GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Front Power Seat(s) Inoperative At Times - keywords adjuster back drivers forward horizontal motor passenger seat tilt track vertical

Subject:Front Power Seat(s) Inoperative At Times

Models:2005-2006 Buick Rainier
2005-2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer, Trailblazer EXT and Trailblazer SS
2005-2006 GMC Envoy, Envoy XL, Envoy XUV and Envoy Denali
2005-2006 Saab 97x



This PI was superseded to refer technicians to SI document 1568688 to obtain the correct terminal to correct this concern. Please discard PIT3893B.


The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Condition/Concern:

Some customers may comment that the power seat(s) are inoperative. This may be due to a poor connection at the power seat motors.

Recommendation/Instructions:

Note: If the vehicle in question has Memory Seats (AAB) and/or Heated Seats (KA1) and/or Power Adjustable Pedals (JF4), use the Tech 2® and check for any DTCs prior to performing the steps below. If a DTC is found, follow the appropriate diagnostic chart in eSI first.

Prior to replacing the seat adjuster/motor assembly, disconnect the connector at each power seat motor one at a time. After each connector is disconnected, replace the connector terminals on the affected seat motor connector and inspect all of the other motor connector terminals for looseness/arcing. If there are any damaged terminals, replace the terminals and/or connector as needed. Reinstall the connector(s) to the appropriate seat motor making sure the connector is fully seated to the motor.

After all repairs are completed, observe the harness for each motor when moving the seat in all directions to the full travel limits. Ensure that the harness is not stressed at the motor connector for any motor. Using a wire tie, retain the harness to the motor body to relieve the stress at the connector. Ensure that sufficient length of wiring exists to allow the wiring to flex the full travel of the seat in all directions for all motors. Continual stressing of the wires at the connectors will weaken the spring tension in the connector terminal. Weak terminals will arc and build resistance. Removing and reconnecting the motor connections will temporarily eliminate the condition until continued arcing causes sufficient resistance build up again. These terminals can not be "tightened up" to prevent the concern from occurring in the future.

Refer to SI Document 1568688 to locate the correct terminal, connector and/or crimp tool for the seat connector being serviced. Replace as necessary.

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.