READ ON FOR A CHEAP SOLUTION! (If you are in the Midlands)
Yup, while both switches work just fine, on my 05 roadster, there is no heat on the driver's side. Fantastic
Anyway, I did some research into aftermarket replacements, decided on carbon-fibre reinforced ones looking the best option (they don't break down like traditional wires) and took the plunge last night. I took my car to the home of a mobile fitter and asked him to supply and fit new pads to base and back, ideally using the existing switch. I walked half a mile to a local indian restaurant (nice food!) while he did the job and 75 minutes later it was done! He even picked me up in his car as it was tipping it down with rain.
So, I now have a fully functioning driver's seat, with the switch operating on 2 levels as it should. I can't comment on how quickly it warms up compared to standard as I've not been a passenger in mine. I can say it's not as quick to warm up as some BMWs I've been in (maybe a couple of minutes for the carbon weave to put out decent heat), but boy are they good! I couldn't cope with level 2 for long, that's for sure...
The cost of all this, you ask?
He quoted me £100-140 depending upon the work that was needed and it came out at £100 cash, all in, parts, labour and lift back! What a bargain... He warrants parts and labour for 12 months.
I guess the higher end of the price range is if he has to do more work, or if your switch is duff, but he'll be happy to explain that, I'm sure.
The guy lives in a town called Perton in Staffordshire (just west of Wolverhampton) and will travel to you in the Midlands area (at extra cost, obviously) or is happy for you to come to him. His name is Nick and his number is 07544 404556.
Can I just point out that I'd never had any dealings with Nick before yesterday and am only passing on his details because he seems a straight up sort of bloke and did a top job, quickly, at a bargain price. Hopefully other members will be interested. Just say Mike with the Black Roadster sent you. Apparently he also does Parking Sensors, alarms, handsfree kits, SatNav etc in case you are interested. I'll definitely give him a call when the passenger side packs in....
Good luck if you decide to use him and do post your experience on this thread. Any questions, send me a PM.
Cheers
Mike