Massaging Seats

Balster · 01-02-2021, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

I have them too, they are hopeless. Waste of £700

1newbmwowner · 01-03-2021, 06:11 AM

I have the massaging seats on my 2021 M550i. They are okay as the full massage setting is subtle and no where near the intensity of the massaging lounge chairs you can buy in a big box store. But, they are nice, especially when you turn on the seat heating. My wife loves them!

Regards,
Bud James

omaralt · 01-03-2021, 01:07 PM

I had it previously on my 19 x5 since it was bundled with the luxury seating package. Used it but like was said, it's nothing crazy. But I really wanted the comfort seats and ventilation so I got it. Now that it is a stand alone $1k option it's a no brainer for me. Definitely not worth $1k IMO

Moopai · 01-03-2021, 03:14 PM

My wife complains about the same thing.....To me I don't care but BMW could've made it little more noticeable!

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

omaralt · 01-03-2021, 03:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Moopai

My wife complains about the same thing.....To me I don't care but BMW could've made it little more noticeable!

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

Quote:

Originally Posted by Moopai

My wife complains about the same thing.....To me I don't care but BMW could've made it little more noticeable!

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

Ya I don't like it when my wife asks "are they on yet?"
😂

marsb007 · 01-05-2021, 11:17 PM

It's all about expectations!!!

If you expect the massaging seats to be like a shiatsu massage chair... you will be disappointed. It's probably more similar to someone poking you with a stick...Instead, if you think about them as active seats which make you shift your body's position so you're not sore after long drives, then they're wonderful.

Yes, if your longest drive is less than 15 or so minutes, skip them. There is no need. However, if you have longer drives (30+ min), I think they are worth it.

Bottom line, if you're expecting an actual massage from these chairs, you'll be sorely disappointed (pun somewhat intended).

omaralt · 01-06-2021, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by marsb007

It's all about expectations!!!

If you expect the massaging seats to be like a shiatsu massage chair... you will be disappointed. It's probably more similar to someone poking you with a stick...Instead, if you think about them as active seats which make you shift your body's position so you're not sore after long drives, then they're wonderful.

Yes, if your longest drive is less than 15 or so minutes, skip them. There is no need. However, if you have longer drives (30+ min), I think they are worth it.

Bottom line, if you're expecting an actual massage from these chairs, you'll be sorely disappointed (pun somewhat intended).

i agree it's all about expectations. when i got my x5 the luxury seating package was $1,600. that got you the multicontour seats, massage and ventilation. that was worth it for $1600

now on my m550i the ventilation was $500 and the MC seats are standard, so couldn't imagine paying an extra $1k for the massage feature.

5Pilot · 01-07-2021, 12:06 AM

I’ve got the luxury seat package on my 2018 530e. I haven’t owned any other cars with massage seats, so I really don’t have a comparison. But I think they work really good. Admittedly, I don’t use them very much. Occasionally on the way home after a long day at work. But when I use them, the lowest setting seems to do the trick.

I agree with other comments about the massage seats being a little less comfortable due to the bladders. Other 5 series I’ve driven with the multi contour seats seem softer. Overall, I like them. The cost/value question? Well that will be different from one to another person.

I’ll also agree that the ventilation function is weak. And has fan noise. Not so good.

BMW23 · 01-15-2021, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ejlover06

I actually like them. Try them with the seat heating (Level1) so it will give a better experience

this... I loved them in mine

bummedic · 01-15-2021, 10:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mmp300

this... I loved them in mine

Second this... those long commute drives after work can really help after a long day.

crypto · 01-24-2021, 12:45 AM

I've only had my M550i for two days now but I've used the massaging seats a good bit now. My wife used it when she was in the car with me and my wife's mom got a quick test with it too.

The consensus is a thumbs up from everyone. I'll caveat I'm not a big massage person. I don't go get massages and I don't own any sort of massaging seat/seat attachment. However, the seats seem plenty powerful enough for me and do a pretty good job.

Is it really worth 1k vs say $500? I have no idea but it's built into the seats and has a button on the doors to control it. No wires or batteries to screw with. It really is convenient. If you're not a massage connoisseur I'd say from my opinion totally worth it. If you are a massage connoisseur.. could be worth it.. you'd have to test it out. Sure, would love it as a $500 option and would probably pass as $2000 options. I guess BMW is smart and found a sweet spot price people will still pay.

