B0847 - Understanding DTC B0847: Common Issues in 2016-2020 Ford Explorer and Other Models

Quick Answer

B0847 means: B0847 indicates a fault in the driver-side seat position sensor circuit.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B0847? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safety features function properly.

Common Questions

What does B0847 mean and how does it affect my car?

B0847 indicates a problem with the driver-side seat position sensor circuit. This can affect your airbag's performance and lead to discomfort while driving. It's essential to fix this issue to ensure your vehicle's safety features work correctly.

What are the most common causes of B0847 and how much does it cost to fix?

The most common causes include a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or issues with the body control module. Repair costs typically range from $100 to $300, depending on the specific issue and parts required.

Can I drive my car with B0847 or should I stop immediately?

It's advisable to address B0847 immediately as it can affect your airbag system. Driving with this code can be risky, especially if the airbag does not deploy during an accident.

How can I diagnose B0847 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for DTCs, review freeze frame data, and monitor the seat position sensor's performance. Follow the app's instructions to gather detailed information about the fault.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0847?

B0847 is frequently seen in vehicles like the 2016-2020 Ford Explorer, 2017-2021 Honda CR-V, and 2015-2019 Chevrolet Tahoe. Keep an eye on manufacturer recalls or service bulletins for specific models.

How can I prevent B0847 from happening again?

Regularly inspect your vehicle's wiring and connectors for signs of wear, and ensure all electrical connections are clean and secure. Additionally, avoid using the seat adjustments aggressively to prolong the sensor's lifespan.

What is B0847?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B0847 refers to a fault in the driver-side seat position sensor circuit. This code is often triggered when the vehicle's computer detects an issue with the electrical signal from the seat position sensor. In simpler terms, the seat position sensor tells the car's computer where the driver's seat is positioned, which is important for various functions, including airbag deployment and comfort settings. When B0847 is active, it indicates that the sensor is either malfunctioning, disconnected, or sending an incorrect signal. This can lead to various implications, such as the airbag system not functioning correctly, which poses a potential safety risk. Additionally, drivers may experience the seat not adjusting properly, leading to discomfort during driving. Ignoring this code could also result in further electrical issues or cause the airbag light to stay illuminated, indicating that the safety features of the vehicle might not operate as intended in the event of a collision. It's crucial for vehicle owners to address this code promptly to ensure their vehicle's safety and comfort.

System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0847 is present:

  • The airbag warning light stays illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system.
  • Driver's seat adjustments may be erratic or completely non-functional, leading to discomfort during drives.
  • The vehicle may exhibit intermittent electrical issues, such as malfunctioning electronics related to seat settings.
  • In some cases, the seat may not return to its last adjusted position after the vehicle is turned off.
  • You may notice that your car's memory seat settings do not save correctly, affecting the driver's comfort.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0847 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause is a faulty seat position sensor, which occurs in about 60% of cases. This sensor can wear out over time, especially in vehicles with high mileage.
  2. Another frequent cause is damaged wiring or connectors in the seat position sensor circuit, which can result from wear and tear or improper installation during repairs.
  3. A third cause could be a malfunctioning body control module (BCM), which interprets signals from the seat position sensor; ensuring proper connections can help prevent this issue.
  4. Less common but serious causes may include issues with the vehicle's onboard computer or software glitches that could affect multiple systems.
  5. Rarely, water intrusion or corrosion in the connectors can lead to sensor failure, especially in regions with heavy rainfall or snow.

B0847 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Seat Position Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty seat position sensor with an OEM part to ensure compatibility and performance.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair

Repairing damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for B0847
  • 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 B0847 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0847. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the driver's seat and surrounding wiring for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections

Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the driver's seat and surrounding wiring for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections. This should take about 5-10 minutes.

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: Use an OBD2 scanner, like GeekOBD APP, to retrieve the code and any other related trouble codes

Step 2: Use an OBD2 scanner, like GeekOBD APP, to retrieve the code and any other related trouble codes. This helps to understand the context of the problem (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Test the seat position sensor with a multimeter to check for correct voltage and continuity, ensuring it operates within specified parameters (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Test the seat position sensor with a multimeter to check for correct voltage and continuity, ensuring it operates within specified parameters (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: After repairs, perform a system function test to verify that the seat position sensor and airbag system are functioning correctly and clear the codes from the computer (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: After repairs, perform a system function test to verify that the seat position sensor and airbag system are functioning correctly and clear the codes from the computer (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Conduct a road test to ensure the driver's seat operates correctly under various driving conditions and the airbag light remains off (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Conduct a road test to ensure the driver's seat operates correctly under various driving conditions and the airbag light remains off (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

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 Explorer Seat Position Sensor Replacement

Vehicle: 2018 Ford Explorer, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported the airbag warning light was on and the driver's seat adjustments were erratic.

Diagnosis: After scanning for codes, B0847 was confirmed. A visual inspection revealed frayed wiring in the seat position sensor circuit.

Solution: Replaced the seat position sensor and repaired the damaged wiring. Cleared the codes and verified that the airbag system was functioning correctly.

Cost: $250 (parts: $150 for the sensor, $100 for wiring repair)

Result: The airbag light turned off, and the customer's seat adjustments worked perfectly.

Case Study 2: Honda CR-V Wiring Repair

Vehicle: 2019 Honda CR-V, 30,000 miles

Problem: Driver reported no seat movement and persistent airbag warning light.

Diagnosis: B0847 was diagnosed through OBD2 scanning. Inspection showed loose connections at the seat position sensor.

Solution: Tightened the connections and replaced the connectors. Conducted a system test to ensure safe operation.

Cost: $180 (parts: $50 for connectors, labor: $130)

Result: The airbag light was cleared, and the seat adjustments were restored.

Diagnose B0847

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B0847
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes