Introduction
The B1659 trouble code signals a malfunction within the power seat system of a vehicle, specifically related to the "up" circuit for the driver's seat. This code indicates that the vehicle's computer (ECU or BCM) has detected an issue with the electrical circuit controlling the upward movement of the driver's seat. Understanding the potential causes, diagnostic procedures, and repair options is crucial for resolving this problem and restoring full functionality to the seat.
Comprehensive Table: B1659 Seat Driver Front up Circuit Failure
| Category | Description | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The B1659 code indicates a fault within the electrical circuit responsible for moving the driver's seat upwards. The vehicle's computer (typically the Body Control Module or BCM) detects an open circuit, short circuit, or excessive resistance in this specific part of the power seat system. | The driver's seat may not move upward when the corresponding switch is activated. |
| Common Causes | - Faulty Seat Motor: The motor responsible for the upward movement of the seat may be damaged or worn out. - Wiring Issues: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring connections in the seat's electrical harness. This includes the wiring between the seat switch, the motor, and the vehicle's electrical system. | The seat may not move, intermittent movement, or erratic behavior. Other electrical systems powered by the same circuit might also be affected. |
| - Faulty Seat Switch: The switch used to control the upward movement of the seat may be defective. | ||
| - Open or Short Circuit: Breaks in the wiring (open circuit) or unintended connections to ground (short circuit) within the "up" circuit. | ||
| - Corroded Connectors: Corrosion on the electrical connectors can increase resistance and prevent proper signal transmission. | ||
| - Blown Fuse or Faulty Relay: A blown fuse protecting the seat motor circuit, or a malfunctioning relay controlling the power to the motor. | ||
| - BCM/ECU Malfunction: In rare cases, the Body Control Module (BCM) or Engine Control Unit (ECU) itself may be faulty and misinterpreting the signals from the seat circuit. | ||
| Diagnostic Steps | 1. Scan for Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the B1659 code and check for any other related codes. | Incorrect diagnosis if relying solely on the B1659 code. |
| 2. Inspect Wiring and Connectors: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors under the seat for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Pay close attention to the wiring and connectors associated with the "up" circuit. | Missed visual cues of electrical problems. | |
| 3. Check Fuses and Relays: Verify that the fuse protecting the seat motor circuit is not blown. Also, test the seat motor relay to ensure it is functioning correctly. | Unnecessary component replacement if a simple fuse or relay issue is overlooked. | |
| 4. Test Seat Switch: Use a multimeter to test the seat switch and verify that it is sending the correct signals when activated. | Incorrect diagnosis if a faulty switch is not identified. | |
| 5. Test Seat Motor: Use a multimeter to test the seat motor and verify that it is receiving power and ground when the seat switch is activated. You can also try applying power and ground directly to the motor to see if it operates. | Unnecessary motor replacement if the issue lies elsewhere. | |
| 6. Perform Circuit Testing: Use a multimeter to perform circuit testing on the "up" circuit. This involves checking for continuity, voltage, and resistance to identify any open circuits, short circuits, or excessive resistance. | Inability to pinpoint the exact location of the electrical fault. | |
| 7. BCM/ECU Testing (Advanced): If all other components appear to be functioning correctly, it may be necessary to test the Body Control Module (BCM) or Engine Control Unit (ECU). This typically requires specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise. | Misdiagnosis and potential damage to the BCM/ECU if performed incorrectly. | |
| Potential Solutions | - Repair or Replace Damaged Wiring: Repair any damaged or corroded wiring connections. Replace any wires that are severely damaged. | Continued electrical issues if wiring repairs are not performed correctly. |
| - Replace Faulty Seat Switch: Replace the seat switch if it is found to be defective. | Continued malfunction of the seat movement if the switch is the root cause. | |
| - Replace Faulty Seat Motor: Replace the seat motor if it is found to be damaged or worn out. | Waste of resources if the motor is replaced unnecessarily. | |
| - Replace Blown Fuse or Faulty Relay: Replace the blown fuse or faulty relay if necessary. | Continued circuit interruption if the fuse or relay is not addressed. | |
| - Clean Corroded Connectors: Clean any corroded electrical connectors with a wire brush or electrical contact cleaner. | Continued resistance and signal loss if corrosion is not removed. | |
| - BCM/ECU Replacement (Rare): In rare cases, the Body Control Module (BCM) or Engine Control Unit (ECU) may need to be replaced if it is found to be faulty. This should only be done after all other possible causes have been ruled out. | Unnecessary and costly replacement if the BCM/ECU is not the actual problem. | |
| Tools Required | - OBD-II Scanner | Inability to read and clear diagnostic codes. |
| - Multimeter | Inability to perform electrical circuit testing. | |
| - Wire Strippers/Crimpers | Difficulty repairing damaged wiring. | |
| - Electrical Contact Cleaner | Inability to effectively clean corroded connectors. | |
| - Basic Hand Tools (Screwdrivers, Pliers, Sockets) | Difficulty accessing and removing components. | |
| Severity | Moderate: While not directly impacting the vehicle's drivability, a malfunctioning power seat can be a significant inconvenience and safety concern, especially if the driver cannot adjust the seat to a comfortable and safe driving position. | Discomfort, reduced visibility, and potential safety hazards due to improper seat positioning. |
| Preventative Measures | - Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the wiring and connectors under the seat for any signs of damage or corrosion. | Early detection and prevention of potential issues. |
| - Avoid Overloading the Seat: Avoid putting excessive weight or stress on the seat, as this can damage the motor and wiring. | Prolonged lifespan of the seat motor and related components. | |
| - Keep the Area Clean: Keep the area under the seat clean and free of debris, as this can help prevent corrosion and damage to the wiring. | Reduced risk of wiring damage and corrosion. |
Detailed Explanations
Definition: The B1659 code is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that indicates a problem with the electrical circuit that controls the upward movement of the driver's seat. The vehicle's computer monitors the voltage and current in this circuit, and if it detects a reading outside of the expected range, it will set the B1659 code.
