BMW S494A — Heated front seats
Front seat heating.
Quick answer
S494A is BMW's factory option code for heated front seats. Front seat heating.
Should you care about Heated front seats?
One of the most in-demand options on the UK used market. Test both sides reach genuinely hot: the heating elements are a known failure and re-trimming a seat to replace one is costly.
How to tell if a BMW has S494A
- Look for
S494Aor just494on the original build sheet or window sticker. - Check the options list in the AutoTrader, eBay or dealer listing.
- Decode it from the VIN with our free BMW VIN decoder, then confirm the fitted codes in a full report.
- Where relevant, verify it physically on the car during the viewing, as described above.
Bimmer.AI is designed to help you identify BMW-specific buyer risks before you travel, negotiate, or pay for an inspection. It does not replace a physical inspection by a qualified mechanic, a legal vehicle-history check (e.g. HPI Check), or independent verification of finance, stolen, or write-off status. Repair-cost ranges are indicative UK figures that vary by region, specialist, parts supply, and labour rates.
Decode this car's full factory spec
Bimmer.AI takes the VIN and option codes and returns the decoded equipment list alongside the MOT history, known faults and a buyer verdict.
Run a Bimmer.AI report →Frequently asked questions
What does BMW option code S494A mean?
Front seat heating. It sits in the seats group of BMW's factory options.
Is Heated front seats worth having on a used BMW?
One of the most in-demand options on the UK used market. Test both sides reach genuinely hot: the heating elements are a known failure and re-trimming a seat to replace one is costly.
How do I check if a BMW has S494A?
Look for S494A (or just 494) on the car's build sheet or in the listing's options, or decode it from the VIN. You can enter the VIN and option codes into a Bimmer.AI report to see the full decoded factory spec alongside the MOT history and known faults.