B1957 – Seat Front Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1957 indicates a malfunction in the front seat’s up/down potentiometer feedback circuit, specifically that there is a short to ground, which means the circuit is improperly connected to the ground, affecting the seat adjustment functionality.

The severity of ODBII code B1957 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1956 Seat Front Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Short To Battery

• Damaged wiring or connectors in the potentiometer circuit.
• Shorted potentiometer.
• Faulty seat control module.
• Corroded or loose electrical connections.
• Grounding issues in the circuit.
• Malfunctioning seat adjustment switch.

Common misdiagnosis for B1957 Seat Front Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty seat control module
• Wiring issues or shorts in the harness
• Defective seat potentiometer
• Corroded connectors
• Malfunctioning body control module
• Incorrectly calibrated seat position sensors
• Software or firmware issues in the vehicle’s control systems
• Battery or power supply problems

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1957, which indicates a problem with the seat front up/down potentiometer feedback circuit short to ground, you can follow these common troubleshooting steps:

• Scan Tool Verification: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the code and check for any additional codes that may provide more context about the issue.
• Visual Inspection:
• Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the seat adjustment system. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• Check the potentiometer itself for physical damage or wear.
• Check the Potentiometer:
• Test the potentiometer for proper resistance values. You can do this using a multimeter. The resistance should change smoothly as the seat is adjusted.
• If the potentiometer is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
• Inspect Ground Connections:
• Check the ground connections for the seat adjustment system. Ensure that they are clean, tight, and free of corrosion.
• Use a multimeter to test for continuity between the ground point and the vehicle’s chassis.
• Wiring Continuity Test:
• Perform a continuity test on the wiring between the potentiometer and the control module. Look for any breaks or shorts in the wiring.
• If you find a short to ground, trace the wiring to locate the source of the short.
• Check the Control Module:
• If the wiring and potentiometer are in good condition, the issue may lie within the control module itself. Check for any software updates or known issues with the module.
• If necessary, test the control module for proper operation or consider replacing it.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive:
• After performing repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner.
• Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns. Monitor the seat adjustment function to ensure it operates correctly.
• Consult Service Manual: If the issue persists, refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific diagnostic procedures related to the seat adjustment system and the B1957 code.
• Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, consider seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or an automotive technician who specializes in electrical systems. By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue related to the B1957 code.