B172E Code - Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
Quick Answer
The safety alert seat provides a vibration in the driver’s seat bottom cushion to alert the driver of a number of concerns. Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor, Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- B172E indicates Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor, Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor circuit poor electrical connection.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code B172E Description
The Seat Memory Control Module receives serial data messages from other modules and provides voltage to control the seat haptic movement motors. The Seat Memory Control Module will pulse the left, right, or both motors with the number of pulses requested over serial data. The Seat Memory Control Module monitors the control circuits for open, short to ground, and short to voltage conditions and will set Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) if a circuit fault is detected.
The seat haptic movement motor is DC motor located in the driver’s seat bottom cushion. Two seat haptic movement motors are used in the seat bottom cushion, positioned on the left and right side. An offset weight is attached to the motor. When activated, the spinning offset weight creates a vibration felt by the driver through the seat cushion.
Each seat haptic movement motor receives a constant chassis ground. The motor is controlled by the Seat Memory Control Module providing voltage through a dedicated control circuit. When an alert is required, the Seat Memory Control Module will apply voltage, activating the seat haptic movement motor.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B172E?
- Faulty Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor
- Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor harness is open or shorted
- Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Motor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Seat Memory Control Module
How to Fix the DTC B172E?
Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
Code Tech Notes
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the B172E code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.
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Information for Specific Makes
- B172E Buick — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
- B172E Cadillac — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
- B172E Chevrolet — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
- B172E GMC — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
Frequently Asked Questions about B172E Code
What does the OBDII code B172E mean?
The code B172E refers to a fault with the driver seat cushion’s left rear haptic movement, which is part of the seat's feedback or vibration system.
What are the common symptoms of code B172E?
Common symptoms include the driver seat’s vibration or haptic feedback not functioning correctly, reduced responsiveness, or no movement in the left rear cushion area.
What causes the B172E code to appear?
This code can be triggered by wiring issues, a malfunctioning haptic motor, a software glitch in the seat control module, or physical damage to the seat cushion components.
Can a faulty seat control module cause the B172E code?
Yes, a malfunctioning seat control module may fail to send signals to the haptic motor, leading to this code.
How can I diagnose the B172E code?
Start by inspecting wiring and connections to the haptic motor, checking for damage or loose connectors. Use a diagnostic tool to confirm the issue and test the seat control module.
What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B172E code?
You’ll likely need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing electrical connections, and basic hand tools to access seat components.
Can the B172E code affect other vehicle functions?
No, this code is specific to the driver seat haptic system and typically does not impact other systems in the vehicle.
How is the B172E code fixed?
Repairs may include replacing the haptic motor, repairing damaged wiring, or reprogramming or replacing the seat control module.
Is the B172E code a safety concern?
While not a direct safety concern, the haptic feedback system may assist with alerts or warnings, so its malfunction could reduce overall driver awareness.
Can I clear the B172E code without repairs?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily remove it, but the problem will likely return. Repairs are necessary to resolve the fault.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B172E OBDII Code
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