B1650 – Seat Driver Recline Forward Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1650 indicates a malfunction in the driver’s seat recline mechanism, specifically that the forward circuit is shorted to ground, which means there is an unintended connection to the ground that is causing the circuit to malfunction.

The severity of ODBII code B1650 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1649 Seat Driver Recline Forward Circuit Short To Battery

• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Faulty seat recline motor
• Damaged seat control switch
• Grounding issues in the circuit
• Corroded or damaged connectors
• Faulty body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnosis for B1650 Seat Driver Recline Forward Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty seat recline motor
• Damaged wiring harness
• Malfunctioning seat position sensor
• Defective body control module (BCM)
• Issues with the power seat switch
• Short circuit in the seat wiring
• Faulty ground connection
• Incorrectly installed or loose connectors

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1650, which indicates a “Seat Driver Recline Forward Circuit Short To Ground,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Verify the Code: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the B1650 code.
• Clear the code and see if it returns after a short drive cycle.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the driver seat recline mechanism for any visible damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• **Connector Condition: Ensure that all connectors are securely attached and free of dirt or moisture.
• Check for Shorts to Ground: **Multimeter Testing: Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the recline circuit wire and ground. A short to ground will show continuity.
• **Inspect Ground Points: Ensure that all ground points related to the seat and recline mechanism are clean and secure.
• Test the Seat Recline Motor: **Motor Functionality: If accessible, test the seat recline motor by applying direct power to see if it operates correctly.
• **Resistance Check: Measure the resistance of the motor windings to ensure they are within specifications.
• Check the Seat Control Switch: **Switch Functionality: Test the seat recline switch for proper operation. A faulty switch can cause incorrect signals to be sent to the motor.
• **Continuity Test: Check for continuity in the switch when pressed.
• Inspect the Body Control Module (BCM): **BCM Functionality: If the wiring and motor are functioning correctly, the issue may lie within the BCM. Check for any software updates or known issues with the BCM.
• **Diagnostic Testing: If possible, perform a diagnostic test on the BCM to check for any faults.
• Look for Related Codes: Check for any other related trouble codes that may provide additional context or indicate a broader issue.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams: Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for wiring diagrams to understand the circuit layout and identify any other components that may be involved.
• Repair or Replace Faulty Components: Based on your findings, repair any damaged wiring, replace faulty connectors, or replace the seat recline motor or switch as necessary.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: After making repairs, clear the codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and the code does not return.1
• Seek Professional Help: If the problem persists after following these steps, consider seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with electrical systems. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1650 code.