[lbjgh]

When we bought our X3 I thought the vinyl seats looked OK and figured the vinyl seats would be easier to maintain and more durable than leather.

We took delivery of our '13 X3 Sport in May of 2012 so the car is now 5yrs old with 110k kms.

Unfortunately the driver's seat is cracked and crappy looking. Has anyone else experienced the vinyl cracking?

I suppose there are only two options, 1. live with it or 2. have the stealership install a new seat cover.

I'm kind of dissapointed in the quailty of the seats... this is the first car that I've every had this problem... leather, cloth or vinyl seating surfaces.

[jmxIII]

Mine has some cracks too right above the seat adjustment controls on the driver side. Though not noticeable only when you sit does the cracks open up, about 4 lines not exceeding an inch long, the rest of the seat if fine.

Where are the cracks located with yours? Can you take pictures of yours?

[lbjgh]

Same place at the bolster... I'll post pics later.

Originally Posted by jmxIII

Mine has some cracks too right above the seat adjustment controls on the driver side. Though not noticeable only when you sit does the cracks open up, about 4 lines not exceeding an inch long, the rest of the seat if fine.

Where are the cracks located with yours? Can you take pictures of yours?

[lbjgh]

Here is a picture of the cracked vinyl...

[knightrider2k2]

Yes these seats are terrible. Had same issue on my 2014 X3. Dealer replaced the bottom seat part under warranty (both front seats). I guess it needs constant care after all....
Btw, I got a loaner 3 series (2017 model) and the sensatec material felt much better in that car. Not sure if it's any more durable.

[morphomeman]

Another option is custom sheepskin covers for the front seats. They are warm in winter and cool in summer. I had them on my old 235 for years and never had a problem.
I am not sure if they like heated seats, though, if you have them.
There are several reputable producers out there on the intenets.

[lbjgh]

I don't like the idea of seat covers... maybe there are vinyl repair kits that would work.

Also I don't know if seat covers would hinder the seat airbags in a crash.

[epiphone3]

Originally Posted by lbjgh

Here is a picture of the cracked vinyl...

I have the exact same cracking and pattern of cracking on my driver's seat. My E90 had a similar problem with its leatherette also.