What Does B1768 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground in the driver's seat forward/backward positioning motor circuit. The control module commanded the seat motor to move forward but detected abnormally low resistance, indicating current is flowing directly to ground instead of through the motor. This prevents proper operation of the power seat forward/backward adjustment function.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat causing exposed wire to contact the metal seat frame or floor pan
30%
Failed driver seat forward/backward motor with internal short to ground
15%
Corroded or damaged connector pins at the seat motor or seat module allowing moisture intrusion and ground faults
10%
Failed seat control module or switch assembly with internal short circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring under the driver's seat, checking for pinched, chafed, or damaged wires contacting metal seat frame or tracks, especially where harness moves during seat travel
2
Step 2: Disconnect the driver seat forward/backward motor connector and measure resistance between the motor control circuit terminal and ground using a digital multimeter; reading should be greater than 10,000 ohms (open circuit). A reading below 5 ohms confirms short to ground in motor or wiring
3
Step 3: With motor disconnected, check resistance from the BCM/seat module side of the harness connector to ground on the suspect circuit wire; less than 5 ohms indicates wiring harness short, greater than 10,000 ohms indicates failed motor
4
Step 4: Inspect motor connector terminals for corrosion, pushed-back pins, or moisture contamination; clean and apply dielectric grease if corrosion is present
5
Step 5: If wiring and connectors test good, bench test the seat motor by applying 12V DC directly to motor terminals; motor should operate smoothly. Replace motor if it fails to operate or shows continuity to ground on control circuit
6
Step 6: Clear codes, reconnect all components, cycle seat forward and backward through full range of motion, and verify code does not return and seat operates normally
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 ground in the driver's seat forward/backward positioning motor circuit. The control module commanded the seat motor to move forward but detected abnormally low resistance, indicating current is flowing directly to ground inste...
The most common cause of B1768 (Seat Driver Forward Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat causing exposed wire to contact the metal seat frame or floor pan
Typical repair costs for B1768 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 only affects power seat adjustment convenience feature. Seat position can be manually adjusted if needed, but driver may not be able to achieve optimal seating position affecting comfort and potentially long-term driving ergonomics.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1768 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control/Comfort Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
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