B1473 – Wiper Low Speed Circuit Motor Failure

The ODBII code B1473 indicates a failure in the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper motor, suggesting that the motor is not functioning properly at low speed.

The severity of ODBII code B1473 is generally considered moderate.

Common Causes For: B1472 Lamp Headlamp Input Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty wiper motor
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Blown fuse
• Faulty wiper switch
• Corroded terminals
• Short circuit in the circuit
• Poor ground connection

Common misdiagnosis for B1473 Wiper Low Speed Circuit Motor Failure

• Wiper Motor Failure
• Wiper Relay Failure
• Faulty Wiper Switch
• Wiring Issues or Shorts
• Blown Fuse
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
• Grounding Problems
• Incorrectly Installed Wiper Blades
• Rain Sensor Malfunction
• Electrical Connector Issues

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with OBD-II code B1473, which indicates a “Wiper Low Speed Circuit Motor Failure,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Check the Basics: **Battery Voltage: Ensure the vehicle’s battery is fully charged and in good condition.
• **Fuses: Inspect the fuse related to the windshield wiper system. A blown fuse can cause the wipers to malfunction.
• Visual Inspection: **Wiper Motor: Check the wiper motor for any visible signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• **Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for fraying, corrosion, or disconnection. Pay special attention to the connectors at the wiper motor.
• Test the Wiper Motor: **Direct Power Test: Apply direct battery voltage to the wiper motor to see if it operates. If it does not work, the motor may be faulty and needs replacement.
• **Low Speed Functionality: If the motor works with direct power, check if it operates in low-speed mode when controlled by the vehicle’s switch.
• Check the Wiper Switch: **Functionality Test: Test the wiper switch for proper operation. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the switch positions.
• **Signal Output: Ensure that the switch sends the correct signals to the wiper motor for low-speed operation.
• Inspect the Control Module: **Body Control Module (BCM): If applicable, check the BCM for any faults or issues. The BCM may control the wiper motor operation.
• **Software Updates: Ensure that the vehicle’s software is up to date, as some issues may be resolved with a software update.
• Scan for Additional Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues.
• Check Ground Connections: Ensure that the ground connections for the wiper motor and related components are clean and secure. Poor grounding can lead to erratic behavior.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams: Refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagrams to trace the circuit and identify any potential issues in the wiring or connections.
• Professional Diagnosis: If the issue persists after performing the above steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or technician who can perform more advanced diagnostics.Conclusion By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the B1473 code and take appropriate action to resolve the issue. Always remember to take safety precautions when working on electrical components in your vehicle.