The B1735 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a malfunction in the driver's side power seat switch circuit, specifically related to the "front up" function. This means the vehicle's computer has detected an issue with the electrical circuit that controls the motor responsible for raising the front portion of the driver's seat. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial for maintaining driver comfort and safety.
Comprehensive Breakdown of Code B1735
| Topic | Description | Possible Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Driver Seat Front Up Switch Circuit Malfunction (Power Seat Switch Circuit) | Problem with the electrical circuit controlling the front up movement of the driver's power seat. |
| Affected System | Power Seat System | Driver's side power seat and its associated wiring, switch, and motor. |
| Symptoms | Driver seat front will not raise up; Intermittent seat movement; Power seat switch unresponsive; Other power seat functions may also be affected. | Possible issues with other circuits due to short or wiring damage. |
| Possible Causes | Faulty driver seat switch; Open or shorted wiring in the front up switch circuit; Loose or corroded connectors; Faulty power seat motor; Faulty seat position module; Blown fuse; Low battery voltage; Ground fault; Internal short in the power seat control module. | The seat position module could be damaged by water, electrical surges, or impact. |
| Diagnostic Steps | Visual inspection of wiring and connectors; Check for power and ground at the switch; Test the switch for continuity; Test the motor for proper operation; Check for voltage drops in the circuit; Scan for other related DTCs; Check the fuse and relay for the power seat; Inspect the seat position module. | Use a multimeter to test continuity and voltage; Use a scan tool to read DTCs. |
| Repair Solutions | Replace faulty driver seat switch; Repair or replace damaged wiring; Clean or replace corroded connectors; Replace faulty power seat motor; Replace faulty seat position module; Replace blown fuse; Repair ground fault; Repair or replace the power seat control module. | Use OEM parts for replacement whenever possible; Ensure proper wiring connections. |
| Related DTCs | B1731, B1732, B1733, B1734, B1736, B1737, B1738, B1739 (related to other power seat functions); Codes related to battery voltage or system power. | These codes can help pinpoint the location of the fault. |
| Tools Required | Multimeter; Scan tool; Wiring diagram; Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, wire strippers, etc.); Connector cleaner. | Access to a vehicle-specific wiring diagram is essential. |
| Estimated Repair Cost | Varies widely depending on the cause; Switch replacement: $50-$200; Wiring repair: $50-$300; Motor replacement: $200-$500; Module replacement: $300-$1000. | Labor costs can vary significantly. |
| Level of Difficulty | Moderate to Advanced; Requires electrical troubleshooting skills and access to wiring diagrams. | Some repairs may require specialized tools and knowledge. |
| Safety Precautions | Disconnect the negative battery cable before working on electrical components; Be careful when working around moving parts of the power seat; Consult the vehicle's service manual for specific safety instructions. | Avoid accidental short circuits. |
Detailed Explanations
Definition: The B1735 DTC specifically refers to a malfunction within the electrical circuit responsible for controlling the upward movement of the front portion of the driver's power seat. This means the vehicle's computer, likely the body control module (BCM) or a dedicated seat control module, has detected an abnormal electrical signal in this circuit.
Affected System: The primary system affected is the driver's side power seat mechanism. This includes the power seat switch, the wiring harness connecting the switch to the seat motor, the seat motor itself, and potentially the seat position module or body control module that manages the power seat functions. The entire circuit needs to be inspected to find the root cause.
Symptoms: The most obvious symptom is the inability to raise the front portion of the driver's seat using the power seat switch. Other symptoms may include intermittent seat movement (the seat moves sometimes but not always), a completely unresponsive power seat switch, or even issues with other power seat functions, indicating a potential short circuit or wiring problem affecting multiple circuits.
Possible Causes: Several factors can trigger the B1735 code. A faulty driver seat switch is a common culprit. Open or shorted wiring within the "front up" switch circuit can also cause the issue. Loose or corroded connectors in the circuit can impede electrical flow. A faulty power seat motor, specifically the motor responsible for the front up movement, is another possibility. In some cases, a faulty seat position module or even a blown fuse can be the cause. Low battery voltage, a ground fault, or an internal short within the power seat control module are less common but still possible causes.
Diagnostic Steps: A methodical approach is essential for diagnosing the B1735 code. Start with a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors associated with the power seat, looking for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Next, check for power and ground at the seat switch using a multimeter. Test the switch for continuity to ensure it's functioning correctly. Test the seat motor for proper operation, either by applying direct power or using a scan tool to command the motor. Check for voltage drops in the circuit, which can indicate excessive resistance. Scan the vehicle's computer for other related DTCs that might provide further clues. Check the fuse and relay associated with the power seat. Finally, inspect the seat position module for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Repair Solutions: The appropriate repair will depend on the identified cause. If the driver seat switch is faulty, it needs to be replaced. Damaged wiring needs to be repaired or replaced. Corroded connectors should be cleaned or replaced. A faulty power seat motor requires replacement. A faulty seat position module also needs to be replaced. A blown fuse should be replaced with the correct amperage. A ground fault needs to be located and repaired. In rare cases, the power seat control module may need to be repaired or replaced.
Related DTCs: Other DTCs related to the power seat system, such as B1731, B1732, B1733, B1734, B1736, B1737, B1738, and B1739, can provide additional information about the problem. Codes related to battery voltage or system power can also be relevant. Analyzing these codes together can help pinpoint the location and nature of the fault.
Tools Required: Essential tools for diagnosing and repairing the B1735 code include a multimeter for electrical testing, a scan tool for reading DTCs and commanding the seat motor (if supported), a wiring diagram specific to the vehicle model, and basic hand tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, and wire strippers. Connector cleaner can be helpful for cleaning corroded connectors.
Estimated Repair Cost: The cost of repair can vary significantly depending on the cause. A simple switch replacement might cost between $50 and $200. Wiring repair could range from $50 to $300. Motor replacement could cost between $200 and $500. Module replacement is typically the most expensive, ranging from $300 to $1000 or more. These are just estimates, and labor costs can vary considerably depending on the mechanic and location.
Level of Difficulty: Diagnosing and repairing the B1735 code can range from moderate to advanced in difficulty. It requires a basic understanding of electrical circuits and troubleshooting skills. Access to a vehicle-specific wiring diagram is crucial. Some repairs may require specialized tools and knowledge. If you are not comfortable working with electrical systems, it is best to consult a qualified mechanic.
Safety Precautions: Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on electrical components to prevent accidental short circuits. Be careful when working around the moving parts of the power seat to avoid injury. Consult the vehicle's service manual for specific safety instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1735 code mean? It indicates a malfunction in the circuit controlling the "front up" movement of the driver's power seat.
Can I still drive my car with this code? Yes, but the driver's seat adjustment will be limited, potentially affecting comfort and safety.
What is the most common cause of the B1735 code? A faulty driver's seat switch or damaged wiring are the most common culprits.
How do I fix the B1735 code? Diagnose the cause of the circuit malfunction (switch, wiring, motor, etc.) and repair or replace the faulty component.
Do I need a special tool to diagnose this problem? A multimeter and a vehicle-specific wiring diagram are essential. A scan tool can be helpful.
Conclusion
The B1735 diagnostic trouble code signals a problem within the driver's seat's front up switch circuit, potentially impacting comfort and safety. Systematic diagnosis, starting with visual inspection and electrical testing, is crucial for identifying the root cause and implementing the appropriate repair, be it switch replacement, wiring repair, or motor replacement.