What Does B1965 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) or Seat Control Module has detected a short to ground in the feedback circuit for the power seat horizontal (fore/aft) position potentiometer. The potentiometer provides voltage feedback to the control module about the seat's front-to-back position, and the module has detected voltage below the normal operating range, indicating an electrical short path to ground. This prevents the control module from accurately determining or controlling the seat's position.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat from repeated seat movement causing insulation wear and ground contact
30%
Failed seat track position potentiometer with internal short to ground
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector pins at the seat motor or potentiometer causing short circuit
10%
Faulty seat control module with internal circuit failure on potentiometer feedback input
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring harness routing under and around the power seat, looking for pinched, chafed, or damaged wires that may contact metal seat frame or floor pan. Pay special attention to areas where wires move with seat travel
2
Step 2: Disconnect the seat horizontal position potentiometer connector and measure resistance between the signal wire terminal (at potentiometer side) and ground using a digital multimeter. Reading should be infinite (open circuit); any continuity indicates a short to ground in the potentiometer
3
Step 3: With potentiometer disconnected, measure resistance between the signal wire terminal at the control module harness side and ground. Infinite resistance confirms wiring is good; low resistance indicates damaged harness wiring between potentiometer and module
4
Step 4: If wiring is intact, connect potentiometer and backprobe the signal wire with a multimeter set to DC voltage while manually moving the seat track. Signal should vary smoothly between approximately 0.5V and 4.5V; stuck at 0V or erratic readings confirm potentiometer failure
5
Step 5: Clear codes, cycle seat through full range of motion, and verify code does not return. Monitor live data stream for potentiometer voltage feedback during seat operation to confirm proper signal range and smooth transition
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) or Seat Control Module has detected a short to ground in the feedback circuit for the power seat horizontal (fore/aft) position potentiometer. The potentiometer provides voltage feedback to the control module about the seat's front-to-back posit...
The most common cause of B1965 (Seat Horizontal Forward/Rearward Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat from repeated seat movement causing insulation wear and ground contact
Typical repair costs for B1965 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 driveability and it is safe to continue driving. The power seat may not operate correctly or may be stuck in its current position, which could affect driver comfort and optimal driving position, but poses no immediate safety risk.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1965 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Power Seat Comfort and Positioning System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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