B1768 – Seat Driver Forward Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1768 indicates a short circuit in the driver seat forward adjustment circuit, meaning there is an unintended connection to ground that is affecting the seat’s ability to move forward.

The severity of ODBII code B1768 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1767 Seat Driver Forward Circuit Short To Battery

• Damaged wiring or connectors in the seat harness.
• Short circuit in the seat adjustment motor.
• Faulty seat position sensor.
• Malfunctioning seat control module.
• Corroded or loose electrical connections.
• Water intrusion or moisture in the seat assembly.

Common misdiagnosis for B1768 Seat Driver Forward Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty seat position sensor
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Malfunctioning seat control module
• Issues with the body control module (BCM)
• Shorted or damaged seat harness
• Incorrectly diagnosed airbag system issues
• Misinterpreted fault codes related to other seat functions

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1768 indicates a problem with the driver’s seat forward circuit, specifically a short to ground condition. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve this issue:

• Visual Inspection: **Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the driver’s seat. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• **Seat Mechanism: Check the seat mechanism for any obstructions or foreign objects that may be causing a short.
• Check for Other Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues.
• Test the Seat Motor: **Functionality: Test the driver’s seat motor to ensure it operates correctly. If the motor is faulty, it may cause a short circuit.
• **Resistance Check: Measure the resistance of the seat motor. If it is outside the manufacturer’s specifications, the motor may need to be replaced.
• Inspect the Seat Switch: **Functionality: Test the seat adjustment switch for proper operation. A malfunctioning switch can cause a short circuit.
• **Continuity Test: Perform a continuity test on the switch to ensure it is functioning correctly.
• Check for Ground Issues: **Ground Connections: Inspect the ground connections for the seat circuit. Ensure they are clean, tight, and free of corrosion.
• **Voltage Drop Test: Perform a voltage drop test on the ground circuit to ensure there are no excessive drops indicating a poor connection.
• Use a Multimeter: **Voltage Test: With the seat in the appropriate position, use a multimeter to check for voltage at the seat motor and switch. Ensure that the voltage is within the specified range.
• **Short Circuit Test: Check for continuity between the power wire and ground. If there is continuity, it indicates a short circuit.
• Inspect the Body Control Module (BCM): If all other components check out, the issue may lie within the BCM. Inspect for any signs of damage or malfunction.
• Repair or Replace Components: Based on the findings from the above steps, repair or replace any damaged wiring, connectors, switches, or motors as necessary.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: After making repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Consult Service Manual: If the issue persists, consult the vehicle’s service manual for specific diagnostic procedures and specifications related to the B1768 code.1
• Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue, 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 identify and resolve the issue causing the B1768 code.