OBD Code B1665: Seat Driver Forward/Backward Motor Stalled

Q: What does OBD code B1665 mean?

Seat Driver Forward/Backward Motor Stalled. The driver's seat motor that moves the seat forward and backward has stopped responding or is stuck, like a power window that won't budge despite the button working. The ECU detected the motor isn't moving when it should be.

Q: What are the symptoms of fault code B1665?

Seat won't move forward or backward using power controls, Seat moves partially then stops unexpectedly, No clicking or motor noise when adjustment button is pressed

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What This Actually Means

In plain language — no jargon

The driver's seat motor that moves the seat forward and backward has stopped responding or is stuck, like a power window that won't budge despite the button working. The ECU detected the motor isn't moving when it should be.

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Symptoms You May Notice

3 known symptoms for this code

Seat won't move forward or backward using power controls

Seat moves partially then stops unexpectedly

No clicking or motor noise when adjustment button is pressed

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How Your ECU Detects This

Technical sensor logic and voltage thresholds

The ECU monitors the seat motor's current draw and position feedback through a potentiometer or encoder during forward/backward commands. It detects a stall condition when the motor draws excessive current without achieving expected position change within a set time window.

Voltage & Parameter Thresholds

Parameter	Normal Range	Fault Condition
Motor Current Draw	0.5-3 amps during movement	>5 amps sustained for >2 seconds without position change
Position Sensor Response	Continuous voltage change during movement	No voltage change detected during motor activation

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Diagnostic & DIY Fix Guide

Check these in order — from cheapest to most complex

1

Seat track rails and pivot points

Clean and lubricate the seat rails with silicone spray to reduce friction and motor load.

2

Seat motor connector

Disconnect and reconnect the motor electrical connector to clear corrosion and reset the circuit.

3

Seat forward/backward motor assembly

Replace the motor if it's internally burned out or gearbox is seized.

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When to See a Professional Mechanic

Not all fault codes are safe to DIY

Code B1665 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.

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How to Clear Code B1665

What happens after you fix the fault

Once the fault is repaired, B1665 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.