What Does B1248 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the electrical circuit controlling the passenger seat's power autoglide rearward movement switch. The autoglide feature allows the seatback to automatically move rearward, typically for easier rear seat access. The BCM detected abnormally low voltage or resistance in this circuit, indicating that current is flowing directly to ground rather than through the intended switch and actuator path.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat causing insulation wear and direct contact with seat frame ground
30%
Faulty passenger seatback autoglide switch with internal short to ground
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector terminals at the seat switch or seat module causing ground path
10%
Failed seat memory module or control unit with internal circuit fault
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Visually inspect the passenger seat wiring harness for visible damage, chafing, pinching, or wear points where wires contact the seat frame or moving mechanisms. Pay special attention to areas where the harness bends or routes under the seat track.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the seatback autoglide switch connector and measure resistance between the switch signal circuit terminal and ground with a digital multimeter. Reading should be infinite (open circuit); any measurable resistance indicates a short in the wiring harness or connectors between the switch and module.
3
Step 3: If wiring tests clean, inspect switch connector terminals for corrosion, moisture intrusion, or pushed-back pins. Clean with electrical contact cleaner if needed, then test the switch itself by measuring resistance across switch terminals in both pressed and unpressed positions per manufacturer specifications.
4
Step 4: If switch and wiring are confirmed good, use a multimeter to check the seat control module connector terminal for the autoglide circuit. Measure resistance to ground with the harness disconnected from the module. Reading should be infinite; low resistance confirms wiring fault; high resistance suggests module internal fault.
5
Step 5: Repair or replace identified faulty components (wiring, switch, or module), clear codes, and cycle the autoglide function multiple times while monitoring live data to confirm proper voltage levels and verify no short condition returns.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the electrical circuit controlling the passenger seat's power autoglide rearward movement switch. The autoglide feature allows the seatback to automatically move rearward, typically for easier rear sea...
The most common cause of B1248 (Passenger's Seatback Autoglide Rearward Switch Circuit Short to Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat causing insulation wear and direct contact with seat frame ground
Typical repair costs for B1248 range from $150 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This code does not affect vehicle safety or drivability and the vehicle is safe to operate normally. The autoglide feature will be disabled until repair is completed, but primary seat adjustment functions typically remain operational.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1248 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Power Seat Control System / Body Comfort Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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