What Does B1950 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) or Seat Control Module has detected an abnormal signal from the potentiometer that provides position feedback for the rear seat height adjustment mechanism. The potentiometer should send a variable voltage signal corresponding to seat position, but the module is receiving an out-of-range, erratic, or missing signal. This prevents the system from accurately controlling or monitoring the vertical position of the rear seat.
Common Causes
45%
Faulty or worn seat up/down position potentiometer with internal resistance or wiper contact degradation
30%
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring harness connections between the potentiometer and control module
15%
Open or short circuit in the potentiometer feedback signal wire or reference voltage supply wire
10%
Failed seat control module or BCM with internal circuit board fault affecting potentiometer input channel
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Visually inspect all wiring and connectors at the rear seat actuator assembly for physical damage, corrosion, bent pins, or loose connections. Check for water intrusion or debris in connector cavities.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, backprobe the potentiometer connector with ignition ON and measure the reference voltage (typically 5V) and ground circuit continuity. Verify proper voltage supply to the potentiometer.
3
Step 3: Manually move the seat up and down while monitoring the potentiometer signal voltage at the connector. The voltage should sweep smoothly from approximately 0.5V to 4.5V without dropouts, spikes, or dead spots indicating internal potentiometer failure.
4
Step 4: If potentiometer signal is erratic or absent, disconnect it and measure its internal resistance while manually rotating the wiper mechanism. Resistance should change smoothly without infinite or zero readings, typically ranging 1-10 kOhms depending on manufacturer.
5
Step 5: Check for continuity and proper resistance on all three wires (signal, reference voltage, ground) from the seat connector back to the control module connector to rule out harness breaks or high resistance connections.
6
Step 6: If all wiring and potentiometer test good, suspect the control module input circuit. Clear codes, reconnect all components, and retest operation. If code returns immediately with known-good potentiometer and wiring, replace the control module.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) or Seat Control Module has detected an abnormal signal from the potentiometer that provides position feedback for the rear seat height adjustment mechanism. The potentiometer should send a variable voltage signal corresponding to seat position, but t...
The most common cause of B1950 (Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Failure) is: Faulty or worn seat up/down position potentiometer with internal resistance or wiper contact degradation
Typical repair costs for B1950 range from $150 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This is safe to drive as it only affects rear seat position adjustment functionality and does not impact vehicle operation or safety systems. Repair can be scheduled at convenience, though passengers will lose powered height adjustment capability for the affected rear seat.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1950 to identify the root cause.
OBDHut Mobile App
Scan codes directly from your car with the OBDHut app.
Coming Soon
Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Power Seat Adjustment System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.
