What Does B1659 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical fault in the driver's seat vertical lift (upward movement) circuit. The BCM monitors the motor circuit and has identified an open circuit, short to ground, short to power, or excessive resistance preventing proper seat upward movement. This is a manufacturer-specific code related to the power seat control system.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or corroded wiring/connector at seat motor or under seat due to moisture, seat track movement, or physical damage
30%
Failed seat height motor (burned windings, worn brushes, or internal short)
15%
Faulty seat control switch with internal contact failure or short circuit
10%
BCM internal fault or seat module relay failure preventing power delivery to motor circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Visually inspect all wiring and connectors under the driver's seat for damaged wires, bent pins, corrosion, or loose connections. Check for pinched wires in seat track mechanism by moving seat fully forward and backward.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, test for battery voltage (typically 12V) at the seat vertical motor connector while activating the up function via the seat switch. If no voltage present, problem is upstream in switch or BCM circuit.
3
Step 3: Disconnect the seat vertical motor and perform resistance test across motor terminals (typical range 2-6 ohms). Also test for continuity to ground on each terminal. High resistance or ground short indicates failed motor.
4
Step 4: If motor tests good and voltage is present, test motor operation by applying direct battery voltage and ground temporarily to verify motor spins freely. Check ground circuit continuity from motor to chassis ground (should be less than 1 ohm).
5
Step 5: Test seat switch operation by checking continuity through switch contacts during up button activation using multimeter. Replace switch if open circuit detected during activation.
6
Step 6: Clear codes and retest seat operation. Monitor live data for seat motor command signals from BCM to verify proper circuit operation and confirm repair.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical fault in the driver's seat vertical lift (upward movement) circuit. The BCM monitors the motor circuit and has identified an open circuit, short to ground, short to power, or excessive resistance preventing proper seat upwa...
The most common cause of B1659 (Seat Driver Front Up Circuit Failure) is: Damaged or corroded wiring/connector at seat motor or under seat due to moisture, seat track movement, or physical damage
Typical repair costs for B1659 range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this only affects driver seat position adjustment comfort features. Does not impact vehicle operation or safety systems, though proper seating position is important for driver visibility and airbag effectiveness.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1659 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control / Power Seat System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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