WOMS
B code body Medium severity

B1973 Passenger Rear Seat Down Switch Circuit Short to Battery

The OBD2 code B1973 indicates a malfunction in the passenger rear seat down switch circuit, specifically a short circuit to the battery, which means the circuit is receiving an unintended voltage or current directly...

Definition

The OBD2 code B1973 indicates a malfunction in the passenger rear seat down switch circuit, specifically a short circuit to the battery, which means the circuit is receiving an unintended voltage or current directly from the battery

Common causes

  • Shorted wiring or connectors
  • Faulty passenger rear seat down switch
  • Damaged seat harness
  • Corroded terminals
  • Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnoses

  • Faulty passenger rear seat down switch
  • Wiring issues or shorts in the harness
  • Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
  • Incorrectly installed or damaged seat components
  • Issues with the power supply or battery connections
  • Faulty connectors or terminals in the circuit
  • Software glitches in the vehicle's electronic systems

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Verify the Code

    Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the B1973 code. Clear the code and see if it returns after a short drive

  2. 2. Inspect the Wiring and Connectors

    Visual Inspection: Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the passenger rear seat down switch. Look for signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion

  3. 3. Connector Check

    Ensure that all connectors are securely attached and free of dirt or moisture

  4. 4. Test the Switch

    Functionality Test: Use a multimeter to test the passenger rear seat down switch. Check for continuity when the switch is activated

  5. 5. Resistance Check

    Measure the resistance across the switch terminals. If the resistance is too low (indicating a short), the switch may be faulty

  6. 6. Check for Short Circuits

    Wiring Inspection: Look for any pinched or damaged wires that could be causing a short to battery voltage

  7. 7. Grounding Issues

    Ensure that the ground connections are secure and not corroded

  8. 8. Inspect Related Components

    Check other components in the circuit that may be affected, such as relays or control modules. A malfunction in these components can sometimes cause issues with the switch circuit

  9. 9. Test the Circuit

    Voltage Test: With the ignition on, use a multimeter to check for voltage at the switch connector. Compare this with the expected voltage as per the vehicle's wiring diagram

  10. 10. Continuity Test

    Check for continuity in the wiring from the switch to the control module or other related components

  11. 11. Consult Wiring Diagrams

    Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for wiring diagrams to understand the circuit layout and identify any other components that may be involved

  12. 12. Replace Faulty Components

    If you identify a faulty switch, wiring, or connector, replace it with a new part. Ensure that any repairs are done with proper connectors and heat-shrink tubing to prevent future issues

  13. 13. Clear Codes and Test Drive

    After making repairs, clear the OBD-II codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns

  14. 14. Seek Professional Help

    If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has experience with electrical systems and OBD-II diagnostics. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1973 code. Always ensure safety precautions are taken when working with electrical systems in vehicles