Introduction
The B1663 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a problem with the driver's seat up/down motor in a vehicle. Specifically, it signals that the motor is stalled, meaning it's receiving power but not moving. This issue can prevent the driver from adjusting the seat height, potentially affecting comfort, visibility, and overall driving safety. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and troubleshooting steps for the B1663 code is crucial for proper diagnosis and repair.
Comprehensive Table: B1663 Seat Driver Front up/Down Motor Stalled
| Category | Description | Possible Solutions/Troubleshooting |
|---|---|---|
| Possible Causes | Motor Failure: The motor itself is internally damaged or worn out. Brushes may be worn, windings shorted, or the armature damaged. | Replace the seat motor. Test the motor with a direct power source before replacement to confirm failure. |
| Obstruction: Something is physically blocking the seat mechanism from moving, preventing the motor from turning. This could be debris, tools, wires, or even part of the seat itself. | Visually inspect the seat mechanism for obstructions. Remove any objects that are interfering with the seat's movement. Check the tracks and gears for binding. | |
| Wiring Issues: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring connections to the motor or the seat control module. This includes the power, ground, and signal wires. Breaks in the wiring can also cause the motor to stall. | Inspect all wiring and connectors associated with the seat motor. Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Use a multimeter to test for continuity and voltage at the motor connector. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors. Ensure proper grounding. | |
| Seat Control Module Failure: The seat control module (SCM) is malfunctioning and not sending the correct signals to the motor. This could be due to internal damage, software glitches, or corrupted data. | Scan the SCM for other DTCs. Try reprogramming or reflashing the SCM. If the SCM is faulty, it may need to be replaced. Consult a professional for SCM diagnosis and replacement, as programming may be required. | |
| Faulty Seat Switch: The switch used to control the seat movement is defective, preventing the motor from receiving the correct commands. This is less likely but still possible. | Test the seat switch with a multimeter to ensure it's sending the correct signals. Try swapping the switch with a known good switch (if available). Replace the faulty seat switch. | |
| Mechanical Binding: The seat mechanism itself is binding or seizing up due to lack of lubrication, corrosion, or damage to the tracks or gears. | Inspect the seat tracks and gears for signs of corrosion or damage. Lubricate the seat tracks and gears with a suitable lubricant. If the mechanism is severely damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced. | |
| Symptoms | Seat Not Moving Up or Down: The primary symptom is the driver's seat failing to move up or down when the seat adjustment switch is activated. | This is the most obvious symptom. Immediately proceed with troubleshooting. |
| Clicking or Grinding Noise: A clicking or grinding noise may be heard when attempting to adjust the seat height, indicating a problem with the motor or the seat mechanism. | Listen carefully for any unusual noises coming from the seat area when attempting to adjust the seat. This can help pinpoint the location of the problem. | |
| Intermittent Operation: The seat may work sometimes but not others, suggesting a loose connection or an intermittent motor failure. | Check wiring connections and monitor motor performance over time to identify patterns. | |
| Other DTCs Present: Other diagnostic trouble codes related to the seat control system or other vehicle systems may be present, providing additional clues to the problem. | Scan the vehicle's computer for other DTCs. Address any other codes that are present before focusing on the B1663 code. | |
| Troubleshooting Steps | Visual Inspection: Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the seat, wiring, and connectors. | Look for obvious signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Check for obstructions blocking the seat's movement. |
| Scan for DTCs: Use a diagnostic scanner to confirm the B1663 code and check for any other related codes. | Record all DTCs present. Clear the codes and retest to see if the B1663 code returns. | |
| Wiring and Connector Testing: Use a multimeter to test the wiring and connectors for continuity, voltage, and ground. | Refer to the vehicle's wiring diagram for the correct pinouts and test procedures. Check for open circuits, short circuits, and high resistance. | |
| Motor Testing: Test the motor directly by applying power and ground to the motor terminals. | If the motor does not run when power is applied, it is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. If the motor runs, the problem is likely elsewhere in the system. | |
| Seat Control Module Testing: If the wiring and motor are good, the seat control module may be faulty. | This requires specialized diagnostic equipment and knowledge. Consult a qualified technician for SCM diagnosis and repair. | |
| Mechanical Inspection: Check the seat tracks and gears for binding or damage. | Lubricate the tracks and gears. If the mechanism is severely damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced. |
Detailed Explanations
Motor Failure: This is often the most common cause of the B1663 code. Over time, the brushes inside the motor wear down, the windings can short out, or the armature can become damaged. These issues prevent the motor from generating the necessary torque to move the seat.
