So, thinking about dipping into sparse savings and buying a new Subaru Outback. I am reading stuff that says no seat covers because of heated seats and/or the "seat" airbags. I have not approached a dealer about this, but wondering if you all have some knowledge about this issue. Seatcovers are almost a NEEDED accessory for me as I often am a filthy mess when I get in the car. I have no prior experience with heated seats or seat airbags. Am looking at leather seats. kris
I know the seat covers need to be designed for the seat air bags so they let the bags deploy properly if needed. I think most cars now have seat air bags.
If the cover is made for your car it should allow for the airbags. I think they use deliberately rippable stitching. If it is a thin material, like a sheet of poly or cotton, the heat will work right through it.
The airbag is the main concern with a seat cover. I would want to check directly with the manufacturer of the seat cover, to confirm absolutely that it will part for the seat airbag in your car model. A bomb that goes off and can't expand in the intended direction is still a bomb.
My gen2 seat covers had simple flaps for the side airbags. The concern for the seat heaters would be if the seat covers are too insulating, then the interior parts of the seat could get too hot. Which can lead to bad things. So avoid neoprene and other non-breathable fabrics if it is personal concern.
