B172E GMC 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 GMC 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 GMC 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 GMC?
- 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 GMC?
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 GMC 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 GMC Models
- B172E 2014 GMC Sierra — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
- B172E 2015 GMC Sierra — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
- B172E 2016 GMC Sierra — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
- B172E 2017 GMC Sierra — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
- B172E 2018 GMC Sierra — Driver Seat Cushion Left Rear Haptic Movement
Frequently Asked Questions about B172E GMC Code
1. What does the OBDII code B172E mean in a GMC vehicle?
The B172E code indicates an issue with the driver seat cushion left rear haptic movement, which is part of the system that provides vibration feedback for safety alerts.
2. What are common symptoms of the B172E code in a GMC?
Symptoms may include the driver’s seat vibration not functioning during safety alerts, such as lane departure warnings, or the seat haptic feedback being weak or inconsistent.
3. What causes the B172E code in a GMC vehicle?
Common causes include a faulty haptic motor, wiring issues, a poor electrical connection, or a malfunction in the seat control module.
4. Can I still drive my GMC vehicle with the B172E code active?
Yes, the vehicle can still be driven, but the safety alert haptic feedback system in the seat may not function properly.
5. How is the B172E code diagnosed in a GMC?
A technician will use a scan tool to retrieve the code, inspect the seat haptic motor and wiring, and check for any related module faults or electrical issues.
6. What parts might need to be replaced to fix the B172E code?
Repairs may involve replacing the haptic motor, repairing damaged wiring, or replacing the seat control module if it’s found to be faulty.
7. How much does it cost to repair the B172E code in a GMC?
Repair costs can vary, but fixing the haptic motor or wiring typically ranges from $150 to $500, depending on labor rates and parts availability.
8. Can a loose connection trigger the B172E code?
Yes, a loose or corroded electrical connection in the seat wiring harness can cause this code to appear.
9. Is the B172E code covered under warranty for GMC vehicles?
This depends on the vehicle’s warranty terms. If the vehicle is under a bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranty, the repair might be covered.
10. What tools are needed to repair the B172E code?
Basic tools include a scan tool for diagnostics, a multimeter for testing electrical connections, and any necessary tools for accessing the seat components.
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