What Does B1650 Mean?
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) or seat control module has detected an abnormal electrical condition in the driver's seat recline forward motor circuit. Specifically, the circuit controlling the forward recline function has a short to ground, meaning current is flowing directly to ground through an unintended path rather than through the proper circuit. This prevents the seat recline motor from operating correctly and triggers the fault code.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat causing short to ground from rubbing against seat frame or bracket
30%
Failed driver seat recline motor with internal short to ground or housing ground fault
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged seat control switch or connector causing ground short
10%
Faulty seat control module with internal driver failure on recline circuit output
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring harnesses under the driver's seat, checking for chafed insulation, pinched wires, or damage where harness contacts seat frame or tracks. Look for signs of rubbing or abraded wire insulation.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the seat recline motor connector and use a digital multimeter to measure resistance between the motor's forward circuit terminal and ground. Reading should be greater than 10k ohms; less than 5 ohms confirms short to ground in motor.
3
Step 3: If motor tests good, backprobe the harness connector at the seat control module with multimeter set to ohms. Measure resistance from the recline forward circuit wire to chassis ground with motor disconnected. Reading less than 5 ohms indicates wiring harness short.
4
Step 4: Check for water intrusion or corrosion at the seat control switch and all connectors in the circuit. Clean contacts with electrical contact cleaner and dielectric grease if corrosion present.
5
Step 5: If all wiring and motor test good, suspect faulty seat control module. Measure voltage at motor connector while activating recline forward function; voltage should pulse but may show constant ground if module driver failed.
6
Step 6: After repair, clear codes, cycle seat recline forward/backward multiple times, and verify no code returns. Perform final function test of all seat movements.
Estimated Repair Cost
$120 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) or seat control module has detected an abnormal electrical condition in the driver's seat recline forward motor circuit. Specifically, the circuit controlling the forward recline function has a short to ground, meaning current...
The most common cause of B1650 (Seat Driver Recline Forward Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat causing short to ground from rubbing against seat frame or bracket
Typical repair costs for B1650 range from $120 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle is safe to drive as this only affects driver seat recline adjustment functionality. Repair is not urgent but should be addressed for proper seat positioning and driver comfort, especially for shared vehicles or drivers who need to adjust seating position regularly.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1650 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Comfort and Convenience Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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