Scotty B · 01-24-2021, 07:42 PM

I feel like it is a good amount of pressure, especially since you are supposed to be driving. I don't need vibration and I don't need a deep tissue massage. Just something to keep my blood flowing in my legs and lower back.

spoink47 · 07-18-2021, 10:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

As some said earlier, given the choice I would not pay $1000 for them. Thing about it is some owners have said these seats are more comfortable without the massage bladders inside. Pre-LCI massaging seats were bundled in a Luxury Seating Package. Really wish the seat ventilation was better too, but that's a whole other thread.

crypto · 07-18-2021, 10:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spoink47

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

As some said earlier, given the choice I would not pay $1000 for them. Thing about it is some owners have said these seats are more comfortable without the massage bladders inside. Pre-LCI massaging seats were bundled in a Luxury Seating Package. Really wish the seat ventilation was better too, but that's a whole other thread.

If I were to order again I would probably still get the massaging seats. It's a nice option. They are not crazy strong but when you are a bit sore or tense it's not too bad to make the ride a bit more comfortable. I agree about the ventilated seats though. They do not blow enough air IMO. I know they are not cooled seats, which would be nice too. My F150 has cooled seats and they are awesome for when it's hot as balls. The other annoying part is how loud the ventilated seats are on the highest setting. It makes me think I have a window cracked somewhere.

BD550 · 07-18-2021, 06:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crypto

Quote:

Originally Posted by spoink47

Quote:

Originally Posted by bankerboyz

Hey guys, is anyone else as underwhelmed with the massaging seats as I am? I thought the massaging function would be more pronounced. I feel like I wasted $1,000 on that option

As some said earlier, given the choice I would not pay $1000 for them. Thing about it is some owners have said these seats are more comfortable without the massage bladders inside. Pre-LCI massaging seats were bundled in a Luxury Seating Package. Really wish the seat ventilation was better too, but that's a whole other thread.

If I were to order again I would probably still get the massaging seats. It's a nice option. They are not crazy strong but when you are a bit sore or tense it's not too bad to make the ride a bit more comfortable. I agree about the ventilated seats though. They do not blow enough air IMO. I know they are not cooled seats, which would be nice too. My F150 has cooled seats and they are awesome for when it's hot as balls. The other annoying part is how loud the ventilated seats are on the highest setting. It makes me think I have a window cracked somewhere.

I skipped the massage / ventilated seats due to mediocre reviews and my history with those options on previous non-BMWs. Instead I put the money into the Bowers Wilkins (not an even $ trade I know) because I knew I would use that everyday.

RonronEG · 07-19-2021, 11:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crypto

The other annoying part is how loud the ventilated seats are on the highest setting. It makes me think I have a window cracked somewhere.

Every freaking time I use them I have that same problem 😂

Joe-BMW33 · 07-19-2021, 11:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RonronEG

Every freaking time I use them I have that same problem 😂

Same here, I have mine set to automatically go on if temp is 77F or higher. I have it set to 2. I would rather not use them than use them on 3 (High).

oldguy00 · 03-29-2022, 12:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BD550

I skipped the massage / ventilated seats due to mediocre reviews and my history with those options on previous non-BMWs. Instead I put the money into the Bowers Wilkins (not an even $ trade I know) because I knew I would use that everyday.

I know this is a bit of an old thread........but how happy are you with the B&W upgrade? Worth it? Thx!

AmooManiak · 03-29-2022, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldguy00

I know this is a bit of an old thread........but how happy are you with the B&W upgrade? Worth it? Thx!

If you are leasing or buying used, it's a good upgrade. I would not pay for them on a brand new car that's not being leased. I've had both.

Then again, I mostly listen to Apple Carplay so I may not be getting the most out of them yet. Even if I was listening to FLAC file, I'm not an audiophile to really tell a huge difference while driving a car.

eliphil · 03-29-2022, 06:35 PM

Not as good as my Audi was or my wifes rover but still worth it for me. Combined w heated seat it really helps the blood flow and relaxes my back.

HerkHealer · 03-29-2022, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eliphil

Not as good as my Audi was or my wifes rover but still worth it for me. Combined w heated seat it really helps the blood flow and relaxes my back.

