Code
B1987
Other
B — Body
Pedal Forward / Rearward Motor Stalled
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Mechanical obstruction in track or mechanism (debris, foreign object, bent track)
- Worn or seized motor bearings or gearbox
- Damaged motor windings or internal failure
- High current draw due to jammed mechanism or binding linkage
- Open, shorted or high-resistance wiring or poor connector/corrosion to motor
- Faulty pedal/seat position switch or command input
Symptoms
- Pedal or powered seat will not move forward or rearward when commanded
- Motor makes grinding, clicking or no noise depending on failure
- Slow or hesitant movement before stopping
- DTC B1987 stored and possibly active lamp/indicator displayed
- Burning smell or smoke in severe motor stall cases
- Intermittent operation or position not maintained
What to check
- Visually inspect seat/pedal track and mechanism for debris, obstructions, or physical damage
- Check fuses and relays for the motor circuit
- Inspect electrical connectors for corrosion, damage, or poor seating at motor and control module
- Operate the control while watching the mechanism to attempt to reproduce fault
- Listen for motor noise when a command is given (no noise may indicate open circuit; loud noise may indicate internal mechanical failure)
- Scan vehicle for stored codes and live data from seat/position module and switches
Signal parameters
- When commanded: motor supply should be near battery voltage (~12 V) with ignition on/command active
- Motor ground continuity to chassis or module ground should be present
- Position/feedback sensor (if fitted) provides a variable signal (voltage or resistance) that changes as the seat/pedal moves
- Normal operation shows a brief inrush current at motor start then lower running current; a stalled motor shows sustained high current (measure with clamp meter)
- Control module outputs (command) should show a logical on/off or PWM signal when request is made
Diagnostic algorithm
- Confirm symptom and retrieve freeze frame and history with a scan tool; note when DTC set and any related codes
- Attempt to reproduce: operate pedal/seat while observing track — look for binding or physical stops; clear obstructions if found and retest
- Visually inspect wiring, connectors, and ground at the motor and control module; repair any damaged connectors or wires
- Check fuses/relays for the motor circuit; replace if faulty
- Measure voltage at motor connector while commanding movement. If no voltage, trace back to switch and control module; if voltage present, proceed
- Measure motor resistance with ignition off and compare to specification or a known-good motor; very low or open resistance indicates internal failure
- Measure current draw during a commanded move with a clamp meter. High sustained current suggests motor stall or mechanical jam
- If motor does not receive correct command signals but switches are good, test/replace the seat/pedal control module or perform module software update per manufacturer guidance
- If motor fails bench test (does not run or draws excessive current), replace motor/actuator assembly. After repairs, clear codes and verify proper operation and that B1987 does not return
Likely causes
- Seat/ pedal track binding or physical obstruction
- Failed/overheated motor (burnt windings or internal stall)
- Damaged connector or chafed wire in motor supply/ground circuit
- Failed switch or control input sending continuous or no command
- Intermittent connection or poor ground causing drop in voltage and motor stall
Fault status
Status
Forward/Rearward motor stalled — movement inhibited
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 0.5-2.0 hours
Similar codes
Repair manuals
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