B1950 – Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Failure

The ODBII code B1950 indicates a malfunction in the feedback circuit of the rear seat up/down potentiometer, which is responsible for detecting the position of the rear seat adjustment mechanism.

The severity of ODBII code B1950 is generally considered moderate.

Common Causes For: B1949 Climate Control Water Temperature Sensor Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty rear seat potentiometer
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Short circuit in the feedback circuit
• Open circuit in the feedback circuit
• Corrosion at electrical connections
• Malfunctioning seat control module
• Software issues in the vehicle’s control system

Common misdiagnosis for B1950 Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Failure

• Faulty seat motor
• Wiring issues or shorts
• Defective seat control module
• Incorrectly calibrated seat position sensors
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Software or firmware issues in the vehicle’s control systems
• Problems with the power supply to the seat system

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1950 indicates a problem with the rear seat up/down potentiometer feedback circuit. This code is typically associated with vehicles that have power-adjustable rear seats. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve the issue:

• Check for Additional Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other related trouble codes. This can provide more context and help identify if there are multiple issues.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors:
• Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the rear seat adjustment system. Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Pay special attention to the potentiometer wiring, as it may be exposed to wear and tear.
• Test the Potentiometer:
• Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the potentiometer. Compare the readings to the specifications provided in the vehicle’s service manual.
• If the potentiometer is out of specification, it may need to be replaced.
• Check the Power and Ground:
• Verify that the potentiometer is receiving the correct voltage and ground. Use a multimeter to check for power at the connector when the seat adjustment switch is activated.
• If there is no power or ground, trace the circuit back to the source to identify any breaks or shorts.
• Inspect the Seat Adjustment Switch:
• Test the seat adjustment switch for proper operation. A faulty switch can prevent the potentiometer from receiving the correct signals.
• If the switch is defective, it may need to be replaced.
• Look for Short Circuits:
• Check for any short circuits in the wiring that could be causing the feedback circuit to fail. This may involve inspecting the wiring harness for pinched or frayed wires.
• Clear the Codes and Test Drive:
• After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner.
• Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears. If it does, further investigation may be needed.
• Consult the Service Manual:
• Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific diagnostic procedures and specifications related to the rear seat adjustment system.
• Seek Professional Help:
• If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has experience with the specific make and model of your vehicle. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1950 code.