Upwards of a hundred? On what? This isn't a 42 Plymouth.

The pad new at a dealer #16836118 - $171.17
The heater control module #25638146 - $189.91

We will go with dealer because you said "After the number of vehicle fires ive seen from factory and aftermarket heated seats I would never do a repair on one" and "installing heated seats in a '13 equinox as I type" I assume you work at a dealership, because a 2013 would be under warranty and no-one would pay for something covered for free.

Now how do you feel about this basically free repair on the car. If you solder properly, seal it right afterwards, no amount of movement will cause a fire. If you twist tie, and leave it you run a risk. Repair smart, do it right, no problems, and money in the pocket.

/thread