[GreenThree]

I know, should have got the premium package... I need to find an inflatable bladder, any recommendations? Also, my 2013 328 has heated seats. Does anyone know if the heating pads are attached to the seat back OR if they are located underneath the cushion? Thanks

[Cyberdemon]

You'd be much better off trying to find a totaled car you can gut the seat out of and not try to stitch things together yourself.

[GreenThree]

^ Not a bad idea, but too much time and effort involved. I found an inflatable bladder from Corbeau for $49. It has a manual adjustment (illustrated in pic above) and can be placed fairly easily in the seat back. Anyone have experience with this? Hoping it does not interfere with the heating elements in the seat. Thanks

[HFW003]

When the 350z first came out I bought one and the seats in it were atrocious. I ended using a bladder similar to the one you have shown and it worked a treat.

It didn't interfere at all with the heated seats and was simple enough to put in and use.

[GreenThree]

^Helpful post, appreciated!

[GreenThree]

Just a quick follow up for those that have the standard seats, which are terrible BTW. The part pictured above was $49. Install was $75. The newly installed bladder feels EXACTLY like my last 3 series which had the factory lumbar option. Saved $3,000 in the process too! I discovered the heating pads are glued to the seat back, so anyone looking to do this can simply take the rear plastic cover off, and slide the bladder behind the metal coil springs. What an improvement - My car is now the Ultimate Comfort Machine!

[bosjt]

Thanks GreenThree! The lack of lumbar support (power or manual) in the standard seats is also a problem for me. I might choose the sunroof option, but I don't want Comfort Access which accompanies power lumbar in the $3,100 Premium package. The May 2013 post by mtherr, who installed the OEM power lumbar for $600, is amazing -- but I don't think I can pull that off alone. Your update is really helpful. Where does the bulb wind up exposed in your installation? Also, did you need to buy new fasteners for the seat back cover?

[GreenThree]

The bulb rests in between the center console and the drivers seat, so its out of view and not noticeable. I did not need to buy new fasteners for the seat back cover.

UPDATE: At first glance, this bladder appears to be the perfect solution. But after a week, its NOT working. It inflated to full capacity for a week. Now it no longer holds air. I think the tube has slipped out from inside the bladder. I am very disappointed in the product, as this does not work as advertised. Corbeau and the company I bought it from were very good to work with and will refund my money in full. I am working with an excellent auto upholstery shop which recommends a fixed cushion in the back given these circumstances. He returns next week and will get it fitted properly in the seat. Will post an update when that happens. Just wanted to follow up so members looking to do this are in the know.

[Stoofpilot]

I have the Comfort Access option and find the lumbar support fine but the overall support of the seat is terrible. The front of the seat is too small so there is little under leg support and there is minimum lateral thigh support. All cars should be shipped with the Sport seats.

[GreenThree]

Update: Upholstery shop made a custom lumbar cushion for my seat. Installed today. Works well and supports my back.

[Kabrich]

Originally Posted by GreenThree

Update: Upholstery shop made a custom lumbar cushion for my seat. Installed today. Works well and supports my back.

I have it from BMW, but would be curious as to what you got charged for this?

[GreenThree]

I paid $75 for the job

[tangodown]

Originally Posted by Kabrich

I have it from BMW, but would be curious as to what you got charged for this?

Did you contact your dealer to have BMW make you one?

[tangodown]

Originally Posted by GreenThree

I paid $75 for the job

That's sounds perfect...I assume you had it done in Mass...I'll have to find someone on CA.