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B1951 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Open". 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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The B951 trouble code indicates that the rear seat's potentiometer feedback circuit has been detected as being incomplete, or "open".
In vehicles with convertible roofs, the seat potentiometer keeps track of the seats' placement. This will keep a retractable roof from running into the seats. However, if the potentiometer feedback circuit has been severed, the Engine Control Unit (ECU) won't have the information. This can result in conflicts between the seat's position and other systems the seat potentiometer acted as a failsafe against.
A faulty seat potentiometer is the most common potential cause for a B1951 trouble code. Broken, disconnected and/or faulty wiring may also be to blame for this issue. In rare cases, 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.
In the event of a B1951 code, the rear seats may be immovable. The most common result of the issue is a lack of failsafe of contact between the seat and a retracting roof. Also, for the pure sake of diagnosing the problem, a stored B1951 code and illuminated engine lamp will be present in the vehicle.
The B1951 trouble code may be first diagnosed by using an OBD-II trouble code and reading the vehicle's computer. The seat potentiometer may be accessed by prying open the seat's side panel. The potentiometer is typically a small black box. Any wiring related to the potentiometer feedback circuit should be looked over thoroughly for signs of fault. This can include signs of damage, natural wear, corrosion, faulty materials and/or disconnection.
Body-related trouble codes may describe different problems depending on the specific make and model of vehicle. Misinterpreting the code will result in misguided repairs. Make sure you have read the code properly before committing to a solution.
A B1951 trouble code won't necessarily affect a vehicle's drivability. However, if it has resulted in the seat freezing in a position that restricts comfortable driving, it can severely impede the driving experience.
If the seat potentiometer has been identified as being faulty, it should be replaced. Any wiring related to the code-related circuit cited as faulty, broken, corroded or disconnected should be repaired, rewired or replaced accordingly. After making any repairs for the B1951 code, the vehicle should be retested promptly. Running the system will allow you to determine whether the problem has been truly solved or not.
The seat potentiometer is commonly referred to as a "seat pot" by mechanics and car enthusiasts.
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