Power Seat Motor Repair Cost Guide
Front/Back Motor Replacement
Labor time: 1-1.5 hours
Labor cost: $125-$187.50
Parts cost: $150-$250
Total estimated cost: $275-$437.50
Up/Down Motor Replacement
Labor time: 1.5-2 hours
Labor cost: $187.50-$250
Parts cost: $175-$275
Total estimated cost: $362.50-$525
Recline Motor Replacement
Labor time: 1-2 hours
Labor cost: $125-$250
Parts cost: $200-$300
Total estimated cost: $325-$550
Lumbar Support Motor Replacement
Labor time: 2-2.5 hours
Labor cost: $250-$312.50
Parts cost: $225-$350
Total estimated cost: $475-$662.50
*Please note: Prices may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional costs may apply if there are complications or if other components need replacement. These are estimated costs based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour.
Common Additional Services:
- Seat track cleaning and lubrication: $75-$125
- Wiring harness repair: $150-$300
- Switch replacement: $200-$350
- Memory module replacement: $350-$600
Power Seat Motor Repair Guide
Forward/Backward Motor Repair
Common Issues:Motor won't move seat forward or backward, grinding noise, intermittent operation
Repair Steps:
- Remove seat from vehicle following manufacturer specifications
- Locate the horizontal drive motor under the seat
- Disconnect electrical connections and track mounting bolts
- Remove motor assembly from track mechanism
- Clean or replace worn gears if applicable
- Install new motor if necessary
- Reinstall and test operation
Seat Height Motor Repair
Common Issues:Seat won't raise or lower, uneven movement, motor runs but seat doesn't move
Repair Steps:
- Remove seat from vehicle
- Access vertical drive motor (usually located on seat frame side)
- Inspect lift mechanism for damaged components
- Remove motor mounting brackets
- Replace motor and/or drive gear assembly
- Lubricate moving parts
- Reassemble and test functionality
Seat Back Recline Motor Repair
Common Issues:Seatback won't recline, clicking noise, stuck in position
Repair Steps:
- Remove seat back cover to access motor
- Disconnect electrical connections
- Remove mounting hardware
- Inspect gears and drive mechanism
- Replace motor if necessary
- Check and repair wiring if needed
- Reassemble and verify proper operation
Lumbar Support Motor Repair
Common Issues:No movement in lumbar area, motor runs but no support change
Repair Steps:
- Remove seat back cover
- Locate lumbar support mechanism
- Disconnect motor from power supply
- Remove motor from mounting bracket
- Replace motor and/or lumbar support assembly
- Check electrical connections
- Test operation before full reassembly
Important Notes:
- Always disconnect vehicle battery before beginning repairs
- Document wire connections before disconnecting
- Keep track of all hardware and mounting positions
- Test seat operation fully before reinstalling in vehicle
Note: Repair procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Professional installation is recommended for safety and warranty purposes.
Understanding Power Seat Motors in Vehicles
A power seat motor is an essential component in modern vehicles that enables automatic seat adjustment for optimal driver and passenger comfort. Here's a detailed breakdown of the different types of power seat motors and their functions:
Forward/Backward Motor (Track Motor)
What it is:This motor controls the horizontal movement of the entire seat along its track.
What it does:Allows users to move the seat forward or backward to adjust their distance from the steering wheel and pedals, accommodating drivers of different heights.
Seat Height Motor (Lift Motor)
What it is:A motor that controls the vertical positioning of the seat.
What it does:Raises or lowers the entire seat to provide better visibility and comfort for drivers of different heights.
Seat Tilt Motor
What it is:This motor adjusts the angle of the seat cushion.
What it does:Allows users to tilt the front portion of the seat cushion up or down for better thigh support and overall comfort.
Backrest Recline Motor
What it is:A motor that controls the angle of the seatback.
What it does:Enables users to adjust the backrest angle forward or backward for optimal driving position and comfort.
Lumbar Support Motor
What it is:A specialized motor that controls the lumbar support mechanism in the seat.
What it does:Adjusts the lower back support by moving a padded mechanism in or out to provide customized lumbar support and reduce back strain.
Headrest Motor
What it is:A motor that controls the height and sometimes angle of the headrest.
What it does:Allows for adjustment of the headrest position to properly align with the occupant's head for safety and comfort.
Bolster Motor
What it is:A motor that controls the side bolsters of the seat.
What it does:Adjusts the side support wings of the seat to provide better lateral support during cornering and customize the seat width for different body types.
Note: Not all vehicles are equipped with every type of power seat motor. The number and types of motors vary depending on the vehicle's make, model, and trim level.
Power Seat Motor Failure Symptoms and Warning Signs
Power Seat Motor: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of Power Seat Motor Failure:
1. Unusual Noises
• Grinding, clicking, or whirring sounds when adjusting the seat
• Squealing noises during seat movement
2. Slow or Inconsistent Movement
• Seat moves slower than usual
• Jerky or intermittent movement when adjusting position
3. Complete Failure to Move
• Seat doesn't respond to controls
• Motor makes humming sound but seat doesn't move
4. One-Direction Movement Only
• Seat moves forward but not backward (or vice versa)
• Seat moves up but not down (or vice versa)
Typical Service Schedule:
Regular Maintenance (Every 50,000 miles or 4 years):
• Inspection of motor connections
• Lubrication of seat tracks
• Testing of all movement functions
Preventive Measures:
• Clean seat tracks every 6 months
• Avoid forcing seat movement when obstructed
• Regular testing of all seat positions
Note: There is no specific replacement interval for power seat motors. They typically last the lifetime of the vehicle unless problems develop. However, regular maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan.
When to Seek Professional Service:
• At first sign of unusual noise
• When movement becomes irregular
• If seat becomes stuck in an unsafe position
• Every 2-3 years for general inspection
Important: Faulty power seat motors can affect driving safety and comfort. If you notice any of these symptoms, we recommend professional inspection and repair.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