Common Causes: Several factors can trigger a B1659 code. A faulty seat motor is a frequent culprit, as the motor may wear out or become damaged over time. Wiring issues, such as damaged, corroded, or loose connections, are also common. The seat switch itself can fail, preventing the signal from reaching the motor. An open or short circuit in the wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity. Corroded connectors increase resistance. A blown fuse or faulty relay can cut off power to the circuit. In rare cases, the BCM/ECU may be malfunctioning.
Diagnostic Steps: Diagnosing a B1659 code requires a systematic approach. Start by using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the code and check for any other related codes. Next, inspect the wiring and connectors under the seat for any signs of damage or corrosion. Check the fuses and relays associated with the seat motor circuit. Test the seat switch with a multimeter to ensure it's sending the correct signals. Test the seat motor to verify that it's receiving power and ground. Perform circuit testing to identify any open or short circuits. Finally, if all other components appear to be functioning correctly, consider BCM/ECU testing, which requires specialized equipment.
Potential Solutions: Repairing a B1659 code often involves addressing the underlying cause. Repair or replace damaged wiring to restore proper electrical connections. Replace a faulty seat switch to ensure the signal is properly transmitted. Replace a faulty seat motor if it's not functioning correctly. Replace a blown fuse or faulty relay to restore power to the circuit. Clean corroded connectors to improve electrical conductivity. In rare cases, BCM/ECU replacement may be necessary, but this should be a last resort.
Tools Required: Several tools are essential for diagnosing and repairing a B1659 code. An OBD-II scanner is needed to read and clear diagnostic codes. A multimeter is crucial for performing electrical circuit testing. Wire strippers/crimpers are necessary for repairing damaged wiring. Electrical contact cleaner is used to clean corroded connectors. Basic hand tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and sockets are required for accessing and removing components.
Severity: The severity of a B1659 code is generally considered moderate. While it doesn't directly impact the vehicle's drivability, a malfunctioning power seat can be a significant inconvenience and safety concern. If the driver cannot adjust the seat to a comfortable and safe driving position, it can lead to discomfort, reduced visibility, and potential safety hazards.
Preventative Measures: Several preventative measures can help avoid B1659 codes. Regular inspection of the wiring and connectors under the seat can help identify potential issues early. Avoid overloading the seat with excessive weight or stress. Keep the area clean to prevent corrosion and damage to the wiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1659 code mean? It indicates a fault in the electrical circuit that controls the upward movement of the driver's seat. This means the seat might not move upwards.
Can I still drive my car with a B1659 code? Yes, the car is drivable, but the driver's seat may not move upwards which could be uncomfortable or unsafe.
Is a B1659 code serious? It's moderately serious. It doesn't affect drivability, but can impact comfort and safety if the seat can't be properly adjusted.
What are the most common causes of a B1659 code? The most common causes are faulty seat motor, wiring issues, or a faulty seat switch.
How can I fix a B1659 code? Fixes involve repairing wiring, replacing the seat switch or motor, or replacing a blown fuse/relay.
Conclusion
The B1659 code indicates a problem within the driver's seat "up" circuit. A methodical diagnostic approach, coupled with careful repair or component replacement, is typically required to resolve the issue and restore full seat functionality. Regular inspection and preventative measures can help avoid future problems.