B1704 – Seat Driver Recline Forward Switch Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1704 indicates a malfunction in the driver seat recline forward switch circuit, specifically that there is a short to ground, which means the circuit is unintentionally connected to the vehicle’s ground, causing improper function.

The severity of ODBII code B1704 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1703 Seat Driver Recline Forward Switch Circuit Short To Battery

• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Faulty driver recline switch
• Damaged seat harness
• Corroded connectors
• Grounding issues
• Malfunctioning seat control module
• Water intrusion or moisture damage

Common misdiagnosis for B1704 Seat Driver Recline Forward Switch Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty seat recline switch
• Wiring harness issues
• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Faulty seat control module
• Incorrectly diagnosed seat position sensor
• Battery or ground connection problems
• Issues with the body control module (BCM)

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1704, which indicates a “Seat Driver Recline Forward Switch 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:

• Check the Vehicle’s Manual: Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific information regarding the seat recline switch circuit, including wiring diagrams and component locations.
• Visual Inspection: **Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the driver seat recline switch. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• **Switch Condition: Check the condition of the recline switch itself. Ensure it is not physically damaged or stuck.
• Test the Switch: **Continuity Test: Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the switch. Disconnect the switch and test the terminals to see if the switch is functioning properly.
• **Resistance Check: Measure the resistance across the switch terminals when the switch is in different positions (pressed and not pressed).
• Inspect the Circuit: **Short to Ground: Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the switch circuit and ground. If there is continuity, it indicates a short to ground.
• **Wiring Harness: Trace the wiring from the switch back to the module or connector to identify any potential shorts or damaged wires.
• Check the Seat Module: If the vehicle has a seat control module, check for any fault codes stored in the module. Use a scan tool to read codes and clear them after repairs.
• Inspect the module for any signs of damage or corrosion.
• Inspect Ground Connections: Ensure that all ground connections related to the seat and switch are clean and secure. A poor ground can cause erratic behavior and trigger fault codes.
• Test the Power Supply: Verify that the switch is receiving the correct voltage. Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the switch connector with the ignition on.
• Repair or Replace Components: Based on your findings, repair any damaged wiring or connectors. If the switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.
• If the seat control module is found to be defective, consider replacing it.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: After making repairs, clear the fault codes using a scan tool and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Seek Professional Help: If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has experience with automotive electrical systems. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1704 code. Always ensure safety precautions are taken when working with electrical components in a vehicle.