Vented (air conditioned) seat question

therapy · July 2, 2017

GM Service Department near me says that the 2014/15 models have a TEC in them for actual cooled seats. In 2016+ they moved to "ventilated" seats where they just recirculate air.

Debra in Cali · July 2, 2017

And now another question about the vented seats in from a 16. I noticed a zipper system in the back of the seat. Couldn't find the actual zipper, but thought that it was strange to have a zipper in the seat. Anybody else notice this? Any theories as to why there is a zipper there?

Silverado Steve · July 2, 2017

Im going to say bonus having the 14-15 system. With all the issues many are having with AC condensors and compressors going out, at least those of us with the 14-15s will still have cooled seats

Boardmember · July 2, 2017

Indeed.

Although any unfortunate rear seat passengers would then have zero supply ducts AND condenser heat to deal with.

Though I still see the benefit of the TEC system for my need....[insert cigar emoji here, which Apple, in its PC iteration, chooses not to offer]

SSam · July 3, 2017

I think my 2014 Silverado had plastic vents built into the back of the front seats. I don't think its present on my 2017 Sierra. So small physical difference between the 2 seat backs.

Donstar · July 3, 2017

Indeed.

Although any unfortunate rear seat passengers would then have zero supply ducts AND condenser heat to deal with.

Though I still see the benefit of the TEC system for my need....[insert cigar emoji here, which Apple, in its PC iteration, chooses not to offer]

When visiting my son in Texas (most summers) we spend a great deal of time sitting in the back seat of his '14 High Country. It is very comfortable. The HVAC vents for the back are under the front seats and are very effective in maintaining a balanced temperature throughout the cab. I know that some people like to feel cold air blowing directly at them and would prefer mid-high or roof vents. The air coming from the cooled front seats is not a problem.

Ozer · July 3, 2017

In theory, I could place a brick-size block of dry ice on some foil on the back driver side floorboard, THEN turn the A/C off, open all the windows and smoke my cigar!

Man, you REALLY want to smoke this cigar in your truck huh lol

Thomcat · July 3, 2017

Ventilated seats, a great idea........for blowing old farts back in your face!

Boardmember · July 3, 2017

Man, you REALLY want to smoke this cigar in your truck huh lol

All in fun actually. I do, on occasion however. Maybe twice a year. Must be temperate, so the A/C's not on...windows down, etc. Sometimes when I have an hour or so to drive...

Funny story from this past year. I had to visit a very rural community ~ 1:15 from my house and the ride home was the perfect opportunity. I lit the cigar, turned the bend on that two lane state highway out of town only to to encounter a roadblock. I was about the third vehicle, pulled up to the trooper with DL in my hand and apologized for the smoke. He stepped back and said "move on."

I guess I didn't look like a criminal. Or I stunk.

And yes, days later there's no evidence. Olfactory or otherwise.

Dale L · July 3, 2017

In theory, I could place a brick-size block of dry ice on some foil on the back driver side floorboard, THEN turn the A/C off, open all the windows and smoke my cigar!

If you can keep it lit with all the CO2 in the cab.

Boardmember · July 3, 2017

You know, I wondered what the chemical by-product might be from a disappearing block of dry ice....good point...

This whole discussion of course because I now have a truck with a sliding rear window. And wifey-dear won't let me smoke in the house. That too.

jeffbakk · July 4, 2017

As long as you don't get swamp ass when smoking your cigar all is good.........

So the point is swamp ass with no cooled or vented seats is bad......

Cigar is good especially if its a CUBAN cigar.

2016 Sierra Owner · July 5, 2017

GM Service Department near me says that the 2014/15 models have a TEC in them for actual cooled seats. In 2016+ they moved to "ventilated" seats where they just recirculate air.

This is correct. 14-15 cooled seats 16+ vented seats. If I had the choice to purchase them again. I'd decline.

And now another question about the vented seats in from a 16. I noticed a zipper system in the back of the seat. Couldn't find the actual zipper, but thought that it was strange to have a zipper in the seat. Anybody else notice this? Any theories as to why there is a zipper there?

I don't really think it's a zipper system. More it's were the stitching is weaker (or there is a easy rip portion) so the aibags built into the seat can deploy. I have a 16 as well.

Debra in Cali · July 5, 2017

.

I don't really think it's a zipper system. More it's were the stitching is weaker (or there is a easy rip portion) so the aibags built into the seat can deploy. I have a 16 as well.

Oh now that would make sense. Thank you for your input.

2016 Sierra Owner · July 6, 2017

Oh now that would make sense. Thank you for your input.

I actually looked at my seats yesterday. You are correct there is a zipper that runs up the back sides of the seat. I guess to make servicing the seat fans easier. The easy rip portion for the airbag is in between the drivers side of the seat and the pillar.