What Does B1759 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the driver's seat rear vertical adjustment motor circuit. The control module detected voltage on the circuit when it should be at ground or floating, indicating an unintended power supply connection. This affects the power seat adjustment system, specifically preventing proper control of the rear vertical (up/down) movement of the driver's seat.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to power in the seat motor circuit, commonly where harness flexes under seat track
30%
Failed seat motor with internal short to power supply causing constant voltage feedback
15%
Faulty seat control switch with internal short creating voltage path to motor circuit
10%
Water damage or corrosion in connectors creating unintended voltage path between circuits
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of seat wiring harness along entire length, particularly under seat rails and at flex points. Look for chafed insulation, pinched wires, or signs of wire contact with metal seat frame components
2
Step 2: Disconnect seat motor connector and measure voltage at BCM side of harness using multimeter. Should read 0V with ignition on. If battery voltage present, isolate short location by checking intermediate connectors toward BCM
3
Step 3: With motor disconnected, activate seat down function using switch while measuring resistance between motor circuit and battery positive at motor connector. Should read infinite resistance (open circuit). Low resistance indicates internal motor short
4
Step 4: Test seat switch operation by measuring output voltage at switch connector with switch activated in down position. Verify proper switching behavior and that voltage is only present during actuation
5
Step 5: Inspect all connectors for water intrusion, corrosion, or pin-to-pin bridging using magnification. Clean with electrical contact cleaner and dielectric grease if needed
6
Step 6: After repair, clear codes and cycle seat through full range of motion multiple times. Monitor for code recurrence and verify proper seat operation in all directions
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the driver's seat rear vertical adjustment motor circuit. The control module detected voltage on the circuit when it should be at ground or floating, indicating an unintended power supply connection. This af...
The most common cause of B1759 (Seat Driver Rear Down Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to power in the seat motor circuit, commonly where harness flexes under seat track
Typical repair costs for B1759 range from $150 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this does not affect vehicle operation or safety systems. Repair at earliest convenience to restore full seat adjustment functionality and prevent potential electrical drain or further damage to seat control components.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1759 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Power Seat Adjustment System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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