AutoCodesGMC – B172E 2015 GMC Sierra

B172E 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 361
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 2015 GMC Sierra 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 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.
OBDII Code B172E 2015 GMC Sierra - Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement - AutoCodes.com
B172E 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B172E 2015 GMC Sierra?

  • 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 2015 GMC Sierra?

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 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code B172E mean in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The B172E code indicates an issue with the driver seat cushion left rear haptic motor, specifically a fault in its movement or operation.

2. What are the symptoms of the B172E code in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include failure of the driver seat vibration alert system to function properly, often used for safety notifications like lane departure or collision warnings.

3. What causes the B172E code to appear?

The code may be triggered by a faulty haptic motor, damaged wiring, loose or corroded electrical connections, or an issue with the seat memory control module.

4. How do I troubleshoot the B172E code in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then test the haptic motor for proper function, and check the seat memory control module for faults.

5. Can I still drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with the B172E code?

Yes, the vehicle is drivable, but the seat vibration safety alerts may not function, reducing the effectiveness of certain driver assistance features.

6. How is the B172E code diagnosed?

A technician will typically use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the seat haptic motor and wiring, and perform functional tests to identify the root cause.

7. What repairs can fix the B172E code in a GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty haptic motor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming the seat memory control module.

8. How much does it cost to fix the B172E code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary depending on the cause but generally range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor, with higher costs if the seat memory control module needs replacement.

9. Can the B172E code clear itself?

No, the code will not clear itself. It must be addressed by repairing the underlying issue, after which the code can be cleared using a scan tool.

10. Is the B172E code covered under warranty for a 2015 GMC Sierra?

It depends on the vehicle's warranty coverage. If the seat components are still under warranty, the repair may be covered. Check with your dealer for details.

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