B code body Medium severity

B1950 Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Failure

The OBD2 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

Definition

The OBD2 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

Common causes

  • 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 misdiagnoses

  • 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

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. 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

  2. 2. Inspect the Wiring and Connectors

  3. 3. Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the rear seat adjustment system. Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections

  4. 4. Pay special attention to the potentiometer wiring, as it may be exposed to wear and tear

  5. 5. Test the Potentiometer

  6. 6. Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the potentiometer. Compare the readings to the specifications provided in the vehicle's service manual

  7. 7. If the potentiometer is out of specification, it may need to be replaced

  8. 8. Check the Power and Ground

  9. 9. 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

  10. 10. If there is no power or ground, trace the circuit back to the source to identify any breaks or shorts

  11. 11. Inspect the Seat Adjustment Switch

  12. 12. Test the seat adjustment switch for proper operation. A faulty switch can prevent the potentiometer from receiving the correct signals

  13. 13. If the switch is defective, it may need to be replaced

  14. 14. Look for Short Circuits

  15. 15. 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

  16. 16. Clear the Codes and Test Drive

  17. 17. After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner

  18. 18. Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears. If it does, further investigation may be needed

  19. 19. Consult the Service Manual

  20. 20. Refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific diagnostic procedures and specifications related to the rear seat adjustment system

  21. 21. Seek Professional Help

  22. 22. 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