What Does B2160 Mean?
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short circuit to battery voltage (VBatt) on the output circuit for Memory Seat Position #1. The BCM monitors the memory seat control circuit and has identified that voltage is present on the output line when it should not be, indicating an abnormal electrical path directly to battery positive voltage. This typically affects power seat memory functions, preventing proper seat position recall or storage.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness between BCM and memory seat module causing short to power wire
30%
Failed memory seat control module with internal short circuit to power
15%
Corroded or damaged connector pins at BCM or seat module creating cross-circuit with power feed
10%
Faulty Body Control Module with internal output driver failure
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring harnesses between the BCM and driver's seat memory module, looking for chafed insulation, pinched wires, or damage where harness passes through seat track or body mounting points. Pay special attention to areas where harness flexes during seat movement.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the memory seat control module connector and measure voltage on the Memory #1 output circuit pin at the harness side using a digital multimeter. With ignition on, voltage should read 0V. If battery voltage (12-14V) is present, the short is in the harness between BCM and seat module.
3
Step 3: If voltage is present at harness, disconnect BCM connector and re-measure the Memory #1 output circuit. If voltage disappears, BCM has internal fault. If voltage remains, trace and repair short to power in harness between connectors.
4
Step 4: If no voltage found at disconnected seat module connector, inspect seat module connector terminals for corrosion, bent pins, or cross-contamination with adjacent power circuits. Clean or repair connector as needed.
5
Step 5: If harness and connectors test good, reconnect seat module and monitor circuit with multimeter while operating seat through full range of motion to identify intermittent short caused by wire flexing.
6
Step 6: Clear codes, verify repair by testing memory seat function through multiple save/recall cycles, and confirm code does not return after test drive including seat position changes.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short circuit to battery voltage (VBatt) on the output circuit for Memory Seat Position #1. The BCM monitors the memory seat control circuit and has identified that voltage is present on the output line when it ...
The most common cause of B2160 (Memory #1 output Short to VBatt) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness between BCM and memory seat module causing short to power wire
Typical repair costs for B2160 range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This fault does not affect vehicle safety or drivability and the vehicle is safe to operate. Memory seat functions may be inoperative, but manual seat adjustment should remain functional. Repair can be scheduled at convenience, though continued operation may cause BCM damage if short persists.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B2160 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Memory Seat Control System / Body Electrical
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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