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2021 TOYOTA RAV4

2.5L I4AWDCVTgas
1 active safety recall on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs415Labor589Torque3733Fluid9DTC940Battery1Maintenance0Recalls1
electrical

Heated Seat Module

for 2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.1 h
Tools
6
Steps
11

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the heated seat module, which controls the heating elements in the front seats of the 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4.

Warnings

Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 90 seconds before working on any electrical components to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge.
The heated seat module is located under the seat. Ensure the seat is moved to its most accessible position before beginning work.
ℹ️Label all electrical connectors before disconnecting to ensure correct reassembly.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Trim removal tool setEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Phillips screwdriver
Flashlight or work light
Wire labels or tape

Parts

  • Heated seat control module × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Plastic trim clips (if broken during removal) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

  1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  2. Turn the ignition off and remove the key fob from the vehicle.
  3. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket.
  4. Wait at least 90 seconds for airbag system capacitors to discharge.
  5. Move the front seat fully forward or backward to access the seat mounting bolts and module location.

Procedure

  1. 1
    Access the seat mounting bolts
    Move the front seat to the full forward position. Locate the two rear seat mounting bolts at the rear of the seat rails. These are 14mm bolts that secure the seat to the floor.
  2. 2
    Remove rear seat mounting bolts
    Using a 14mm socket, remove the two rear seat mounting bolts. Keep these bolts in a safe location for reinstallation. Move the seat to the full rearward position to access the front mounting bolts.
  3. 3
    Remove front seat mounting bolts
    With the seat in the full rearward position, locate and remove the two front seat mounting bolts using a 14mm socket. The seat is now ready to be tilted or lifted slightly for access to the underside.
  4. 4
    Tilt seat and locate heated seat module
    Carefully tilt the seat backward to access the underside. The heated seat module is typically mounted to the seat frame near the center, beneath the cushion. It is a small rectangular black box with multiple wire connectors.
  5. 5
    Disconnect electrical connectors
    Locate all electrical connectors attached to the heated seat module. There are typically 2-3 connectors: one for power, one for the heating element, and possibly one for the switch. Press the locking tabs and carefully disconnect each connector. Label them if necessary for reassembly.
  6. 6
    Remove module mounting hardware
    Locate the module mounting bolts or screws securing the heated seat module to the seat frame. Remove these fasteners using the appropriate socket or screwdriver. The module should now be free to remove from the seat.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  7. 7
    Install new heated seat module
    Position the new heated seat module in the same location as the removed module. Align the mounting holes with the seat frame. Install the module mounting bolts and torque to specification.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  8. 8
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the new heated seat module in the same positions as they were removed. Ensure each connector clicks securely into place and the locking tabs engage fully.
  9. 9
    Reinstall front seat mounting bolts
    Return the seat to its upright position. Move the seat fully rearward to access the front mounting holes. Install the two front seat mounting bolts through the seat rails into the floor mounting points. Torque to specification.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  10. 10
    Reinstall rear seat mounting bolts
    Move the seat fully forward to access the rear mounting holes. Install the two rear seat mounting bolts through the seat rails into the floor mounting points. Torque to specification.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  11. 11
    Reconnect battery
    Return to the engine bay and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification. Do not overtighten.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked before testing.
  2. Verify all seat mounting bolts are torqued to specification before operating the vehicle.
  3. Test seat movement in all directions to ensure no interference with wiring.

Verification

  • Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine.
  • Press the heated seat button and verify the indicator light illuminates on the switch.
  • Allow 2-3 minutes for the seat to warm up, then verify heat is being generated by feeling the seat cushion.
  • Test both low and high heat settings if equipped to ensure proper operation.
  • Move the seat through its full range of motion to confirm no wiring interference or binding.
  • Check for any warning lights on the instrument cluster related to seat systems.

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