What Does B1958 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) or Seat Control Module has detected an abnormal voltage signal from the potentiometer that monitors the forward/backward position of a power seat. The feedback circuit is either reporting values outside the expected range, showing erratic behavior, or providing no signal at all. This prevents the system from accurately determining seat position and may disable power seat adjustment functionality.
Common Causes
45%
Failed or worn seat position potentiometer internal to the seat track assembly
30%
Damaged wiring harness or connector at the seat track due to constant movement and flexing
15%
Corroded or loose electrical connections at the potentiometer or control module
10%
Failed seat control module or BCM internal circuit issue
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of the seat track area, checking for damaged wiring, frayed insulation, or pinched harnesses between the seat and floor. Inspect all connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture intrusion.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, backprobe the potentiometer connector and verify reference voltage (typically 5V) and ground integrity while measuring resistance across the potentiometer signal wire as the seat is manually moved through its full range of travel. Resistance should change smoothly without jumps or open circuits.
3
Step 3: Monitor live data on the scan tool while manually moving the seat forward and backward, observing the potentiometer voltage feedback values. Values should sweep smoothly from approximately 0.5V to 4.5V without dropouts, spikes, or fixed readings.
4
Step 4: If voltage and resistance readings are erratic or out of range, disconnect the potentiometer and test it in isolation with an ohmmeter while rotating its shaft. Replace if resistance is erratic, infinite, or does not change smoothly.
5
Step 5: If potentiometer tests good, perform voltage drop testing on the power and ground circuits with the seat motor operating to identify high resistance in the wiring harness or poor ground connections.
6
Step 6: After repair, clear codes, cycle the seat through full range of motion multiple times, and verify the code does not return and seat position feedback displays correctly in live data.
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 voltage signal from the potentiometer that monitors the forward/backward position of a power seat. The feedback circuit is either reporting values outside the expected range, showing erratic behavior, o...
The most common cause of B1958 (Seat Recline Forward/Backward Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Failure) is: Failed or worn seat position potentiometer internal to the seat track assembly
Typical repair costs for B1958 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. The vehicle is safe to drive, though power seat adjustment may be limited or disabled, which could be inconvenient 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 B1958 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control / Power Seat System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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