What Does B1712 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 upward movement switch circuit. Specifically, the circuit voltage is being pulled to ground when it should be at a higher reference voltage, suggesting a short circuit condition. This prevents the seat control system from properly detecting when the driver activates the seat up switch.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness between seat switch and control module, causing wire insulation to contact ground/chassis
30%
Faulty driver seat up switch with internal short to ground
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector pins at seat switch or control module creating ground path
10%
Failed seat control module with internal circuit fault
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of driver seat switch assembly and wiring harness for obvious damage, chafing, pinched wires, or water intrusion. Check all connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the driver seat up switch connector and measure resistance between the switch signal wire terminal (at harness side) and chassis ground using a digital multimeter. Reading should be infinite ohms (open circuit); low resistance indicates short to ground in wiring.
3
Step 3: If wiring tests good, measure resistance across the seat up switch terminals with switch disconnected. Activate switch manually and verify proper resistance change (typically open when not pressed, closed/low resistance when pressed). Constant low resistance to ground terminal indicates faulty switch.
4
Step 4: Inspect wiring harness routing under seat rails and along floor pan where movement and chafing commonly occur. Flex harness while monitoring resistance to identify intermittent shorts.
5
Step 5: If all wiring and switch test normal, check for proper voltage reference at switch connector with ignition on (typically 5V or 12V depending on manufacturer). No voltage suggests control module fault.
6
Step 6: Clear codes, reconnect all components, cycle seat switch through all positions, and verify code does not return. Confirm seat up function operates correctly after repair.
Estimated Repair Cost
$75 - $450
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 upward movement switch circuit. Specifically, the circuit voltage is being pulled to ground when it should be at a higher reference volt...
The most common cause of B1712 (Seat Driver Front Up Switch Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness between seat switch and control module, causing wire insulation to contact ground/chassis
Typical repair costs for B1712 range from $75 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This code does not affect vehicle drivability or safety systems and it is safe to continue driving. The only impact is loss of power seat upward adjustment functionality, which is a convenience issue rather than a safety concern.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1712 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Power Seat Control System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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