AutoCodesGeneric – B172E:02

B172E:02 Code - Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Short to Ground

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:02 indicates Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Short to Ground.
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.
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Code Popularity 953
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 21, 2023
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Code B172E:02 Description

The safety alert seat provides a vibration in the driver’s seat bottom cushion to alert the driver of a number of concerns. Two seat haptic movement motors are utilized to create the vibration and are located on the left and right sides of the seat cushion. Utilizing two motors allows the vibration to be localized to the left or right side of the seat, depending on the side of the vehicle generating the alert, or to vibrate both simultaneously.

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 ground 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.
OBDII Code B172E:02 - Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Short to Ground - AutoCodes.com
B172E:02 Code - Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Short to Ground

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B172E:02?

  • 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:02?

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:02 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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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B172E:02 Code

What does the OBDII code B172E:02 mean?

1. The code B172E:02 indicates a "Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement Short to Ground," which means there is a short circuit in the wiring or component related to the left rear haptic motor in the driver’s seat. 2.

What are the common symptoms of code B172E:02?

Common symptoms include the driver’s seat haptic feedback not functioning properly, irregular vibrations, or no response during alerts or warnings. 3.

What causes the code B172E:02 to be triggered?

The code is typically caused by damaged wiring, a short circuit to ground, a faulty haptic motor, or a malfunctioning seat control module. 4.

Can I still drive my vehicle with the code B172E:02?

Yes, you can still drive the vehicle, but the seat haptic feedback system may not function, potentially reducing driver awareness for certain safety features. 5.

How can I diagnose the issue behind code B172E:02?

To diagnose the issue, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, test the haptic motor for continuity, and check the seat control module for errors. 6.

What tools are needed to troubleshoot code B172E:02?

You will need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for checking continuity and shorts, and possibly wiring diagrams for the seat system. 7.

How is code B172E:02 typically repaired?

Repairs may include fixing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, replacing the haptic motor, or reprogramming/replacing the seat control module. 8.

Is the haptic motor expensive to replace for code B172E:02?

The cost of replacing the haptic motor varies by vehicle, but it is generally a moderate repair cost depending on labor rates and part availability. 9.

Can a blown fuse cause the B172E:02 code to appear?

No, a blown fuse typically cuts power entirely, whereas this code specifically relates to a short to ground in the left rear haptic motor circuit. 10.

Does clearing the code fix the problem permanently?

No, clearing the code will only remove it temporarily. The root cause must be identified and repaired to prevent the code from returning.

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