Power seats are the most convenient feature in modern vehicles. It allows you to adjust your position effortlessly with the push of a button. But when they suddenly stop working, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable, especially if you are stuck in an awkward position while driving.
Many car owners have experienced this frustration of a seat that suddenly stops moving. A dead motor might be the obvious culprit, but there are several other components which works together to make your seat move, and any one of them can fail.
In this article, we will look at some clear signs of a malfunctioning electric seat, the most common causes behind a power seat motor failure, and how to trouble shoot the problem within no time.
How Power Seats Work in Your European Car?
In the seat adjustment system of your European cars, a small motor controls the movement of a power seat. The motor moves the seat in forward, backward, upward and downward direction. It can also adjust the seat tilt and the lumbar support for better comfort.
The movements are controlled by the seat switches. When the driver presses the switch, it sends electrical signals through the wiring system to the motor.
Because the system relies on several components working together, a failure in any of the components of the system can leave your seat stuck in place. Knowing how it all ties together makes it easier to understand what could go wrong.
Warning Signs Your Car’s Electric Seat Motor or switch is Failing
Your Seat Does Not Move at All: When you press the switch, it sends signal to the motor which moves the seat into different directions like forward or backward. If the seat does not move, then either the switch or the motor might be faulty. Whatever it may be, you should take your car to a certified technician to have switch examined and repaired.
Your Seat Moves Unusually Slow: When the seat moves slower than usual, then the switch is most likely failing. Chances are the switch or the motor has an issue with its wiring or is not receiving enough voltage to respond. Get the power seat switch examined by a professional before it completely fails.
Your Seat Moves but Suddenly Stops When Holding the Power Seat Switch: Your car seat could be moving as usual when you press the switch but, suddenly stops with the switch still depressed. This also means that your power seat switch is failing and needs to be examined by a professional technician.
Common Reasons for Power Seats Stop Working in Your Car
Blown Fuse: Your vehicle’s electrical systems are protected by fuses, and a blown-out fuse can instantly cut power to the seat. This is one of the easiest and least expensive issues to fix. Replacement of the fuse will restore full functionality if there are no other problems.
Faulty Seat Switch: The switches on the side of the seat are frequently used and can wear out over time. If the internal contacts fail, the seat motor won’t receive the signal to move. You may also notice the switch feels loose or doesn’t click the way it used to.
Worn or Burned-Out Motor: The motor can fail, especially in older vehicles or seats that are adjusted frequently. If you hear a clicking or grinding noise when you try to move the seat, the motor may be struggling or seizing up.
Wiring Issues: Loose connections or damaged wires under the seat are also common reasons. Since power seats have moving parts, the wiring harness is often suffers bending and vibration, which can lead to fraying or breaks over time.
Obstructions Under the Seat: Sometimes the problem is not electrical at all. Coins, pens, and other debris can get block the seat tracks and, prevent its movement. Inspecting the area under the seat is a simple first step before assuming something more serious is wrong.
Trouble Shooting a Non-Working Power Seat in Your Car
While some causes require professional repair, there are a few things you can check out of yourself:
- Inspect the seat tracks for unknown objects that could be blocking movement.
- Check your vehicle’s fuse box for any blown fuses related to the seat system.
- Listen for sounds when pressing the switch. Silence could point to an electrical issue, while clicking might suggest the motor is struggling.
If these quick checks don’t solve the problem, it’s time to go for professional diagnosis of the system.
