What Does B1723 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the driver's seat rearward movement switch circuit. The BCM monitors the switch circuits for proper voltage levels, and when it detects continuous battery voltage (typically 12V) when the switch should be at ground or open, it sets this code. This fault prevents normal rearward seat adjustment operation and indicates an electrical problem in the switch, wiring, or connector associated with the driver's seat rearward movement function.
Common Causes
35%
Damaged or pinched wiring harness under the driver's seat causing short to power wire
30%
Faulty driver seat rearward switch with internal short to power
20%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector at seat switch causing cross-circuit short
10%
Chafed wiring at seat track mounting points rubbing against metal causing short
5%
Failed BCM internal circuit driver creating false short detection
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring and connectors under the driver's seat, checking for pinched wires, damaged insulation, corrosion, or evidence of moisture intrusion at the seat switch connector
2
Step 2: Disconnect the driver seat rearward switch connector and use a digital multimeter to measure voltage at the BCM-side connector terminal for the rearward switch signal wire (should read 0V with ignition on and switch disconnected; battery voltage confirms short in harness)
3
Step 3: If harness tests good, measure resistance of the rearward switch itself across its terminals in both pressed and released positions (should show open circuit when released, closed/low resistance when pressed; constant low resistance indicates failed switch)
4
Step 4: Inspect wiring routing along seat tracks and mounting brackets for chafing points, moving the seat fully forward and rearward while checking for intermittent shorts with multimeter connected to signal wire
5
Step 5: If all wiring and switch test normal, check BCM connector terminals for corrosion or bent pins, and verify BCM ground circuits are intact with less than 0.5 ohms resistance to chassis ground
6
Step 6: Clear codes, reconnect all components, cycle the seat switch multiple times in all directions, and verify code does not return; test seat operation to confirm proper function
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the driver's seat rearward movement switch circuit. The BCM monitors the switch circuits for proper voltage levels, and when it detects continuous battery voltage (typically 12V) when the switch should ...
The most common cause of B1723 (Seat Driver Rearward Switch Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or pinched wiring harness under the driver's seat causing short to power wire
Typical repair costs for B1723 range from $100 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This code does not affect vehicle drivability or safety systems and the vehicle is safe to drive. The only impact is loss of powered rearward seat adjustment, which may affect driver comfort and seating position but does not present a safety hazard requiring immediate repair.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1723 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System - Power Seat Adjustment
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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