B1658 — Seat Driver Rear Up Circuit Short To Ground #

Note: The code description may differ depending on the vehicle manufacturer.

• Seat Driver Rear Up Circuit Short To Ground (Generic/OEM)
• Driver Seat Rear Height Adjustment Circuit Low (Ford, Toyota)
• Seat Height Control, Rear Up, Ground Short (Honda, Nissan)

Summary of DTC B1658 #

The B1658 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates that the vehicle’s onboard computer has detected a short to ground in the driver seat rear up circuit. This circuit controls the motor responsible for adjusting the rear height section of the driver’s seat. When a short to ground occurs, it means that the electrical path is unintentionally connected to the vehicle’s chassis or ground, often causing the seat adjustment feature to fail or behave erratically. While this issue does not affect engine performance, it can impact driver comfort and seat safety. Addressing this code ensures your power seat system works as intended and prevents further electrical complications.

Common Symptoms for Code B1658 #

You might notice several clues when DTC B1658 is triggered. Typically, the malfunction affects the seat height adjustment, but other signs can point to electrical problems within the seat control system. If you notice any of the following, your vehicle might have this code:

• The rear of the driver’s seat fails to move up or down
• Unusual clicking or buzzing sounds from under the seat
• Seat movement only in one direction (up or down)
• Seat adjustment stops working intermittently
• Blown fuse(s) related to seat controls
• Warning light or seat control indicator illuminated on the dashboard

Probable Causes for Code B1658 #

While several issues can set off the B1658 code, some culprits are more common than others. Identifying the most likely causes helps streamline the diagnostic process and avoids unnecessary part replacements. Here’s what most often triggers this code, in order of likelihood:

1. Damaged or pinched wiring in the seat rear height adjustment circuit
2. Faulty seat height adjustment motor (rear up motor shorted internally)
3. Loose or corroded connector at the seat motor or wiring harness
4. Faulty seat control module (less common, but possible)
5. Water intrusion or spilled liquid under or around the seat wiring

Step-by-Step Diagnosis for Code B1658 #

A thorough diagnosis ensures you pinpoint the root cause, saving time and money. The following steps are recommended for technicians and skilled DIYers:

1. Scan for additional codes: Use a professional OBD-II scanner to check for related seat or electrical codes.
2. Inspect seat fuses: Locate and visually inspect the seat adjustment fuse(s) for signs of a blown fuse or overheating.
3. Check seat movement: Operate the seat adjustment controls and note which directions fail or work.
4. Inspect wiring: Slide the seat fully forward and backward, visually inspecting wiring for pinches, cuts, or exposed metal.
5. Test seat motor: Using a multimeter, check for continuity and shorts to ground in the rear up motor circuit.
6. Check connectors: Disconnect and inspect seat motor and control module connectors for corrosion or loose pins.
7. Test seat control module: If all else checks out, follow OEM service instructions to test or substitute the seat control module.

Possible Repairs for Code B1658 #

Once you identify the underlying issue, these repairs typically resolve the B1658 code. Always verify each repair by clearing the code and retesting the seat adjustment function.

• Repair or replace damaged wiring (repair pinched, cut, or shorted wires and insulate with quality electrical tape or heat-shrink tubing)
• Replace faulty seat rear up motor (if it tests shorted internally or does not operate correctly)
• Clean or replace corroded connectors (use electrical contact cleaner and ensure firm connections)
• Replace blown seat adjustment fuse (only after correcting the underlying short to ground)
• Replace seat control module (if proven defective after all other checks)
• Address water intrusion (dry area, seal leaks, and clean affected wiring)

Is It Safe to Drive with Code B1658? #

Yes, you can drive with code B1658, but with limitations. This code does not impact vehicle safety systems, engine performance, or drivability. However, your driver seat’s rear height adjustment might not work, which can cause discomfort or improper driving posture. If you share your vehicle or need specific seat adjustments for safe driving, address the issue as soon as possible to avoid potential strain or distraction.

Vehicles Most Commonly Affected by B1658 #

B1658 is a generic body code, but it appears more frequently on certain makes and models, especially those with power seat options. The following vehicles are commonly reported with this DTC:

• Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250, F-350)
• Toyota Camry, Avalon, Highlander (with power seats)
• Honda Accord and CR-V (select trims)
• Nissan Altima, Maxima, Murano
• Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban (with power driver seat)
• Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe (premium trims)

Common Mistakes & Best Practices for Code B1658 #

When troubleshooting B1658, technicians and DIYers sometimes make avoidable errors. Prevent these with a careful, methodical approach:

• Replacing the seat motor without first checking wiring for shorts or pinched sections
• Ignoring water damage under the seat, which can quickly lead to repeat failures
• Overlooking the importance of a proper fuse check—replacing a blown fuse without addressing the short will only result in another blown fuse
• Disconnecting seat wiring with the ignition on, which can set additional fault codes
• Skipping a full scan for related DTCs—other codes may offer helpful clues

Quick FAQ for Code B1658 #

Still have questions? Here are some rapid answers to the most common B1658 concerns:

• Q: Will this code make my seat completely inoperable?
  A: Not always. Usually, only the rear height adjustment fails. Other seat motors may still function normally.
• Q: Can a spilled drink under the seat cause this code?
  A: Yes! Liquids can create electrical shorts in seat wiring or connectors, triggering B1658 and related issues.
• Q: Is it expensive to fix?
  A: Repairs range from simple wiring fixes (low cost) to seat motor or module replacement (higher cost). An accurate diagnosis saves unnecessary expenses.
• Q: Will disconnecting the battery clear this code?
  A: No. The code will remain until the fault is repaired and the code is cleared with a scan tool.