Adding Recaro Seats to Standard CTS AWD DI

macklobell · #1 (**permalink**) 01-08-09, 07:37 PM

I have a 2009 CTS DI with both heated and cooled seats....Is it possible to add the recaro seats to this standard CTS since it also has cooled seats. I was told there might be a problem since the standard CTS isn't Plug and Play seat compatible. My confusion is that the CTS-V standard model has the same seats as the standard CTS...There can't be too much that is done to add these seats. I hope there is a GM technician that can help answer this questions. Thanks in advance.

Loveldos · #2 (**permalink**) 01-08-09, 10:25 PM

Don't forget, the Recaros on the V-Series are available only in Ebony and Light Titanium Leathers--not the Light Cashmere (or else I would be asking the same question) . . . just a reminder!

macklobell · #3 (**permalink**) 01-08-09, 11:06 PM

Yes, I am aware of that but my only concern is if they can be connected to the electrical harness of the base CTS and still work... I called one dealership and the service tech thought it could be done but with some minor wire manipulation. I hate to spend the money on these seats and find out they aren't compatible...

The Drakester · #4 (**permalink**) 01-09-09, 01:00 AM

This will be an interesting thread. I'd love to do this. I wish I could add Recaros to the Vette too!

jgraditor · #5 (**permalink**) 01-09-09, 11:16 AM

I had a thread on this a couple of weeks ago, because after sitting in a "V" I had to have those seats. I e-mailed Recaro and they told me that the electronics are not compatable and an installer would have a difficult time getting the seats to work.

If anyone figures this out I would change seats in a second (even at $3000.00 +), so hopefully someone can figure out an adapter, but until then I will just have to get used to the lumbar Lump!

wait4me · #6 (**permalink**) 01-09-09, 01:30 PM

I think since it is integrated with the hvac system, would be the only problem. BUT you can program the hvac with the recaro program i think. It give the option in TIS via a tech2.....

Dr. Design · #7 (**permalink**) 01-09-09, 02:19 PM

The interior wire harness might be different as well.... Just FYI.

Thanks,

Dr. Design
D3 Cadillac

Quote:

Originally Posted by macklobell

I have a 2009 CTS DI with both heated and cooled seats....Is it possible to add the recaro seats to this standard CTS since it also has cooled seats. I was told there might be a problem since the standard CTS isn't Plug and Play seat compatible. My confusion is that the CTS-V standard model has the same seats as the standard CTS...There can't be too much that is done to add these seats. I hope there is a GM technician that can help answer this questions. Thanks in advance.

StormCaddy · #8 (**permalink**) 01-09-09, 04:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jgraditor

I had a thread on this a couple of weeks ago, because after sitting in a "V" I had to have those seats. I e-mailed Recaro and they told me that the electronics are not compatable and an installer would have a difficult time getting the seats to work.

If anyone figures this out I would change seats in a second (even at $3000.00 +), so hopefully someone can figure out an adapter, but until then I will just have to get used to the lumbar Lump!

I want them too! I do know this much:

1. Ventilated seats are just pulling air with a vacuum motor in the seat assembly - there's no HVAC connection, so the ventilation button/control in the CTS should work.

2. Heating elements in the seats should work with the CTS button/control.

3. Seat adjustment is just 12 volts to the seat, so that's no problem.

Only install issues COULD be:

1. Interface with the memory controls (I don't know if the memory is in the seat itself, or in another module)

2. Airbag interface

I'm checking with my dealer too and will post what I find out.

macklobell · #9 (**permalink**) 01-09-09, 06:00 PM

The lumbar bulge is terrible...I feel like I am sitting against a cardboard. I have the cooled seats and it's like I am sitting right against the motor of the fan for the AC...I wonder if the cooled seats are firmer due to the extra compoenents? Awful shame...I wish some GM Techs could let the consumers know if this fix is possible....

macklobell · #10 (**permalink**) 01-10-09, 05:33 PM

I called a couple of dealers and they thought it could be done. It would involve some rewiring but the question still remains how many labor hours are involved and will it work for sure...Is there any Cadillac Technicians that can answer this question? It's hard to believe that these optional seats have an entirely different interface.

macklobell · #11 (**permalink**) 01-12-09, 09:39 PM

Can any GM technicians/assembly people give us information on the compatibility of retrofitting these Recaro Seats in a standard CTS with Premium Package?

StormCaddy · #12 (**permalink**) 01-16-09, 06:46 PM

For what it's worth (no install compatibility answers yet) Cadillac told Hendrick Cadillac in Cary NC that putting Caddy Recaros in a regular CTS 'might' void the warranty, without any specifics. I assume they mean the SEAT's bumper to bumper coverage for the full warranty period of the car. So it might just be a 90 day or 1 year warranty on the seat itself.

Also they gave me part numbers: 25856958 and 25856952 for ebony Recaros and wait for it...

$2990 EACH for JUST the seat assembly. More as I get it.