Quick Answer
B0579 means: B0579 indicates a fault in the driver's seat position sensor circuit.
Can I drive with B0579? Immediate attention recommended to ensure safety and comfort.
Common Questions
What does B0579 mean and how does it affect my car?
The B0579 code signifies a malfunction in the driver's seat position sensor circuit. This affects how your seat adjusts, potentially leading to discomfort while driving and even impacting safety systems like airbags. It's crucial to address this issue promptly to maintain both comfort and safety.
What are the most common causes of B0579 and how much does it cost to fix?
The primary cause of B0579 is a faulty seat position sensor, which can be replaced for approximately $150 to $300. Other causes include damaged wiring or a malfunctioning body control module, with repair costs varying based on the specific issue but ranging from $100 to $800.
Can I drive my car with B0579 or should I stop immediately?
While you may still drive your vehicle with the B0579 code, it's advisable to address the issue as soon as possible. Ignoring it may lead to safety risks, particularly if the airbag system is affected. Prioritize repairs to ensure safe operation.
How can I diagnose B0579 myself using GeekOBD APP?
With the GeekOBD APP, start by scanning your vehicle's OBD2 system to retrieve current and historical codes. Look for B0579 and examine any freeze frame data for context. Use the app to clear the code after making repairs and verify if it returns.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0579?
B0579 often appears in vehicles like the 2015-2018 Ford F-150, Ford Explorer, and other models equipped with power seat adjustments. Regularly check for manufacturer recalls or technical service bulletins related to seat sensors.
How can I prevent B0579 from happening again?
To prevent B0579 from recurring, ensure regular maintenance of your vehicle's electrical systems. Keep the seat area clean and check connectors for corrosion. Also, avoid excessive force when adjusting seats to minimize wear and tear.
What is B0579?
The diagnostic trouble code B0579 indicates a problem with the driver's seat position sensor circuit. This issue typically arises in various Ford models, including the 2015-2018 Ford F-150, where the seat position sensor fails to provide accurate data to the vehicle's body control module (BCM). The seat position sensor is crucial for ensuring the safety and comfort of the driver. When this code is triggered, it often leads to the malfunction of the power seat adjustments, resulting in improper seating positions that can negatively affect driving comfort and safety. In some cases, the airbag system may also be impacted, leading to safety concerns during a collision. If you are experiencing this code, it is essential to address it promptly to ensure both your comfort and safety while driving. Ignoring B0579 could lead to further electrical issues or impact other systems in your vehicle, making timely diagnosis and repair vital.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B0579 is present:
- The check engine light illuminates, indicating a fault that requires attention.
- Power seat adjustments may not function properly, making it difficult to find a comfortable driving position.
- Seat position memory functions may fail, causing settings to reset every time the vehicle is started.
- In some cases, the airbag warning light may also turn on, indicating potential safety risks.
- Driver's seat may move erratically or not at all, affecting the driver's ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B0579 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a faulty seat position sensor, which has a likelihood of about 60%. This can happen due to wear and tear or electrical issues.
- A broken or frayed wiring harness that connects the seat sensor to the BCM can account for around 25% of cases, leading to intermittent failures and signal loss.
- Corrosion at electrical connectors can also cause this code, making up roughly 10% of the issues. Keeping connectors clean can prevent this.
- Less common but serious causes include issues with the BCM itself, which can lead to a variety of electrical malfunctions.
- Rarely, a complete failure of the power seat mechanism can result in the B0579 code, requiring more extensive repairs.
B0579 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Seat Position Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty seat position sensor with a new part.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring harness to restore proper sensor function.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 80%
BCM Replacement
In cases where the BCM is faulty, replacing it may be necessary.
- Total: $500 - $800
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for B0579
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B0579 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0579. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to check the seat position sensor's output voltage and continuity (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to check the seat position sensor's output voltage and continuity (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure the seat functions correctly (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure the seat functions correctly (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Ford F-150 Seat Position Sensor Replacement
Vehicle: 2016 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported that the driver's seat adjustments were not functioning and the check engine light was on.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed B0579. Visual inspection showed damaged wiring harness near the seat.
Solution: Replaced the seat position sensor and repaired the wiring harness. Cleared the codes and verified functionality.
Cost: $250 (sensor: $150, labor: $100)
Result: Customer was pleased with the repair, and the seat adjustments worked perfectly post-repair.
Case Study 2: Explorer BCM Issue Leading to B0579
Vehicle: 2017 Ford Explorer, 60,000 miles
Problem: Driver's seat would not respond to adjustments, and airbag light was illuminated.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan revealed B0579. Further testing indicated a malfunctioning body control module.
Solution: Replaced the BCM and reprogrammed it to the vehicle. Cleared codes and confirmed system functionality.
Cost: $700 (BCM: $500, labor: $200)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle operated normally, restoring full functionality to the seat and airbag systems.