Preliminary Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The Preliminary Inspection checks the complete seat for correct operation and functionality.

NOTE: Verify good battery condition before diagnosing the PFSM system. Poor battery condition may interfere with PFSM operation. If battery voltage drops below 10 volts, seat movement does not start. If battery voltage drops below 8 volts, a started seat movement stops.

NOTE: Very cold weather conditions can cause the power-fold mechanisms to bind, resulting in incorrect seat operation. In cold weather, allow the seat to warm up before checking seat operation.

Check the BCM for DTCs :

Turn the ignition ON.
Using a scan tool, perform BCM self-test.
- If any DTCs are present , REFER to MULTIFUNCTION ELECTRONIC MODULES .
- If no DTCs are present , continue to the following step.

Verify the gear selector lever position is in PARK and the liftgate open to enable the system and also to access the seat control switch. Verify the LIFTGATE AJAR warning indicator on the IPC illuminates.

If the warning indicator is not illuminated , the power-fold seat system may not be enabled due to a concern with the liftgate ajar switch circuitry (part of courtesy lighting system). REFER to PINPOINT TEST B .
If the power liftgate does not operate , REFER to PINPOINT TEST A .

Verify no objects/obstructions are present between, below, in front or in back of the seats.

Select BOTH using the seat control switch. Operate the seats to each position (NORMAL, STOW and FOLD) allowing the seats to complete each selection.
- If only the LH seat does not operate correctly , GO to PINPOINT TEST A .
- If only the RH seat does not operate correctly , GO to PINPOINT TEST B .
- If both seats are inoperative or both seats move but neither seat correctly obtains all the selected positions , GO to PINPOINT TEST H .
- If both seats operate to each selected position correctly , continue to the following step.
Check the operation of each seat separately for each position (NORMAL, STOW and FOLD) allowing the seats to complete each selection.
- If only the LH seat does not operate correctly , GO to PINPOINT TEST A .
- If only the RH seat does not operate correctly , GO to PINPOINT TEST B .
- If both seats operate to each selected position correctly , the system is operating correctly at this time. CHECK for causes of an intermittent concern such as loose, corroded or disconnected connectors, or pinched or damaged wiring and REPAIR as necessary.