After I Buy Wagan IN9438-2 12V Heated Seat Cushion with Lumbar Support (Gray Velour)Before purchasing I read the reviews here, noting several complaining about the frailty of the 12 volt power plug. I purchased this model in November 2011. I also purchased this model: Wagan IN9738-5 12-Volt Heated Seat Cushion for a few dollars less. Each item is installed in a different car and gets routine use here in the chilly state of Michigan. So far, we've experienced no issues with the power plugs on either of the cushions. This model ('velour' material) does feel a bit nicer to the hand, but that's the only difference other than the shape and size of the cushions.
The switch for Off-Low-High is the same for each model and works fine and seems durable. I suppose if it were to get jammed somewhere near the seat rail of the car seat, it could be damaged when sliding the seat back and forth, but that hasn't happened to us. If your car has the type of 12 volt power outlet that automatically goes off when the car is shut off, you don't have to worry about the cushion accidentally draining your battery. One of my cars is like this. In the other car, we must remember to either shut off the seat, or unplug it. Not really a big deal, and the plug seems durable enough to stand up to repeated unplug/plug-in use.
The low setting is all we've used so far, and that's been warm enough. Maybe in January and February we'll need the High setting. With these cushions, we've found we don't need to have the heater blowing on High or even Medium. On long trips, we can take off our heavy coats and be a bit more comfortable.
As for the lumbar support in this model...with the bulky clothing we wear in the cold months, I can't say I notice it. Alternatively, maybe I don't notice it because of the differences between the seats in the two cars.
Neither of our cars came with heated seats and these products are the next best thing to the factory option. I believe they are worth their current prices even if they only last one winter, but I don't foresee that being the case.
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