+1

Heated lumbar massage is heaven.

eliphil · 03-29-2022, 06:47 PM

yup

01-03-2021, 06:11 AM	#24
1newbmwowner Private 47 Rep 85 Posts Drives: BMW M550i Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: PA, USA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2021 BMW M550i [0.00]	I have the massaging seats on my 2021 M550i. They are okay as the full massage setting is subtle and no where near the intensity of the massaging lounge chairs you can buy in a big box store. But, they are nice, especially when you turn on the seat heating. My wife loves them! Regards, Bud James __________________ Regards, Bud Doylestown, PA
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01-03-2021, 01:07 PM	#25
omaralt Major 766 Rep 1,063 Posts Drives: 22 M3 Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: FL iTrader: (0)	I had it previously on my 19 x5 since it was bundled with the luxury seating package. Used it but like was said, it's nothing crazy. But I really wanted the comfort seats and ventilation so I got it. Now that it is a stand alone $1k option it's a no brainer for me. Definitely not worth $1k IMO __________________ 2018 M3 6 spd 2017 M3 AW/SO 6spd 2014 435i M sport BSM/Coral 6spd (retired) 2013 550i M sport Alpine White/Cinnamon (retired)
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01-05-2021, 11:17 PM	#28
marsb007 First Lieutenant 328 Rep 343 Posts Drives: 2024 iX M60 Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: US iTrader: (0)	It's all about expectations!!! If you expect the massaging seats to be like a shiatsu massage chair... you will be disappointed. It's probably more similar to someone poking you with a stick...Instead, if you think about them as active seats which make you shift your body's position so you're not sore after long drives, then they're wonderful. Yes, if your longest drive is less than 15 or so minutes, skip them. There is no need. However, if you have longer drives (30+ min), I think they are worth it. Bottom line, if you're expecting an actual massage from these chairs, you'll be sorely disappointed (pun somewhat intended).
	Appreciate 1 1badTKE23.50 Quote

01-07-2021, 12:06 AM	#30
5Pilot New Member 11 Rep 23 Posts Drives: BMW 530eX Join Date: Jan 2021 Location: US Pacific Northwest iTrader: (0)	I’ve got the luxury seat package on my 2018 530e. I haven’t owned any other cars with massage seats, so I really don’t have a comparison. But I think they work really good. Admittedly, I don’t use them very much. Occasionally on the way home after a long day at work. But when I use them, the lowest setting seems to do the trick. I agree with other comments about the massage seats being a little less comfortable due to the bladders. Other 5 series I’ve driven with the multi contour seats seem softer. Overall, I like them. The cost/value question? Well that will be different from one to another person. I’ll also agree that the ventilation function is weak. And has fan noise. Not so good.
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01-24-2021, 12:45 AM	#33
crypto ... 1466 Rep 1,303 Posts Drives: 2022 M5 CS Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Northern Virginia iTrader: (1)	I've only had my M550i for two days now but I've used the massaging seats a good bit now. My wife used it when she was in the car with me and my wife's mom got a quick test with it too. The consensus is a thumbs up from everyone. I'll caveat I'm not a big massage person. I don't go get massages and I don't own any sort of massaging seat/seat attachment. However, the seats seem plenty powerful enough for me and do a pretty good job. Is it really worth 1k vs say $500? I have no idea but it's built into the seats and has a button on the doors to control it. No wires or batteries to screw with. It really is convenient. If you're not a massage connoisseur I'd say from my opinion totally worth it. If you are a massage connoisseur.. could be worth it.. you'd have to test it out. Sure, would love it as a $500 option and would probably pass as $2000 options. I guess BMW is smart and found a sweet spot price people will still pay. __________________ Current: 2022 M5 CS Past: 2021 M550i (BSM) Past: 2010 535 xDrive (Alpine White)
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01-24-2021, 07:42 PM	#34
Scotty B Private 66 Rep 90 Posts Drives: 18 M550 Join Date: Oct 2020 Location: TN iTrader: (0)	I feel like it is a good amount of pressure, especially since you are supposed to be driving. I don't need vibration and I don't need a deep tissue massage. Just something to keep my blood flowing in my legs and lower back.
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03-29-2022, 06:35 PM	#42
eliphil Lieutenant 1789 Rep 534 Posts Drives: M550I Join Date: Dec 2021 Location: East Coast iTrader: (0)	Not as good as my Audi was or my wifes rover but still worth it for me. Combined w heated seat it really helps the blood flow and relaxes my back.
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03-29-2022, 06:47 PM	#44
eliphil Lieutenant 1789 Rep 534 Posts Drives: M550I Join Date: Dec 2021 Location: East Coast iTrader: (0)	yup
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