B1720 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Fix

Overview

Code B1720 indicates a fault in Seat Driver Forward Switch Circuit Short To Ground, typically within body electronics and comfort modules.

Symptoms

related warning lamp illuminated
battery draw complaints
feature inoperative intermittently

Common causes

Broken terminal inside harness affecting seat driver forward switch circuit short to ground
Disconnected or loose connector
Connector pin damage/corrosion or harness stress near related components

How to diagnose B1720

Confirm B1720 and capture freeze-frame data with a professional scan tool.
Inspect wiring, connectors, and grounds related to seat driver forward switch circuit short to ground for obvious defects.
Use a continuity test from module pin to component to identify opens/high resistance.
Check for related DTCs to identify the root-cause chain before replacing parts.
After repair, clear codes and confirm readiness monitors complete without recurrence.

Severity of code B1720

Moderate: This code is moderate severity: the vehicle may still operate, but fault progression can increase repair cost over time.

Can you drive with B1720?

Most vehicles can be driven short-term with B1720, but postpone heavy load/highway driving until repaired.

If the warning lamp is flashing or drivability/safety is affected, avoid driving and diagnose immediately.

How to fix it (step-by-step)

Repair obvious wiring/connector faults first to prevent repeat parts replacement.
Address the root fault mode (open) in the seat driver forward switch circuit short to ground circuit/system.
Apply the required relearn/adaptation procedure if specified by service information.
Road-test and verify B1720 remains cleared under the conditions that originally set the code.

Fix options

Restore continuity and verify pin tension.
Repair open circuit and secure connector lock.
Clear DTCs and verify with live data and completed drive cycle.

Typical repair cost

$160-$850

Common mistakes when diagnosing B1720

Replacing parts without verifying voltage, ground, and signal integrity first.
Ignoring related stored/pending codes that indicate upstream faults.
Skipping post-repair verification drive cycle and readiness checks.

B1720 in common vehicles

B1720 appears across makes such as Ford, Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet. Failure patterns differ by platform: wiring routes, software calibration, and component supplier revisions can change root cause.

Frequently asked questions

What causes B1720?

B1720 is commonly set by open faults affecting seat driver forward switch circuit short to ground.

How much does it cost to fix B1720?

For B1720, repair costs are typically $160-$850 depending on exact root cause, labor rates, and part quality.

Can I clear B1720 without repair?

You can clear B1720 temporarily, but the code usually returns until the underlying fault is corrected.