AutoCodesGMC – B172F 2018 GMC Sierra

B172F 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Driver Seat Cushion Right 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 Right Rear Haptic Movement Motor, Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement Motor harness is open or shorted, Drivers Seat Cushion Right 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
B172F 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement Motor, Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement Motor harness is open or shorted, Drivers Seat Cushion Right 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 193
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 B172F 2018 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 B172F 2018 GMC Sierra - Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement - AutoCodes.com
B172F 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B172F 2018 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement Motor
  • Driver Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement Motor harness is open or shorted
  • Drivers Seat Cushion Right Rear Haptic Movement Motor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Seat Memory Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B172F 2018 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 B172F 2018 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.

Need more information about the B172F 2018 GMC Sierra code?

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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 B172F 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code B172F mean on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

B172F indicates an issue with the driver seat cushion's right rear haptic movement, typically related to the vibration motor or its circuit.

2. What are the symptoms of code B172F in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the driver seat not vibrating during alerts, reduced functionality of safety features like lane departure warnings, or no noticeable movement from the seat cushion.

3. What causes the B172F code on a GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty haptic motor, damaged wiring, loose connectors, or an issue with the control module managing the seat's vibration feature.

4. Can I still drive my 2018 GMC Sierra with a B172F code?

Yes, the vehicle is still drivable, but the safety alert system's effectiveness may be reduced due to the non-functional seat vibration feature.

5. How do I troubleshoot the B172F code on my GMC Sierra?

Start by checking the wiring and connectors under the seat, ensuring they are secure and undamaged. If no issues are found, test the haptic motor or consult a professional.

6. How much does it cost to fix a B172F code issue?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue. Replacing a haptic motor may cost $200–$500, while wiring repairs or diagnostics may range from $100–$200.

7. Can a loose connector trigger the B172F code?

Yes, a loose or corroded connector can disrupt the signal to the haptic motor and trigger the B172F code.

8. Do I need to replace the entire seat if I get a B172F code?

No, in most cases, only the haptic motor or related components need replacement, not the entire seat.

9. Will clearing the B172F code fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove it, but if the underlying issue is not resolved, the code will likely reappear.

10. Is the B172F code covered under warranty for a 2018 GMC Sierra?

It depends on your warranty coverage. If your vehicle is still under the bumper-to-bumper or seat system warranty, repairs may be covered.

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