B1651 – Seat Driver Recline Backward Circuit Failure

The ODBII code B1651 indicates a malfunction in the driver seat recline backward circuit, suggesting a failure in the electrical system or components related to the seat’s reclining mechanism.

The severity of ODBII code B1651 is generally considered moderate.

Common Causes For: B1650 Seat Driver Recline Forward Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty seat recline motor
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Failed seat position sensor
• Malfunctioning power seat switch
• Short circuit in the circuit
• Open circuit in the wiring
• Faulty body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnosis for B1651 Seat Driver Recline Backward Circuit Failure

• Faulty seat motor
• Wiring issues
• Faulty seat position sensor
• Body control module (BCM) failure
• Power supply issues
• Ground connection problems
• Faulty switch or control module
• Software or calibration errors

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1651 indicates a “Seat Driver Recline Backward Circuit Failure.” This code is typically associated with issues in the seat recline mechanism, particularly in the electrical circuit that controls the backward recline function of the driver’s seat. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and potentially resolve this issue:

• Visual Inspection: **Wiring and Connectors: Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the seat recline motor for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• **Seat Mechanism: Inspect the seat recline mechanism for any physical obstructions or damage that could prevent it from functioning properly.
• Check the Seat Motor: **Functionality Test: Manually test the seat recline motor by applying direct power to it (if safe to do so) to see if it operates correctly. If it does not work, the motor may be faulty and require replacement.
• Inspect the Switch: **Switch Operation: Test the seat recline switch for proper operation. Use a multimeter to check for continuity when the switch is activated. If the switch is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
• Check for Faulty Ground: **Ground Connections: Ensure that the ground connections for the seat motor and switch are secure and free of corrosion. A poor ground can lead to circuit failures.
• Scan for Additional Codes: **Diagnostic Scan: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues.
• Inspect the Body Control Module (BCM): **BCM Functionality: If the wiring, motor, and switch are all functioning correctly, the issue may lie within the Body Control Module. Check for any software updates or faults in the BCM that could affect the seat recline function.
• Check Fuses: **Fuse Inspection: Locate and inspect the fuse associated with the seat recline circuit. If the fuse is blown, replace it and see if the issue persists.
• Perform a Reset: **Clear Codes: After addressing any identified issues, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner and test the seat recline function again to see if the code returns.
• Consult Service Manual: **Manufacturer Guidelines: Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific troubleshooting steps, wiring diagrams, and specifications related to the seat recline system.
• Professional Diagnosis: **Seek Help: If the issue persists after performing these steps, consider seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with electrical systems and OBD-II diagnostics. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1651 code. Always ensure safety precautions are taken when working with electrical components in vehicles.