B1951 – Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Open

The ODBII code B1951 indicates a malfunction in the rear seat up/down potentiometer feedback circuit, specifically that the circuit is open, meaning there is a break or disconnection in the electrical path that prevents proper feedback from the seat adjustment mechanism.

The severity of ODBII code B1951 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1950 Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Failure

• Faulty rear seat potentiometer
• Open circuit in wiring harness
• Corroded or damaged connectors
• Short circuit in wiring
• Faulty seat control module
• Poor ground connection
• Intermittent electrical connection

Common misdiagnosis for B1951 Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Open

• Faulty seat motor
• Bad wiring or connectors
• Defective seat control module
• Incorrectly calibrated seat position sensor
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Software issues in the vehicle’s control systems
• Battery or power supply issues affecting the seat system

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1951, which indicates a problem with the rear seat up/down potentiometer feedback circuit being open, you can follow these common troubleshooting steps:

• Check the Code: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the code. Clear the code and see if it returns after a short drive. This can help determine if it’s a persistent issue or a temporary glitch.
• Visual Inspection:
• Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the rear seat potentiometer. Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Check the potentiometer itself for any physical damage.
• Test the Potentiometer:
• Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the potentiometer. It should change smoothly as you move the seat up and down. If it shows an open circuit or inconsistent readings, the potentiometer may be faulty and need replacement.
• Check for Shorts or Opens:
• Inspect the wiring harness for any shorts to ground or open circuits. Use a multimeter to check continuity in the wires leading to and from the potentiometer.
• Inspect the Seat Control Module:
• If the wiring and potentiometer are in good condition, the issue may lie within the seat control module. Check for any fault codes related to the module and inspect it for damage.
• Check Power and Ground:
• Ensure that the potentiometer is receiving the correct voltage and ground. Use a multimeter to check for proper voltage at the connector.
• Look for Related Codes:
• Check for any other related trouble codes that might provide additional context or indicate a broader issue with the seat system.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams:
• Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for wiring diagrams to understand the circuit better and identify any other components that may be involved.
• Perform a Functional Test:
• After repairs, perform a functional test of the seat adjustment to ensure everything is working correctly.
• Seek Professional Help:
• If you are unable to diagnose or fix the issue, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or an automotive technician who has experience with your vehicle’s make and model. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1951 code.