Obstruction: A physical obstruction can prevent the seat from moving, causing the motor to stall. This could be anything from a small object lodged in the seat tracks to a wiring harness that has become entangled in the mechanism.
Wiring Issues: Problems with the wiring, such as damaged or corroded connections, can interrupt the flow of power to the motor. This can cause the motor to stall or not function at all. Loose connections can also create intermittent problems.
Seat Control Module Failure: The seat control module (SCM) is responsible for controlling the seat motor based on input from the seat adjustment switch. If the SCM fails, it may not send the correct signals to the motor, causing it to stall.
Faulty Seat Switch: The seat switch allows the driver to control the seat movement. A faulty switch can prevent the motor from receiving the correct commands, leading to the B1663 code.
Mechanical Binding: The seat mechanism itself may be binding or seizing up due to lack of lubrication, corrosion, or damage to the tracks or gears. This can put excessive strain on the motor, causing it to stall. Regular lubrication can prevent this.
Seat Not Moving Up or Down: This is the most obvious symptom of the B1663 code. The driver will be unable to adjust the seat height.
Clicking or Grinding Noise: A clicking or grinding noise may be heard when attempting to adjust the seat height. This noise indicates a problem with the motor or the seat mechanism. The source of the noise should be located and inspected.
Intermittent Operation: The seat may work sometimes but not others. This intermittent operation suggests a loose connection or an intermittent motor failure. Careful observation and testing are needed to identify the root cause.
Other DTCs Present: Other diagnostic trouble codes related to the seat control system or other vehicle systems may be present. These codes can provide additional clues to the problem and should be addressed before focusing on the B1663 code.
Visual Inspection: A thorough visual inspection of the seat, wiring, and connectors is the first step in troubleshooting the B1663 code. Look for obvious signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
Scan for DTCs: Use a diagnostic scanner to confirm the B1663 code and check for any other related codes. This will help to narrow down the possible causes of the problem.
Wiring and Connector Testing: Use a multimeter to test the wiring and connectors for continuity, voltage, and ground. This will help to identify any problems with the wiring harness.
Motor Testing: Test the motor directly by applying power and ground to the motor terminals. If the motor does not run when power is applied, it is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
Seat Control Module Testing: If the wiring and motor are good, the seat control module may be faulty. This requires specialized diagnostic equipment and knowledge.
Mechanical Inspection: Check the seat tracks and gears for binding or damage. Lubricate the tracks and gears to ensure smooth operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1663 code mean?
It indicates that the driver's seat up/down motor is stalled, meaning it's receiving power but not moving.
What are the common causes of the B1663 code?
Motor failure, obstructions, wiring issues, seat control module failure, and mechanical binding are common causes.
Can I fix the B1663 code myself?
Depending on your mechanical skills, you may be able to fix some causes, such as removing obstructions or repairing wiring. However, more complex issues like motor or module replacement may require professional assistance.
How do I test the seat motor?
Apply direct power and ground to the motor terminals. If it doesn't run, it's likely faulty.
What tools do I need to diagnose the B1663 code?
You'll need a diagnostic scanner, multimeter, basic hand tools, and possibly a wiring diagram for your vehicle.
Conclusion
The B1663 code indicates a problem with the driver's seat up/down motor, which can stem from various causes ranging from simple obstructions to complex module failures. A systematic approach to troubleshooting, starting with visual inspection and progressing to electrical testing, is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective repair.