What does it mean?
C1946 is a Chassis (ABS, traction control, steering) fault code. It indicates: Seat Track Position Switch Circuit Open .
Symptoms
- Airbag/SRS warning lamp on and staying on
- Dual-stage front airbag defaults to its full-force strategy because seat position is unknown
- Fault appears or clears as the seat is moved forwards and backwards
- Seat position related messages on vehicles that display them
- Vehicle fails a safety inspection with the SRS lamp lit
Likely causes
- Connector under the seat unplugged, half-latched or damaged after seat, carpet or trim work
- Wiring under the seat stretched, pinched or broken by repeated fore-and-aft seat travel
- Broken switch/sensor or a snapped actuating arm on the seat track
- Corrosion at the connector from spilled drinks or water on the floor
- Bent seat rail or bracket so the switch is never actuated
- Faulty input circuit in the restraint control module
- Aftermarket seat, seat heater or wiring modification that interrupted the circuit
How to fix it
- Disconnect the battery and wait the manufacturer-specified time before touching any restraint connector
- Unplug and inspect the connector under the seat for pushed-out, spread or corroded terminals
- Move the seat through its full travel and inspect the harness for stretch, pinch and broken strands
- Measure switch continuity/resistance while the seat is moved through the actuation point
- Check continuity from the restraint module connector to the switch to locate the open
- Repair the harness with the specified restraint repair parts, or replace the switch/sensor
- Reconnect, clear the codes and confirm the SRS lamp performs its bulb check and then goes out