals from heating element and stick onto edge of foam part until flush
Press down evenly in outwards direction

Fig 2: Identifying Heating Element

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Check laying of heating element for:

Heating element laid without folds
Heating element correctly positioned
All bonding surfaces stuck on

NOTE: Carry out function test.