I bought a 94 850 turbo wagon last summer. The car was delivered in the south and does not have heated seats. I would like to add it to the drivers side.

I checked and found that the wiring is in place, even the fuse. Per a manual all that I need is a switch and the elements. I called the dealer and the parts guy estimated $150 for the elements. I figure that I'm in for $50 to $100 to have someone pull the skins and insert the elements. I might try it myself but I'd like to be sure that I could get it all back together before I start.

Does anyone have an idea on how to do this cheaper. I'm not sure that the pleasure of a warm seat is worth $200 to $250.

Greg

hi,

at some point Strandberg Auto (www.strandbergauto.com) was selling an entire seat for $200 - $250. If they still have any, and it fits the color of your interior, and it fits the bolts on the floor, you may be in for a better deal. If it's from a recent 850 (95+) you may also get a side impact air bag as well.

Serban

You will need the heating element for the back and the seat, the switch that goes in the center console, and a small wiring harness that is under the seat that has the thermostat and holder with it. You will also need about 40 hog rings and the plyers to crimp them. I have heard some board members used tie wraps instead of hog rings and had good results. Volvo pays techs about 2 hours for the job so allow about 3-4 for first timers. Make sure you let the parts guys know if you have leather or cloth seats. The below link has a posting for replacing the seat back cable that will give you an idea of how to get the back cover off, the bottom (seat part) is similar but the seat must be out of the car. (4, 14mm bolts and its out)

Factor in the cost of the relay for each side, probably around $50 each as a guestimate.

IPD lists a seat heater kit for $72 for 200 series. You might

see if they have something for 800 series. See www.ipdusa.com.

Also, try www.volvoparts.com for a better price on the OEM

equipment (you will have to call them since they only list

common maintenance parts on thier web site).

I think the rear seats can be heated, too.

the 240 kit will work, but it is just the element if i remember correctly, all other needs you can get at radio shack.