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B1976 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Passenger’s Seat Forward Switch Circuit Short to Battery". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The B1976 trouble code detects a passenger seat forward switch circuit error.
The B1976 code is a standard OBD-II trouble code that notes a circuit malfunction from the passenger seat forward switch. The passenger seat forward switch controls the horizontal movement of the front passenger seat. When the switch, which is usually located on the outboard side of the passenger seat, is deployed, the seat will move forward. If the body control module or powertrain control module (PCM) detect a circuit error from the passenger seat forward switch, then it is likely that the B1976 trouble code will be stored.
The B1976 trouble code is commonly caused by one of two issues. The first cause is damaged electrical parts, such as blown fuses, shorted wires, and open connectors. These electrical parts can be in the passenger seat forward switch, or in the power seat system. The second common cause is a malfunctioning passenger seat forward switch. While quite rare, the code is also sometimes triggered by a defective body control module.
A vehicle that has a detected B1976 trouble code will almost always have an inoperable seat forward switch for the front passenger seat, which means the seat cannot be adjusted forward. It is also likely that the seat cannot be adjusted rearward, either. In many cases, this code is also accompanied by the check engine soon warning light illuminating on the vehicle’s gauge cluster.
The B1976 code will be diagnosed using a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner. A certified technician will use the scanner to look at the freeze frame data and gather information about the code, while also checking to see if any other trouble codes are present. If multiple codes are detected, then the mechanic will inspect them in the order that they are displayed in. The trouble codes should then be reset, and the vehicle restarted, so the B1976 code can be searched for. If the code is no longer present, then it was likely detected inaccurately, or represents an intermittent error.
If the B1976 code remains, then the mechanic will begin by visually inspecting all of the electrical components in the passenger seat forward switch and power seat systems. All damaged or otherwise compromised parts will need to be replaced. If all of the electrical components are in good, working order, then the passenger seat forward switch has most likely failed.
After any parts are replaced or repaired, the trouble codes should once more be reset, the vehicle restarted, and the code checked for. By doing this, the technician will know as soon as the problem has been fully resolved.
The most common mistake that is made in diagnosing the B1976 trouble code is the failure to properly comply with the OBD-II diagnosis protocol. It is imperative that mechanics follow the protocol at all times, to help ensure accurate diagnoses and repairs.
It is fairly common for electrical failures to be overlooked, and passenger seat forward switches to be unnecessarily replaced as a result.
The B1976 trouble code will not present any drivability issues, but the front passenger seat will likely not be able to be adjusted forward or rearward. If the seat is stuck too far forward, it may be inaccessible for the passenger. If the seat is stuck too far rearward, it may be unsafe for a passenger, as the airbag may not reach the person (it also may render the backseat unusable in this position). When the code is detected, an inspection should be scheduled.
Repairs for the B1976 trouble code include:
This code is a manufacturer specific trouble code, which means that the definition varies from automaker to automaker. The B1976 code suggests a passenger seat forward switch circuit malfunction in some vehicles, but an entirely different body problem in other vehicles. As always, the mechanic should be aware of the vehicle that is being worked on when diagnosing this trouble code.
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