What This Actually Means
In plain language — no jargon
The driver's seat up/down motor circuit has lost electrical connection, like a broken wire in a remote control. The car's computer can't send power to raise the seat.
Symptoms You May Notice
3 known symptoms for this code
Driver seat won't move up or down
Seat adjustment buttons don't respond
Warning light or message on dashboard
How Your ECU Detects This
Technical sensor logic and voltage thresholds
The ECU monitors voltage and current flow to the seat motor circuit. It expects to see proper voltage when the up button is pressed. If no current flows or voltage never reaches the motor within a set timeframe, the circuit is flagged as open (broken connection).
Voltage & Parameter Thresholds
| Parameter | Normal Range | Fault Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Motor circuit voltage | 12V present when button activated | 0V or no continuity detected |
| Motor current draw | 3-8 amps during seat movement | 0 amps or no response |
Diagnostic & DIY Fix Guide
Check these in order — from cheapest to most complex
1
Seat wiring harness connectors
Disconnect and reconnect the seat motor plug under the seat to clear corrosion or loose pins.
2
Seat motor wiring
Inspect the wire bundle from seat base to door jamb for cuts, pinches, or damaged insulation and repair with electrical tape or replace.
3
Seat motor assembly
Replace the motor if wiring is intact but the seat still won't move and no power reaches the connector.
When to See a Professional Mechanic
Not all fault codes are safe to DIY
Code B1660 is a low-severity fault. Your vehicle is generally safe to drive to a workshop for diagnosis. However, do not ignore it indefinitely — low-severity codes often indicate developing problems that become expensive if neglected. Book a diagnostic appointment within 2–4 weeks. If you notice any additional symptoms (rough running, power loss, unusual smells), treat it as higher priority.
Safety note: OBD-II codes identify the system or circuit where a fault was detected — they do not always identify the exact failed component. A professional mechanic using live sensor data will diagnose the root cause more accurately than replacing parts based on the code alone.
How to Clear Code B1660
What happens after you fix the fault
Once the fault is repaired, B1660 can be cleared using any OBD-II scanner. Connect the scanner, navigate to "Clear Codes" or "Erase DTCs," and confirm. The check engine light turns off immediately.
The code will return if the root cause was not actually fixed. The ECM re-detects the fault within 1–3 drive cycles and sets the code again.
✅ Safe to Clear When
- Fault has been diagnosed and repaired
- You want to confirm the repair worked
- Code appeared after a sensor was cleaned
⚠️ Do Not Clear When
- Preparing for an emissions/PUC test
- Root cause is still undiagnosed
- Check engine light is flashing
Emissions test note: Clearing codes resets OBD readiness monitors. Most vehicles need 50–100 km of mixed driving before monitors complete. Do not clear codes immediately before an emissions or PUC inspection.