2008 Saturn Vue OBD2 Code B1953 Seat Rear Up/Down Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Short To Ground

B1953 code definition

A B1953 trouble code indicates that your 2008 Saturn Vue 's Engine Control Unit (ECU) has detected a shorted circuit in the rear seat's potentiometer feedback circuit.

What the B1953 code means

The seat potentiometer is located underneath the seat, and feed the ECU with continuous data on the seat's relative position. In the case of a B1953 trouble code, the seat potentiometer's circuit has been shorted, severing reliable information between it and the ECU. As a result, the seat's movement may be impeded, and the retractable roof of convertibles will lack a failsafe from making contact with the seats if left unchecked.

What causes the B1953 code?

Bad wiring is the most common cause of a shorted circuit. The potentiometer itself may also be faulty. Under rare circumstances, your 2008 Saturn Vue '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.

What are the symptoms of the B1953 code?

With a shorted seat potentiometer circuit, the ECU will be unable to gauge where the seat's position is. If your 2008 Saturn Vue is convertible, this can result in conflicts between the seat position and retracting roof. The seat may be locked in place if it is moved electronically. An illuminated engine lamp and stored B1953 trouble code will be present alongside the practical symptoms. These are diagnostic symptoms, and are present in order to report and pinpoint the issue respectively.

How does a mechanic diagnose the B1953 code?

A mechanic can first diagnose the B1953 code by reading it via an OBD-II scanner. The seat potentiometer circuit may be accessed by prying open the seat's side panel. The seat potentiometer itself should be looked over to test for potential faultiness. Inspect all wiring related to the malfunctioning seat potentiometer system for signs of wear, damage or disconnection.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the B1953 code

Body-related (or "B" class) trouble codes can stand for a number of different issues depending on the specific make and model of 2008 Saturn Vue . Make sure you're addressing the right one before committing to any repairs.

How serious is the B1953 code?

The seriousness of a B1952 trouble code will depend on the symptoms. If the convertible roof's contact failsafe is merely disabled, it can be worked around provided manual care is taken to ensure different parts don't conflict with each other. If the seat position is frozen however, it may cause drivability issues depending on where the seat has been locked.

What repairs can fix the B1953 code?

Repair or replace any wiring that has been identified as disconnected, faulty, broken or misaligned. If the seat potentiometer has been identified as being faulty or even damaged from the short circuit, it should be repaired or replaced accordingly. Following any repairs made to address the B1953 code, the system should be tested to see if the code returns. Should the code return, it is a sign that certain causes haven't been addressed yet.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the B1953 code

The seat potentiometer is also referred to colloquially as a "seat pot."

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