Quick Answer
B0951 means: B0951 indicates a malfunction in the power seat adjustment system, often linked to wiring or the power motor.
Can I drive with B0951? It is advisable to address this code at your earliest convenience to prevent further electrical issues.
Common Questions
What does B0951 mean and how does it affect my car?
B0951 indicates an issue with the power seat system, impacting how the seat adjusts. This can lead to discomfort and safety issues if not addressed, as proper seat positioning is crucial for effective driving.
What are the most common causes of B0951 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty power seat motor or damaged wiring, with repair costs ranging from $50 to $300 depending on the specific issue and parts needed.
Can I drive my car with B0951 or should I stop immediately?
While it's generally safe to drive, you should address the B0951 code soon, as improper seat positioning can affect your driving posture and safety.
How can I diagnose B0951 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for DTCs, view freeze frame data, and monitor real-time data to pinpoint the exact issue with the power seat system.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0951?
B0951 is commonly found in 2015-2020 Ford F-150s, but can also affect models from other manufacturers with electronic seat adjustments.
How can I prevent B0951 from happening again?
Regularly inspect the power seat mechanisms and wiring for wear and corrosion, and perform routine electrical system checks to maintain function.
What is B0951?
DTC B0951 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a fault related to the electronic control module (ECM) of your vehicle's system. This code typically signifies an issue with the power seat motor or the related wiring and connectors, which can lead to malfunctioning of the power seat adjustments. For car owners, this might manifest as the power seat not moving forward, backward, or tilting as expected, creating discomfort while driving. The B0951 code is particularly common in 2015-2020 Ford F-150s but can also be found in other vehicles equipped with electronic seat controls. If your vehicle's check engine light is illuminated and you encounter issues with the seat adjustments, B0951 is likely the culprit. Ignoring this code may lead to further complications down the line, including potential damage to other electrical systems in your car. It’s essential to address this issue promptly to maintain both comfort and safety while driving.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B0951 is present:
- Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a persistent issue that needs attention.
- Power seat fails to adjust in any direction, causing discomfort for the driver and passengers.
- Intermittent functionality where the seat moves erratically or only works when the vehicle is in motion.
- Unusual noises coming from the seat adjustment mechanism, indicating potential mechanical failure.
- Wiring or connector issues may result in the seat adjustment controls not responding.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B0951 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty power seat motor - This is the most common cause, accounting for approximately 60% of B0951 cases. The motor may short-circuit or fail due to wear.
- Damaged wiring or connectors - A close second, this issue can lead to intermittent power loss to the seat adjustment system.
- Corrosion at electrical connections - Preventive measures include regular checks and cleaning of connectors to avoid build-up.
- Faulty ECM - Less common but can lead to broader electronic system issues if not identified quickly.
- Software glitches - Rarely, a software update may resolve the issue if the ECM is functioning correctly.
B0951 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Power Seat Motor Replacement
Replacing the faulty power seat motor for proper adjustment functionality.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring or connectors to restore electrical flow to the seat.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for B0951
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B0951 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0951. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the power seat motor and associated wiring (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the power seat motor and associated wiring (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the proper operation of the power seat and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the proper operation of the power seat and clear codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure comfort (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure comfort (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Power Seat Motor Replacement in a 2016 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2016 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported that the power seat would not move at all, and the check engine light was on.
Diagnosis: Diagnosed with a multimeter indicating a faulty power seat motor; wiring was intact.
Solution: Replaced the power seat motor and cleared the DTC.
Cost: $250 (parts: $150 for motor, $100 for labor)
Result: Customer reported full functionality of the power seat adjustments.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair in a 2018 Toyota Tacoma
Vehicle: 2018 Toyota Tacoma, 30,000 miles
Problem: Intermittent power seat adjustment functionality, with the check engine light on.
Diagnosis: Found damaged wiring in the seat adjustment harness.
Solution: Repaired the wiring and secured all connections; cleared the DTC.
Cost: $120 (parts: $20 for connectors, $100 for labor)
Result: Seat adjustments were restored to full functionality.