Most people seem to have issues with the heater not working, I have the oposite problem. The passenger side works perfectly normal, the driver side on the other hand. Turn it on and the temp keeps increasing, it doesn't click off like the passenger seat. Any pointers where to start lookin for the issue?

 

I've circled one possibility for you. Try not to burn your buns[8D].


JPN

[IMG]local://upfiles/6892/04A1B4C6C41B4F598F94B41B07BE88E7.jpg[/IMG]

 

alright, is the thermostat under the seat or in the center console

 

in the seat. assuming the wires are visable under the seat, it'll be the first thing in line that power is running to.

 

righto, I'll be pullin the seat out this weekend it seems if I can find a replacement. Now to get the damned trans out of limp mode

 

I have a spare seat thermostat that works, however it may switch off a little early. Not sure, but I'd let it go for postage.

 

Take the VIN of your car to your local dealership. Make sure all recalls have been performed -- especially the seat heater recall. If I remember correctly, it involves replacing the wiring harness with one with thicker insulation. I have seen photos where the whole car was in flames.

 

It seems to affect '96 & '97 models only:

http://automallusa.net/1997/volvo/850/recalls.html

Auto Recall Date: 20021119
Vehicle Component: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
Estimated Vehicles Affected: 65000
1997 VOLVO 850 Defect Summary:
ON SOME SEDANS AND STATION WAGONS EQUIPPED WITH SEAT HEATERS, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT EXCESSIVE COMPRESSION OF THE SEAT CUSHION COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE ELECTRICAL WIRING OF THE SEAT HEATER.
Defect Consequence:
IF THIS OCCURS, THE DAMAGE COULD RESULT IN A SHORT CIRCUIT THAT COULD CAUSE A FIRE.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL DISCONNECT THE EXISTING WIRES AND INSTALL A NEW ELECTRONIC THERMOSTAT AND CABLE HARNESS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 19, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes: VOLVO CARS OF NA, INC., 112


....excessive compression of seat cushion?


JPN