B1437 – Wiper Hi/Low Speed Relay Coil Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1437 indicates a short circuit to ground in the wiper hi/low speed relay coil circuit, which can cause the windshield wipers to malfunction or not operate correctly.

The severity of ODBII code B1437 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1436 Wiper Hi/Low Speed Relay Coil Circuit Short To Battery

• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Short circuit in the wiper relay circuit
• Faulty wiper relay
• Malfunctioning wiper motor
• Corroded or loose connections
• Water intrusion in electrical components
• Faulty body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnosis for B1437 Wiper Hi/Low Speed Relay Coil Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty wiper motor
• Bad wiper switch
• Damaged wiring harness
• Defective body control module (BCM)
• Shorted or corroded connectors
• Malfunctioning relay
• Issues with the fuse box

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with OBD-II code B1437, which indicates a “Wiper Hi/Low Speed Relay Coil Circuit Short To Ground,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Understand the Code: B1437 typically refers to a problem with the wiper relay circuit, specifically indicating that there is a short to ground in the relay coil circuit.
• Visual Inspection: **Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors related to the wiper relay for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion. Pay special attention to areas where the wiring may be exposed to moisture or heat.
• **Inspect the Relay: Check the wiper relay itself for any signs of damage or corrosion.
• Test the Relay: **Remove the Relay: Take out the wiper relay from its socket.
• **Check for Continuity: Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the relay coil. If the relay is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
• **Test Relay Operation: If possible, test the relay by applying power to it to see if it clicks and operates correctly.
• Check for Shorts: **Inspect the Circuit: Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the relay coil terminals and ground. If there is continuity when the relay is not activated, there may be a short to ground in the wiring.
• **Trace the Wiring: Follow the wiring from the relay back to the wiper switch and the power source to look for any shorts or damaged insulation.
• Check the Wiper Switch: **Test the Wiper Switch: The wiper switch itself may be faulty. Check for proper operation and continuity when the switch is in different positions (off, low, high).
• **Inspect for Shorts: Ensure that the switch is not shorting to ground internally.
• Check Ground Connections: **Inspect Ground Points: Ensure that all ground connections related to the wiper system are clean and secure. A poor ground can cause erratic behavior and may lead to false codes.
• Scan for Additional Codes: **Check for Other Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: **Clear the Code: After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the trouble code using an OBD-II scanner.
• **Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears. Monitor the wiper operation during different speeds.
• Consult a Professional: If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has access to more advanced diagnostic tools and equipment. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1437 code. Always ensure safety precautions are taken when working on electrical systems in vehicles.