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B1953 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Short To Ground". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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A B1953 trouble code indicates that the vehicle's Engine Control Unit (ECU) has detected a shorted circuit in the rear seat's potentiometer feedback circuit.
The seat potentiometer is located underneath the seat, and feed the ECU with continuous data on the seat's relative position. In the case of a B1953 trouble code, the seat potentiometer's circuit has been shorted, severing reliable information between it and the ECU. As a result, the seat's movement may be impeded, and the retractable roof of convertibles will lack a failsafe from making contact with the seats if left unchecked.
Bad wiring is the most common cause of a shorted circuit. The potentiometer itself may also be faulty. Under rare circumstances, the vehicle's ECU may be reporting the issue falsely. However, due to the rarity of an ECU malfunction, this cause should only be considered once other potential causes have been exhausted.
With a shorted seat potentiometer circuit, the ECU will be unable to gauge where the seat's position is. If the vehicle is convertible, this can result in conflicts between the seat position and retracting roof. The seat may be locked in place if it is moved electronically. An illuminated engine lamp and stored B1953 trouble code will be present alongside the practical symptoms. These are diagnostic symptoms, and are present in order to report and pinpoint the issue respectively.
A mechanic can first diagnose the B1953 code by reading it via an OBD-II scanner. The seat potentiometer circuit may be accessed by prying open the seat's side panel. The seat potentiometer itself should be looked over to test for potential faultiness. Inspect all wiring related to the malfunctioning seat potentiometer system for signs of wear, damage or disconnection.
Body-related (or "B" class) trouble codes can stand for a number of different issues depending on the specific make and model of vehicle. Make sure you're addressing the right one before committing to any repairs.
The seriousness of a B1952 trouble code will depend on the symptoms. If the convertible roof's contact failsafe is merely disabled, it can be worked around provided manual care is taken to ensure different parts don't conflict with each other. If the seat position is frozen however, it may cause drivability issues depending on where the seat has been locked.
Repair or replace any wiring that has been identified as disconnected, faulty, broken or misaligned. If the seat potentiometer has been identified as being faulty or even damaged from the short circuit, it should be repaired or replaced accordingly. Following any repairs made to address the B1953 code, the system should be tested to see if the code returns. Should the code return, it is a sign that certain causes haven't been addressed yet.
The seat potentiometer is also referred to colloquially as a "seat pot."
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