Collision Repair Training | Australia
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Collision Repair Training | Australia
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Current Events/News: Advantage Online: 2001 Archives
ADVANTAGE ONLINE: THE CLIMATE CONTROL SEAT SYSTEM
August 27, 2001 -Heated seats are nothing new, but the Climate Control Seat (CCS) system developed by Amerigon is the first of its kind to offer both heated and cooled seating without any connection to the engine or air conditioning system. The CCS system consists of a temperature-controlled seat module, two thermoelectric device (TED) heat pumps, a fan, supply and exhaust ducts, and a control switch. The CCS is currently offered as an option on the 2000 and 2001 Lincoln Navigator, the 2001 Lexus LS430, and as standard equipment on the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood. Operating the Climate Control Seat SystemIn order for the CCS to operate, the vehicle needs to be running. The system’s control switch also must be set to the heating or cooling mode and the fan speed set to one of five positions. The seat module (control computer) is mounted to the bottom of the seat cushion of both the driver and passenger seats, and controls the system’s seat temperature by input received from the control switch and fan speed selections. Cabin air is drawn into the fan motor and distributed into each of the heat pumps, located in the seat cushion and backrest. When current is applied to the heat pumps, one side releases energy as heat, while the opposite side absorbs energy and feels cold, depending on the temperature selection. The hot or cool air then circulates through channels in the seat surfaces to the occupants via a fan that is mounted inside the seat. Diagnosing the Climate Control Seat SystemTo diagnose and test the CCS system, a DVOM is needed. If the seat being serviced is equipped with a side airbag system, a vehicle-specific airbag simulator is also needed. The system must be deactivated. The airbag simulator is then installed under the seats in the side airbag to floor connector. After repairs have been made, the airbag simulator must be removed before operating the vehicle. Refer to the vehicle-specific service manual for the correct procedures. Next, raise the seat to its highest position, then move and tilt the seat to its most forward position, and connect the seat system electrical connectors. Find the condition on the symptom chart, which is located in the vehicle-specific service manual, and perform the appropriate pinpoint test(s) to determine the problem. The results of the test(s) will determine how the repairs can be made. Some of the pinpoint tests may require the seat track to be removed to inspect for disconnected or damaged air ducts. Conditions that will indicate a possible failure include:
A noise or vibration problem may be an easy fix. The solution may be as simple as removing loose items that may be in contact with the seat’s fan motor, reinstalling a loose fan motor filter, or tightening loose fan motor bolts. In addition, check for a worn or damaged fan motor, and install a replacement motor if needed. Note: The seat fan motor is equipped with a non-serviceable fuse. All shorts in the seat fan motor circuits must be repaired before installing a new seat fan motor. If the pigtail wiring of the seat cushion heat pump, seat backrest heat pump, and seat fan motor is damaged, it can be repaired. It's also possible to repair the circuitry of the CCS system. If the circuitry can't be repaired, the system’s parts, such as the control switch, temperature-controlled seat module, fan motor, seat cushion heat pump, seat backrest heat pump, and air ducts, will need to be replaced. Additionally, if the foam wedge, seat cushion foam, seat cushion trim cover, seat backrest foam, and seat backrest trim cover are damaged and can't be repaired, then these materials will also need to be replaced. After repairs have been made, test the system for normal operation and reactivate the seat airbag system, if equipped. |
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