B172E:01 Code - Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Short to Voltage
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:01 indicates Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Short to Voltage.
- 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:01 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 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:01?
- 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:01?
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:01 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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Frequently Asked Questions about B172E:01 Code
1. What does the OBDII code B172E:01 mean?
Code B172E:01 indicates a short to voltage in the driver seat cushion's left rear haptic movement system, which is part of the seat's vibration or feedback mechanism.
2. What are the symptoms of code B172E:01?
Common symptoms include the driver seat's haptic feedback not working, unusual vibrations, or an illuminated warning light on the dashboard.
3. What causes the B172E:01 code to appear?
This code is typically caused by a wiring short to voltage, a faulty haptic motor, or a malfunctioning control module in the driver seat.
4. Can the B172E:01 code affect other vehicle systems?
While it primarily affects the seat's haptic feedback, it may indirectly impact driver assistance features if the feedback system is integrated with safety alerts.
5. How do I diagnose the B172E:01 code?
Use a diagnostic scanner to confirm the code, then inspect the wiring, connectors, and haptic motor for signs of a short or damage.
6. Is it safe to drive with the B172E:01 code active?
Yes, it is generally safe to drive, but the driver may lose haptic feedback for certain alerts, which could reduce awareness of warnings.
7. How can I fix the B172E:01 code?
Repairs may include fixing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the faulty haptic motor, or reprogramming the seat control module.
8. How much does it cost to repair the B172E:01 code?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300 for wiring repairs and up to $500 if the haptic motor or control module needs replacement.
9. Can I clear the B172E:01 code without repairing the issue?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily reset the warning, but the code is likely to return.
10. What tools are needed to repair the B172E:01 code?
Basic tools include a diagnostic scanner, multimeter for testing voltage, and possibly replacement parts like wires or the haptic motor.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B172E:01 OBDII Code
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