B1731 – Seat Driver Rear Down Switch Circuit Short To Battery

The ODBII code B1731 indicates a malfunction in the driver rear seat down switch circuit, specifically that there is a short circuit to the battery, causing the circuit to receive an unintended voltage.

The severity of ODBII code B1731 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1730 Seat Driver Rear Down Switch Circuit Open

• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Faulty seat switch
• Damaged seat control module
• Corroded or loose electrical connections
• Malfunctioning power seat motor
• Grounding issues in the circuit

Common misdiagnosis for B1731 Seat Driver Rear Down Switch Circuit Short To Battery

• Faulty seat switch
• Wiring issues or shorts in the harness
• Malfunctioning seat control module
• Battery or power supply problems
• Grounding issues
• Faulty connectors or terminals
• Incorrectly installed aftermarket seat or components

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1731, which indicates a “Seat Driver Rear Down Switch Circuit Short To Battery,” you can follow these common troubleshooting steps:

• Verify the Code: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the B1731 code. Clear the code and see if it returns after a short drive.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors:
• Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the seat switch for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• Look for any exposed wires that may be shorting to the battery or ground.
• Check the Seat Switch:
• Remove the seat switch and inspect it for any physical damage or wear.
• Test the switch for continuity using a multimeter. If the switch is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
• Inspect the Seat Control Module:
• If the vehicle has a seat control module, check for any faults or issues with the module itself.
• Ensure that the module is receiving proper power and ground.
• Test for Shorts:
• Use a multimeter to check for shorts in the wiring. Disconnect the battery and test the resistance between the switch circuit and the battery positive terminal.
• If you find a short, trace the wiring back to locate the source of the short.
• Check for Ground Issues:
• Ensure that the ground connections for the seat switch and control module are secure and free of corrosion.
• Test the ground circuit for continuity.
• Inspect Related Components:
• Check other components in the seat adjustment system, such as motors and relays, for any issues that could be causing the short.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams:
• Refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagrams to understand the circuit layout and identify any other components that may be involved.
• Perform a Visual Inspection:
• Look for any signs of water intrusion or other environmental factors that could affect the electrical components.
• Reassemble and Test:
• After making any repairs or replacements, reassemble the components, reconnect the battery, and test the system to see if the code returns. 1
• Seek Professional Help:
• If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, consider seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with electrical systems. By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue related to the B1731 code.