What Does B1963 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) or seat control module has detected an open circuit in the feedback potentiometer for the power seat's horizontal (forward/rearward) adjustment mechanism. The potentiometer provides position feedback to the control module, and an open circuit means no signal is being received, preventing the module from knowing the seat's actual position. This typically occurs due to wiring issues, connector problems, or a failed potentiometer within the seat track assembly.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wiring harness or connectors between seat position potentiometer and control module
30%
Failed seat position potentiometer in horizontal track assembly
15%
Open circuit in potentiometer ground or reference voltage supply wires
10%
Failed seat control module or BCM internal circuit failure
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of seat wiring harness underneath the seat, checking for chafed, pinched, or broken wires where harness moves with seat travel. Check all connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or looseness at seat motor and track assembly
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, backprobe the potentiometer connector (typically 3-wire: power, ground, signal) with ignition ON. Verify reference voltage (typically 5V) on power wire and continuity to ground on ground wire
3
Step 3: Measure resistance across potentiometer terminals while manually moving seat forward and rearward. Resistance should change smoothly between approximately 500-4500 ohms; infinite resistance or no change indicates failed potentiometer
4
Step 4: Check continuity of signal wire from potentiometer connector back to seat control module connector. Resistance should be less than 5 ohms; infinite resistance confirms open circuit in wiring
5
Step 5: If all wiring tests pass, suspect failed potentiometer assembly. Replace potentiometer or seat track assembly as required per manufacturer service procedure
6
Step 6: Clear codes, cycle seat through full range of motion multiple times, and verify code does not return and seat position memory functions correctly
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 open circuit in the feedback potentiometer for the power seat's horizontal (forward/rearward) adjustment mechanism. The potentiometer provides position feedback to the control module, and an open circuit means n...
The most common cause of B1963 (Seat Horizontal Forward/Rearward Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Open) is: Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wiring harness or connectors between seat position potentiometer and control module
Typical repair costs for B1963 range from $150 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive. The seat may still operate but memory positions and automatic adjustments will not function properly. The seat could fail to stop at desired positions or power adjustment may be disabled entirely depending on manufacturer programming.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1963 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Power Seat Control System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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