B1961 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC B1961 – Seat Recline Forward/Backward Potentiometer Feedback Circuit Short To Ground

DTC B1961 meaning

DTC B1961 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a problem with the seat recline forward/backward potentiometer feedback circuit. This code is triggered when the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system detects a short to ground in the feedback circuit of the seat recline potentiometer, which is responsible for monitoring the position of the seat recline mechanism.

DTC B1961 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC B1961 may include:

  • Inability to adjust the seat recline position
  • Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
  • Erratic seat movement or no movement at all
  • Potential issues with other seat-related functions

DTC B1961 causes

Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC B1961, including:

  • A short circuit in the potentiometer feedback wiring
  • Faulty seat recline potentiometer
  • Corroded or damaged connectors
  • Issues with the seat control module

DTC B1961 seriousness

The seriousness of DTC B1961 can vary. While it may not pose an immediate safety risk, it can lead to discomfort due to the inability to adjust the seat properly. Additionally, if left unaddressed, it may affect other systems related to seat adjustments and overall vehicle functionality.

How to diagnose DTC B1961

To diagnose DTC B1961, follow these steps:

  • Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the code.
  • Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the seat recline potentiometer for damage or corrosion.
  • Test the potentiometer for proper resistance values using a multimeter.
  • Check the seat control module for any additional fault codes or issues.
  • Perform a visual inspection of the seat adjustment mechanism for any obstructions or mechanical failures.

How to fix DTC B1961 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC B1961, follow these step-by-step instructions:

  • Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
  • Inspect and repair any damaged wiring or connectors related to the seat recline potentiometer.
  • If the potentiometer is faulty, replace it with a new one.
  • Reconnect all connectors and ensure they are secure.
  • Reconnect the vehicle’s battery.
  • Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner and test the seat recline function to ensure it operates correctly.

How to erase DTC B1961

To erase DTC B1961, follow these steps:

  • Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
  • Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
  • Navigate to the option to clear or erase trouble codes on the scanner.
  • Confirm the action to erase the DTC.
  • Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to ensure the code does not reappear.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.