I like many others have a bad power seat module. I bought a used one that fits my 2010 XFR, which is a 18 way power seat module. Mechanic is stating he is getting a vin error when his non-dealer diagnostic tool is reading the module. It won't function at all. Does anyone know if this seat module has to be re-flashed with my car's vin number or do I need to buy a new module and have it flashed to my car? I can't get a straight answer from the dealers I speak to. One told me they will flash the used one I have, the other dealer stated the vin is burned in and I have to buy a new part which can then be flashed to my car because it wasn't flashed to a previous car. If anyone knows let me know- simply put is it a part that needs to be programmed to the vehicle and not just plug and play like other modules/parts. Thanks.

 

Yes, the driver's seat control module is VIN-coded, but I thought nearly all of the modules like this can be recoded with a new VIN - either with the SDD and a cable or one of the more advanced/equipped code readers that supports dealer functions (I have an Autel DS808 that does this). I'm sure there are exceptions but I can't think why the driver's seat module would be one of them.

Incidentally, the reason the driver's seat module is VIN-coded at all is because it needs to connect to the canbus in order to receive the signals when the "seat memory" button is pressed - these are sent on the canbus as they're also used to reposition the mirrors. Obviously, because the passenger seat doesn't have memory positions, it doesn't need (or have) a coded control module.

 

Really? Like how many is many others?

Maybe I missed something, but I didn't think this was a common failure, as in many of us.

 

To clarify, many older jaguars had this issue, I don't know how many later model 2010 and newer cars had the issue. That said I got word from someone who spoke to a Tech at Jag HQ in New Jersey and they stated the module is hard coded with the vin of the vehicle and you can't use a used one in place of a new one that ultimately has to be flashed. I got a good deal on a new module and hopefully I have it successfully installed next week.

 

The good news is that if this is indeed common then Search will get lots of other posts - usually with fixes. Let us know what you find!

 

Quick update- the seat is now fixed and although I put in a new seat module, the seat switch itself was the issue. Also turned 126k miles on my car today, still love it.