What Does B1959 Mean?
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an open circuit in the feedback potentiometer that monitors the position of the power seat recline motor. The potentiometer provides a variable voltage signal to the BCM to indicate seat back angle, and an open circuit means no signal is being received. This fault prevents the BCM from knowing the current position of the seat back and may disable power recline functionality.
Common Causes
45%
Broken or disconnected wiring between the seat recline potentiometer and BCM, including damaged connectors at the seat base
30%
Failed seat recline potentiometer internally open due to wear or contamination
15%
Corroded or loose connector pins at the seat module or potentiometer connection points
10%
Failed seat control module with internal open circuit on potentiometer input channel
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of the seat recline motor and potentiometer assembly for obvious physical damage, disconnected connectors, or chafed wiring at flex points where the seat moves
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, check for continuity on all three wires of the potentiometer circuit (typically ground, signal, and 5V reference) from the potentiometer connector back to the BCM or seat module connector with ignition off
3
Step 3: With ignition on, measure voltage at the potentiometer connector: verify 5V reference voltage and proper ground (0V). If voltage is present, backprobe the signal wire and manually move seat recline while monitoring for smooth voltage change (typically 0.5V to 4.5V range)
4
Step 4: If reference voltage and ground are correct but no signal variation occurs, disconnect the potentiometer and measure its resistance across the signal and ground terminals while manually rotating the shaft - should see smooth resistance change (typically 1k-10k ohms range). Infinite resistance indicates failed potentiometer
5
Step 5: If all wiring and potentiometer test good, suspect failed seat control module input circuit. Verify proper power and ground to the module, then consider module replacement if all other components test within specification
6
Step 6: After repair, clear codes, cycle the seat recline through full range of motion multiple times, and verify code does not return and potentiometer feedback voltage changes smoothly throughout travel
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an open circuit in the feedback potentiometer that monitors the position of the power seat recline motor. The potentiometer provides a variable voltage signal to the BCM to indicate seat back angle, and an open ci...
The most common cause of B1959 (Seat Recline Forward/Backward Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Open) is: Broken or disconnected wiring between the seat recline potentiometer and BCM, including damaged connectors at the seat base
Typical repair costs for B1959 range from $150 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This code does not affect vehicle safety or drivability and the vehicle is safe to operate. The power seat recline function may be disabled or operate improperly, but this is a convenience feature only and does not present a safety hazard requiring immediate attention.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1959 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control and Comfort Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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